After living in Nairobi for several years, here are my opinions on life in Kenya.
We all know that moving to a new city can be an exciting but also overwhelming experience. As you get ready to start a new life in a new place, it’s normal to experience both excitement and nerves. That was what I felt when I decided to stay in Nairobi for the long term.
Despite the fact that I spent the majority of my time in the city prior to 2019, I worked here a bit in 2013. There is a distinction between residing in a city and simply travelling there, though. Learning the nuances and subtle differences in your new environment can take some time because there are so many to learn.
Even after several years has passed, I still find it incredible how quickly the months fly by and how long a year feels. Even though I have spent the majority of my time in Nairobi over the past few years, I can honestly say that I knew very little about Kenya. But my experiences from the past few years will stay with me always.
Thus, here are 20 things I’ve learned about this beautiful East African country after a while. Enjoy!
1. Most Kenyans are friendly.
I have been to some places in my life, and I can tell you that Kenyans are friendly towards foreigners.
In fact, the most unfriendly people in Kenya are foreigners themselves. Yes, I said it.
Every visitor is given a warm welcome by Kenyans, who will make your interaction with them one to remember.
I’ve met some incredible, fun-loving people who welcomed me with open arms as if I were a long-lost friend.
If you enjoy jokes, the cab or Uber drivers will engage you in conversations and offer you some lighthearted teasing.
I love some of those conversations on a very good day when I’m in a very good mood. :)
2. Kenya is an expensive country.
Living in Kenya can be quite costly, especially when compared to where I’m from.
Let me tell you, unless you’re earning like the president (okay, that’s a bit of a joke), you might find it a bit tricky to make ends meet here.
The reality is, Kenya isn’t one of those budget-friendly destinations you hear about in other African nations. The country’s tourism industry is thriving, and that comes with a price. Things like food, transportation, and even housing can feel a little heavy on the pocket, especially for those not earning in foreign currency.
So, if you’re thinking about moving here for work, make sure your employer is offering a generous paycheck. That way, you’ll be able to live life the Kenyan way, enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer without worrying too much about your wallet.
3. Kenyans love their country
Kenyans love their country, and I’ve felt that pride in countless small moments. In Nairobi, it’s in the way my friends light up when they talk about their favorite places, whether it’s the coast of Mombasa, the savannah of Amboseli, or the green highlands around Kericho.
Even during everyday conversations over coffee or while eating nyama choma with ugali, people speak with a deep affection for their land, culture, and traditions. It’s a love that’s lived daily.
I’ve also noticed how this love shows up in resilience. Life isn’t always easy here, yet Kenyans face challenges with humor, energy, and a sense of community that’s hard to miss.
I’ve seen it in the warmth of greetings even between strangers, and in the determination to keep moving forward no matter what. That spirit is what makes Kenya unforgettable, not just the beauty of the landscapes, but the strength and pride of the people who call it home.
4. The weather in Nairobi is unpredictable but mostly cold.
If you plan to move and live in Nairobi, be ready for the erratic weather. But it’s generally cold in the city.
You may have heard that Nairobi has a tropical savanna climate, which means it has warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. This isn’t really true.
However, the city is situated at a high altitude, which makes it cooler than some parts of the country.
If you’ve ever lived somewhere with consistently high temperatures, you can understand how cold I find Nairobi. So if you know you can’t handle a little bit of chilly weather, Nairobi won’t be enjoyable for you.
On the other hand, the weather varies in other parts of Kenya. For instance, Mombasa experiences hot weather for the majority of the year.
5. There’s a large population in the Indian and Somali community.
Kenya hosts numerous foreign tourists and residents, similar to the majority of nations with a strong tourism industry. In fact, there are sizable Indian and Somali populations here.
Well, this is due to a variety of factors such as economic opportunities, weather, etc. This makes Kenya more diverse and culturally enriching.
You should be aware of the cultural differences, even though you may view this as an opportunity to discover new cultures and make friends.
I’d suggest being more receptive and making an effort to understand various cultural viewpoints.
