Skip to main content
Sign In
Ngong Race Course and Golf Park race course in Langata, Nairobi
Photo: Google
View of Ngong Race Course and Golf Park in Langata, Nairobi
Photo: Google
View of Ngong Race Course and Golf Park in Langata, Nairobi
Photo: Google

Ngong Race Course and Golf Park

4.4(4,142 reviews)$Sports
🕑 3 to 4 hours on race days👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children will enjoy the open grassy areas for running and picnicking, while older kids and teens appreciate the excitement of the races and the social atmosphere. Toddlers can attend but may find the noise and crowds overwhelming during busy race days.

About

Ngong Race Course offers a uniquely Kenyan family experience where kids can watch exciting horse races, enjoy wide open spaces for running and picnicking, and experience a beloved local tradition. The venue hosts special family race days with entertainment, activities, and a festive atmosphere that gives international visitors an authentic taste of Nairobi social life in a safe, family-friendly environment.

Highlights

  • Watching live horse racing, a thrilling spectacle for kids who may never have seen it before
  • Wide open green spaces perfect for picnicking and kids running around safely
  • Live entertainment, music, and family activities on special race days
  • Authentic local atmosphere where families can mingle with Nairobi residents
  • Beautiful views of the Ngong Hills in the distance

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on a race day (typically Sunday afternoons when open for events) for the full experience with entertainment, food stalls, and family activities. Check the racing calendar in advance as regular hours are limited.
  2. 2.Bring a picnic blanket, sunscreen, and hats as much of the viewing area is outdoors with limited shade. The grassy areas are perfect for families to spread out.
  3. 3.Arrive early (gates usually open around noon on race days) to secure a good spot and let kids explore before crowds build up in the afternoon.
  4. 4.Bring Kenyan shillings for small purchases as many food vendors prefer cash. ATMs are available nearby on Ngong Road.
  5. 5.Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Giraffe Centre or Nairobi National Park, both within 15 minutes' drive, to make a full day adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Race days on Sunday afternoons (roughly monthly) offer the best family experience with full entertainment and activities. Weekday visits are quieter for golf or casual park use but lack the excitement. Visit during Kenya's dry seasons (January to March or July to October) for the most comfortable weather.

What to Know

Entry fees are very affordable (typically around 200-500 Kenyan shillings per adult, kids often free or discounted). Parking is available on-site. Food stalls operate on race days, but bringing your own picnic is common and welcomed.

Seasonal Notes

The race season typically runs throughout the year with events scheduled monthly, though the racing calendar varies. The best weather for outdoor activities is during Kenya's dry seasons (January to March and July to October). Some major racing events and family days coincide with Kenyan holidays.

Nearby Eats

The Talisman Restaurant (10 minutes away) offers a beautiful garden setting with kid-friendly international cuisine. Java House on Ngong Road provides reliable Western-style food including burgers, pasta, and coffee that traveling families will appreciate.

More Activities Near Langata

Sports

Ngong Racecourse

$

Ngong Racecourse offers a unique cultural experience where families can enjoy horse racing in a relaxed, picnic-friendly atmosphere that's quintessentially Nairobi. Family race days combine the excitement of watching horses thunder past with plenty of green space for kids to run around, face painting, bouncy castles, and entertainment that makes this far more than just a sporting event.

Sports

Langata Sports Club

$

Langata Sports Club offers visiting families a refreshing escape from Nairobi's bustling city center with multiple swimming pools, tennis courts, and well-maintained playgrounds. This community-focused facility welcomes day visitors and provides a safe, clean environment where kids can burn energy while parents relax in a tranquil setting. It's an ideal spot for families seeking affordable recreation and a chance to mingle with local Kenyan families.

Sports

Ulinzi Sports Complex - Langata

4.6$

Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata offers families a refreshing escape with excellent swimming pools, tennis courts, and dedicated playgrounds in a safe, well-maintained community setting. With affordable day passes available, it's an ideal spot for active families to spend a sunny afternoon enjoying multiple activities without breaking the bank.

Activity

The Bomas of Kenya

The Bomas of Kenya offers an immersive cultural experience where families can explore authentic recreations of traditional homesteads from Kenya's 42+ ethnic communities. Kids will be captivated by the colorful daily dance performances featuring acrobatic moves, vibrant costumes, and energetic drumming that bring Kenya's rich heritage to life. The sprawling outdoor village setting provides plenty of space for children to explore while learning about different cultures through interactive displays and craft demonstrations.