Nairobi Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Nairobi with kids.
Nairobi is Kenya's vibrant capital city and a major hub for East Africa, blending modern skyscrapers with abundant wildlife right at the city's edge. It is the only city in the world with a national park within its boundaries, where lions and giraffes roam against a backdrop of the urban skyline. Known as the 'Green City in the Sun,' Nairobi offers world-class dining, diverse culture, and serves as the gateway to Kenya's legendary safari destinations.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Nairobi.
Giraffe Centre Feeding
Hand-feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes from an elevated wooden platform — the highlight of any Nairobi family visit. Educational and wonderfully interactive for all ages.
David Sheldrick Elephant Nursery
Watch orphaned baby elephants being bottle-fed and playing in the mud during the daily 11 AM public visiting hour. One of the most emotionally engaging wildlife experiences in Africa.
Nairobi National Park Game Drive
A safari game drive within 7km of the city centre, spotting lions, giraffes, zebras and rhinos in the wild. An unforgettable experience for children of all ages.
Nairobi Mamba Village
Africa's largest crocodile farm with 10,000 crocodiles, plus ostriches, camels and a fun lakeside restaurant. The feeding time at 5 PM is particularly thrilling for older children.
Bomas of Kenya Performance
Traditional dances, acrobatics and music from Kenya's 42 ethnic groups in an outdoor amphitheatre. The energetic performances and colourful costumes captivate children of all ages.
Karura Forest Cycling
Cycle through the peaceful urban forest trails at Karura Forest, discovering waterfalls, caves and abundant birdlife. Bicycle hire is available at the main entrance gate.
Village Market Water Park
A fun water park and play area at Village Market in Gigiri, with water slides, a splash pool and play equipment set in the open-air mall complex.
Nairobi National Museum & Snake Park
The national museum's snake park and nature trail are particularly popular with curious children. The live snake collection and the 'Origin of Mankind' exhibit fascinate older children.
IMAX Cinema at Two Rivers Mall
East Africa's first IMAX cinema showing the latest international releases in exceptional picture and sound quality — a great option for an evening or rainy day.
Ngong Hills Hike
A rewarding family hike to the Ngong Hills ridge with panoramic views over Nairobi and the Rift Valley. Suitable for fit teenagers and active adults; not recommended for young children.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Nairobi Family Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
The Hemingways Nairobi
Nairobi's finest boutique luxury hotel in Karen with a beautiful pool, lush gardens and impeccable service
The Boma Hotel
Award-winning hotel near the airport with a large outdoor pool, multiple dining options and excellent service
Ole-Sereni Hotel
Hotel overlooking Nairobi National Park — children can watch wildlife from the poolside terrace
Wildebeest Eco Camp
Budget-friendly eco-camp in a garden setting with a welcoming atmosphere and excellent safari booking assistance
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Java House is the most reliable family dining option with multiple locations, children's menus and high chairs
Most Nairobi restaurants welcome children warmly — Kenyans love children
High chairs are available at most upscale and mid-range restaurants; ask when booking
Children's meals at local restaurants typically $4-8; portions are usually large and shareable
Village Market and Two Rivers Mall have the best family food court options with wide variety
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
Visit the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Trust on the same morning — they are close to each other in Karen/Langata
Book the David Sheldrick Trust elephant visiting hour online well in advance — it fills up fast
Nairobi's altitude (1,795m) means even a mild cold can feel more intense — carry children's medication
Gertrude's Children's Hospital on Muthaiga Road is the best children's medical facility in Nairobi
Use Uber or Bolt with child booster seats (request via the app's extras option) for safe transport
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.