6. There are just so many things to do and see.
You’ll never be bored in Kenya. There’s always something happening, no matter where you are.
Nairobi itself is full of activities, from exploring Nairobi National Park, where you can spot wildlife just minutes from the city, to visiting cultural spots like the Nairobi National Museum and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which offers a close look at elephant conservation.
For art lovers, Nairobi’s vibrant gallery scene is a treat, with places like the Nairobi Railway Museum and the Nairobi Gallery showcasing local talent and history.
Kenya’s attractions go beyond the city, with the Maasai Mara offering unforgettable safari experiences and Mount Kenya providing stunning hikes for adventure seekers.
If you are just in Kenya to relax, the coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches like Diani, Malindi, and Lamu, perfect for unwinding or enjoying water sports.
Whether you’re into hiking, cultural experiences, wildlife, or simply lounging by the sea, Kenya has something for everyone.
7. Kenyans love to drink!
You’ll be shocked by the drinking culture in Kenya! Due to the wide variety of spirits, beers, and other alcoholic beverages that are readily available, the nation has a much more lax attitude toward drinking.
I started drinking when I moved here. No matter what, you’ll always find someone to chill and drink with. Somehow, drinking alcohol and enjoying a tasty Nyama Choma became normal for me.
In fact, I will say Kenyans are Africa’s heaviest drinkers.
8. Kenyan food doesn’t appeal to me, except Nyama Choma
I wasn’t even brave enough to try Ugali with meat because I couldn’t understand its appeal.
If you’ve ever been to West Africa and tried its cuisine, you’ll know why I feel this way. Kenyan cuisine, in my opinion, is uninspiring.
They do have the baddest Nyama Choma, though. You will love this food if you love barbecued meat.
In East Africa, especially in Kenya, Nyama Choma is a well-liked dish. It is made from grilled meat, typically goat or lamb, and is frequently served with a variety of sides like chapati (flatbread), rice, or ugali (a type of cornmeal porridge).
Choma is a popular food choice for both locals and tourists in many restaurants and street stalls throughout Kenya.
9. Never spend your Christmas holidays in Kenya.
Kenya celebrates Christmas in a unique but weird way.
This is my opinion.
There is nothing magical about Christmas here. If you’re the type that loves Christmas and all the holiday vibes, don’t stay back during the holidays.
Kenyans celebrate Christmas in their own unique way, but there’s nothing festive about that period in the country.
Well, you can create your festive mood even if your family isn’t present. But the loneliness that comes with it can be depressing.
Generally, almost everyone is back in their villages or hometowns, and some of the foreigners are on the coast for the holidays. If you stay back in Nairobi, you are on your own.
During this time, my friends and I try to celebrate it in our own way, like we are back at home, and that makes it more memorable for us.
10. Kenyans love politics.
It may not be accurate to say that all Kenyans love politics. Kenyans have a variety of political views and interests, just like people in any other region.
Some people may have a strong interest in politics and actively participate in discussions and debates about political matters, while others may not care much about politics and would rather concentrate on other aspects of their lives.
But over the past year, I’ve discovered that most people are extremely passionate about politics. All of these feelings are a result of the politics in the country. Given how passionately people feel about these issues, I think local politics have the power to unite or divide the nation.
11. The local traditions are well-loved.
Kenyans have a strong sense of pride in their local traditions and cultural heritage. From their festivals, food, and traditional music to cultural events, these traditions are an important part of the country’s identity and bring its people together.
I mean, I know it’s not unusual for people to feel a strong affinity for their regional customs and to value and appreciate how they contribute to their distinctive personalities.
However, the level of attachment to local traditions is higher among Kenyans. We must also respect the diversity of opinions and experiences across the country.
Although the younger generation likes to think of themselves as westernised, deep down they still adhere to their traditions.
For instance, the Maasai are a tribe that has steadfastly maintained its traditions. The tribe kind of represents Kenya.
12. Not all Kenyans are athletic.
Yes, we have seen a wide range of athletic winners who are Kenyans, from Kipchoge Keino to Catherine Ndereba or Paul Tergat. In fact, in my home country, Kenyans come to win the city races, and you will wonder if everyone you meet in the country will be very athletic.
