Lavington: Nairobi's Serene Urban Oasis

Discover Lavington, Nairobi's serene urban oasis, where leafy streets, boutique shopping, and a vibrant cultural scene create the perfect blend of tranquility and sophistication.

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Lavington

Lavington, a lush and upscale neighbourhood in Nairobi, Kenya, offers a unique blend of tranquility and urban sophistication. Known for its leafy streets and spacious homes, Lavington provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being conveniently close to the heart of Nairobi. This neighbourhood is perfect for those looking to experience the finer side of Nairobi living. Lavington is home to a variety of attractions that cater to different interests. For shopping enthusiasts, the Lavington Mall and Lavington Curve offer a range of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. The neighbourhood is also dotted with green spaces and parks, making it ideal for leisurely strolls or picnics. Additionally, Lavington boasts a diverse culinary scene, with numerous high-end restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. Art and culture lovers will find Lavington to be a hidden gem. The neighbourhood hosts several art galleries and cultural centers that showcase Kenyan art and heritage. For those interested in wellness, Lavington has several spas and fitness centers offering everything from yoga classes to luxurious spa treatments. The sense of community in Lavington is strong, with friendly locals who are always willing to share their favourite spots and hidden gems with visitors.

Local tips in Lavington

Visit Lavington Mall early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful shopping experience.
Take a leisurely walk in the neighbourhood parks, especially on weekends when they are less crowded.
Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants to secure a spot, especially during weekends.
Explore local art galleries to get a taste of Kenyan culture and support local artists.
Enjoy a spa day at one of the many wellness centers for a relaxing break from sightseeing.

File:Cattle drive, probably by Maasai, in the heart of Nairobi, 15 October 2022. Lavington Mall (by James Gichuru Road) in background.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lavington Mall

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Lavington Mall, Nairobi's premier shopping destination with a variety of local and international brands.

The Nairobi Arboretum

Explore The Nairobi Arboretum: A lush sanctuary of flora and fauna in the heart of Nairobi, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Social House Nairobi

Experience modern hospitality at The Social House Nairobi, where comfort meets culture in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for travelers.

Kengele's Lavington Green #Loco

Experience the flavors of Nairobi at Kengele's Lavington Green, a bistro offering a delightful fusion of local and international cuisine.

Lavington Curve Mall

Explore Lavington Curve Mall: Nairobi's hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering a vibrant experience for every traveler.

Pallet Cafe

Discover the vibrant flavors of Kenya at Pallet Cafe in Nairobi, a perfect spot for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Big Square Lavington

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Nairobi at Big Square Lavington, where fast food meets local flavors in a welcoming atmosphere.

Kioko Mwitiki Art Gallery

Explore the artistic heart of Nairobi at Kioko Mwitiki Art Gallery, home to contemporary Kenyan art and a vibrant cultural hub.

Nai Nami

Explore Nai Nami: A vibrant hub of nature and youth empowerment in Nairobi, where adventure meets cultural enrichment.

lavington

Explore Lavington Shopping Mall in Nairobi for a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in a vibrant urban setting.

Nairobi Chapel Lavington

Discover Nairobi Chapel Lavington, a vibrant evangelical church where faith and community thrive in the heart of Nairobi's Lavington suburb.

Go Places Digital

Explore Go Places Digital, Nairobi's leading marketing agency, where creativity meets technology in the heart of Kenya's vibrant business landscape.

The Galton - Fenzi Memorial

Discover the Galton - Fenzi Memorial, a historical monument in Nairobi celebrating the spirit of exploration and adventure in East Africa.

Unmissable attractions to see

Giraffe Centre

Discover the enchanting world of Rothschild's giraffes at the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, where conservation meets unforgettable wildlife encounters.

National Museum of Kenya

Explore Kenya's past and present at the National Museum of Kenya, showcasing rich cultural artifacts and natural history exhibits in Nairobi.

The Nairobi Arboretum

Explore the Nairobi Arboretum: A lush botanical garden showcasing Kenya's diverse flora and fauna in a serene urban escape.

