NAIROBI HIDDEN GEMS
9 MUST VISIT NAIROBI HIDDEN GEMS
While Nairobi is famous for its bustling markets, Nairobi National Park, and iconic landmarks, it also hides a treasure trove of lesser-known spots waiting to be explored. With a rental car, you have the flexibility to discover these hidden gems at your own pace, far from the typical tourist trails. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for a new adventure, here are some unique and underrated spots in Nairobi that you can easily reach with your rental vehicle.
1. Paradise Lost
- Location: Kiambu Road, about 10 km from Nairobi city center
- Why Visit? Paradise Lost is a stunning nature escape that many overlook. Nestled within a coffee farm, this serene park offers a combination of natural caves, a waterfall, and a picturesque lake. You can enjoy activities such as boating, bird watching, picnics, and exploring the Mau Mau caves that are hidden within the grounds. It’s a peaceful haven for anyone seeking a break from the city buzz.
Best Vehicle Option:
For the slightly rugged terrain leading to Paradise Lost, the Mazda CX-5 or Toyota Fielder provides the right mix of comfort and reliability, perfect for navigating the slightly off-road sections.
2. The Karen Blixen Coffee Garden and Cottages
- Location: Karen, about 15 km from Nairobi city center
- Why Visit? While many visitors flock to the Karen Blixen Museum, few realize the charm of the nearby Coffee Garden and Cottages. The beautifully landscaped gardens are perfect for a relaxing afternoon, enjoying a cup of coffee or lunch amidst the lush greenery. The historic cottages offer a glimpse into Nairobi's colonial past and provide a tranquil spot to escape the city’s hustle.
Best Vehicle Option:
The Toyota Axio (Hybrid) is a great option for this trip. It offers excellent fuel economy for city driving and ample comfort for a relaxing drive to Karen.
3. Oloolua Nature Trail
- Location: Karen, about 15 km from Nairobi city center
- Why Visit? The Oloolua Nature Trail is a hidden gem tucked within the Institute of Primate Research. It’s perfect for nature lovers seeking a quiet hiking trail within Nairobi. The trail meanders through a lush forest, passing by a small waterfall, caves, and a bamboo grove. If you're looking to reconnect with nature without leaving the city, Oloolua is the place to be.
Best Vehicle Option:
The Mazda Demio is ideal for a visit to Oloolua, offering great maneuverability and fuel efficiency, making it perfect for city trips and short hikes.
4. Karura Forest
- Location: About 5 km from the city center
- Why Visit? Though Karura Forest has gained some popularity recently, it still remains one of Nairobi’s quieter attractions. This urban forest offers numerous walking and cycling trails, picnic spots, and a waterfall. It's a peaceful retreat right within the city where you can enjoy the sounds of nature while spotting monkeys, butterflies, and birds.
Best Vehicle Option:
For this close-to-town trip, a Nissan Note is an excellent choice. It’s compact, making it easy to park and drive around the city, while offering enough space for you and your gear.
5. Nairobi Art Centre
- Location: Lavington, about 8 km from the city center
- Why Visit? Tucked away in the residential area of Lavington, the Nairobi Art Centre is a delightful spot for art lovers. It hosts workshops and exhibitions showcasing local talent and offers a creative space where visitors can participate in art sessions like pottery or painting. It's a perfect stop for anyone looking to tap into Nairobi’s thriving art scene.
Best Vehicle Option:
A Mazda Axela or Toyota Sienta would suit this city route well, providing comfort and convenience for a relaxed day exploring Nairobi’s artistic side.
6. Kibera Art and Culture Tours
- Location: Kibera, about 7 km from the city center
- Why Visit? Kibera, one of the largest informal settlements in Africa, is also home to a vibrant art and culture scene. Guided tours through Kibera offer a unique perspective on Nairobi, taking visitors through local art studios, community projects, and cultural landmarks. These tours not only provide insight into the resilience of the local community but also showcase the creativity that thrives in this part of the city.
Best Vehicle Option:
For navigating Kibera’s narrow roads, the Mazda Demio or Nissan Note would be ideal, as they’re compact, economical, and easy to park in tight spaces.
7. The Nairobi War Cemetery
- Location: Ngong Road, about 10 km from the city center
- Why Visit? This peaceful, well-maintained cemetery is a resting place for soldiers who fought in World War I and World War II. It's not a typical tourist destination, making it a quiet, reflective space to explore. The gardens are beautifully kept, and it's a poignant reminder of Kenya’s role in global history.
Best Vehicle Option:
The Toyota Axio (Hybrid) or Mazda CX-5 are perfect for this trip, offering a comfortable ride and excellent fuel efficiency for a smooth journey to this reflective spot.
8. Kitengela Hot Glass
- Location: Kiserian, about 30 km from Nairobi city center
- Why Visit? Kitengela Hot Glass is an enchanting world of recycled glass art. Visitors can take a tour of the glassblowing workshops, witness artisans at work, and even try their hand at creating their own glass pieces. The quirky architecture and breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley make this hidden gem a must-see for art and nature lovers alike.
Best Vehicle Option:
For the slightly off-road journey to Kitengela, the Toyota Land Cruiser or Mazda CX-5 are great options, offering the durability and comfort you need for a smooth drive through the rougher terrain.
9. Mamba Village
- Location: Karen, about 13 km from Nairobi city center
- Why Visit? Mamba Village is an excellent place to get up close with crocodiles, ostriches, and other wildlife. While many people associate Karen with the Karen Blixen Museum, Mamba Village offers a lesser-known, fun-filled experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts. You can even feed the animals during your visit.
Best Vehicle Option:
The Toyota Sienta is perfect for a family outing to Mamba Village, providing space and comfort while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
Nairobi is full of surprises, and with a rental car, you can uncover its hidden gems with ease. Whether you're looking for an artistic escape, a nature retreat, or a quiet historical spot, Nairobi has something for every kind of explorer. Renting a car from RentNRide ensures you have the flexibility and convenience to make the most of your journey, all while traveling in comfort and style.
Discover the hidden treasures of Nairobi—book your rental car with RentNRide today and start exploring.
