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Photos of Nairobi, a Capital That Blends Urban and Untamed Wilderness
Nairobi is a rare example of a modern capital city that is somehow in harmony with the incredibly diverse wildlife around it.
Located along the Nairobi River, the city that shares its name has risen in just a few years into a powerful global capital city. Nairobi today is a gleaming and modern city and the center of political power in a fast-developing African power, Kenya. With more than three million people living in the city, it also has the traits of a cosmopolitan city with a growing culture of its own. And yet it manages to stay close to its natural roots. Its name is derived from the word Enkare Nyirobi or ‘cool waters’, which was used to describe the Maasai water hole. Once a swamp area, the city faced plagues before it was rebuilt and its fortunes were reignited. ALSO READ: Photos of Meknes, a Vibrant Old City of Middle Atlas
The modern cityscape of Nairobi – capital city of Kenya, East Africa
A lone giraffe at Nairobi National Park with the city of Nairobi on the background
Three young giraffes roam free in the national park
A common scene of people on the street of Nairobi city
The Independence Monument in Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi
Ripe fruits stacked at a local fruit and vegetable market in Nairobi; the market is frequently visited by locals and tourists
Sculpture in front of the Nairobi National Museum, where you can explore the incredible history of the city and Kenya
Lioness and cubs playing in the wild in Maasai Mara National Park, Nairobi
Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, a popular haunt where you can literally dine with the giraffes
Baby elephants walking free in the Nairobi National park
Baby elephant being fed with milk in the national park
Nairobi city is, at its heart, as fast-paced and hectic as you would expect from any modern cosmopolitan city. But you don’t have to venture very far to experience the wildlife of Kenya, with the Nairobi National Park nearby. The city itself offers a well-developed cultural life, complete with a nightlife to keep you up and some really delicious and adventure new foods to try out.