Our favourite things to do in Nairobi (out of the park!)

Nairobi is the 'safari capital' of Kenya, and with good reason. This city is full of life, adventure, and a whole lot of fun. We always recommend at least 3 nights with us at Ololo Lodge, so that you can shake off any jet-lag, settle into Kenya and explore Nairobi National Park. But if you've got a day up your sleeve, then we always reccommend taking a day excursion into town, to explore some of our favourite places. With so much to do and see, we've put together a list of our top things to do whilst in Nairobi:

1. Visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: The trust was established by conservationist Dame Daphne Sheldrick who wanted to help preserve Kenya's wildlife after she became aware of the poaching crisis in the country. She started her own orphanage for baby elephants who had been left alone after their parents were killed by poachersNow her organisation has grown into one of the largest elephant sanctuaries in Africa. Just 20 minutes from Ololo Lodge, a trip to the orphanage is included in your stay.

2. Visit the Giraffe Centre: The Giraffe Centre is an animal sanctuary run by a family dedicated to raising orphaned giraffes that have been abandoned by their mothers. The centre also provides care for other animals such as zebras and warthogs. The centre offers guided tours where you can feed and interact with the animals that live there!

3.  The National Museum: This museum houses hundreds of artifacts from Kenya's prehistory, history, and culture—including some incredible fossils from dinosaurs who once roamed Kenya millions of years ago! There's also an exhibit dedicated to endangered species that you won't want to miss.

4. Karen Blixen Museum: This museum celebrates Karen Blixen's life as an author who lived on her coffee plantation in Kenya during colonial rule (you may have heard of her books Out of Africa or Babette's Feast).

5. Visit Kazuri Beads: ‘Kazuri’ meaning small and beautiful in Swahili is a unique bead making and pottery workshop situated in Karen. Founded in 1975 the organization’s aim was to help and support women in Nairobi with employment and training. Today the beads are famous around the world. Tours of the factory can be taken where visitors can watch the beads being made and glazed. Beads and pottery can be purchased at the Kazuri shop.
   

6. Utamaduni Craft Centre: Utamaduni meaning ‘culture, tradition and folklore’, was opened over 20 years ago by Richard Leakey, Kenyan born and world renown palaeoanthropologist. The centre is a large crafts emporium with a portion of the profits going toward supporting local charities.  Utamaduni offers a range of goods from traditional items made locally by Kenyan craftsmen & basket weavers, as well supporting other traders mainly from West Africa supplying a range of masks, fabrics and exotic jewellery.
   

Kiambethu Tea Farm (above)

1. Browns Cheese Farm: At Browns Cheese Farm, visitors can immerse themselves in the art of cheese-making. Situated in a picturesque setting, this farm offers a unique opportunity to explore the cheese production process from start to finish. Guided tours reveal the secrets behind their artisanal cheeses, and tastings provide a delightful sampling of their diverse range of cheeses. Whether you're a cheese enthusiast or simply curious, Browns Cheese Farm promises an engaging and flavorful experience.

2. Karangura Coffee Farm: Karangura Coffee Farm is a haven for coffee lovers, offering an authentic glimpse into the world of coffee production. Located in a lush, scenic area, the farm provides informative tours that cover the entire coffee journey—from planting and harvesting to roasting and brewing. Visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences and tastings, savoring the rich flavors of freshly brewed coffee while learning about sustainable farming practices and the intricate processes that contribute to a perfect cup.
   

3. Kiambethu Tea Farm: Kiambethu Tea Farm invites guests to explore the fascinating world of tea cultivation. Nestled in verdant landscapes, the farm offers a comprehensive tour where visitors can learn about the tea production process, from leaf picking to processing. The experience includes a tea tasting session, allowing visitors to sample a variety of teas and appreciate the nuanced flavors that distinguish different blends. The tranquil setting and educational insights make Kiambethu Tea Farm a must-visit for tea enthusiasts and those interested in sustainable agriculture.