A Kenya Solo Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat & Explore

Introduction

Are you looking for a Kenya solo travel guide? Or even better a Kenya solo travel guide? Well you have come to right place. Keep on reading because everything here is going to give you what you need to do, see where to stay and eat while in Kenya solo.

I’ve always wanted to go to Kenya. Like always. I mean I want to go anywhere and everywhere in Africa to be really honest with you and it’s so funny because many of my friends and associates often ask me if I have ever been to Kenya, and I always had to say no. Even my dad was surprised I was going to Kenya solo because he thought I had already been.

I decided to do a week in Kenya solo for my birthday because why not? I flew with Kenya Airlines, and I was actually quite impressed with the airline. Anyways, before I digress here is my Kenya solo travel guide because you know I explored and you know I fully ate on this trip because it was my birthday. Calories don’t count when you are on holiday.

Read also:

• 10 Amazing Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya: Tried & Tested by MBV Guide
• 16 Best Countries for Black Women to Solo Travel (Safe & Real Experiences)
• Kenyan Food Guide: 10 Delicious Things You Must Eat in Kenya (Honest Review)

Entry Requirements

To visit Kenya, most travellers will need an e-visa, this applies to British, Canadian and American citizens, which can be easily applied for online via the official e-visa portal. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry. I recommend printing your visa confirmation and keeping a digital copy too. You may also be required to fill out a health form before arrival always check the latest guidelines on your government travel advice page.

For Nigerians and citizens of many other African countries, the Kenyan government has recently announced that visas are no longer required for travel to Kenya solo. As a dual Nigerian and British citizen, I decided to use my Nigerian passport for this trip and experienced the benefit of visa-free travel first-hand which, was seamless.

Always check the UK Foreign Travel Advice before you go, and for other passport holders, I recommend checking visa info via iVisa.

Where to Stay

I had originally planned to stay in two hotels but I absolutely loved the look of the Skynest Residences by CityBlue, Nairobi. I loved the infinity pool over the city of Nairobi and after staying in so many hotels around the world I really wanted an apartment style hotel to feel homely. The hotel is great because it has a chocolate shop, a food shopping/store, a cute restaurant and did I say infinity pool? You can book the same hotel here.

What to Eat

Of course, I made it my mission to indulge in as much local food as possible. From street snacks to sit-down dinners with local Kenyan food and I was so impressed. The food scene is rich, hearty, and full of flavour. Oh and there is a little spice too!

Here are the local restaurants you can eat at:

I also did a food tour where I tried a number of Kenyan street food dishes which I have added a list below. These are some dishes you have to try. You can do a food tour via EatWith, which I think is great for foodie travellers!

1. Smokey – A small boiled sausage that can be eaten within a chapti, salsa its sooo good!
2. Nyama Choma – Kenya’s iconic grilled meat, best enjoyed with Ugali and Kachumbari. Add some chili for extra spice!
3. Kachumbari – A refreshing tomato and onion salad, perfect with nyama choma.
4. Ugali – Kenya’s staple starch, eaten with stews and meat.
5. Viazi Karai – Deep-fried, spiced potatoes, a popular street snack. My absolute fave!
6. Samosas – Crispy, savoury pastries filled with meat or veggies.
7. Chapati – Flaky, soft flatbread that pairs with almost anything. I had mine with peanut sauce.
8. Fried Fish – The fish is so good in Kenya I had it pretty much everyday.
9. Pilau – Fragrant spiced rice, often served with beef or chicken.
10. Mandazi – For the sweet tooth lovers. Slightly sweet fried dough, best with hot Kenyan chai.

You can book the same tour here. I would say Joe (the tour guide) is brilliant at what he does and is highly recommended by me! I also did a video on this via Instagram which you can watch here.

Transport in Kenya

One of the things I loved most about Kenya solo was how easy and affordable it was to get around, even as a solo traveller. In Nairobi, I relied heavily on Uber, which were both extremely reliable. You can also use Bolt which is also useful. Cars usually arrived within three to five minutes, and I felt completely safe using them as a solo female traveller.

As always, I recommend sharing your trip with a trusted contact, checking the license plate before getting in, and sitting in the back seat, behind the driver (these are the same precautions I would take anywhere in the world). Prices were very reasonable compared to London; for example, a 20-25 minute ride typically cost me around £2-4 ($3-5 USD). If you’re heading out in the evening, let’s say after dinner at Carnivore to go clubbing, I’d suggest booking your ride a few minutes in advance so you’re not left waiting around.

When it comes to airport transfers, you have two main options: pre-arrange a transfer with your hotel or order an Uber/Bolt from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. I did both during my trip and found both options seamless. The only thing to note is that drivers sometimes wait in the parking area, so it’s a good idea to message them through the app to agree on a pick-up point before you start walking.

For longer day trips, like visiting a Maasai village, going on safari at Nairobi National Park, or hiking to Karura Waterfall, I booked guided tours with GetYourGuide and Viator which included pick-up and drop-off to the hotel. This completely removed the stress of figuring out transport and allowed me to focus on enjoying the experience.

