Uhuru Park is an ample recreational space close to Nairobi’s central business district that was opened to the public in 1969 by the political figure Mzee Jomo Kenyatta.The city’s prime attractions are an artificial lake, national monuments, and an assembly ground. The assembly ground is used for political events and gatherings and is popular amongst skateboarding enthusiasts, especially on weekends. It is often the location of many skateboarding competitions. Owing to some legal issues, the park was closed in 2021.
A Look At Uhuru Park In Nairobi
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Situated next to Nairobi’s central business district in Kenya, Uhuru Park is an ample green recreational space that offers a quiet escape from the bustling city. The park was opened to the public in May 1969 and was inaugurated by Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, an influential politician and anti-colonialism activist. The park, which spans an area of almost 13 hectares, is home to a beautiful artificial lake and national monuments commemorating the struggle for independence and other key historical events. Within the park is an assembly ground used for political events and religious gatherings. This ground also doubles as a skateboarding spot, especially on weekends, and hosts local skateboarding competitions.
Its green lawns and pathways make for the perfect place to take a stroll or to have a little picnic. You can also go boating here, and what used to be pretty lily ponds has now turned into an aquarium called Uhuru Aquaspace. Several significant events have taken place here. In the 1980s, the Kenyan Nobel Prize winner Wangari Maathai fought to save it from being demolished during the former Moi government’s regime. Moreover, owing to legal issues arising from plans to renovate the park, it remained closed for a few months from November 2021 but is now open. The park is open throughout the week.
Must Read: Things To Do In Nairobi
Exciting Things To Do in Nairobi
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Here are 5 of the many things beautiful things you can do on your trip to Nairobi:
- Visiting Nairobi National Park is an absolute must! Opened in 1946, it is the country’s first national park and is known for housing numerous species of wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos, lions, leopards, zebras, and more. The park also has over 400 species of birds. Their wildlife safaris guarantee you the experience of a lifetime!
- To learn about Kenya’s rich heritage, visit the National Museum, founded in 1929. Within the museum, several exhibits tell you a lot about the country’s history, culture, wildlife, etc. They also have temporary exhibitions along with permanent ones. Moreover, you will find nearly 900 specimens of birds and animals and fossils from Lake Turkana here, alongside rocks, minerals, volcanic formations, and more.
- The Railway Museum is a fun attraction in Nairobi. It was established in 1971 and is famous for showcasing East Africa’s railway heritage, including records. It is located near the city’s railway station. Besides records of key relics, you would also see simulations of trains, railway lines, tracks, ships, etc. here that teach you about the development of the railway system.
- The Karura Forest, established in the 1930s, is one of Nairobi’s official forests and is a lovely green space away from the bustling city. It is perfect for walking, jogging, hiking and biking. Moreover, the forest also comprises 2 stunning waterfalls, caves, archaeological sites, a bamboo forest and diverse flora and fauna.
- For those looking to do some shopping, head over to the Village Market, the biggest shopping and entertainment establishment in East Africa. Situated in the Gigiri residential area, it has food stalls and shops and features small waterfalls, a garden, a trampoline park, a mini gold court, and an underwater-themed play area.
Ideal Time To Plan A Visit To Nairobi
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If you are considering travelling to Nairobi, it is best to come when the weather is dry and pleasant. The months from June to October and December to February are considered to be dry months and the best time to visit. This period is ideal for wildlife safaris and spotting wildlife since the grass tends to be shorter. You can also embark on other fun outdoor activities. You might even get lucky and witness the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Make sure to book your tickets a few months before your arrival since this is peak tourist season, which means higher prices when it comes to tickets and accommodation. You might also find large crowds during this time of year, but that shouldn’t hamper your experience. The least popular time to visit Nairobi is during the wet season, which lasts from March to May. There is a lot of rainfall during this time of year, leading to muddy spaces and increased humidity, making sightseeing less fun. The rain can also make it challenging to catch glimpses of wildlife.
Suggested Read: Flea Markets In Nairobi
Ways to Reach Nairobi
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One of the easiest ways to get to Nairobi is by flight. The city is home to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which receives flights from different Kenyan, African, and international destinations on a frequent basis. Once you get here, you can also hire a taxi to your final destination.
A railway system also links Nairobi to other key parts of the country. A metro system makes it easier to commute to and from the city centre and the suburbs. You can always hire private transportation to get around the city.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Kenya
If you are spending a few days in Nairobi, don’t forget to add Uhuru Park to your itinerary since it is a beautiful recreational space and a part of the city’s history, having been the site of numerous events. With how much there is to see and do in this country, your trip to Kenya will undoubtedly be spectacular, so get your loved ones together, book your tickets now and embark on this beautiful journey that you will remember for years to come!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Uhuru Park
What must tourists be careful of when travelling to Nairobi?
As tourists, it is very important to be vigilant and careful in Nairobi since pickpocketing and robberies have been on the rise recently. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery and carrying expensive items, gadgets or even a lot of cash. Keep your phones close to you and always keep a watch on your belongings, especially when in public places and inside public transportation.
Is smoking permitted in Nairobi?
Smoking is only allowed in certain designated areas in Nairobi. It is banned in public places and if you are caught smoking in such a place, you could be made to pay a heavy fine or even risk imprisonment.
How much time should one ideally spend in Nairobi?
Spending at least 3 to 4 days in Nairobi gives you enough time to explore most of what there is to see here. You would also not feel rushed.
Is it a good idea to go for a walk at night when in Nairobi?
It is better to hire transportation or remain in a group if you do need to walk somewhere.
Is Kenya visa-free for all nationalities?
Regardless of your nationality, you can visit Kenya for up to 90 days without needing to apply for a visa.
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