Kenya

Cost of living

What a month costs

Figures exclude rent. Nairobi is cheap by expat standards, but imported goods and good international schools push a family budget up fast.

The scores

How it rates for a moving family

See and do

Top 10 in Nairobi

1. Nairobi National ParkLions, rhinos and giraffes roaming with the city skyline behind them, unique in the world.
2. Sheldrick Wildlife TrustWatch rescued baby elephants get their mud bath at the famous orphanage.
3. Giraffe CentreFeed endangered Rothschild giraffes from a raised platform in Langata.
4. Karen Blixen MuseumThe colonial farmhouse from Out of Africa, set in leafy Karen.
5. Nairobi National MuseumStrong natural history, early human fossils and Kenyan culture under one roof.
6. Bomas of KenyaTraditional homesteads and a daily show of dances from across the country.
7. Karura ForestA huge urban forest with waterfalls, trails and a caves walk right in the city.
8. Kenyatta International Convention CentreLandmark tower with a rooftop viewing deck over central Nairobi.
9. Uhuru ParkCentral green lung with boating lake and city views, popular on weekends.
10. Nairobi Railway MuseumOld locomotives and relics from the Uganda Railway that built the city.

Where to go

Weekend escapes

1. Lake NaivashaRift Valley lake about two hours out, with boat rides past hippos and fish eagles.
2. Amboseli National ParkBig elephant herds framed by the snows of Kilimanjaro across the border.
3. Lake Nakuru National ParkFlamingo-fringed soda lake with rhinos, about three hours northwest.
4. Maasai MaraThe classic safari, reachable by a short bush flight for a long weekend.
5. Nanyuki and Mount KenyaHighland town on the equator with hikes on Africa's second-highest peak.

Coffee

Best cafes

1. Java HouseHomegrown Kenyan coffee chain, reliable brews and all-day breakfasts across town.
2. ArtcaffeBakery and cafe with a loyal brunch crowd and branches in most malls.
3. Connect Coffee RoastersSpecialty roaster in a garden setting, serious about single-origin Kenyan beans.
4. Spring Valley CoffeeLocal roaster and cafe, easy spot for a flat white and light bites.
5. Cafe DeliLong-running CBD favourite for coffee and a quick sit-down meal.

Restaurants

Where to eat

1. CarnivoreLegendary open-fire nyama choma feast, a Nairobi institution in Langata.
2. TalismanGarden restaurant in Karen with an eclectic menu and a big expat following.
3. Tamambo Karen BlixenUpscale dining in a colonial setting near the Blixen museum.
4. Nyama MamaPlayful modern Kenyan diner, comfort food with a bright design.
5. Mama OliechCome here for whole fried tilapia and ugali, a local classic.
6. About ThymeLeafy Westlands garden known for steaks and continental plates.
7. CultivaFarm-to-table tasting menus in Karen using local produce.

Morning

Best breakfast

1. Java HouseClassic Kenyan breakfast and bottomless filter coffee.
2. ArtcaffePastries, eggs and good coffee at branches across the city.
3. Le Grenier a PainFrench bakery doing proper croissants and morning tartines.
4. Connect Coffee RoastersFlat whites and a light breakfast in a calm garden.
5. Spring Valley CoffeeRelaxed garden setting for morning eggs and coffee.
6. Cafe DeliHearty, no-fuss breakfast in the city centre.