Top 10 Things to Do in Nairobi During Your Home Swap: A Local's Guide

The matatu pulled up to the roundabout, reggae blasting from speakers that had no business being that loud at 7 AM, and I remember thinking: this city is going to keep me on my toes. That was three years ago, during my first home swap in Nairobi. Kenya's capital has become one of my favorite places to return to—a city that rewards curiosity and punishes assumptions in equal measure.

If you're planning things to do in Nairobi during your home swap, you're in for something special. This isn't a city that reveals itself through tour buses and checkbox attractions. It's a place where the best experiences happen when you follow a local's recommendation down an unmarked road, or say yes to that invite for nyama choma with your host's neighbors.

I've done three home swaps in Nairobi now—once in the leafy suburbs of Karen, once in the creative chaos of Westlands, and most recently in a stunning apartment near Karura Forest. Each stay taught me something new about this city of 4.5 million people. So here's my honest, tested-it-myself guide to making the most of your Nairobi home exchange.

Why Nairobi is Perfect for Home Swapping

Let me tell you why I think Nairobi might be the most underrated home swap destination in Africa.

The practical stuff first: Nairobi has a thriving middle and upper class with genuinely beautiful homes. We're talking properties with gardens, swimming pools, staff quarters—the kind of space that would cost you $400+ per night at a comparable hotel. During my Karen home swap, I stayed in a colonial-era house with a fireplace (yes, Nairobi gets cold—it sits at 1,795 meters elevation), a garden with resident chameleons, and a housekeeper named Grace who made the best chai I've ever tasted.

The hosts here tend to be well-traveled professionals who understand the home exchange concept intuitively. Many have studied or worked abroad and are eager to explore Europe or North America through SwappaHome's credit system.

And here's what surprised me most: Nairobi is genuinely cosmopolitan. Ethiopian restaurants sit next to Korean BBQ joints. Craft breweries share blocks with traditional nyama choma spots. The contemporary art scene rivals cities three times its size.

1. Start with a Safari Day Trip from Nairobi

I know, I know—starting with a safari feels predictable. But hear me out: Nairobi is the only capital city in the world with a national park inside its borders. You can literally see giraffes with skyscrapers in the background. It's surreal.

Nairobi National Park is just 7 kilometers from the city center. A half-day game drive (around $50-80 USD including park fees of 4,315 KES for foreigners) will get you lions, rhinos, buffalo, and hundreds of bird species. The best time is early morning—aim to enter at 6 AM when the animals are most active and the light is golden.

If you want the full experience without the full-day commitment, combine it with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. For just $50 USD, you can adopt an orphaned elephant and visit during the 11 AM feeding. Watching baby elephants tumble over each other while their keepers bottle-feed them? It broke something in my heart in the best way.

Pro tip from my home swap host: Book the Sheldrick visit at least a week ahead online—they limit daily visitors. And if you're there in the rainy season (March-May or October-November), the elephants get extra playful in the mud.

2. Get Lost in Karura Forest (Seriously, Get Lost)

This is where Nairobi surprised me most. Karura Forest is 1,000 hectares of indigenous forest right in the middle of the city—bigger than Central Park, wilder than anything you'd expect, and absolutely essential for understanding why Nairobians love their city.

During my Westlands home swap, my host's apartment was a 10-minute walk from the forest entrance. I went running there every morning, and each time I discovered something new: a hidden waterfall, caves that were used by Mau Mau fighters during the independence struggle, troops of colobus monkeys crashing through the canopy.

Entry is 600 KES (about $4.50 USD) for foreigners. You can walk, run, or bike (rentals available at the gate for around 500 KES). The River Café inside the forest does an excellent brunch if you want to refuel mid-hike.

Hike to the waterfall—about 45 minutes from the main gate. Visit the Mau Mau caves with a guide. Run the 10km marked trail loop. Have a picnic at the designated areas. Keep your eyes up for colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and over 200 bird species.

3. Explore the Karen Blixen Museum and Surroundings

If you're doing a home swap in Nairobi's Karen suburb (named after the author herself), you absolutely need to visit the Karen Blixen Museum. Yes, it's touristy. Yes, you should still go.