Bomas Of Kenya

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kenya at Bomas of Kenya, a vibrant center for traditional music, dance, and arts in Nairobi.

Riverside Park

Discover the tranquility of Riverside Park in Nairobi, a serene escape perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor activities surrounded by lush greenery.

Central Park Nairobi

Experience tranquility in the heart of Nairobi at Central Park, an urban oasis perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.

Nairobi Gallery

Explore Nairobi Gallery: A cultural gem showcasing Kenya's vibrant art and rich history in the heart of Nairobi.

Picnic spot

Discover a serene picnic spot in Nairobi's Kilimani, offering lush green spaces perfect for relaxation, outdoor activities, and delightful gatherings.

Gigiri

Discover the beauty and modern charm of Gigiri, Nairobi's serene neighborhood filled with culture, greenery, and international flair.

Singe

Explore the breathtaking Nairobi Arboretum, a lush botanical garden featuring diverse plant species and vibrant wildlife in the heart of Kenya's capital.

Essential places to dine

For You Chinese Restaurant

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine in Nairobi at For You Chinese Restaurant - where tradition meets flavor.

The Social House Nairobi

Discover Nairobi's vibrant culinary scene at The Social House - where exquisite dining meets stylish hospitality.

Mama Ashanti

Discover the vibrant tastes of West Africa at Mama Ashanti in Nairobi – where every meal is a celebration of culture and flavor.

MAMBO ITALIA LAVINGTON

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mambo Italia Lavington with delicious pizzas and delectable ice creams in Nairobi's vibrant dining scene.

Nabo Bistro

Experience the vibrant flavors of Kenya at Nabo Bistro—a culinary gem in Nairobi blending local and international cuisine.

Saape Lounge-Lavington

Discover modern dining at Saape Lounge-Lavington in Nairobi, where local flavors meet contemporary cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

Inca Restaurant

Discover the flavors of fusion cuisine at Inca Restaurant in Nairobi - where every meal is a celebration of taste.

Willow Garden Bistro & Cafe Kileleshwa - enjoy prime steaks, Kenyan coffee and gourmet pizza

Experience exquisite cuisine at Willow Garden Bistro & Cafe in Kileleshwa—where prime steaks meet gourmet pizza and rich Kenyan coffee.

La Tasca Spanish Corner

Savor the vibrant flavors of Spain at La Tasca Spanish Corner in Lavington Mall - a delightful culinary escape for every tourist.

Asmara Restaurant - Lavington

Discover authentic Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine at Asmara Restaurant in Lavington, Nairobi – a must-visit dining destination.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lavington Mall

Experience the best of shopping and dining at Lavington Mall, Nairobi's ultimate destination for retail therapy and culinary delights.

Nobri (K) Ltd

Explore the elegance of Kenyan craftsmanship at Nobri (K) Ltd, a premier furniture store in Kileleshwa, Nairobi.

Mikono- The Refugee Crafts Shop

Explore Mikono in Nairobi for unique handicrafts made by refugees and support a meaningful cause while finding unforgettable souvenirs.

Sarai Afrique Fashion House

Experience the essence of Kenyan fashion at Sarai Afrique Fashion House in Nairobi, where contemporary meets traditional style.

Purpink Gifts & flowers -Lavington

Discover unique gifts and beautiful floral arrangements at Purpink Gifts & Flowers in Nairobi’s vibrant Westfield Mall.

Towdahonline Store

Explore the latest fashion trends at Towdahonline Store in Nairobi's Lavington Business Hub, where style meets local flair.

Nyadhi

Discover Nairobi's vibrant fashion hub at Nyadhi, where style meets culture in a delightful shopping experience.

Pretty Angels Fashion London

Experience unique fashion and vibrant style at Pretty Angels Fashion, Nairobi's premier boutique for chic clothing and accessories.

KiliShop Lavington

Discover an exciting shopping experience at KiliShop Lavington, Nairobi's destination for electronics, fashion, and more.

