Kibera Slum Bomas of Kenya and Dinner at Carnivore Nairobi

Kibera Slum, Bomas of Kenya, and Dinner at Carnivore Nairobi: An Honest Review

Exploring Nairobi’s diverse landscape means diving into its contrasting worlds — from bustling informal settlements to lively cultural displays and mouthwatering local cuisine. This tour, offered by Den Safaris, promises a taste of Kenya’s complex social fabric.

What makes this experience appealing are three key elements: the chance to see Kibera, one of Africa’s largest slums, the opportunity to learn about Kenya’s many cultures at Bomas of Kenya, and a dinner at the iconic Carnivore Restaurant. Each stop offers a different perspective on what makes Kenya unique.

A potential snag for some travelers could be the walking involved at Kibera, which might be tiring or unsettling for those with mobility concerns. Still, for those interested in a genuine, unfiltered look at Nairobi’s everyday life and cultural richness, this tour provides a balanced and eye-opening day out.

This experience is best suited for travelers eager for authentic interactions, curious about Kenya’s social realities, and keen to enjoy a diverse cultural itinerary. It offers the kind of insight that often gets overlooked in more polished tourist attractions.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Exposure: Visit Kibera, Africa’s largest slum, and learn from local guides about daily life.
• Cultural Performances: Enjoy traditional Kenyan dance shows at Bomas of Kenya.
• Historical Insights: Discover Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage through exhibits at Bomas.
• Culinary Experience: End your day with a hearty dinner at the renowned Carnivore Restaurant.
• Value for Money: For $55, you get transportation, a guide, water, and access to key sites, making it a well-rounded cultural introduction.
• Flexible Booking: Book now with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Kibera Slum

Our journey begins with a pickup from your hotel, where a friendly guide from Den Safaris welcomes you aboard a comfortable vehicle. The ride to Kibera is smooth, and your guide will set the tone with a brief overview of what to expect.

Once there, you’ll walk along the streets of Kibera with a local guide. Many reviews highlight how eye-opening and humbling this experience is. One review mentions that “seeing the real-life conditions and hearing personal stories from residents made the experience unforgettable.” Keep in mind, the activity involves walking through the slum, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Your guide is key here—expect them to share insights into the community’s resilience, challenges, and day-to-day routines. While some may find the area sobering, others appreciate the authenticity and the opportunity to see a side of Nairobi rarely exposed in tourist settings.

Transition to Bomas of Kenya

After exploring Kibera, the tour heads to the Bomas of Kenya, a cultural center showcasing the country’s many ethnic groups through dance, music, and traditional homes. Entrance costs $20 per person, paid at the gate, which is a reasonable fee considering the value of the experience.

At Bomas, you’ll witness cultural dance shows that are lively and engaging, often performed by age-old traditional groups. These performances are not just entertainment—they’re a window into Kenya’s diverse cultural tapestry. As one visitor noted, “The dancers’ costumes and moves really brought the stories of different tribes to life.”

Beyond performances, the site offers a guided tour of traditional homesteads, where you learn about different ways of life across Kenya’s various communities. If you request, there’s also a complimentary visit to view gemstones and rare Tanzanite Emerald stones—an interesting touch for those who love jewelry or want a quick window into Kenya’s gemstone trade.

Dinner at Carnivore Nairobi

The grand finale is a dinner at Carnivore Restaurant, famed for its all-you-can-eat meat offerings and lively atmosphere. The restaurant’s theme is “The World’s Greatest Carnivore”, and it lives up to its reputation with a wide range of meats, including beef, chicken, pork, and exotic options like crocodile and ostrich.

While food and drinks are available for purchase, many guests find the experience worth the slightly higher price—anticipate a hearty, flavorful meal that feels like a celebration of Kenyan cuisine. The staff are attentive, and the ambiance is vibrant, often accompanied by live music or traditional dance performances.

Transportation is seamless with the included pickup and drop-off service, making this a stress-free way to round off your cultural day. Reviewers mention that the timing is well-organized, allowing enough time to enjoy each part of the tour without feeling rushed.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the $55 price tag are the pickup and drop-off service, bottled water, and a knowledgeable tour guide. This makes the experience quite affordable, considering the transportation and guided insights.

Not included are the entrance fee to Bomas of Kenya, which is payable at the gate, and food or drinks at Carnivore—those are purchased separately. It’s worth budgeting for extra spending if you want to indulge or purchase souvenirs or jewelry at Bomas.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking through Kibera.
• Don’t forget a hat and camera to capture these memorable moments.
• The tour is conducted in English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.
• Be prepared for a walking activity at Kibera; it can be tiring but is part of the authentic experience.
• The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly if needed.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $55, this day trip packs in a lot—culture, historical perspective, and a taste of Kenya’s vibrant cuisine. The inclusion of transportation and a guide ensures you experience each stop safely and informatively.

The Kibera visit is a rare chance to see an area often hidden behind media portrayals, providing context and understanding that’s difficult to get elsewhere. Bomas of Kenya adds depth with real cultural performances and exhibits, helping you appreciate Kenya’s many tribes and traditions in one place. The Carnivore dinner caps off the day with a hearty, social meal, making the whole experience feel like a genuine celebration of Kenyan life.

This tour strikes a good balance for travelers wanting both insight and entertainment without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. It’s especially suited to those who don’t mind walking and are curious about Kenya’s social and cultural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides seamless pick-up and drop-off from your Nairobi accommodation, making logistics hassle-free.

How much does the Bomas of Kenya entrance fee cost?
The fee is $20 per person, paid at the entrance, which is reasonable given the cultural performances and exhibits.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential because walking is involved at Kibera. A hat and camera are also recommended for sun protection and capturing memories.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves walking through Kibera, which might be challenging for some.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, a guide, bottled water, and entry to Kibera are included. Food and drinks at Carnivore are not included but are available for purchase.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled time for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the entire experience is led in English, ensuring clear communication and insights.

What kind of experience can I expect at Kibera?
Expect an authentic walk through one of Africa’s largest slums, with personal stories from residents and a guided explanation of their daily lives.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While suitable for most, the walking involved and the sometimes sobering realities of Kibera may make it less ideal for very young children or those sensitive to such environments.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine look into Nairobi’s social fabric, complemented by engaging cultural performances and a hearty meal. It’s ideal for travelers eager to step beyond typical sightseeing and gain a layered understanding of Kenya’s diverse communities. If you’re curious about the real Nairobi—its challenges, its culture, and its resilience—this experience is well worth your time and money.

You can check availability for your dates here: