Nairobi - Through My Lens

I would call Nairobi home, having spent most of my adult life there. However, my first visit to the city was when I was 10, traveling with my two siblings and parents to Nairobi's Animal Orphanage, a day I remember vividly. Dressed in my favorite pink net dress and white pumps, we marched to the bus station to board a double-decker bus that would take us to Nairobi city center. As we arrived, I was marveled by the tarmacked roads, the buildings stacked upon each other, and the bustling chaos of the city. We had heard stories of children being “stolen,” so we walked hand in hand as my mum led the way.

The drive to the orphanage felt long and rough, probably because we were all so eager to get there. Adding to that, my parents couldn’t afford seats for all of us, so the three of us squeezed into one. Public transport then was crowded, and vehicles were often packed beyond capacity. But no one complained — everyone knew that carrying more passengers meant cheaper fares in a tough economy.

Fast forward: we had a fabulous time at the orphanage and saw all the Big Five animals.

Nairobi, undeniably a place of beauty and marvels, is Kenya's capital and is often called the Green City in the Sun. A true manifestation of a breathtaking coalescence of urban life and natural beauty.

By looking back, we can appreciate the present and the future, and thus a brief historical preview of the city tells a tale of growth. Founded in 1899 as a railway depot for the Uganda-Kenya railway, Nairobi started as a stopover hub, and over time, both businessmen and travelers fell in love with the city. Its name comes from the Maasai phrase "Enkare Nyrobi," meaning "place of cool waters." The city has grown into a commercial hub, attracting people from diverse backgrounds who have shaped its destiny over the years. After Kenya gained independence in 1963, and as sure as eggs are eggs, the city’s evolution has been nothing but transformative.

Today, Nairobi National Park offers breathtaking wildlife encounters just a short drive from the city center. The park is home to a wide range of animals and vegetation, and seeing the Big Five—lions, rhinos, elephants, African buffalos, and leopards—in their natural habitat is mind-blowing. Nearby, the Giraffe Center provides the opportunity to feed and interact with these majestic animals, offering a beautiful blend of nature and social interaction—truly a spectacle of nature that leaves a lasting impression. Within the leafy suburbs of Karen, you'll find Stedmak Animal Park, a recreational and educational facility with faunal variety; truly an untamed abundance of wildlife. To make Stedmak even lovelier, you will find a floating restaurant which serves different cuisines.

The cultural diversity of the city shines through in places like the Maasai Market, where you can experience Maasai culture at the heart of town. Nairobi's National Museum offers a deepdive into Kenya's heritage, showcasing the stories of liberation and the country's journey to independence.

When it comes to food, Nairobi's culinary scene is exhilarating. A must-try is Ugali with Nyama Choma at my favorite spot—The Harry’s Tavern in Eastlands. And if you're in the mood for live music, Rabbit Hole Lounge on Bunyala Road is perfect for a cold drink in a relaxed outdoor setting. Reggae lovers will feel right at home at La Baita Lounge in Upper Hill, and the Alchemist always delivers an unforgettable after party vibe.

For the outdoorsy spirit, Nairobi has plenty to offer. The surrounding countryside and scenic views of Ngong Hills are a sight to behold. Oloolua Nature Trail and Karura Forest provide serene trails that offer an unmatched connection to nature. It is an awe-inspiring landscape overflowing with tranquility and serenity.

The city's accessibility, with its well-connected transport network, makes it easy to move from one exciting experience to the next. The vibrant Matatu culture is a true representation of the city's pulse, and with Nairobi's technological infrastructure, you can stay connected while enjoying the beauty around.

The story of Nairobi is simply an adventure!

gladys kimani