laurie_ann

On our Kenya trip next month we have just one full day in Nairobi, the day after arriving late at night but it is a Sunday. We are staying at New Stanley. We were just interested in a little sightseeing, perhaps the National Museum, and a bit of walking to see Nairobi life maybe cafes or bookshops. Will the central business district there near the hotel have sidewalks "rolled up" because it's Sunday? Are there better areas just to experience a bit of Nairobi life as families there might on a Sunday such as a park or shopping area?

ShayTay

I'd suggest contacting Kennedy Muthoka at Waymark Safaris. He's a great guide that specializes in Nairobi and has been highly recommended by several of us Fodorites who have used his services and now call him "friend." I don't know that it would be safe for you to do much walking around Nairobi, even during the day. You could use Kennedy and design a day-trip with him according to what you'd like to do. He'll know what's open and what's not on a Sunday. Kennedy's e-mail address is [email protected]. I think there is another e-mail address he uses, as well. Sometimes, e-mails get lost going to or from Kenya, so keep trying if you don't hear from him right away.

ShayTay

This may be a better e-mail address for Kennedy: [email protected].

sandi

We've walked around the area of our hotel (not far from New Stanley) and felt perfectly safe. Most stores/shops and restaurants were open. Less people on the street than a weekday, but we felt perfectly safe. Just remember not to be wearing expensive jewelry, flash cash or have a big expensive camera around neck. Most people won't even pay attention to you.

We had small pocket-sized camera, some local currency and a credit card in pants pocket and off we went. Locals went about what they were doing and we our own thing. In fact, we returned to our hotel with lots of shopping bags. Bear in mind, the concierge and doorman offered to get us a taxi, but we chose to walk and were fine.

If you haven't already done your sightseeing in/around NBO, then Kennedy can help, or your hotel's Tour Desk can arrange something for you.

Patty

We've also walked around that area during the day when staying at the Hilton which is nearby. Like Sandi, I just took some cash/cards in my pocket and left everything else in the hotel safe. Most everyone else will be doing their own thing. Occasionally we'd be approached (for safaris or whatever) but no one was ever pushy. For the National Museum you'll need a taxi.

Siro12

Sunday in Nairobi is much more pleasant than a weekday. As long as you're in the city center there shouldn't be too much of a hassle. We were the only mzungus (whites)in the City Market. We felt perfectly safe, but were of course "attacked" by the storeowners/workers.

Regards from Siro who soon will return your helpfulness with a tripreport Had a great trip!