Well, let me burst your bubble. My Kenyan friends can’t run to save their country.
In Kenya, we have both athletic and non-athletic people, just like in any other nation. Like every other athletic person from another country, the athletic ones work harder than the others.
Yes, some tribes are naturally athletic and they enjoy participating in sports. Kenyans, however, are incredibly proud of their athletic abilities and accomplishments.
13. The Luhya people in Kenya are amazing.
There are more than 40 different ethnic groups represented in Kenya, an East African nation. Each of these groups has distinctive cultural practices and traditions all of its own.
The Kikuyu, Luo, Luhya, Kalenjin, Kamba, and Maasai are a few of the largest tribes in Kenya. These tribes have contributed significantly to the development of the nation’s history and culture, and each has its own unique language, culture, and history.
Well, this is my opinion. I have friends who are Luos, Kikuyus, and Kamba. However, my Luhya friends are the most amazing. They are kind, friendly, and very thoughtful.
14. For me, learning Swahili is not easy, no I’m not dumb!
Yes, you can get by just fine in English in Kenya, but don’t forget that Swahili is the official language. Now, if you ever find yourself scrolling through the comment section of a Kenyan Instagram page, don’t even bother trying to read it, they’re all in Swahili.
Learning Swahili isn’t that hard, but let me be honest I couldn’t string a full sentence together to save my life. Okay, that’s on me.
A lot of my friends come here, and within just a few days, they’re already saying “Jambo,” “Sawa,” and “Habari” like they were born speaking it. Meanwhile, I’m sitting there wondering, “Where have I been all this time?”
15. The Nairobi struggle is REAL
The traffic in Nairobi? Oh, it’s something you’re definitely not prepared for, trust me.
But, honestly, I wasn’t all that surprised. I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, where “hold up” and “go slow” are part of daily life, so Nairobi’s traffic didn’t feel too overwhelming for me, it was actually pretty mild.
But if you’re coming from one of those developed countries, get ready. Nairobi’s traffic will test your patience. You can easily spend hours sitting in traffic, wondering if you’ll ever actually get to where you’re going.
But hey, don’t fret. There are things you can do to pass the time. You can buy anything from the hawkers walking around the traffic jam, and if you’re in the mood for some local flavor, check out the colorful matatus (those decorated local buses). They’re more than just a way to get from point A to B; they’re a whole experience on their own.
At first, the traffic was frustrating, but then I learned to just relax and go with the flow. It’s one of those things you can’t change, so you might as well make peace with it. The key is always having a backup plan for the extra time you’ll need.
My backup plan? Living in Westlands. It’s perfect because I’m surrounded by everything I need for both work and life. That way, I don’t have to roam around unless I’ve got something important to do in town or along Mombasa Road. It’s all about minimizing those long hours stuck in traffic.
16. The wildlife is everywhere, even in the city
Of course, I can’t leave out the wildlife. You’ve probably heard that Kenya is famous for its safaris, but here’s the reality, wildlife isn’t just something you see on a safari. It’s literally everywhere. I’ve had monkeys casually stroll through my backyard. Yep, just like that.
When I head out to places like Karen or Rongai, I can spot all sorts of wildlife by the roadside. It’s honestly a surreal experience to live so close to nature like that.
You never really know when you’ll encounter a zebra, giraffe, or even an ostrich just hanging out. It’s one of the things that makes living in Kenya so unique.
17. The culture of M-Pesa, it’s not just a mobile app
And then there’s M-Pesa. At first, I thought it was just a mobile payment system, but in reality, it’s so much more.
I absolutely love it, and I really wish my people back home in Nigeria will adopt something like that because we have several mobile money apps available but we just love spending cash.
M-Pesa is the backbone of many Kenyans’ financial lives. I was blown away by how many people rely on it, not just for transactions, but for saving, sending money across the country, and even paying bills.
If you come to Kenya, you’ll quickly realize that this app is essential to everyday life here.
