Nairobi, Kenya
The tourist hub with malls, international restaurants, and nightlife. More expensive but safer than most of Nairobi, with English spoken everywhere. Good base if you want Western amenities and don't mind paying for convenience.
This is where most tourists and expats stay - 3km northwest of downtown with shopping malls, international restaurants, and nightlife. The UN calls it one of the safest areas in the city. Sarit Centre, Westgate Mall, and The Mall Westlands all have security checks at entrances. You'll find every type of cuisine here - Indian, Brazilian, Italian - with English-speaking staff everywhere. Eating alone is normal at places like Artcaffe and About Thyme. The nightlife (The Alchemist, Nairobi Street Kitchen) feels reasonably safe earlier in the evening, though you should still Uber home. Walking during the day on main streets is fine, but take a car after dark.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
ModeratePickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
ModerateHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Comfortable walking near the malls during daytime"
"Lots of restaurant options, saw other people eating alone"
"Nightlife was fun but I always took Uber home"
"English everywhere made things easy"
"Pricier than other areas but the safety is worth it"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
The nightlife district with clubs and bars along the main roads. Pleasant residential area during the day. If you're going out at night, stick to the upscale venues with security and go with others - not an area to be alone after dark.
Residential area with growing restaurant scene. Less touristy than Westlands, similar safety level. Good for longer stays when you want neighborhood amenities without the expat bubble.
Peaceful, upscale suburb with major wildlife attractions nearby. One of the safest areas in Nairobi but far from downtown. You'll depend on Ubers to get anywhere, which adds up. Worth it if you prioritize safety and quiet over being near the action.
Help other women stay safe in Westlands
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.