Flights to Nairobi from Cape Town
Flights to Nairobi from Cape Town offer a direct route to Kenya’s bustling capital. The flight time is approximately 5 hours, with airlines like Kenya Airways and South African Airways offering convenient services. Nairobi is famous for its blend of urban life and nature, with attractions like Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, and the Karen Blixen Museum. To secure the best prices, book your flights ahead of time, especially around peak tourist seasons. Book your flight today and get ready to explore Nairobi’s wildlife and culture!
Weather
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, has a mild tropical climate, with temperatures varying depending on altitude.
- Temperature Range: Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Nairobi’s higher elevation keeps it cooler than other East African cities.
- Rainfall: Nairobi experiences heavy rainfall from April to May, which is its peak rainy season.
- Dry Season: The dry season lasts from June to September, with mild temperatures and moderate humidity, making it an excellent time to explore the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the flight from Cape Town to Nairobi?
The flight from Cape Town to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. - What is the best time to visit Nairobi?
The dry season (from June to September) is the best time to visit Nairobi for comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. - Do I need a visa to visit Nairobi?
Many visitors to Kenya will require a tourist visa, which can be applied for online or upon arrival at the airport. Be sure to confirm visa requirements before travel.
Attractions
- Nairobi National Park: A unique wildlife park located just outside the city, where you can see lions, giraffes, and zebras against the backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline.
- Giraffe Centre: This center helps to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Visitors can feed and interact with these gentle giants.
- Karen Blixen Museum: Located at the former home of the famous author of Out of Africa, this museum provides insight into her life in Kenya and the country’s history.
Entertainment
- Local Markets: Nairobi is famous for its vibrant markets, such as the Maasai Market, where you can buy handcrafted jewelry, art, and traditional fabrics.
- Nightlife & Cultural Performances: The city boasts a lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and cultural performances showcasing Kenyan music and dance.
Best Restaurants
- Talisman: An upscale restaurant known for its fusion of international and Kenyan cuisine, set in a beautiful garden.
- Carnivore: A popular spot for Nyama Choma (grilled meat), where diners can try a variety of meats served on skewers.
- Tamambo Karen Blixen: Located near the Karen Blixen Museum, it offers a range of Kenyan and international dishes, perfect for a relaxing meal after exploring.
Local Food
- Nyama Choma: This grilled meat dish is a Kenyan favorite, often served with ugali (maize porridge) and sukuma (collard greens).
- Ugali: A staple of Kenyan cuisine, ugali is made from maize flour and served as a side dish with most meals.
- Sukuma: A popular green vegetable, often cooked with onions and tomatoes, and typically served with grilled meat or fish.
People and Culture
- Warm & Welcoming: Nairobi is home to a diverse population, with a mix of ethnic groups and cultures. The locals are known for being friendly and welcoming to visitors.
- Rich in Culture: Nairobi has a vibrant local culture, with numerous festivals, events, and traditional ceremonies throughout the year.
Transport
- Flights: Direct flights from Cape Town to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport are available, taking approximately 5-6 hours.
- Local Transport: Taxis, boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis), and matatus (shared minibuses) are widely available. Uber and Bolt are also operating in Nairobi.
Shopping
- Maasai Market: Nairobi’s Maasai Market is a bustling local market where visitors can purchase handmade jewelry, crafts, clothing, and art.
- Shopping Malls: Nairobi also boasts modern shopping malls, including The Sarit Centre and Westgate Mall, where you can shop for both local and international brands.
Banks
- Kenya Commercial Bank and Standard Chartered offer banking services, currency exchange, and ATMs for travelers.
Airports
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is the main international gateway into Nairobi. It is well connected to several global destinations.
Rainfall & Temperature
- Rainy Season: April to May sees heavy rainfall, so it is best to plan your trip around the dry months.
- Dry Season: From June to September, Nairobi experiences mild temperatures and is ideal for outdoor activities.