It makes good sense, and makes life so much more convenient for so many people.
18. Mombasa, Mombasa
Mombasa is a vibrant coastal city with a mix of cultures, and it’s one of the places I absolutely love.
The Swahili influence is strong here, and you can feel the rich history in every corner, from the colonial architecture to the diverse communities.
Whenever I visit Mombasa, I’m reminded of some of the Northern towns in Nigeria or some small towns in India or Bangladesh.
Life is laid-back, which is a breath of fresh air, but traffic can get wild sometimes. The good news is, the beach breeze keeps things cool.
If you’re into history, Mombasa has some real gems like Fort Jesus. And trust me, the local seafood is something you must try.
The weather? Well, it’s hot and humid most of the time, but as the evening sets in, that cool sea breeze makes it all worth it.
19. My favorite Escape is Lamu Island
If you’re a good follower of this website, you would have discovered my love for Lamu by now.
Lamu is my go-to island when I need to unwind. It’s the kind of place where you can forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Everything here feels untouched by modern chaos.
I have a very good friend in Lamu, his name is Ali. Read my article on Lamu and you will know who he is.
The narrow, winding streets are so charming, and instead of cars, donkeys rule the roads. The Swahili architecture is stunning with its detailed woodwork, taking you back in time.
Lamu’s vibe is tranquil, it’s perfect for a peaceful retreat where you can slow down and enjoy the serene beaches or simply soak in the laid-back island life.
20. You don’t need to travel outside Kenya for a peaceful getaway.
Whenever you feel you are choked in Nairobi, you could take a short trip to Malindi for a peaceful holiday.
A little more developed than Lamu, Malindi offers a more tourist-friendly environment while still keeping its authentic coastal charm.
I have always said Kenya has it all. I guess that’s why most Kenyans don’t see the need to travel out of the country, they have everything they need here.
The beaches are stunning, and the underwater life here is exceptional, making it a great place for snorkeling and diving.
Malindi feels like a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with its charming local markets and an easygoing atmosphere.
21. Diani Beach may just be the most beautiful in Africa.
Diani Beach is, without a doubt, the most beautiful beach I’ve encountered in Africa. Now, I do love Cape Town’s Camps Bay or the Clifton Beaches, but honestly, they just can’t compare to Diani. This place has its own unique charm and beauty.
The powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters look like something straight out of a postcard. It’s the perfect spot for beach lovers and adventure seekers, offering everything from water sports to kite surfing, and of course, plenty of places to relax at beach resorts.
The vibe here is a perfect mix of peaceful and lively, with tons of options for dining and entertainment. And if you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be in heaven here, fresh, delicious seafood at every corner.
22. Day trips around and outside Nairobi
Living in Nairobi opens up many possibilities for day trips to surrounding towns. Nanyuki, for example, is a great escape with stunning views of Mount Kenya. It’s perfect for a peaceful retreat or an adventure in the great outdoors.
I have been to Kajiado, Thika, Naivasha and Nanyuki. I love day trips and exploring these places with my friends; they gave me those memorable memories.
To be sincere, these surrounding towns provide a completely different experience, offering glimpses into rural life. One of the most breathtaking places I’ve visited is Fourteen Falls in Thika, a stunning waterfall that, for a moment, makes you feel as though you’re standing before the mighty Victoria Falls in Zambia.
Naivasha is ideal for nature lovers, with its beautiful lake, wildlife, and nearby Hell’s Gate National Park for hiking. These towns offer a perfect mix of nature, culture, and history, all within easy reach of Nairobi.
Kenya is a country full of contrasts, beauty, and depth, and I’m grateful to have experienced its unique way of life.
23. And despite everything, you’ll learn to love Kenya as your home away from home.
Even if Kenya is wildly different from your home country or anywhere you’ve ever lived, you will fall in love with it again and again.
I’ve met so many expats who lived here for a while, and they just keep coming back to experience it all over again.
If you ever plan to visit Kenya, I’m your go-to person for everything. Just shoot me an email, I’ve got you covered!
Over and out!
