A big part of being in university is having fun with friends. But as a student, it’s even more important that the activities are pocket-friendly. Are you and you’re friends up for some weekend fun? Here’s a list of 10 student-friendly/affordable activities in Nairobi.
1) Laser tag and VR gaming at LaserLand
Laser tag is a game like paintball but without the mess or the pain. At LaserLand, you and your friends can enjoy a game of laser tag starting from Ksh.500 per person, per session. You can also try out the Virtual Reality games they offer.
2) Tour the Kenya National Archives
It’s surprising that despite the Kenya National Archive being a popular meeting point in Nairobi, few people have gone into the building. For only Ksh.50 (with a student ID) and Ksh.100 (without a student ID) learn about Kenya’s political history. Also get to see a collection of African artifacts and an impressive stamp collection, among other things.
3) Paintballing at Paintball Fury
If you and your friends want to test out your aiming skills (with a hint of pain) while having fun, then paintball is the game for you. At Paintball Fury, compete against another team in capture the flag or team death match matches starting from Ksh.1,500 per person, per session.
4) Picnics at Nairobi Arboretum
For an entrance fee of Ksh.100, enjoy this serene environment over snacks. It’s also close to the CBD which reduces the cost of transport. A cab to Arboretum from Westlands costs about Ksh.250. It gets crowded over the weekend, so plan your visit on weekdays.
5) Biking/hiking at Karura Forest
Imagine biking through a 30km trail of forest cover and getting to see a waterfall. You get to choose between a 15km or 30km trail. Choose wisely coz the 30km trail gets tough at some point. The entrance costs Ksh.100 and renting a bike for 2 hours is Ksh.500.
6) Thrifting at the K1 flea market
For those last Sunday afternoons, you and your friends can head over to K1 Klub House for their flea market. You get to enjoy great music, drinks ( beer starts from Ksh.250) and do some shopping. Also, if you’re a Formula One fan, K1 Klub House does screen the entire race.
7) Go Karting at GP Karting
Go-karting is the ideal adrenaline-filled activity. The track in GP Karting is located just off Langata Road and is the best track in Nairobi. The rate starts from Ksh.1,000 for a 10-minute session. You can choose to do a whole 10-minute session in one go or divide them into two five-minute sessions. Time to see who’s the fastest driver among your friends.
8) Explore Nairobi Safari Walk
The Nairobi Safari Walk consists of a 12.5km boardwalk with an elevated view of Nairobi National Park. For only Ksh.150 (with a student ID) catch a glimpse of the wild animals in the park including some of the big five. The boardwalk is also quite picturesque if you want to take photos for the gram.
9) Events at Alliance Francaise
The experience of real-life acting or musical performance is unmatched, and the best part is that most of the time, the shows are free at Alliance Francaise. Check out their website for the schedule and plan your visit. An added bonus is that Alliance Francaise is within the CBD, opposite the University of Nairobi, meaning you won’t have to spend much on transport.
10) Bowling at the Village Bowl
Starting from Ksh.500 per person per game, you can try out your skills at the Village Bowl (which consists of an 11-lane bowling alley) in Village Market. There’s also a food court in case you get hungry. Earn bragging rights when you beat your friends at the game.
I am a charismatic 23-year-old student at the University of Nairobi. I enjoy traveling be it planned or impromptu. I also enjoy partying. I'll be there with a drink in my cup all through the night, chasing the sun. Life's too short not to choose the fast lane. Carpe diem!
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