Nairobi: Nai Nami Storytelling Walk & Local Lunch

Summary

Walk Nairobi’s heart with Nai Nami guides sharing street stories and local life

You’ll walk Nairobi’s real streets with Nai Nami guides who grew up here—hearing their stories by the National Archives, feeling the energy of Maasai Market, pausing at August 7th Memorial Park, then sharing a casual local lunch together. It’s honest, sometimes tough, always human—expect laughter and moments that stay with you.

What’s the experience like?

We were already weaving through the crowds outside the Hilton when I realized how loud Nairobi really is — not just traffic, but people calling out, music from tiny shops, that kind of city hum you feel in your chest. Our guides from Nai Nami — Nick and Donga — didn’t rush us. They paused at the Kenya National Archives, and Nick told us this was where his own story started. He pointed to a spot by the steps and said, “That’s where I used to sleep.” I didn’t know what to say. It hit different hearing it right there, with matatus honking behind us.

We moved on toward August 7th Memorial Park. The air smelled like roasted corn from a nearby vendor (I almost stopped for some), but Donga kept us moving with a grin — “Lunch later, promise!” he said. At the park, he talked about the bombing and how it changed everything for people in the area. There was this quiet moment while we looked at the memorial wall; even the city noise seemed to fade for a second. Then someone’s phone rang loudly and everyone laughed — Nairobi never stays quiet for long.

Crossing over to Karikor market was wild — colors everywhere, piles of fruit and clothes, vendors shouting in Swahili I couldn’t catch. Our guide showed us how they’d survive nights here when they were younger. I tried to imagine it but honestly couldn’t. We ended up at a tiny local spot for lunch (rice and beans, chapati — simple but good). The guys joked about my clumsy attempt at eating with my hands. I still think about that laughter more than anything else from that day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Nairobi storytelling and city tour

• Meet at Hilton Hotel city centre
• Pass National Archives, hear life stories
• Pass August 7th Memorial Park
• Take picture of big statue
• Cross railway station, share survival stories
• Pass Karikor market area, former homebase
• Pass Jeevanjee Gardens on return

Top questions

Where does the Nai Nami tour start?

The tour meets outside the Hilton Hotel in central Nairobi near KICC tower.

Is lunch included on this Nairobi storytelling tour?

Yes, a local lunch and soft drinks are included during the experience.

What attractions do we visit on this walking tour?

You’ll pass Kenya National Archives, August 7th Memorial Park, Maasai Market area, and Jeevanjee Gardens.

Can I take photos during the Nai Nami tour?

You can use your phone for photos but cameras aren’t allowed in town for safety reasons.

Is this day trip suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels but good shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking through busy streets.

What should I bring or avoid bringing?

Bring your passport or copy (with visa page), wear closed shoes—not sandals or heels—and avoid flashy jewelry or valuables.

How old do you have to be to join?

The minimum age is 14 years old for this Nairobi walking tour experience.

What’s included

Your day includes a personal guide from Nai Nami who shares their own stories as you explore central Nairobi together on foot; soft drinks along the way; and a relaxed local lunch before finishing back near where you started.