Nairobi is one of East Africa's most prominent cities. As Kenya's capital, the city is buzzing with residents who work hard and play hard: progressing in the business world and equally enjoying the active social scene, nightlife and cosmopolitan lifestyle. Expats moving to Nairobi will be excited by the prospects of living in the economic hub of eastern Africa.

Living in Nairobi as an expat

There are many pros and cons of moving to Nairobi. Despite the cons, most expats happily agree that they are outweighed by the positives, particularly the wonderful quality of life. The warmth of the people and the climate have many expats falling hopelessly in love with Nairobi and choosing to settle for many years.

There are plenty of work opportunities for expats in Nairobi. It is one of the largest metros in East Africa and it serves as the main commercial centre of Kenya. Nairobi has a relatively well developed industrial centre and is home to the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE). Few expats working in Nairobi relocate without a job offer. Most arrive with an already negotiated contract and, in some cases, a lucrative employment package.

One of the many considerations of expats moving to Nairobi is personal safety. However, much of the crime tends to be opportunistic, and housing in gated complexes comes equipped with reliable security systems. We recommend that expats practise vigilance and take normal precautions.

Transport is another consideration where safety plays a role in Nairobi. The city's transport infrastructure is somewhat underdeveloped and many expats choose to hire a local driver, or have one provided by their employer. 

Cost of living in Nairobi

The chance to experience a new culture and environment while enjoying a reasonable cost of living has attracted many expats to Nairobi. Highly skilled expats and those with managerial positions working in Nairobi will be able to afford most of the creature comforts they had in their home country, and then some. 

Expat families and children

Families with kids can settle in a spacious home close to some of Nairobi's best international schools. Those with a taste for luxury (and a budget that allows it) can invest in palatial properties in the more exclusive areas and suburbs, such as Muthaiga – the 'Beverly Hills of Nairobi'.

The more new arrivals begin to explore the city centre, neighbourhoods and surrounding areas, the more they realise how much there is to see and do. Families can enjoy a safari in Nairobi National Park, take in some art and culture and several galleries and other venues in the city, take part in the many fun events on the city's calendar, and experience fun nights out on the town at some top restaurants and lively bars.

Climate in Nairobi

Nairobi has a maritime climate, tempered by its high elevation and tends to be less hot than the rest of Kenya. As the city is near the equator there is little variation between the seasons.

Ultimately, expats with a sense of adventure will savour their time in Nairobi. Outdoor lovers, particularly, will likely never want to leave.

Expats moving to Nairobi will discover that there are both advantages and disadvantages of living in the Kenyan capital. Regardless of the good and the bad, expat life in this East African economic hub is nothing if not exciting. Here's our round-up of pros and cons of living in Nairobi.

Lifestyle in Nairobi

There are world-famous game parks right on Nairobi's doorstep, packed with incredible wildlife and scenery. Plus, the palm-lined, white sand beaches make for lovely getaways. Expats will be able to snorkel over coral reefs or sail, fish or enjoy a number of other watersports.

Clothes, shoes, electrical items and toy shopping is still best done back home since these are all more costly in Nairobi and there is limited choice. 

Culture shock in Nairobi

- CON: Expats may take a long time adjusting

Many expats experience culture shock if they don't keep an open mind and aren't receptive to new experiences. Poverty is visible all around and expats may be approached by persistent hawkers. Rather than being fearful, keep smiling and say ‘no, thank you’.

Safety and security in Nairobi

Poorly maintained roads, heavy lorries that are not roadworthy and speeding public buses make roads dangerous in Kenya. Road accidents are fairly common. Expats are therefore advised not to drive themselves but rather to hire a local driver who can better navigate these dangers.

Working in Nairobi

Cost of living in Nairobi

- CON: Certain utilities are pricey

Whether living in a gated compound or a self-contained house, many expats are expected to chip in to pay for private security, which can be fairly costly. Electricity is also expensive.

