Nairobi: The Safari Cats Show Tickets & Buffet Dinner

When visiting Nairobi, finding evening activities that truly capture the local spirit can be a challenge. The Safari Cats show offers a unique combination of traditional African entertainment paired with a delicious buffet dinner—a lively way to wind down after a day exploring the city. Based on numerous traveler reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience promises a lively dose of Kenyan culture, colorful performances, and hearty food.

We love that this tour provides a blend of entertainment and authentic cuisine, making it a well-rounded cultural experience. The live performance, featuring talented dancers and acrobats, is often highlighted as a memorable part of the evening. The Nyama Choma buffet, with its focus on local-style grilled meats, gives guests a taste of Kenyan flavors in a convivial setting. Plus, the easy logistics and hotel transfers make this a hassle-free option for visitors.

However, some reviews mention that the show can feel a bit rushed and that the setting may not match promotional photos—a point worth considering if you’re expecting a theater-like experience. Still, for those wanting a fun, relaxed evening with good value, this tour fits most travelers looking for an engaging cultural night.

This experience suits families, couples, and small groups who are eager to explore beyond safaris, seeking a lively night out that combines local food and entertainment. It’s especially ideal if you want to tick off a memorable Kenyan activity without spending a fortune.

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Key Points

Authentic Kenyan cuisine in a traditional buffet style
Vibrant African dance and acrobatic performances
Hassle-free transfers with hotel pickup and drop-off
Affordable price point offering good value for entertainment and food
Flexible options to combine with other Nairobi tours
Limited drinks included, so plan to bring your own or purchase on-site

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour usually begins with a hotel pickup around 6:30 pm, where a friendly guide or driver from Cruzeiro Safaris Kenya takes care of transportation. From the start, the process is smooth, with most reviews praising the punctuality and service of the driver, Edwin, who even entertains children with stories during the ride. This sets a relaxed tone and helps guests settle in before the night’s activities.

Once at the venue, guests are encouraged to arrive early—about 15 minutes before the dinner begins—to avoid missing out on the food and to beat the Nairobi traffic rush. The dinner service typically kicks off with a traditional buffet known as Nyama Choma, which involves grilled meats and local flavors. Reviewers mention the crocodile meat as a highlight, and many appreciate the generous portions of meat skewers. The buffet offers a satisfying taste of Kenyan culinary traditions, though some note that the salad and dessert options are somewhat limited.

Following dinner, around 9 pm, the live show begins. Expect an energetic display of dance, acrobatics, and lively music. The performances are generally praised as high-quality and engaging, with particular praise for the acrobatic troupe. One reviewer says, “The show is pretty short and goes really fast, but the dancers performed well, and it’s a great way to experience Kenyan culture.”

The Performance and Atmosphere

While the show is described as short and fast-paced, many travelers find it a fun and authentic way to experience local entertainment. A review mentions that the performance feels a bit informal and that the stage setup may differ from promotional photos, sometimes leading to disappointment in the theatrical ambiance. Dancers perform in front of a simple open space, sometimes close to restrooms that are not ideally located, which can be a minor inconvenience.

Despite that, the vibrancy of the dance and the talented performers make this experience worthwhile. One guest noted, “The dancers danced well but seemed more like a rehearsal, which was a bit disappointing,” but others still found the performance lively and entertaining.

Post-Show Options

After the show wraps up around 10 pm, guests are typically driven back to their hotels. Some travelers choose to stay on and visit Nairobi’s casinos—a service that can be arranged at an extra “waiting” charge, with the vehicle waiting for your return. This flexibility allows you to extend your night in Nairobi if desired.

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Value for Money

Priced at $99 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the included dinner, live entertainment, and transportation. Compared to other nightlife activities or cultural shows in Nairobi, it provides a good balance of affordability and authenticity. Although drinks are not included, many guests find the experience sufficiently fulfilling without them, especially as the food quality and lively performances are the main highlights.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

Arrive 15 minutes early to maximize your dining experience and avoid traffic delays.
Consider eating sparingly at the buffet to leave room for the main dishes and desserts.
Bring warm clothing if you tend to get cold easily, as evenings can be cooler.
If interested, inquire about the casino visit beforehand, as it involves an extra fee and waiting time.
Be aware that the performance duration is about one hour, so plan your evening accordingly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for those looking for an immersive Kenyan cultural evening that combines food and entertainment. It’s especially suitable for families with children, couples wanting a relaxed yet lively night, and groups of friends eager to experience local music and dance without breaking the bank. For travelers wanting a theater-style show or more elaborate production, this might not be the ideal option, but if authenticity and a vibrant atmosphere appeal to you, it’s a good choice.

Final Thoughts

The Safari Cats Show with buffet dinner offers a cost-effective way to enjoy Kenyan culture after a day of sightseeing. While it’s not a high-production theatrical event, the talented performers, delicious food, and lively setting make it a memorable addition to any Nairobi itinerary. The organization is smooth, the guides are friendly, and the experience offers genuine insight into local traditions.

If you’re seeking an evening that combines authentic flavors and spirited performances in a relaxed, friendly environment, this tour delivers on those fronts. Just remember to arrive early, keep expectations realistic about the setting, and enjoy Kenya’s vibrant night life in true local style.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience easy and stress-free.

How long is the show?
The show lasts about one hour, starting at 9 pm and finishing around 10 pm.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks of any kind are not included in the ticket price, so you may want to bring your own or purchase on-site.

Can I visit the casino afterward?
Yes, you can visit Nairobi’s casino after the show at an extra “waiting” charge, with the vehicle waiting for your return.

What’s the dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but bringing warm clothing is recommended for the cooler evening temperatures.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the lively performances and buffet, especially with the engaging dancers and acrobats.

Is the buffet meal filling?
Most guests find the meat skewers and local dishes quite satisfying, but some suggest eating sparingly beforehand to leave room for the main buffet.

How authentic is the experience?
While the performances are lively and well-executed, some reviews mention that the setup may feel informal and different from promotional images, so temper expectations accordingly.

Can I combine this tour with other Nairobi activities?
Absolutely. It’s often paired with visits to the Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi National Park, or other city highlights.

What is the overall value of this tour?
Considering the price, food, entertainment, and transportation, this experience offers good value, especially for travelers keen to experience authentic Kenyan nightlife without high costs.

To sum it up, whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a family looking for a fun night out, or a curious traveler wanting to sample local flavors and dance, the Safari Cats show with buffet dinner is a lively, authentic, and wallet-friendly option. It’s not about perfection but about enjoying genuine Kenyan entertainment and hospitality in a friendly setting.