An Introvert's Guide To Nairobi

You like your space and for people to respect your boundaries and you’re perfectly fine hanging out on your own. Introverts have the most fun when they get the travel bug because they determine the pace of their holiday and it matches their chilled-out nature. If you have decided on Nairobi as your holiday destination here is a comprehensive guide for you.

1. For the private introvert’s accommodation

Independent Hotel, Homestay, Hostel

There are many beautiful boutique hotels in Nairobi. Depending on your budget, you will find something to suit your needs. If you are traveling alone, you can expect to pay a higher amount because the hotel cannot make the same amount as they would with a double occupancy. Alternative accommodations are available in the city, including Airbnb or hostels. Airbnb’s are quite popular with introverts in Nairobi because the local are respectful and understand their visitor’s boundaries. As for the hostels, choose a place that will allow you to have your own privacy and peace to recharge, like the YMCA Central, Nairobi.

2. For the culturally-aware introvert

Natural Feature

Art is also a huge part of the Nairobi culture. There are many galleries, performances, and other art forms in the city. Most of these spaces are within reach of the hotels, although you may need to travel for a few minutes for some. Shopping at the craft markets will get you in touch with the right art and land you great pieces.In terms of language, English is the official language, while Swahili is the national language in the country. A lot of people also speak French, German, Italian, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, and other languages, so you are always able to communicate. However, if you are up to it, you can pick up the local slang, known as Sheng. If you are very particular, arranging for a guide before your arrival may be the best option, as you’ll eliminate any miscommunication from the get-go.

3. For the self-aware introvert

Botanical Garden, Park

Nairobi is full of parks where you can spend as much time as you need reflecting. Enjoy the beautiful scenery at the arboretum or visit the Resurrection Gardens in Karen for peace and tranquility.Consider companions for safety rather than for company. Perhaps you can pair with an introvert friend or be part of a smaller group where you have plenty of opportunities to spend time alone. This ensures that you have people looking out for you and aware of your presence at all times. In case of the group, choose shorter tours or walks that end early and leave you to make your own plans. Alternatively, employ a guide who is with you for a limited number of hours and understands your preferences.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.