Accommodation in Nairobi

There are plenty of work opportunities for expats in Nairobi. The city is one of the largest metros in East Africa and it serves as the main commercial centre of Kenya. Nairobi has a relatively well-developed industrial centre and is home to the Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE).

Few expats working in Nairobi relocate without a job offer. Most arrive with an already negotiated contract and, in some cases, a lucrative employment package.

To work in Kenya, expats must have a work permit, which companies apply for on behalf of their foreign employees. Work permit applications are considered based on merit of the applicant, not on a quota system. Skilled expats working in Nairobi may have a Kenyan citizen working as an understudy to them, who then benefits from the foreign employee’s expertise. Expats should not relocate until their permits and visas have been secured.

Job market in Nairobi

As the country’s capital city and East Africa’s economic hub, Nairobi hosts Kenya’s most diverse job market. Many large multinationals have established their main offices in the city, and work opportunities are available in both small and large businesses. 

Agriculture has traditionally been the driving force of the economy in Kenya, but the industry sector that is causing a lot of buzz is IT. Expats who would like to do business in Kenya should look for opportunities in this sector, as well as telecommunications, logistics and marketing.

As the city grows, construction and real-estate jobs in Nairobi abound. There are also volunteer and work opportunities in the conservation, relief and development sectors, while start-ups are also continually popping up in Nairobi.

Nairobi is home to most foreign consulates in Kenya, and many expats make up embassy staff. Several international schools serve Nairobi’s diverse population and, as such, teaching posts are frequently available. 

Finding a job in Nairobi

Most expats are brought to the city on pre-secured contracts or as intra-company transfers. These tend to be the more lucrative positions with decent salaries and employment contracts, which often includes accommodation allowances and transport stipends. Employing companies will likely assist with work permit and visa applications too.

For those who don't secure a job prior to arriving in Nairobi, the job search is likely to be a bit trickier. It's essential to start with a solid CV ensuring qualifications and relevant work experience.

Job listings abound across multiple online job platforms and classifieds portals, including BrighterMonday, MyJobMag, LinkedIn and PigiaMe.

Still, networking is important and it's advisable to join expat forums and, if possible, visit the country in person and attend meet-ups to get to know other working expats in Nairobi. 

Work culture in Nairobi

Like elsewhere in Kenya, business hours in Nairobi are typically from 8am to 4pm, or 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. 

Expats moving to Nairobi can look forward not only to a cosmopolitan lifestyle but also a work culture that mixes international business attitudes with Kenyan ones. It’s important to understand how things are done in the workplace: punctuality is important and expected from expats, but business meetings should never be rushed, and building business relationships is fundamental.

Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2023 ranked Nairobi 173rd out of 227 cities, making it more affordable than Jakarta, Indonesia (150th) and Harare, Zimbabwe (114th).

Most expats working in Nairobi earn good salaries with employment perks for major expenses. These could include housing allowances, company cars, health insurance contributions, education benefits, and visa and permit charges.

That said, don't be misled into thinking that expat life in Nairobi is cheap. While it certainly is possible to live sparingly with minimal expenses, most Westerners prefer imported products and other services, which often come at a price.

As is the case with most destinations, an expat's chief expenses in Nairobi will be accommodation, school fees, transport, food, clothes and utilities.

Cost of accommodation in Nairobi

The cost of accommodation in Nairobi depends on location, but suitable quality accommodation can be expensive. Employers typically offer to take care of this expense. This offer can also include the required security deposit, usually the equivalent of two to three months' rent. Utilities like electricity, water and internet are likely to be the expat's responsibility.

One accommodation-related expense that expats may not anticipate is security measures. Expats living in gated communities find this is typically included in the rental costs, but it's unlikely to be the case in standalone homes.

