Rolling Around Nairobi, Kenya: A Wheelchair User’s Travel Guide

If you are a wildlife junkie then Kenya is the place you want to be. The country is packed with some of the most amazing wildlife on the planet. Visiting Nairobi is a must during your trip to Kenya. There are many accessible safaris and attractions that cater specifically to wheelchair users. Before we delve into that, let’s go over some of the common means of transportation as they relate to accessibility in the city.

Public Transportation and Taxis

Most of the public transportation in Kenya’s capital city is wheelchair accessible. This includes buses and airplanes. Of course, by now you almost expect airlines to accommodate wheelchair travelers. The only exception for this might be in remote locations where you might have to hop a small domestic flight to get from one tiny airport to the next. In Kenya however, this is not the case. Airlines are more than accommodating and will seek to make sure you are comfortable and safe.

The buses in Kenya may or may not be accessible depending on which one you choose. You could try to plan your route accordingly, or use one of the airport shuttles. Taxis are not recommended as the drivers at times can be a bit of a challenge. Yet, if you stick to the airport shuttles and travel vans you should be okay.

However, there is also another option that is in fact much better; choose one of the tour companies that offers accessible tours for wheelchair users. Their prices can be reasonable and they will cater to your every need. The folks over at GoAfrica Safaris and Victoria Safaris have put together some amazing wheelchair exploration packages. These can be done as a group or individual. No matter which option you choose, you can rest assured that your travel bases are well covered.

Safaris

There are wheelchair accessible safaris that explores several of Kenya’s national parks. Your goal during the adventure is to find the big five. The big five consists of elephants, black rhinos, buffalo, lions, and leopards. Keep your eyes peeled for these along the way and make sure that you have a camera to take some great shots. You have never been this close to wildlife action before!

You will want to explore the amazing Sweetwater Preserve and view all sorts of native animals. There are giraffes, zebras, and baboons to name a few. The lodgings here are canvas-covered dwellings, but do not fret. Each room is furnished and has a full bathroom on site with flush capabilities.

During the rest of your safari, you will pass through the Samuburu National Reserve, Lake Nakuru National Park, and the Masai Mara National Reserve. This adventure is absolutely amazing and there are so many incredible photo opportunities that you will want to make sure you have a few extra memory cards available.

The meals are fantastic and the staff are more than helpful and will safely guide you along your way. An accessible safari is absolutely something worth looking into.

Nairobi War Cemetery

This attraction is part of Africa’s war-torn past. The cemetery is accessible via wheelchair, however you might have to use an alternate entrance from the side. If you are a history buff, then this should be on your list of things to do while you are there.

Restaurants and Lodging

Most restaurants in Nairobi are wheelchair accessible. Even specific restaurants such as The Happy Cow, a vegetarian restaurant, are wheelchair accessible. This opens up a lot of diversity for your culinary tastes.

Hotels are generally more than accommodating as well. The Laico Regency Hotel has wide walkways and access ramps where needed. It is also equipped with elevators of course. Other places such as Giraffe Manor, which is part of the Safari Collection, are wheelchair accessible. This is great because places like these are iconic in Nairobi and as such are sites worth seeing. Wide easy pathways and access ramps where needed make moving across this luxury property quite easy.

Giraffe Manor. Eat fast or a giraffe may steal it.

Beyond that, go with the usual tips. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen for those Kenyan safari adventures. Nothing is worse than scorching the top of your legs because you forgot to apply sunscreen after you put on your shorts. Be sure to get your arms and nose as well since the Kenyan sun can be quite blistering.

Take plenty of water, and be prepared to make a lot of friends. Aside from the taxi issue in Nairobi, the inhabitants are quite friendly and often more than accommodating. Of course, at the resorts you will always find staff that are friendly and willing to assist with whatever needs you may have. Beyond that, enjoy your time in one of Kenya’s most amazing cities. Pack your safari gear, and get ready to roll across the savannah!

*I have not visited Kenya. All of this information was found online from various sources including www.destinationsafrica.com.au.