Travel Through Books: Nairobi and Diani, Kenya

WELCOME TO KENYA!

Step into the pages of Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor’s book “Dust” and embark on a captivating journey through Nairobi and Diani, Kenya. This guide will serve as your compass, leading you to hidden gems, local experiences, and unforgettable adventures inspired by the novel’s exploration of Kenya’s culture, history, and landscapes.

Nairobi, the bustling heart of Kenya, is a city of contrasts. From the towering skyscrapers of the CBD to the sprawling informal settlements, Nairobi offers a kaleidoscope of experiences.

Diani, a coastal paradise, offers a stark contrast to the urban energy of Nairobi. Its pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters create a serene setting.

Throughout your journey, you’ll discover the beauty, complexity, and resilience of Kenya. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant cultural scene, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the coast, or simply savoring the local cuisine, this guide will help you experience Kenya through the lens of Dust.

WHAT TO READ:

Dust by Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor is a poetic and heartbreaking exploration of the wounds and healing journey of Kenya after the 2007 elections. As the dust settles on a brutal murder in Nairobi, his grieving family returns to their ancestral home in the Kenyan drylands. As they grapple with their loss, buried secrets and past traumas resurface, revealing a nation scarred by political strife and colonial oppression.

Set against the backdrop of Kenya’s 2007 elections, this powerful story explores themes of corruption, political violence, and the enduring spirit of the Kenyan people. Owuor paints a haunting portrait of a country seeking to heal from its wounds.

WHERE TO STAY

• The Social House Nairobi – a centrally located, uniquely designed boutique hotel. This is the place to be if you want to mix and mingle with Nairobi’s creative community. Multiple onsite restaurants including a rooftop restaurant with various DJs.
• Kwetu Nairobi Curio Collection – a truly 5-star experience. Beautiful, clean design. Huge rooms. The service is immaculate, there are multiple onsight restaurants, a pool, and it is within walking distance of Karuru park if you need a quiet escape from the city.
• Swahili Beach Resort (Diani) – a 5-star resort on the Kenyan coast with a private beach area, spa, and water sports facilities.
• Tombo House (Diani) – a recently renovated bed and breakfast in the heart of Diani, 12 minutes walk from the beach.

WHAT TO DO

• Get a front row seat to Kenya’s literary community at a book festival. Attend Soma Nami Book’s African Book Fair or the Book Bunk’s NBO Lit Fest.
• Grab a book from one of Nairobi’s black-owned bookstores include Cheche books or Soma Nami Books and read in Karura Forest 🌳
• Feed giraffes at the Giraffe Center.
• Learn about Nairobi’s history, get creative and learn about the craft of beaded jewelry with local Masaai women at a local social venture during Travel4Purpose’s Meaningful Nairobi Tour.
• Get a tour of the Opportunity Factory and grab a handmade bag or souvenir.
• Practice your haggling skills and purchase beautiful goods at the Maasai Market
• Go on a safari in Nairobi National Park. Nairobi is the only city where you can see 4 of the Big 5 with skyscrapers as a backdrop.
• Try some of Kenya’s high quality tea at one of the local tea farms like Kiambethu or Gatura Greens purple tea farm.
• Take a sunset mangrove tour in Diani.
• Bike ride next to giraffes and zebra’s in Hell’s Gate.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

• Can’t decide what type of food you want? Try a bunch at Nairobi Street Kitchen.
• Support hearing impaired entrepreneurs at Pallet Cafe in Nairobi or Diani beach.
• Have dinner with a live band at Jiko restaurant in Tribe Hotel
• Get a delicious farm to table meal at Cultiva.
• Grab drinks at Sinner Man, Revolver, or Alchemist
• Venture off the beaten path and try Cameroonian food at La Sauce restaurant.
• Eat dinner in a 120,000 year old natural cave at Ali Barbour’s restaurant in Diani.
• Have lunch at Nomad Beach bar in Diani.

Want help designing your dream trip? We plan private experiences! We have existing group itineraries in Nairobi and Diani Kenya, Cape Town, South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Accra, Ghana, Cartagena, Colombia, Bogota, Colombia, Mexico City, Mexico, and Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica that can be customized. Fill out our private trip interest form or email jalisa@bookedtrips.com for more information.