Cost of groceries in Nairobi

In Nairobi, grocery costs vary based on preference for local or imported items. Supermarkets cater to diverse tastes and needs, offering a mix of local and international products. Local produce is relatively affordable, while imported goods like cheese, wine or packaged foods command surprisingly high prices due to import taxes and shipping costs.

Expats who decide to cook at home can save substantially, but dining out is also a popular option. Nairobi boasts a thriving food scene with a broad range of eateries offering local, continental and international cuisine at varying prices. Just like with groceries, dining at high-end restaurants serving imported ingredients will be more costly than enjoying local dishes at smaller, local establishments.

Cost of transport in Nairobi

Many expats prefer owning a car in Kenya, as it allows for more freedom. Depending on the model and condition, cars can be pretty expensive in Nairobi, but once expats have purchased a vehicle, they often opt to hire a driver too. Chauffeurs are said to be quite affordable and worth considering, as navigating Nairobi's traffic can be stressful.

Renting a car is a cheaper alternative to buying and can be more convenient for expats who will only be in the country for a limited time. Some expats, especially those in top executive positions, will have a company car and driver provided for them.

The primary means of public transport in Kenya is the matatu (a van or minibus with a fixed or semi-fixed route). This option is cheap, but the vehicles are regularly overcrowded and, in many instances, don't meet safety standards.

Taxis are also used frequently, but because there's no clear-cut billing method and vehicles don't have meters, expats are advised to research pricing and negotiate an agreeable fare with the driver beforehand.

Cost of healthcare in Nairobi

The cost of private healthcare in Nairobi is roughly equivalent to rates in Western countries. Day-to-day treatment is relatively affordable, but health insurance is recommended, especially in case of emergency treatment or medical evacuation.

There are plenty of health insurance providers in Nairobi. Most expats have health insurance included in their salary package.

Cost of education in Nairobi

Most expats send their children to international schools, which can be mightily expensive. Apart from fees, there may also be additional expenses for registration, transport, food and field trips. Again, it's common for employers to include some form of education allowance in an expat package. If this isn't initially part of the offer, we recommend expats negotiate for it.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Nairobi

Kenya has something for everyone's type of lifestyle, whether it's nature, shopping or socialising in a bar. Nairobi National Park is located just south of the capital city and is a popular attraction among expats and locals alike. The national park isn't overly expensive, and shopping and dining in the city are relatively affordable too. Still, we advise that expats closely monitor their finances, as costs can add up quickly.

Cost of living in Nairobi chart

Prices may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Nairobi in May 2023.

Regardless of whether expats are planning to live in the suburbs in a freestanding house with its own private garden, in a townhouse that forms part of a complex, or in an apartment, several things must be kept in mind when searching for accommodation in Nairobi. Considerations such as budget, cost of living, commute time and security should be at the forefront of the decision-making process.

Types of accommodation in Nairobi

In the city centre, most accommodation is in the form of apartments. Generally, the further outside of the city centre one moves, the more spacious living arrangements become. This includes standalone houses on large plots, complexes that are often made up of townhouses, and semi-detached houses. 

Both furnished and unfurnished options are available across any type of accommodation, though unfurnished properties are often found easier and with lower rental fees. While furniture can be locally sourced for decent prices, some expats may consider shipping and removals as they prefer to bring over their pieces of home.

Freestanding houses

Expat families with children moving to Nairobi typically consider a freestanding house when looking for property to rent or buy. Both old and contemporary standalone homes can be found, though certain suburbs in Nairobi, such as Runda, boast more freestanding houses than other areas, and expats should map out their housing options in relation to amenities and their workplace.

Apartment blocks

High-rise apartment blocks are found across the city centre and surrounding suburbs. Some apartment blocks have swimming pools shared by its residents plus 24-hour security systems, putting an expat’s safety concerns at ease. Smaller blocks of flats and townhouses can also be found around the city.

