Nairobi in June is a great time to visit: it’s ahead of the high season's crowds, the May rains have sprinkled off and the city’s temperature hasn’t yet dropped. There are also plenty of options for tapping into its vibrant cultural scene, from art exhibitions and historical tours to live music and outdoor yoga. Last but not least, it’s a fine time to take advantage of the capital's major selling point – Nairobi National Park.
Get in the mix at the Koroga Festival
The word koroga means 'mix' in Kiswahili, and this feel-good music festival does exactly that, bringing together a colourful crowd to celebrate African food, music, art and fashion. Although not technically in June, the two-day concert kicks off in early July on the 6th and is one of the city’s most anticipated events, showcasing local talent and hosting international performers too. Browse the boutique market stalls for some great Afro-chic fashion. Details of performers will be posted on the website. Early bird tickets are KSh1500, while gate tickets go for KSh3000.
Find your 'Ikigai' in the heart of the city
Ikigai is a Japanese concept meaning 'a reason for being'. It’s also the brand name under which three of Nairobi’s most popular hangout spots operate. The trio of Ikigai venues are spread across the city, and mix modern coworking spaces with outdoor events that foster a community of creatives and promote wellness. In June, choose between weekly yoga classes held on Mondays at 5pm in their serene Westlands garden (KSh750; bring a mat and water bottle), or try their first guided wine tasting session at the trendy Lavington branch on 8 June (KSh1000).
Delve into Nairobi’s literary past with Book Bunk
For a unique glimpse into Nairobi's iconic public libraries, take a tour with Book Bunk. The social impact project was founded by the unstoppable Angela Wachuka and Wanjiru Koinange, who last year featured in Vogue magazine’s ‘The Kenyan Cool Girl’s Guide to Nairobi’. Book Bunk is working to restore libraries as sites of cultural heritage and public memory. The three-hour tour kicks off at the McMillan Memorial Library, which opened in 1931, in the heart of the city centre. The tour ends with a stroll in the Kaloleni neighbourhood, where Kenya's first parliamentary election results were announced in 1963. The tour is on 1 June and costs US$35 per person, including transport and refreshments.
Discover local talent at Circle Art Gallery
For a glimpse into some of the region’s finest contemporary artistic talent, head to Circle Art Gallery. This is one of the city’s most revered exhibition spaces and June sees two Ethiopian artists – Tegene Kunbi and Robel Temesgen – exhibit in Nairobi for the first time. The exhibition is curated by Kenyan artist Wanja Kimani and will run from 5-29 June.
Get wild at Nairobi National Park
No visit to the city is complete without a safari at Nairobi National Park. The rainy season ends in May, making June a great time for wildlife viewing. Your best chance of spotting animals, including rhinos and lions, is early morning and late afternoon. Make sure to get that iconic shot of wildlife grazing against a backdrop of city skyscrapers.
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