The museum is housed in the farmhouse where Blixen lived from 1917 to 1931 and wrote "Out of Africa." The building itself is charming—a low stone structure with a terracotta roof and views of the Ngong Hills that haven't changed much in a century. Entry is about 1,200 KES ($9 USD).

But here's what the guidebooks don't tell you: the real magic of Karen isn't the museum. It's the surrounding area. After your visit, walk to the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden for lunch (the fish tacos are unexpectedly excellent), then wander to Kazuri Beads factory to see local women crafting ceramic jewelry.

Feeling adventurous? Hire a car and driver (around $80-100 USD for a half day) to take you up the Ngong Hills themselves. The hike along the ridge offers 360-degree views of the Great Rift Valley on one side and Nairobi on the other. It's where Denys Finch Hatton is buried—yes, the Robert Redford character from the movie.

4. Dive into Nairobi's Food Scene (Beyond Nyama Choma)

Real talk: Kenyan food doesn't get the international recognition it deserves. You absolutely should eat nyama choma (grilled meat) at least once—I recommend Carnivore Restaurant for the theatrical experience or Njuguna's in Westlands for the local version—but Nairobi's food scene goes way deeper.

During my home swaps, I've eaten some of the best meals of my life in this city.

For Ethiopian food: Habesha Restaurant in Kilimani. The injera is spongy and sour, the doro wat is rich with berbere spice, and the coffee ceremony at the end is an experience unto itself. Budget about $15-20 USD per person.

For contemporary Kenyan: Cultiva at the Trademark Hotel. Chef Kevin Onyango is doing incredible things with local ingredients—think dehydrated lake fish with fermented vegetables, or goat prepared three ways. Tasting menu runs about $60-80 USD.

For street food: Head to K'Osewe Ranalo Foods on Kimathi Street for authentic luo fish (tilapia) with ugali and sukuma wiki. It's chaotic, it's loud, and it's about $5 USD for a meal that'll fill you up for hours.

For brunch: Tribe Hotel's terrace, Artcaffe in any location, or Mama Ashanti in Lavington for the African fusion breakfast.

My home swap host in Karen introduced me to her favorite hidden spot: a woman named Mama Oliech who runs a small restaurant in Hurlingham serving the best fish in the city. No sign, no menu, just point at what looks good. That meal—fried tilapia, kachumbari salad, and chapati—cost me 400 KES ($3 USD) and remains one of my most vivid Nairobi memories.

5. Experience Nairobi's Contemporary Art Scene

This one catches most visitors off guard. Nairobi has an art scene that's genuinely world-class, driven by a generation of East African artists who are redefining what African contemporary art means.

Start at the Nairobi National Museum (1,200 KES entry) for context—the cultural history exhibits are excellent, and they often have rotating contemporary shows. But the real action is in the galleries.

Circle Art Gallery in Lavington represents some of the biggest names in East African art. The space itself is beautiful, and the staff are knowledgeable without being pretentious. Free entry. One Off Contemporary Art Gallery in Rosslyn focuses on emerging artists and has a sculpture garden worth wandering. Also free.

My favorite discovery? The GoDown Arts Centre in Industrial Area. It's a converted warehouse that hosts everything from experimental theater to live music to visual art exhibitions. Check their calendar—if there's something on during your home swap in Nairobi, don't miss it.

If you're there on a Saturday, the Maasai Market rotates locations around the city (check locally for the current spot—it moves between Village Market, Yaya Centre, and other locations). It's touristy, yes, but the quality of craftsmanship is genuine, and bargaining is expected. Start at about 30% of the asking price.

6. Take a Day Trip to Lake Naivasha or Lake Nakuru

One of the best things about doing a home swap in Nairobi is using the city as a base for exploring the Great Rift Valley. The lakes are where that exploration should start.

Lake Naivasha is about 90 minutes from Nairobi (depending on traffic—always add buffer time). You can hire a boat for around $30-40 USD per hour to cruise among the hippos and fish eagles. The lake is freshwater, surrounded by fever trees, and genuinely peaceful. Stay for lunch at Elsamere, the former home of Joy Adamson (of "Born Free" fame).