Bookwaves of Lavington Nairobi & Bookwaves African Curios

Explore the vibrant gift shop of Bookwaves in Lavington, Nairobi, offering books, art supplies, and unique African curios for the perfect souvenir.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Bar Next Door

Experience the vibrant flavors of Nairobi at The Bar Next Door, a grill restaurant that combines delicious food with a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

Kettle House Bar & Grill

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Nairobi at Kettle House Bar & Grill, where delicious grilled dishes and a lively atmosphere await.

Ozone Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nairobi at Ozone Lounge, a stylish bar and restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

Saape Lounge-Lavington

Experience the vibrant flavors and welcoming ambiance at Saape Lounge-Lavington, Nairobi's culinary gem offering a unique dining adventure.

Edu's Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Edu's Bar, a top grill destination in Nairobi offering an unforgettable culinary journey.

Hidden Gem

Unwind at Nairobi’s Hidden Gem Bar, where cozy ambiance meets vibrant nightlife and diverse drink options for an unforgettable experience.

The BottleTop

Experience Nairobi's vibrant nightlife at The BottleTop, where local flavors and lively ambiance come together in Muthangari Gardens.

Happy Hour

Discover the lively spirit of Nairobi at Happy Hour, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every tourist.

Garden BAR & Restaurant

Discover Nairobi's hidden culinary gem at Garden BAR & Restaurant, where exquisite dishes meet a serene garden atmosphere.

The Tiffany's Bar

Experience the elegance of The Tiffany's Bar, a stylish lounge in Muthangari Gardens, perfect for cocktails and relaxation in Nairobi.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Lavington

Discover Lavington with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloSalamu
  [sah-lah-moo]
- GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwah-heh-ree]
- YesNdio
  [nn-dee-oh]
- NoHapana
  [hah-pah-nah]
- Please/You're welcomeTafadhali
  [ta-fah-thah-lee]
- Thank youAsante
  [ah-sahn-teh]
- Excuse me/SorrySamahani
  [sah-mah-hah-nee]
- How are you?U hali gani?
  [oo hah-lee gah-nee]
- Fine. And you?Nzuri. Na wewe?
  [n-zoo-ree. nah weh-weh]
- Do you speak English?Unazungumza Kiingereza?
  [oo-nah-zoo-ngoom-zah kee-ee-ngheh-reh-zah]
- I don't understandSielewi
  [see-eh-leh-wee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNingependa kuona menyu, tafadhali
  [nee-neh-pehn-dah kwoh-nah meh-nyoo, tah-fah-thah-lee]
- I don't eat meatSili nyama
  [see-lee nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Mambo!
  [mahm-boh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseNingependa kulipa, tafadhali
  [nee-neh-pehn-dah koo-lee-pah, tah-fah-thah-lee]
- Help!Usaidizi!
  [oo-sah-ee-dee-zee]
- Go away!Nenda zako!
  [nen-dah zah-koh]
- Call the Police!Piga Polisi!
  [pee-gah poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Piga daktari!
  [pee-gah dahk-tah-ree]
- I'm lostNimepotea
  [nee-meh-poh-teh-ah]
- I'm illNinaumwa
  [nee-nah-oom-wah]
- I'd like to buy...Ningependa kununua...
  [nee-neh-pehn-dah koo-noo-noo-ah]
- I'm just lookingNatazama tu
  [nah-tah-zah-mah too]
- How much is it?Bei ni ngapi?
  [beh-ee nee ngah-pee]
- That's too expensiveHilo ni ghali sana
  [hee-loh nee gah-lee sah-nah]
- Can you lower the price?Unaweza kupunguza bei?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-poon-goo-zah beh-ee]
- What time is it?Saa ngapi?
  [sah-ah ngah-pee]
- It's one o'clockSaa moja
  [sah-ah moh-jah]
- Half past (10)Nusu kumi
  [noo-soo koo-mee]
- MorningAsubuhi
  [ah-soo-boo-hee]
- AfternoonMchana
  [m-chah-nah]
- EveningJioni
  [joh-ee-nee]
- YesterdayJana
  [jah-nah]
- TodayLeo
  [leh-oh]
- TomorrowKesho
  [keh-shoh]
- 1Moja
  [moh-jah]
- 2Mbili
  [m-bee-lee]
- 3Tatu
  [tah-too]
- 4Nne
  [nn-neh]
- 5Tano
  [tah-noh]
- 6Sita
  [see-tah]
- 7Saba
  [sah-bah]
- 8Nane
  [nah-neh]
- 9Tisa
  [tee-sah]
- 10Kumi
  [koo-mee]
- Where's a/the...?Iko wapi...?
  [ee-koh wah-pee]
- What's the address?Anwani ni gani?
  [ahn-wah-nee nee gah-nee]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [oo-nah-weh-zah koo-nee-oh-nyeh-shah (kweh-neh rah-mah-nee)]
- When's the next (bus)?Basi lifuata lini?
  [bah-see lee-foo-ah-tah lee-nee]
- A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (kwenda ....)
  [tee-keh-tee (kwehn-dah)]