Gated complexes and estates

One of the most common types of housing in Nairobi is a gated complex or estate. These may be considered neighbourhoods within neighbourhoods and offer houses, villas or apartments. Many expats find estates to be comfortable and modern, with strong security measures. A sometimes-negative image is painted of gated estates – isolating residents and keeping expats in a bubble. On the contrary, Nairobi’s estates offer great amenities, such as swimming pools and well-maintained gardens, that neighbours can share and socialise around.

Finding accommodation in Nairobi

When looking for a home in Nairobi, an estate agent is likely an expat's best bet. There are plenty of real-estate firms and relocation companies in Nairobi. Some are Kenyan-based and some operate internationally across the region. They can help organise accommodation, and many specialise in a particular geographical area. 

Expats should start looking for property in Nairobi using online portals as this will help in familiarising them with the different neighbourhoods, types of accommodation and price ranges available. Property24, BuyRentKenya and PigiaMe are useful online search portals, as are estate agency websites. Expat and accommodation pages on social media platforms have also proved helpful when finding property both from abroad and within Kenya.

Locally, property listings in newspapers are another good source, as are noticeboards in upmarket malls.

Renting accommodation in Nairobi

Nairobi is one of the most expensive cities in Kenya in terms of rent and property prices, with some highly sought after and exclusive properties for luxury living. Expats should keep an eye on their budget when renting a home in Nairobi and be aware of all stipulations and conditions in their lease.

Leases 

Leases in Nairobi are typically for a year, though they can be shorter or longer. We recommend expats inspect their leases and tenancy agreements with a fine-toothed comb for all they need to know on notice periods, early termination and lease renewals. Going through an estate agency in Nairobi is advised as these professionals are familiar with the processes and property laws on renting property in Nairobi.

Many aspects of the lease may favour the landlord, but expat tenants will be happy to know that rent increases can only occur after 12 months of their stay has passed, or 12 months after their previous rental increase. 

Deposits

Deposits of one to three months' rent are often required. Deposits are refundable after the lease ends, provided the tenant hasn't caused damage to the property or defaulted on rent.

Utilities and security costs

Utilities, including electricity, water and internet, are not usually included in the rental price and are an extra expense for the tenant.

Additionally, security costs will need to be considered as home safety is a concern in Nairobi. In complexes or apartment buildings, security costs may be bundled with the rental cost or may be shared between residents. If living in a standalone house, expats will need to make their own security arrangements – 24-hour guard services, which many local security companies offer, are highly recommended. Again, this is an extra cost that expats will need to budget for.

The best places to live in Nairobi

Nairobi has an assortment of friendly neighbourhoods for expats to make a new home in. New arrivals should familiarise themselves with the diverse areas and suburbs of the city in terms of housing, hospitals, transport and proximity to workplaces and schools.

Some of Nairobi's neighbourhoods are more suited to families, while others lend themselves well to the lifestyle of a single expat – and some have a mix of both.

For those who can afford it, upmarket housing is available in attractive suburbs with all the facilities they could wish for. Expats with more modest incomes can also find a great home in more affordable areas in Nairobi.

Below is a list of just some key areas to consider.

Exclusive areas in Nairobi

Nairobi's most expensive areas tend to be those with top-class amenities and close proximity to embassies, popular bars, restaurants and country clubs. The variety of accommodation options and accessibility to some of the highest-rated private and international schools mean these areas are in high demand among expats.

Lang'ata

Southwest of Nairobi’s city centre lies the residential suburb of Lang’ata (or Langata). Lang’ata’s secure gated compounds known as estates, as well as maisonettes and apartment blocks, are popular among middle-class expats as well as wealthier residents. Life in Lang’ata suits multiple needs. New arrivals, young and old, can appreciate the touristy vibe, with some recommended attractions close by, including Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, Bomas of Kenya and Uhuru Gardens, as well as live concerts at The Carnivore Grounds. Expat parents will also be pleased with the proximity to private schools.

