«Traveling through Kenya and Tanzania, unique recommendations for your adventure and safari: Discover the best kept secrets of two of the most fascinating destinations in Africa, with essential tips to make your trip an unforgettable experience.»
Traveling Kenya Tanzania Recommendations NAIROBI GRILLS: CARNIVORE OR FOGO GAUCHO?
Nairobi is a meat lover’s paradise, with options ranging from famous tourist restaurants to local favorites. Two of the most popular steakhouses are Carnivore and Fogo Gaucho, but each offers a different experience.
CARNIVORE: THE ICONIC TOURIST EXPERIENCE
Carnivore is probably Nairobi’s most famous steakhouse, known for its “African rodizio” style, where waiters bring meat on spits and serve it directly to your plate. What makes it special is its offering of exotic meats like crocodile, ostrich and camel, as well as traditional cuts of beef, pork and lamb.
- Pros: Lively atmosphere, option to try exotic meats, ideal for tourists.
- Cons: It’s more expensive than other steakhouses and is more focused on international visitors.
FOGO GAUCHO: THE LOCALS’ FAVOURITE
While Carnivore is the most well-known, Kenyans tend to prefer Fogo Gaucho, a Brazilian steakhouse with a similar rodizio concept but with a focus on quality and variety. Here, meat is cooked in the traditional Brazilian style and served with a wide selection of accompaniments, including salads and side dishes.
- Pros: Best value for money, better quality meats, popular with locals.
NIAMA CHOMA: THE TRADITIONAL KENYA BARBECUE
If you want a 100% local experience, you have to try nyama choma, which means “roasted meat” in Swahili. It is Kenya’s national dish and consists of grilled beef or goat meat and served with ugali (cooked cornmeal) and kachumbari (tomato, onion and chilli salad).
The best places to try nyama choma are not tourist restaurants, but small local barbecue joints or “nyama choma joints,” where Kenyans gather to eat, drink beer, and socialize. Some of the best in Nairobi are:
- Kenyatta Market (authentic and inexpensive)
- Olepolos Country Club (rustic experience with panoramic views)
- Njuguna’s Place (one of the most traditional)
WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOU?
- If you want a complete tourist experience, go to Carnivore.
- If you are looking for quality and good service, Fogo Gaucho is a better option.
- If you want something authentic and local, try nyama choma at a traditional barbecue joint.
LA SALUMERIA
La Salumeria is an Italian restaurant located in Nairobi, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Located near Valley Arcade on Gitanga Road, it offers a dining experience that combines traditional dishes with a rustic and warm setting.
Ambience and Decor: The restaurant features simple and elegant decor, creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. It is an ideal place for quiet dinners, whether as a couple or with friends, and has been highlighted as one of the most romantic restaurants in Nairobi.
Menu: La Salumeria specializes in homemade Italian dishes, including a variety of traditional pastas, pizzas and meats. Some of the featured dishes are:
In addition, the restaurant offers a selection of wines to complement the meal.
Opening Hours: La Salumeria is open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., making it a convenient option for both lunch and dinner.
If you are in Nairobi and want to enjoy an authentic Italian culinary experience in a cozy atmosphere, La Salumeria is an excellent choice.
KARURA FOREST: NAIROBI’S GREEN LUNG
Karura Forest is one of Nairobi’s most impressive natural areas, offering a haven of tranquillity and biodiversity in the middle of the city. This urban forest, managed by the Kenya Forest Service, is an ideal destination for hiking, cycling and picnicking, attracting both locals and tourists.
LOCATION AND ACCESS
Karura Forest is located in the north of Nairobi and has several main entrances:
- KFS Main Gate on Limuru Road
- Sharks Gate on Kiambu Road
- Old Mutual Gate on UN Avenue
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
- Karura Falls – A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for photos and relaxation.
- Mau Mau Caves – Used by Kenyan independence fighters as hideouts during the colonial era.
- Cycling and Walking Trails – Over 50km of well-maintained routes to explore the forest.
- Ruaka River and Wetlands – A rich ecosystem of wildlife, home to otters and waterfowl.
Marshland and Bamboo Walk – A serene walk amongst giant bamboos and natural marshes.
WILDLIFE
The forest is home to a wide variety of animals including:
- Black and white colobus monkeys
- Antelopes and porcupines
- Over 200 species of birds
AVAILABLE ACTIVITIES
- Walking and hiking
- Mountain biking (bikes can be hired at the entrance)
- Picnicking in designated areas
- Bird watching and nature photography
HOURS AND FEES
- Hours: Open daily from 6:00am to 6:00pm
- Rates:
- Foreigners: 600 KES (adults), 300 KES (children)
- Locals: 200 KES (adults), 100 KES (children)
WHY VISIT KARURA FOREST?
It is the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi and enjoy nature in a safe and well-preserved environment. Ideal for families, sportsmen and nature lovers.