What to Do – Kenya Solo Travel Guide Itinerary

If you have a week in Kenya, here’s exactly how I recommend spending it as a solo traveller. This itinerary balances adventure, food, and downtime, and gave me an amazing mix of culture, wildlife, and relaxation for my birthday trip. The next time I go I will defo need to Mombasa because it looks stunning.

• Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation – After a long flight, I recommend taking it slow on your first day. Check into your hotel I stayed at Skynest Residences unpack, go and dip in the infinity pool and get your bearings. Grab an easy dinner nearby (Uber Eats also works in Nairobi if you just want a quiet night in).
• Day 2: Maasai Village Visit – On your first full day, dive straight into Kenya’s rich culture with a visit to a Maasai Village. This experience was one of my favourites where I learned about Maasai traditions, danced with the community, and supported local artisans by purchasing and making handmade beads. It’s a perfect way to start your trip and connect with the people of Kenya. (You can book the tour here).
• Day 3: Giraffe Centre & Elephant Orphanage – Feed giraffes at the Giraffe Centre it’s such a unique, up-close and personal experience and then visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where baby elephants are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. This felt like a completely different type of safari and was such a heartwarming way to spend a day. (Book this experience here). In the late afternoon you can book afternoon tea at the Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel. It is sooo worth it. You can book a stay here and the afternoon tea here.
• Day 4: Nairobi National Park Safari – Another early morning in the Safari at the Nairobi National Park, which is incredible. I’v done so many Safaris around the world, but this one was gold! I saw lions, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos with the city skyline in the background. You can book the tour here.
• Day 5: Nairobi Food Tour – You know food is always a highlight for me, and this food tour was everything I hoped for and more. We tried street snacks, traditional Kenyan dishes, and local drinks while exploring different parts of the city. It was the best way to understand Nairobi’s culture through its flavours. (You can book the same tour here).
• Day 6: Karura Forest & Waterfall – Head out to Karura Forest for a change of pace. This forest is so lush filled with green space. I would say it is perfect for a morning, jog, walk or cycle. Don’t miss the Karura Waterfall it’s peaceful and a great sport for videos and photos!
• Day 7: Final Lunch & Departure – For your last day, have a slow breakfast, then head to one of the local restaurants I recommended earlier: K’osewe, Mama Oliech, or Amacia.

Is Kenya Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

Yes and yes again. If you are here because you want to know and ask ‘is Kenya safe for solo female travellers?’ then I am here to tell that yes it is safe. So safe. Kenya solo is very safe for travelling, especially for Black women. I found Kenya to be one of the easiest and most welcoming countries to explore on my own. Nairobi sometimes gets a reputation for being hectic, but I never felt unsafe during my trip.

Of course, as with any solo trip, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions: avoid walking alone late at night, use trusted transport options like Uber or Bolt, and keep valuables close to you when in busy public spaces. I always shared my Uber trips with a friend back home and made sure someone knew my daily plans.

I found locals in Nairobi to be so warm, welcoming and extremely helpful! Anywhere I was including restaurants, cafes, and tourist attractions like the Giraffe Centre, I never felt out of place eating or exploring alone. For female travellers especially, I would rate Kenya solo as one of the safer destinations in East Africa for a first solo trip.

Travel Tips for Kenya Solo Travel

• My Instagram and TikTok have quick reels and specifics of my visit to Kenya solo. I am still sharing now so keep an eye out.  
• Carry some Kenyan shillings for small purchases, tips, and markets. Most restaurants and hotels take card, but street vendors often prefer cash.
• Before going to any of these countries, I recommend visiting the Foreign Advice Page for U.K. travellers. Check if you need visas here.
• Nairobi can get surprisingly chilly in the mornings and evenings, so bring a light jacket or sweater. If you’re heading on safari, pack neutral colours, comfortable shoes, and a hat to protect you from the sun. And always take sunscreen.
• Use Uber or Bolt for peace of mind and convenience (more on this in my “Transport in Kenya” section). For longer journeys, I recommend booking a private driver through your hotel or tour company.
• Greet people politely with “Jambo” or “Habari,” and always ask before taking someone’s photo.
• Tipping is appreciated in Kenya I would recommend 10% of your final bill will be common in restaurants.
• Book with Viator or Get Your Guide if you want specific tours for Kenya. Please read the reviews before booking!
• Kenya uses the UK-style Type G plug (three rectangular pins), so if you’re coming from the UK, you won’t need an adapter but travellers from other regions should bring a universal adapter.
• I used Airlo, an e-SIM card, for data. You can purchase it here and use the code ADEBOL5279.

Final Views on Kenya Solo Travel

Would I go back? In an absolute heartbeat. Kenya solo completely stole my heart, from the incredible food to the wildlife and the warm hospitality. It was the perfect destination to celebrate my 60th country and my 15th African country, and it reminded me why I love solo travel so much!

If you’re on the fence about visiting Kenya solo, take this as your sign to book the ticket. You’ll leave with a full stomach, a full camera roll, and a full heart.

What do you think? Do you think you will be going to Kenya solo soon?

Haya,

MBV x