Karen

One of Nairobi’s most luxurious and exclusive areas is Karen. Well-off expats can find a multitude of upmarket properties to buy in Karen, including spacious townhouses with large gardens. Numerous private schools and kindergartens can be found here, and Karen’s golf course also makes the neighbourhood popular. Karen further offers modern shopping complexes and a range of fine-dining options.

Runda

Runda is a self-contained neighbourhood north of the city centre and surrounded by forests. The US Embassy and the UN complex are nearby, making this a convenient place to live for employees of these organisations. Accommodation in these areas usually comes in the form of large, modern houses on huge plots. Runda is popular with expats who have kids as there are several kindergartens, primary and secondary international schools nearby. The area is also accessible by both public and private transport.

Muthaiga

Muthaiga is often referred to as the 'Beverly Hills of Nairobi' as it is home to some of the richest Kenyans and wealthy expats. Most homes in Muthaiga are gated and secure with 24-hour security patrol. Those with children appreciate living close to a selection of good international schools. Expats in Muthaiga also have access to great sport and recreation facilities at the area's country clubs.

Areas for young working professionals in Nairobi

Suburbs closer to Nairobi's CBD offer housing preferred by single expats and young working professionals as well as students. City living comes with many of its own pros and cons, but expats can still have the best of both worlds of an urban lifestyle as well as a green living environment.

Parklands

Just north of Nairobi’s central business district is the mixed residential and commercial area of Parklands. Well connected to Nairobi’s amenities, many young expats and students find an apartment to call home. Some of the best hospitals in Nairobi are centrally located in Parklands, while the bordering Karura Forest provides hiking trails and refreshing picnic opportunities.

Westlands

Close to Nairobi’s city centre and a part of Parklands, Westlands is a convenient location for young working professionals looking to live close to their place of work. The area has plenty of shops, restaurants, nightclubs and bars to keep expats entertained. Spring Valley is the quieter part of Westlands where bungalows and large detached houses are the norm, in contrast to the rest of Westlands which favours apartment blocks. Some of the housing in the area is gated and has security staff to monitor those who enter.

Kilimani and Hurlingham

A lot of the apartment complexes in Kilimani and Hurlingham are high-rise, and several come with swimming pools and 24-hour security. The better complexes have additional facilities such as gyms, saunas and health clubs. The area also has several international schools and plenty of entertainment options in the form of shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants and even a casino. Gated estates and both furnished and unfurnished apartments are available for rent and sale in Kilimani, while in Hurlingham, freestanding townhouses are popular.

Lavington and Kileleshwa

Many families with children find a home in Lavington or Kileleshwa, usually in bungalows with lush gardens or contemporary apartments. Several embassies can be found here along with private schools such as Nairobi International School. These areas are close to the city centre and offer a more cosmopolitan lifestyle that's also within reach of some of Nairobi’s best museums and galleries.

As is the case throughout the country, the standard of healthcare in Nairobi varies considerably depending on the type of treatment needed and the type of hospital expats can afford. Healthcare in Kenya offers both public and private facilities, and expats generally opt for the latter.

There are plenty of private hospitals, medical centres and individual practices in and around Nairobi. The major challenge for expats will be to decide where to seek treatment. Expats moving to Nairobi will need to consider convenience and which facility best aligns with their priorities and health needs.

Kenya's public healthcare system operates with contributions from two types of social security services: the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the National Social Security Scheme (NSSF). The NHIF is largely targeted at Kenyan citizens over the age of 18, though all citizens and expatriates working in Kenya must make monthly contributions to this, deducted from their salary.

Though expats are eligible to take advantage of the NHIF, most opt for private healthcare which requires a more comprehensive insurance policy.

Though not compulsory by law, private health insurance comes strongly recommended for expats in Nairobi. Without it, healthcare costs are just as expensive as in Western countries, and covering the costs for emergency care – and especially medical evacuation – out of pocket can be impossible.