Lake Nakuru National Park is about 2.5 hours away but worth the drive. It's famous for flamingos—though their numbers vary with water levels—but the real draw is the rhino sanctuary. This is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos. Park fees are $60 USD for foreigners, and I'd recommend hiring a guide/driver for about $100-150 USD for the day.

Both trips are doable as day trips from your Nairobi home swap. If you have time, spending a night at Lake Naivasha (there are some stunning properties on Crescent Island) adds another dimension to the experience.

7. Discover Nairobi's Coffee Culture

Kenya grows some of the world's best coffee—the high-altitude beans from regions like Nyeri and Kirinyaga are prized by specialty roasters globally. Nairobi has embraced third-wave coffee culture with enthusiasm.

Artcaffe is the most ubiquitous option, with locations across the city. It's reliable, comfortable, and their Kenyan single-origin pour-over is genuinely excellent.

For the real coffee experience, seek out Kaldis Coffee in Westlands for Ethiopian-style coffee with a ceremony option. Java House is the original Kenyan coffee chain, now everywhere, but the Mama Ngina Street location has history. Brew Bistro in Westlands offers craft beer AND craft coffee in one spot, plus good food. Kahawa 1893 is a social enterprise that sources directly from Kenyan women farmers—their Westlands location does excellent espresso drinks.

During my Karen home swap, my host took me to a small roaster called Dormans for a cupping session. For about $20 USD, you can learn to taste the difference between Kenyan AA and AB grades, understand what "bright acidity" actually means, and leave with beans you'll dream about for months.

8. Experience Nairobi Nightlife (It's More Diverse Than You'd Think)

Nairobi after dark is a different city—and I mean that in the best way. The nightlife here ranges from sophisticated rooftop bars to sweaty club nights to live music venues that'll keep you dancing until 4 AM.

For sundowners: The rooftop at Sankara Hotel in Westlands has views across the city and excellent cocktails (budget $15-20 USD per drink). Trademark Hotel in Village Market is another solid option.

For live music: J's Fresh Bar in Lavington hosts live jazz on certain nights—check their schedule. K1 Klubhouse in Parklands is where you'll find the best Kenyan hip-hop and genge music.

For dancing: Alchemist Bar in Westlands is an industrial-chic space with rotating DJ nights—everything from techno to afrobeats. Entry is usually free before 11 PM, then around 1,000-2,000 KES ($7-15 USD).

For a proper night out: Start with dinner in Westlands, move to Alchemist for drinks and dancing, then end at Havana in Hurlingham if you're still standing. Nairobi nights go late—clubs don't really get going until midnight.

Safety note: Always use Uber or Bolt at night. They're cheap (a cross-city ride rarely exceeds $10 USD), reliable, and eliminate the need to negotiate with taxi drivers at 2 AM.

9. Visit the Giraffe Centre and Surrounding Area

The Giraffe Centre in Langata is one of those attractions that sounds like a tourist trap but is actually wonderful. For 1,500 KES (about $11 USD), you can feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes from an elevated platform—and yes, they will absolutely try to kiss you with their 45-centimeter tongues.

The center is run by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife and does genuine conservation work. The giraffes are semi-wild, coming and going from the adjacent sanctuary as they please. Early morning is best—fewer crowds, more active giraffes.

Here's my insider tip: combine the Giraffe Centre with a visit to Giraffe Manor for high tea. Yes, the famous hotel where giraffes stick their heads through the windows at breakfast. You don't need to stay there (rooms run $1,000+ per night) to experience it. Book the afternoon tea experience for around $100 USD per person. It's pricey, but having a giraffe steal your scone while you sip Earl Grey is genuinely unforgettable.

Afterward, walk to Kazuri Beads (about 15 minutes) or grab lunch at Talisman restaurant—one of Nairobi's best, set in a beautiful garden.

10. Experience Local Life Through Your Home Swap Host

I've saved this for last because it's both the most important and the hardest to plan. The best things to do in Nairobi during your home swap aren't always on any list—they're the experiences your host can unlock for you.

