Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital and largest city of Kenya, is a dynamic metropolis situated in the south-central part of the country. Located in the highlands at an elevation ranging from approximately 1,660 to 1,795 meters (5,450 to 5,889 feet) above sea level, it covers an area of about 696 square kilometers. The city is strategically positioned between Kampala and Mombasa, bordering the eastern edge of the Great Rift Valley, with the majestic Mount Kenya to its north and Mount Kilimanjaro to its southeast. The Nairobi River and its tributaries flow through the county, contributing to its "Green City under the Sun" nickname. As of 2026, Nairobi's estimated population is 5.6 million, with a metropolitan area reaching 15.95 million, making it one of Africa's most populous urban centers.The city experiences a subtropical highland climate, characterized by cool evenings, especially in June and July when temperatures can drop to 9 °C (48 °F). The warmest and sunniest period is from December to March, with average daytime temperatures in the high twenties Celsius. Nairobi has two distinct rainy seasons: a longer one from March to May and a shorter one from October to December.Nairobi is renowned globally as the "Safari Capital of the World," a title earned due to its unique distinction as the only capital city worldwide to host a national park within its boundaries. Nairobi National Park is a vibrant wildlife sanctuary, home to over 80 species of mammals, including lions, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and zebras, alongside more than 500 bird species. Beyond the park, natural attractions like Karura Forest, Nairobi Arboretum, and the Ngong Hills offer further opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciating Kenya's diverse ecosystems. The city also boasts significant cultural institutions such as the National Museum of Kenya, the Karen Blixen Museum, and the Kenyatta International Conference Centre.Historically, Nairobi was established in 1898 as a railway depot by British colonial authorities, deriving its name from the Maasai phrase "Enkare Nyirobi," meaning "place of cool waters." It rapidly grew to become the capital of the British East Africa Protectorate in 1905 and remained the capital after Kenya gained independence in 1963. Today, Nairobi serves as the primary financial and economic hub of East Africa, hosting numerous local businesses and international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Office at Nairobi. Its cosmopolitan nature reflects a rich blend of diverse Kenyan tribes and a significant immigrant population, contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape.