East Africa Game Fair

About

The East Africa Game Fair is an exciting annual outdoor event that brings together wildlife conservation, safari culture, and family-friendly entertainment in the heart of Nairobi. Kids get hands-on exposure to East Africa's incredible outdoor heritage through interactive exhibits, wildlife demonstrations, and activities that celebrate the region's natural wonders. It's a unique opportunity for families to experience Kenya's safari culture in an accessible, festive atmosphere perfect for sparking young adventurers' imaginations.

What to Expect

Families can expect a vibrant outdoor fair featuring exhibitors showcasing safari equipment, conservation organizations with educational displays, wildlife encounters, traditional cultural performances, and family-oriented activities. The atmosphere is festive and educational, with plenty of space for kids to explore. Expect to see demonstrations from safari guides, opportunities to learn about African wildlife conservation, interactive booths from national parks and lodges, and often special kids' zones with face painting, crafts, and games. The event typically attracts both local families and international visitors, creating a welcoming multicultural environment.

Highlights for Kids

• Live wildlife encounters and educational presentations featuring snakes, birds of prey, or other native animals from conservation centers
• Interactive safari vehicle displays where kids can climb aboard authentic game drive vehicles and imagine their own safari adventures
• Traditional cultural performances including Maasai dancers and drummers in full ceremonial dress
• Hands-on conservation activities like learning animal tracking or participating in wildlife-themed crafts and games
• Meeting safari guides and rangers who share exciting stories and answer questions about Kenya's national parks

Pro Tips for Families

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection—the event is largely outdoors on uneven terrain, and Nairobi's high-altitude sun can be intense even when temperatures feel mild
2. Bring binoculars if you have them; many exhibitors showcase wildlife viewing equipment and there may be opportunities to spot birds or wildlife in the surrounding park areas
3. Visit conservation organization booths early in the day when staff are most energetic and kids can get quality time asking questions and participating in activities
4. Download offline maps and have cash in Kenyan shillings ready—while many vendors accept mobile money (M-Pesa), international cards may not work everywhere, and cell service can be spotty

Best Time to Visit

Arrive early in the morning when gates open (typically 9-10 AM) to beat the midday heat and enjoy the most active period before crowds peak. Morning is ideal for wildlife demonstrations and when exhibitors are most engaged. If it's a multi-day event, Saturday tends to be busiest with more activities scheduled, while Sunday may be quieter and more relaxed for families preferring a calmer experience.

Food & Drinks

The fair typically features a variety of food vendors offering both international options (burgers, pizzas, chips) and Kenyan favorites like nyama choma (grilled meat), samosas, and mandazi (sweet fried dough). Most vendors are cash-based, so have Kenyan shillings ready. Kid-friendly options are readily available, though adventurous eaters should try local fresh juices and snacks. Bring refillable water bottles as it's important to stay hydrated at Nairobi's altitude (1,600+ meters), and bottled water is available but can be pricey. Some shaded eating areas are usually provided, but bringing a picnic blanket gives you flexibility.

Parking & Access

The venue typically offers on-site parking, though it can fill up quickly on peak days—arrive early or consider using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt, which work well in Nairobi. If driving yourself, be prepared for possible traffic delays on approach roads. The fair grounds are generally stroller-accessible on main pathways, but some areas may have uneven terrain or grass that makes pushing strollers challenging; baby carriers might be more practical. International visitors should note that traffic drives on the left in Kenya. Taxis and ride-shares can easily pick up from the venue, making it convenient for families without rental cars.