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Things to do in Nairobi

Go hiking in Karura Forest

Of the three gazetted urban forests in Nairobi, Karura is the largest and most beautiful. Criss-crossed by 50km (31 miles) of hiking trails, the forest is packed with wildlife including monkeys, marmosets and bush babies. Not to be missed is the spectacular 15m (50ft) waterfall courtesy of the Nairobi River.

Go on a city safari

Nairobi is the self-styled safari capital of Africa and one of the best starting points to spot the big five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. Most can be seen locally at Nairobi National Park (www.kws.go.ke), but those prepared to go further afield should contact KATO (www.katokenya.org) to choose a reputable operator.

Saddle up for a horse safari

Nairobi is surrounded by spectacular hilly countryside and a great way to explore is by horse. Saddle up with Malo Stables (tel: +254 704 494 464; www.malostables.com) for a guided forest ride.

Try exotic barbecue meats

Nyama choma (grilled meat) is the unofficial Kenyan national dish and served practically everywhere. While the usual suspects (beef, goat and chicken) are popular, so too are more exotic cuts, among them camel and crocodile. Carnivore (tel: +254 20 514 1300; www.tamarind.co.ke/carnivore) is a good venue to try some

Visit a working tea plantation

The Kenyans love their tea – just as well given that they're one of the world's largest tea producers. Many of Nairobi's tea farms, like Kiambethu Tea Farm (tel: +254 20 201 2542; www.kiambethufarm.com), happily welcome visitors. Tours include a home-cooked lunch, a history of Kenyan tea farming and plenty of the produce itself.

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