Pharmacies are easy to find in Nairobi. Most major hospitals have pharmacies attached to them, which are open 24/7. There are also privately run pharmacies that can easily be located in shopping malls as well as on major streets in Nairobi.

Below is a list of some of the city's most prominent hospitals.

Hospitals in Nairobi

Aga Khan University Hospital

Website: www.hospitals.aku.edu/nairobi
Address: 3rd Parklands Avenue, Limuru Road, Nairobi

Bristol Park Hospital

Website: www.bristolpark.or.ke
Address: Behind Tassia School, Outer Ring Road, Fedha Estate, Nairobi

Care Hospital Ltd

Website: www.carehospitalnairobi.business.site
Address: Muinami Street, Opposite Pumwani Maternity Hospital, Nairobi

Gertrude's Children's Hospital

Website: www.gerties.org
Address: 34 Muthaiga Rd, Nairobi

Kenyatta National Hospital

Website: knh.or.ke
Address: Hospital Rd, Nairobi

M.P. Shah Hospital

Website: mpshahhosp.org
Address: Shivachi Road in Parklands area, Nairobi

The Nairobi Hospital

Website: thenairobihosp.org
Address: Argwings Kodhek Rd, Nairobi

Kenya is one of the most popular expat destinations in Africa. Many of those who relocate to Kenya are parents, for whom finding a good school is a priority. Nairobi has a good selection of private and international schooling options, though school fees can be prohibitively expensive.

Many public schools in Nairobi are underfunded and poorly resourced, although those within cities are generally of a better standard compared to rural areas. Still, private schools hold more promise, especially for expat students from the UK as the academic system is similar to the British national curriculum. 

Many expats moving to Nairobi choose an international school, as these typically cause the least disruption to the child’s studies, allowing them to continue with a familiar curriculum.

Public schools in Nairobi

Public schools in Nairobi follow the standard Kenyan education system, which consists of eight years of primary school, four years of secondary school and four years of university education. 

Tuition for both primary and secondary public education is free, though this leaves many schools underfunded and under-resourced. Still, Kenya's curriculum is relatively good, and students can attend academic or technical secondary schools. Universities are open to graduates of both types of schools.

The Kenyan curriculum for academic schools offers an extensive scope of subjects categorised into languages, sciences, applied sciences, humanities, creative arts and technical subjects. The core subjects are English, Kiswahili and maths, and English is the language of instruction. Alternatively, technical secondary schools give students a more practical approach to learning, preparing them for the workforce.

Private schools in Nairobi

Private schools in Nairobi are preferred by expats, and the curricula and subjects available vary widely. As they are fee-paying institutions, children receive a decent level of education and have better learning facilities than in the public system.

Many of Nairobi's private schools follow Kenya's national curriculum with a KCPE (Kenya Certificate of Primary Education) and KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) at the end of primary and secondary school respectively.

International schools in Nairobi

Nairobi is a big city with a wide variety of international schools that serve a large and diverse expat population. Due to the wide range of options, expat parents should do their research before deciding on a school.

Most international schools accept new students year-round but it should be noted that some have waiting lists and there is no guarantee of acceptance. So it's best to start the application process as early as possible, especially if there is a strong preference for a particular school.

The major downside of international schools in Nairobi is the hefty tuition that expat parents will need to pay. Fees differ according to the school, age of the child and curriculum offered. Expats moving to Nairobi for work should try to negotiate the inclusion of an education allowance in their relocation or employment package.

Nurseries in Nairobi

Expat parents with young children in Nairobi will find many options for nurseries and daycare centres. Some kindergartens and nurseries are part of larger international schools and many follow a Montessori-style approach, though expats should bear in mind that some come with heavy fees.

As traffic in Nairobi can get chaotic, the location of the nursery is important, and how far away it is from the area and suburb where expats live.

Homeschooling in Nairobi

The law on homeschooling in Kenya is unclear, but many families favour it. Nairobi's mainstream education may not be suitable for everyone, being either largely under-resourced or overly expensive. Parents may also find the style of learning puts too much pressure on their children.

