NAIROBI, KENYA

COLLEGE FAIR SCHEDULE

Fair Day: September 13, 2025

Fair Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Fair Venue: Serena Hotel 

(Note: while at the same venue as last year, this year's fair will be indoors).

Transport to and from Venue: No
If you aren't staying at the fair hotel, Uber is a the most common transportation option in Nairobi

• WiFi would be provided at the fair venue. 

See logistics page for hotel, printing and shipping information.

                                                                                ADDITIONAL EVENTS

The U.S. Embassy in Kenya welcomes college fair participants for a Country Briefing at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi.

The briefing is scheduled for Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:00 am.

To facilitate the necessary security clearance process, we kindly request that HEIs submit copies of their passports by email to Jennifer Maende (jmaende@state.gov) no later than August 31, 2025.

Security & Arrival Information

• Arrival Time:  Arrive at least 40 minutes prior to the meeting to allow ample time for security clearance.

• Identification: All guests must present their original national ID or passport. Photocopies or digital versions will not be accepted.

• Travel Light: Bring minimal personal items to help expedite the security screening process.

• Electronic Devices: Mobile phones and other electronic devices are not permitted inside the Embassy. All devices will be turned off and securely held at the security checkpoint until the end of the meeting.

• Parking: On-site parking is not available.

TOURIST RECOMMENDATIONS

Nairobi has an abundance of wonderful opportunities for tourists and culinary enthusiasts alike! Easily navigable by Uber (except inside Nairobi National Park, which requires a safari vehicle), this is a city just waiting to be explored!

If you find yourself with free time, here are some options worth exploring:

1) Take a Safari in Nairobi National Park

Animal and photography enthusiasts will love this opportunity to see lions, rhinos, hippos, and other beloved safari animals, within 30 minutes of their hotel. This is going to be your best chance to experience a true safari.

2) Visit Orphan Elephants

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is the very first elephant orphanage in the world and one of the most heart melting places in Nairobi. They only offer one opportunity for the public to visit each day, and advanced reservations are required. Pro-Tip: As of last September, visitors must pay the park entrance fee for Nairobi National Park to access the elephant orphanage, so this option is recommended as a great safari add-on.

3) Hug a Giraffe!

You've likely seen photos of Giraffe Manor, the Insta-famous hotel where you can stay with free roaming giraffes. You may not realize you can feed those same giraffes by hand at the Nairobi Giraffe Center. Accessible by Uber and approximately $11 USD. Pro-tip: staff will be happy to show you how to get the giraffes to "hug you" for an unforgettable photo.

4) Experience Kenyan artistry and culture

The Bomas of Kenya offers unforgettable daily performances highlighting dances and live music from diverse Kenyan communities. It also offers a glimpse into Kenyan homesteads and a craft market where you can purchase souvenirs. Performances are held: Monday to Friday: 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Weekends: 3:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m.

5) Bring a little piece of Kenya home with you!

There are many great markets where you can purchase high-quality handicrafts to remember your time in this beautiful country. One option that is quite popular is Utamadumi Craft Center, known for a wide selection and fixed prices. Another great option is Spinner's Web, which has many rooms of fixed price crafts, along with a cafe on site.

+ Our Dining Recommendations

There is no shortage of incredible food in Nairobi to suit any taste. Here are just a few of the many great options:

To try all-you-care-to-eat Kenyan nyama choma (barbeque), Carnivore Restaurant is one of the most popular places. Perhaps a bit touristy, but for good reason.

For sushi lovers, Inti offers a modern Japanese/Peruvian fusion menu at the top of the One Africa building. Great ambiance and eclectic desserts that never disappoint.

For art lovers looking for an African fusion menu, beit e selam offers great options and indoor/outdoor seating.

For a great outdoor seating area and one of Nairobi's best steak and cocktail menus, check out Ankole Grill in Kitisuru.

A little further out, but definitely worth the drive, try Cultiva, a proper farm-to-table restaurant with a diverse menu and the freshest ingredients grown right on site.

Want more options close to where you are in Nairobi? Check out REAC Lisa's Nairobi Suggested Restaurant Google map to see suggestions closest to you.

First Time in Kenya?

Nyama Choma (barbeque), Ugali (maize porridge; the national dish of Kenya); Sukuma wiki (sauteed spinach with tomatoes and onions), Kachumbari (A salad of diced onion, tomato, and parsley) are some regional favorites and definitely worth a try.

Nairobi in particular also has incredible Indian food options, due to a large Indian Kenyan population and a wide variety of delicious international cuisines.