History of Lavington

Lavington's history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Nairobi's development during the British colonial period. Established in the early 1900s, Lavington was initially a farming area, mainly populated by European settlers. The name 'Lavington' is derived from Lavington House, a residence built by a British settler, which marked the beginning of the area's transformation into a suburban neighborhood.
After Kenya gained independence in 1963, Lavington evolved from a primarily expatriate neighborhood into a more diverse community. The area witnessed significant urban development during the 1970s and 1980s, as middle-class Kenyans moved in. This transition marked a shift in the demographic and cultural landscape of Lavington, with the establishment of schools, churches, and community centers reflecting the growing Kenyan identity.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Lavington became known as a thriving residential and commercial hub. The construction of modern shopping malls and the influx of expatriates and affluent Kenyans led to an increase in the area's economic activity. Notable developments include the Lavington Mall, which reflects the contemporary urban lifestyle while integrating spaces for community interaction.
Lavington stands as a cultural melting pot, showcasing a blend of traditions influenced by its diverse population. The neighborhood hosts various cultural events and festivals that celebrate Kenyan heritage alongside other global influences. Local art galleries and craft markets further enrich the cultural tapestry of Lavington, attracting both residents and visitors.
In recent years, Lavington has also embraced environmental sustainability, with initiatives aimed at preserving green spaces and promoting eco-friendly practices. The area is known for its tree-lined streets and parks, which serve as vital communal spaces for recreation and social gatherings, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental issues among its residents.

Lavington Essentials

Lavington is easily accessible from various parts of Nairobi. From the city center, you can take a matatu (minibus) heading towards Lavington, which typically takes around 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are widely available. If coming from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you can take a taxi or book a ride-hailing service for a direct transfer to Lavington, which usually takes about 30 minutes.
Lavington is a relatively safe and walkable neighborhood, with many amenities within reach. Public transport options include matatus and buses that connect you to other parts of the city. Bicycles can be rented from various local shops, and some areas have bike lanes. For a more comfortable experience, consider using taxis or ride-hailing services, which are prevalent in the area.
Lavington is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists; however, it is important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Areas with higher crime rates include some parts of Eastleigh and Kibera, which are not close to Lavington but should be approached with caution. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 711 for ambulance services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that includes coverage for medical emergencies. There are several hospitals and clinics in the vicinity, including the Nairobi Hospital and Coptic Hospital, which are equipped to handle urgent medical situations.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and beliefs, particularly in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous, giving up your seat to the elderly or disabled. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile. Don’t be overly familiar without being introduced. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Lavington like a local, explore the area’s parks and gardens, like Lavington Green, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk. Visit local markets for fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with local residents, who are often friendly and willing to share their stories. Try out local eateries for authentic Kenyan cuisine, and don't miss the vibrant coffee culture in the area.

Lavington: Nairobi's Serene Urban Oasis

Local tips in Lavington