Located in Langata, approximately 10 kilometers from Nairobi's central business district and convenient to Nairobi National Park, Bomas of Kenya offers you an immersive look into the rich heritage of Kenya's diverse ethnic communities. Established in 1971 to preserve and promote cultural tourism, this State Corporation tourist village displays reconstructed traditional homesteads, or "bomas," crafted from mud, wood, and thatched grass. As you explore the site, you can observe how these architectural structures reflect the social organization, traditions, and lifestyles of different Kenyan tribes.
Beyond the physical huts, you can enjoy live performances by the Bomas Harambee Dancers, a troupe founded in 1973 that showcases traditional songs and dances using authentic ancestral musical instruments. You can also visit the cultural gallery to view historical artifacts such as ceremonial vessels, stools, and ritual instruments. For a full sensory experience, stop by the Utamaduni Restaurant to sample local traditional cuisines or browse the craft shops for handcrafted beadwork, wood carvings, and African attire.
The site also houses one of Africa's largest auditoriums, a multimedia library, and holds political history as a national conference venue. Note that the facility faced temporary closure starting March 2025 for major upgrades.
What to see at Bomas of Kenya
- Reconstructed traditional huts made of mud, wood, and thatched grass representing diverse Kenyan communities.
- Live traditional song and dance performances by the resident Bomas Harambee Dancers.
- A cultural artifact gallery featuring historical stools, vessels, and ceremonial musical instruments.
- Utamaduni Restaurant offering local traditional cuisines alongside craft shops selling local handiwork.
- One of Africa's largest auditoriums and a dedicated cultural multimedia library and research centre.
Visiting tips
Check the operating status before visiting, as Bomas of Kenya was temporarily closed starting in March 2025 for major renovations and facility upgrading.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Bomas of Kenya is easy to reach on Nairobi’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Karen Blixen Museum and Uhuru Park. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Nairobi travel guide.
See the full Nairobi travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.