Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Arboretum Nairobi
Activity
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 3-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the open spaces for running and exploring, while school-age children can engage with the educational aspects of the diverse plant collections and nature observation.
About
Arboretum Nairobi offers families a tranquil escape from the city bustle with shaded walking paths winding through collections of indigenous and exotic trees. Children can explore nature at their own pace, spot birds and small wildlife, enjoy picnics on the lawns, and learn about different plant species in this 30-hectare green oasis. It's an ideal spot for active kids who love outdoor exploration and families seeking a relaxed, educational nature experience.
Highlights
- ✓Over 350 species of trees and plants from around the world to discover and learn about
- ✓Peaceful walking trails perfect for nature scavenger hunts and exploration
- ✓Excellent bird watching opportunities with over 100 species recorded
- ✓Wide open lawns ideal for picnics, running, and outdoor play
- ✓Educational opportunities to learn about indigenous Kenyan flora and conservation
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning (8-9am) for cooler temperatures and the best bird watching opportunities before it gets too warm
- 2.Pack a picnic blanket and snacks as there are lovely shaded spots perfect for family picnics, though food options onsite are limited
- 3.Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and hats as you'll be outdoors with limited shade in some areas
- 4.Wear comfortable walking shoes as paths can be uneven in places, and bring binoculars for kids to spot birds and wildlife
- 5.Visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and have more peaceful nature experiences
Best Time to Visit
Visit early morning (8am-10am) or late afternoon on weekdays for the coolest temperatures and fewer crowds. The dry seasons (January to March and July to October) offer the most comfortable weather for walking.
What to Know
Entry fees are typically around 100-200 Kenyan Shillings per person (approximately $1-2 USD for international visitors). Parking is available onsite, and while there are no restaurants within the arboretum, bring your own food and water as facilities are basic.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but the long rains (March to May) can make paths muddy and less enjoyable. The dry seasons from January to March and July to October offer the best conditions for walking and outdoor activities.
Nearby Eats
The Nairobi Arboretum is close to Westlands area where you'll find family-friendly options like Java House (popular Kenyan chain with kids' menus and reliable food) and Artcaffe (offering pizzas, pasta, and child-friendly meals in a casual setting).
More Activities Near Nairobi
Entertainment
Westgate Shopping Mall - Entertainment
$$❤️17
Westgate Shopping Mall offers a convenient all-in-one entertainment destination perfect for families seeking refuge from Nairobi's heat or rainy weather. With a modern cinema, arcade games, and multiple family-friendly restaurants all under one roof, it provides a comfortable, air-conditioned environment where kids can play and parents can relax or shop.
Restaurant
Java House
$$
Java House is a welcoming café chain found throughout Nairobi that makes dining with children stress-free and enjoyable. With dedicated play areas to keep kids entertained, a varied kids' menu, and healthier food options for the whole family, it's a reliable spot where parents can relax over quality coffee while children burn energy in a safe environment.
Bowling
Bowling Barn
$
Bowling Barn offers a fantastic indoor entertainment option for families visiting Nairobi, with kid-friendly bumpers that keep the game fun for even the youngest bowlers. Beyond the lanes, you'll find arcade games to keep kids entertained between frames and convenient snack options so you can refuel without leaving the venue. It's an ideal spot for rainy days, birthday parties, or simply enjoying some air-conditioned fun together as a family.
Restaurant
The Brickyard Food Court
$$❤️8
The Brickyard Food Court is a family dining haven in Nairobi where picky eaters become happy eaters. With multiple food vendors offering everything from local Kenyan dishes to international favorites, plus outdoor seating and games to keep kids entertained, it's the perfect spot when traveling families need flexibility and variety without the fuss of a formal restaurant.