It is worth checking which international schools have exam centres that allow homeschooling children to sit exams under their invigilation.

Expat parents can use social media and networks to connect with other homeschooling families in Nairobi. Social media groups are great for organising social activities and getting to know others in Nairobi's homeschooling community.

Tutors in Nairobi

Tutors in Nairobi are easy to find. International schools may connect students with tutors, while online platforms, such as TeacherOn and PigiaMe, are also helpful. Tutors specialising in British, American, Kenyan and other curricula can easily be reached in these ways to provide extra support to students.

Special-needs education in Nairobi

Children with disabilities have a right to accessible and free basic education in Kenya. Unfortunately, many of Nairobi's schools do not offer extensive inclusive support to integrate these children in their mainstream classes. As such, there are specific public schools in Nairobi dedicated to providing special-needs education.

Private and international schools may offer more inclusive services to integrate children with learning or physical disabilities into their mainstream classes. This includes schools such as West Nairobi School, the International School of Kenya and Lycée Denis Diderot (French School of Nairobi).

The level of support from each varies, so it's best to contact the school directly. Embassies may also provide lists of recommended schools in Nairobi for students with learning or physical disabilities.

Nairobi has a wide range of international schools to serve the needs of the city's large and diverse expat population. There are international schools in Nairobi that follow the national curricula of the UK, US, Sweden, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany and France. 

Expats who want their children's education to incorporate religious teachings will find a number of Christian international schools in Nairobi as well. Several international schools offer boarding facilities.

Below is a list of the most popular international schools in and around Nairobi. Most of the schools are oversubscribed and have long waiting lists for admissions, so expats are advised to apply well in advance to secure a position for their child at the desired school.

International schools in Nairobi

St Andrew's, Turi

St Andrew’s is one of the leading independent international schools in East Africa. Numbering approximately 550 boarding students and comprising both preparatory and senior schools, the school offers an outstanding education based on the British curriculum to students across the whole age range. Read more

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels
Ages: 3 to 18

Banda School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum
Ages: 1 to 13
Website: www.bandaschool.com

Braeburn School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, A-levels and BTEC
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.braeburn.com 

Brookhouse School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, A-levels and BTEC
Ages: 2 to 18
Website: www.brookhouse.ac.ke

Deutsche Schule Nairobi

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German
Ages: 1.5 to 18
Website: www.dsnairobi.de

Hillcrest International School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, A-levels and BTEC
Ages: 1.5 to 18
Website: www.hillcrest.ac.ke

International School of Kenya

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.isk.ac.ke

Lycée Denis Diderot

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.diderot.ac.ke

The Netherlands School Society

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Dutch and International Primary Curriculum
Ages: 1.5 to 12 
Website: www.netherlandsschool.com

Rosslyn Academy

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American
Ages: 4 to 18
Website: www.rosslynacademy.com

Rusinga School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, A-levels and BTEC
Ages: 2 to 18
Website: www.rusinga.ac.ke

Swedish School of Nairobi

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Swedish
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.ssn.or.ke

Woodland Star School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American and Australian
Ages: 2 to 16
Website: www.woodlandstarkenya.com

Eating out in Nairobi

With expats from all over the world, Nairobi offers all types of cuisine. Fine-dining restaurants, bustling markets and small local eateries provide interesting dishes to suit any palate or budget. Some of the major multinational food chains can be found here, along with restaurants serving up authentic Kenyan fare. Coffee houses are also becoming increasingly popular.

Shopping in Nairobi

Many new shopping malls have appeared in Nairobi in recent years, and some older ones have had upgrades to serve the growing middle-class and expat communities.

Multiple independent arts and crafts businesses offer an excellent selection of goods, and buying from local artists is a good way to support the Kenyan economy. Local craft markets, such as the Maasai Market and Kariokor Market, offer an excellent choice of handmade items such as clothes, art, jewellery and footwear. Some of these areas are touristy, so be aware of potentially overpriced items.

