Nairobi, Kenya

Visa Requirements

• Tourist Visa
  Most visitors to Kenya require a tourist visa, which can be obtained either online through the eVisa system or upon arrival. The visa is typically valid for 90 days.
• Visa on Arrival (VOA)
  Citizens of several countries can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for tourism purposes. The visa is typically granted for 90 days.
• Digital Nomad Visa
  Kenya is working on attracting digital nomads, and there are talks about a visa allowing long-term stays for remote workers. However, as of now, there isn’t a fully established digital nomad visa, so expats often rely on tourist or business visas for extended stays.

For visa information, visit the Kenyan Department of Immigration Services.

Cost of Living

• Accommodation
  Nairobi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury apartments. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages around $400-600 per month, while in suburban areas, it can be much cheaper, around $200-400 per month.
• Food
  Eating out is relatively affordable. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $5-10, while groceries for a single person may cost about $150-250 monthly, depending on eating habits.
• Transportation
  Public transportation is available via matatus (shared minivans) and buses. A bus ride costs around $0.30-0.50. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are available. Monthly transportation costs average $50-80.

Healthcare
Kenya’s healthcare system offers both private and public healthcare services. Private healthcare is of high quality, and the cost of insurance can range from $30-150 monthly for an individual. Public healthcare is more affordable, but it may not always meet international standards.

Climate & Weather

Dry Seasons (June–October & January–February)

• Cooler months (June–August): Daytime temperatures range from 17–24°C (63–75°F), with chilly mornings and nights around 10°C (50°F).
• Warmer months (January–February): Daytime highs reach 24–28°C (75–82°F), with low humidity.
• These periods are great for outdoor activities and safaris.

Rainy Seasons (March–May & October–December)

• Long Rains (March–May): Heavy, consistent rainfall, with daytime temperatures of 18–24°C (64–75°F).
• Short Rains (October–December): Less intense rain, with warm temperatures around 20–26°C (68–79°F).

Landscape

Nairobi’s landscape is diverse, ranging from its savannah and green hills to urban spaces. The Nairobi National Park, located just 7 kilometers from the city center, offers the unique sight of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras, against the backdrop of city skyscrapers. The surrounding Great Rift Valley and Ngong Hills offer stunning views and hiking opportunities.

Things to Do

• Heritage Sites
  • Karen Blixen Museum: A historical site located in the former home of the famous Danish author.
  • Giraffe Centre: A conservation center for the endangered Rothschild giraffes.
• Adventure Activities
  • Safari Trips: A short drive from Nairobi takes you to Masai Mara or Amboseli National Park, where you can go on safaris.
  • Hiking in Ngong Hills: The Ngong Hills offer panoramic views and are great for hiking and picnics.
• Nightlife
  Nairobi has a lively nightlife scene with vibrant clubs, bars, and lounges, particularly in neighborhoods like Westlands and Karen.
• Wellness Retreats
  Several wellness retreats and spas are available, offering yoga, meditation, and wellness treatments amidst Nairobi’s serene environment.
• Shopping
  Nairobi is home to various shopping centers and markets, such as Sarit Centre, Westgate Mall, and Maasai Market, where visitors can purchase handmade crafts and unique Kenyan art.

Lifestyle

Life in Nairobi is fast-paced and cosmopolitan, with a young, growing population. People often socialize in cafes, restaurants, and outdoor spaces, and the city has a thriving entrepreneurial spirit, particularly in tech.

Nairobi is home to diverse communities, and expats can easily integrate into local culture. Many people speak English and Swahili, making it easy for newcomers to communicate. Social events, including cultural festivals and art exhibitions, are common, and Nairobi is known for its lively arts and music scene.

Other Important Locations in Kenya

• Mombasa: Kenya’s coastal city, famous for its beaches and Swahili culture.
• Maasai Mara: A world-renowned safari destination known for its wildlife.
• Lake Nakuru: A major bird-watching location, famous for its flamingos.

Rental Accommodations

• Budget: Basic apartments or shared housing can cost around $200-400.
• Mid-Range: Comfortable apartments with amenities, typically in areas like Kilimani or Lavington, cost around $500-800.
• Luxury: High-end properties in areas like Karen, Runda, or Gigiri can range from $1,000-2,500.

Co-Working Facilities and Costs

Nairobi has a growing number of co-working spaces, especially in areas like Westlands, Kilimani, and Karen. The cost for a hot desk starts at $100-200 per month, while private offices can cost upwards of $300-800.

Connectivity

• WiFi: Nairobi offers decent WiFi speeds in urban areas, with good access in coworking spaces, hotels, and cafes. Some areas may experience power outages, affecting connectivity temporarily.
• SIM: Safaricom and Airtel are popular options for prepaid SIM cards, providing affordable plans for calls and data. SIMs require ID verification to activate.

Volunteering Opportunities

Nairobi offers numerous volunteering opportunities, particularly in wildlife conservation, community development, healthcare, and education. Many organizations, such as Wildlife Works and Kenya Red Cross, accept international volunteers. Explore more local opportunities at different organizations and explore www.volunteerhq.org.

Local Employment Options

• Jobs with NGOs or international organizations.
• Tourism-related roles in safaris or travel agencies.
• Teaching positions in international schools.

Real Estate Investment Options

Nairobi’s real estate market is growing, and opportunities exist in both residential and commercial sectors. The rising middle class has led to an increased demand for housing, while the growth of tech hubs makes office spaces attractive for investment. The Karen and Westlands areas are particularly popular for high-end residential and commercial real estate investments.

Start-Up Ecosystem

Nairobi has become a leading tech hub in Africa, often referred to as “Silicon Savannah” due to its dynamic start-up ecosystem. The city is home to numerous incubators and accelerators, such as iHub, Nailab, and GrowthHub, which support the growth of tech and innovation-based businesses. Key industries for start-ups include fintech, agritech, healthtech, and e-commerce.

Business Setup Process for Expats in Nairobi

Setting up a business in Nairobi involves several key steps:

1. Choose a Business Structure: Most expats opt for a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or a Sole Proprietorship depending on the size of their business.
2. Register the Business: The business must be registered with the Registrar of Companies at the Kenya Business Registration Service (BRS).
3. Obtain Tax Compliance Certificate: Register with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) for tax purposes and obtain a PIN (Personal Identification Number).
4. Get Necessary Licenses: Depending on the type of business, you may need additional permits from the local county government.
5. Open a Business Bank Account: You will need a Kenyan bank account to operate your business.
6. Hire Employees: Kenya’s labor laws require employers to offer benefits like health insurance and social security contributions.
7. Comply with Local Regulations: Ensure your business complies with environmental, health and safety, and business licensing regulations.

Business Opportunities in Nairobi

• Technology and Startups: Nairobi is known for its tech ecosystem, with opportunities in fintech, agritech, healthtech, and e-commerce.
• Tourism and Hospitality: Nairobi’s growing tourism industry offers opportunities in hotels, tourism agencies, and adventure services.
• Agriculture: Kenya’s strong agricultural sector presents business opportunities in *food production, processing, and distribution.

• Real Estate: With growing urbanization, investment in residential and commercial properties in Karen, Westlands, and Nairobi CBD are lucrative.
• Education and Training: Offering language courses, tech training, and vocational education is an expanding market.
• Retail and Consumer Goods: The retail sector in Nairobi, driven by a rising middle class, is expanding, offering opportunities in fashion, electronics, and grocery retail.