During my home exchanges in Nairobi, hosts have invited me to Sunday lunch with their extended family (I learned to make proper pilau). They've taken me to their local church service (the singing was transcendent). Connected me with their friend who runs a community project in Kibera. Shared their favorite running route through a neighborhood I'd never have found. Recommended a tailor who made me a custom shirt for $25 USD.

This is the magic of home swapping versus hotels. You're not just getting accommodation—you're getting a window into how people actually live. In Nairobi, a city that can feel overwhelming to navigate as a tourist, that local connection is invaluable.

Before you arrive, message your SwappaHome host with specific questions: Where do YOU eat? What's your favorite weekend activity? Is there anything happening in the city during my stay that I shouldn't miss? Most hosts are thrilled to share their insider knowledge.

Practical Tips for Your Nairobi Home Swap

Getting around: Uber and Bolt work excellently throughout the city. Budget about $5-15 USD for most trips. Matatus (minibuses) are an experience but not recommended unless you're with a local.

Money: Kenyan Shillings (KES). Current rate is roughly 130 KES to $1 USD. Cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Safety: Nairobi has a reputation that's partially deserved and partially outdated. Stick to established neighborhoods (Karen, Westlands, Kilimani, Lavington, Gigiri), don't flash valuables, and use ride-hailing apps at night. I've never felt unsafe during my home swaps, but I also use common sense.

Weather: Nairobi is at altitude, so it's cooler than you'd expect for equatorial Africa. Pack layers—mornings and evenings can be chilly (15°C/59°F), while midday is warm (25°C/77°F). The long rains (March-May) and short rains (October-November) can disrupt plans.

Best time for a home swap: June-September (dry season) or January-February (also dry). The shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Why I Keep Coming Back

There's something about Nairobi that gets under your skin. It's not an easy city—the traffic is legendary, the inequality is stark, and the pace can be exhausting. But it's also one of the most dynamic, creative, and genuinely surprising places I've ever spent time.

Every home swap in Nairobi has taught me something new. The city is changing rapidly—new restaurants, new galleries, new neighborhoods emerging from what was farmland a decade ago. Each time I return, I discover corners I missed before.

If you're considering a home swap in Nairobi through SwappaHome, my advice is simple: say yes. Come with curiosity, leave your assumptions at the airport, and let the city show you what it's really about. The wildlife is spectacular, sure. But it's the people, the food, the art, the energy—that's what'll make you want to come back.

And when you do, message me. I'll tell you about that little restaurant in Hurlingham where Mama Oliech still serves the best fish in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nairobi safe for home swap travelers?

Nairobi is generally safe for travelers who take normal precautions. Stick to established neighborhoods like Karen, Westlands, and Kilimani. Use Uber or Bolt rather than walking at night, and don't display expensive items. During my three home swaps in Nairobi, I've never experienced any safety issues—but I also follow local advice and stay aware of my surroundings.

How much does a week in Nairobi cost during a home swap?

With accommodation covered through your home swap, budget roughly $50-80 USD per day for food, activities, and transport. Safari day trips add $80-150 USD. A comfortable week exploring Nairobi's attractions, restaurants, and day trips typically runs $500-700 USD total—compared to $2,000+ if paying for equivalent hotel accommodation.

What's the best neighborhood for a home swap in Nairobi?

Karen offers spacious homes with gardens, close to the Giraffe Centre and Nairobi National Park—ideal for families. Westlands is central, walkable, and near the best restaurants and nightlife. Kilimani and Lavington offer a balance of residential calm and urban convenience. Each has distinct character, so choose based on your priorities.

Do I need a visa for Kenya?

Most nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which replaced the traditional visa in 2024. Apply online at etakenya.go.ke at least 72 hours before travel. The fee is approximately $30 USD. Some nationalities qualify for visa-free entry—check current requirements before booking your home swap.

What should I bring to my Nairobi home swap host?

Kenyan hosts appreciate thoughtful gifts from your home country—specialty foods, local crafts, or quality chocolate are always welcome. I usually bring something from San Francisco (Ghirardelli chocolate, local roasted coffee) plus a small gift for any household staff. It's not expected, but it's a nice gesture that reflects the spirit of home exchange.