Bomas of Kenya

Lonely Planet review

The Bomas of Kenya is a cultural centre at Langata, near the main gate to Nairobi National Park. The talented resident artistes perform traditional dances and songs taken from the country's 16 various tribal groups, including Arab-influenced Swahili taarab music, Kalenjin warrior dances, Embu drumming and Kikuyu circumcision ceremonies. It's touristy, of course, but it's still a spectacular afternoon out.

The centre itself has such a high profile that the first meeting of the National Constitutional Conference was held here in 2003, producing the so-called Bomas Draft of the new constitution. Bus or matatu No 125 or 126 runs here from Nairobi train station, taking about 30 minutes. Get off at Magadi Rd, from where it's about a 1km walk, clearly signposted on the right-hand side of the road. Note that if you bring a video camera there's an extra charge.