Nairobi has numerous large supermarket chains and gourmet food shops, though don't overlook local produce markets for the best deals on fresh fruit and vegetables bought directly from farmers.

Public transport in Nairobi

As in any major metropolitan city, expats who choose to use public transport in Nairobi should be aware of their surroundings and keep an eye on their belongings at all times.

Matatus

Matatus in Kenya are shared minibus taxis that can transport several people at one time. While the network of matatus is somewhat informal, they do cover a wide geographical area, operating in much of greater Nairobi and its suburbs.

Travelling by matatu is not recommended, and expats who do decide to use them should be aware of the unruly and chaotic conduct of the drivers. Matatus are also frequently overloaded.

Buses

Several bus companies offer services in Nairobi, providing a good alternative to matatus. Bus routes in Nairobi converge in the city centre. There are a few terminals in the city, which serve as drop-off and pick-up points for passengers, and some bus stops and routes are indicated on Google Maps.

Expats should be aware that some bus companies in Nairobi are highly unreliable. Drivers may openly disregard traffic laws, making the journey dangerous for passengers. Besides, while bus fares are cheap, inner-city traffic often makes this a slow form of transport.

Long-distance, inter-city buses also run frequently providing transport across Kenya. Expats can choose from several operators, and buying a first-class ticket secures a more comfortable seat, sometimes with USB charger ports and electronic screens for watching films.

Trains 

The Nairobi Commuter Rail Service runs between the city centre and outlying areas, including Ruiru, Kikuyu, Embakasi and Syokimau. It may be of use as a means of travel in Nairobi between home and work, but can be unreliable and uncomfortable.

The new Madaraka Express along the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) has connected Mombasa and Nairobi for a much faster commute, reducing the journey between these two large cities to only four and a half hours. Whether travelling for work or a weekend break, this train is a great option.

Taxis in Nairobi

Expats or travellers who are only in the city for a short time and do not have a company car will find that taxis are the most convenient and perhaps the safest way to travel around Nairobi. Taxis can be easily found near international hotels, at most tourist sites, in the city centre and near shopping malls. Expats should be aware that if there is no meter visible, they should agree upon a fare before getting into the taxi.

Ride-hailing applications such as Uber are also available in Nairobi. 

Driving in Nairobi

Many expats choose to hire a local driver with experience of local road conditions as they are better placed to anticipate the erratic behaviour of Kenyan road users. Bad driving habits are ubiquitous among local drivers, and many companies hiring expats will provide them with a car and a driver.

Kenyans drive on the left-hand side of the road. For new arrivals who choose to drive in Nairobi, a GPS is a good idea, given the lack of road signs. As a general rule, it's best to avoid taking shortcuts. Rather, stick to the main roads as some parts of the city can be dangerous. Expats who do decide to drive in Nairobi should do so defensively and be as wary as possible.

International car rental agencies operate in Nairobi and expats who stay long term often buy a car. Note that a foreign driving licence and International Driving Permit may only be valid for three months, whereafter a Kenyan driving licence must be obtained.

Walking and cycling in Nairobi

Nairobi has been called a 'walking city' in that most residents walk wherever they need to go, be it to their place of work, back home, to friends and family or a market or shopping centre. That said, walking in Nairobi city centre can be chaotic, especially with the unruly and disorderly road traffic. 

Expats are advised not to walk or cycle in and around the suburbs of Nairobi alone or at night, due to various safety issues. Those who do choose to walk or cycle should be aware that there are high risks involved and should exercise special caution.

Expats can find bike-sharing programmes and cycling groups easily, and there are several Facebook groups for cyclists in Nairobi.

Still, there are still safety concerns to consider as well as a general lack of cycling infrastructure, meaning that cyclists will likely have to share the road with motorists.