Nairobi is not just the heart of Kenya’s vibrant culture and business scene—it’s also a shopping paradise with world-class malls offering everything from luxury brands and local boutiques to entertainment hubs and gourmet dining. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, tech gadgets, artisanal crafts, or simply a relaxing space to hang out, Nairobi’s malls cater to every taste and budget.
This comprehensive guide covers Nairobi’s top malls, highlighting their key features, what makes each unique, and tips to maximize your shopping experience.
🏢 1. Two Rivers Mall – The Largest Mall in East Africa
- 📍 Location: Limuru Road, Runda
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
As the largest mall in East Africa, Two Rivers Mall is more than just a shopping destination—it’s a lifestyle hub. Spanning over 67,000 square meters, it offers a mix of international brands, thrilling entertainment options, and scenic outdoor spaces.
What You’ll Find:
- International Fashion Brands: Nike, LC Waikiki, Adidas, Woolworths
- Tech Stores: Samsung, Huawei
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- Eye of Kenya Ferris Wheel (largest in Africa)
- Go-kart racing
- VR gaming zones
- Dining: Global cuisines, rooftop lounges, and food courts
Pro Tip:
Ride the Eye of Kenya Ferris Wheel for breathtaking views of Nairobi and beyond. Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds.
🛍️ 2. The Hub Karen – The Perfect Blend of Shopping and Nature
- 📍 Location: Karen, Nairobi
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
Located in Nairobi’s leafy suburb of Karen, The Hub combines modern shopping with eco-friendly outdoor spaces. Its open-air design, lush gardens, and scenic fountains create a relaxing environment, perfect for families.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion Stores: Zara, Timberland, Converse
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- Trampoline park
- Kids’ play areas
- Bike trails around the mall
- Dining: Artcaffe, Java House, Ocean Basket, local organic eateries
Pro Tip:
Visit on weekends for family-friendly events like outdoor markets, live music, and farmers’ markets.
🏬 3. Westgate Shopping Mall – Trendy and Secure
- 📍 Location: Mwanzi Road, Westlands
- ⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
A favorite among expats and locals alike, Westgate Mall offers a mix of high-end shopping, fine dining, and family entertainment. Its state-of-the-art security makes it one of Nairobi’s safest malls.
What You’ll Find:
- International Brands: Mango, Adidas, LC Waikiki
- Tech Stores: iStore (Apple products), Samsung
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- IMAX cinema
- Kids’ play zone
- Art exhibitions and pop-up markets
- Dining: Urban Eatery, Artcaffe, Mediterranean Bistro
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss Happy Hour deals in the restaurants, especially on Thursdays and Fridays.
🏢 4. Sarit Centre – Nairobi’s Iconic Shopping Destination
📍 Location: Karuna Road, Westlands
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
As one of Nairobi’s oldest malls, Sarit Centre has evolved into a modern shopping complex while retaining its historical charm. It’s a one-stop shop for everything—fashion, electronics, books, and more.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion: Bata, LC Waikiki, Mr. Price
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Bookstore: Text Book Centre (best for Kenyan literature)
- Entertainment:
- Movie theatres
- Bowling alley
- Fitness centers
- Dining: Java House, Debonairs Pizza, Tamarind Dhow
Pro Tip:
Visit during Sarit Expo events where local artisans showcase unique products.
🏙️ 5. Village Market – Nairobi’s Upscale Shopping Oasis
📍 Location: Gigiri, Nairobi
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
Nestled near the UN headquarters, Village Market is popular with diplomats and expats. It features luxury boutiques, cultural markets, and an eco-friendly design.
What You’ll Find:
- Luxury Stores: Swarovski, Bossini
- Artisanal Crafts: Handmade jewelry, Maasai beadwork
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- Bowling alley
- Mini-golf
- Water slides
- Dining: High-end restaurants with international cuisine
Pro Tip:
Every Friday, the open-air Maasai Market showcases authentic Kenyan crafts and souvenirs.
🛒 6. Yaya Centre – Convenient Shopping in Kilimani
📍 Location: Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
Yaya Centre is a well-established mall popular with locals, offering a mix of fashion boutiques, restaurants, and supermarkets.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion Boutiques: Nairobi-based designers and international brands
- Supermarket: Chandarana
- Wellness Stores: Salons, spas, and fitness centers
- Dining: Urban Coffee, News Cafe, local Kenyan cuisine spots
Pro Tip:
On Sundays, the rooftop Maasai Market offers unique crafts and jewelry at bargain prices.
🏢 7. Garden City Mall – Family-Friendly Mega Mall
📍 Location: Thika Superhighway, Nairobi
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
Garden City Mall is designed with families in mind. It has Kenya’s first rooftop garden, a massive playground, and an open-air feel.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion Stores: Mr. Price, LC Waikiki
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- Rooftop gardens and kids’ play areas
- Outdoor cinema screenings
- Dining: Big Square, Artcaffe, international food courts
Pro Tip:
Visit the rooftop garden during sunset for a relaxing view of Nairobi.
🏙️ 8. The Junction Mall – A Vibrant Hub on Ngong Road
📍 Location: Ngong Road, Nairobi
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
The Junction Mall offers a blend of retail therapy, fine dining, and entertainment. It’s less crowded than other malls, making it great for relaxed shopping.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion & Accessories: Woolworths, Bata
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- Cinemax movie theatre
- Kids’ play area
- Dining: Pizza Inn, Java House, Brew Bistro
Pro Tip:
Check out “Movie Mondays” for discounted cinema tickets.
🏬 9. Galleria Mall – A Gateway to Nairobi National Park
📍 Location: Lang’ata Road, near Bomas of Kenya
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
Located near major tourist attractions like the Giraffe Centre and Nairobi National Park, Galleria Mall is perfect for a quick shopping spree after sightseeing.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion & Gift Shops: Local crafts and souvenirs
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Dining: Java House, Artcaffe, local fast-food outlets
- Entertainment: Indoor play areas for kids
Pro Tip:
Stock up on snacks here before heading to Nairobi National Park or the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
🛍️ 10. TRM (Thika Road Mall) – The Shopper’s Haven Along Thika Superhighway
📍 Location: Thika Superhighway, Nairobi
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Why It’s Special:
TRM is a bustling mall with a variety of local and international brands, making it a favorite for residents along Thika Road.
What You’ll Find:
- Fashion Stores: LC Waikiki, Bata
- Supermarket: Carrefour
- Entertainment:
- Cinemas
- Kids’ amusement park
- Dining: Dominos, Java House, Urban Gourmet Burgers
Pro Tip:
Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend rush, especially in the food court.
🗺️ Quick Comparison Table: Nairobi’s Top Malls
| Mall | Key Features | Best For | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two Rivers Mall | Largest mall, Ferris wheel, go-karting | Family fun, international brands | Limuru Road, Runda |
| The Hub Karen | Eco-friendly, outdoor markets | Family outings, dining | Karen |
| Westgate Mall | High security, expat-friendly | Luxury shopping, cinemas | Westlands |
| Sarit Centre | Nairobi’s oldest mall, diverse stores | One-stop shopping, books | Westlands |
| Village Market | Upscale, cultural market, bowling | Artisanal crafts, fine dining | Gigiri |
| Yaya Centre | Boutique shopping, rooftop Maasai Market | Convenience, local designers | Kilimani |
| Garden City Mall | Rooftop gardens, outdoor cinema | Family-friendly activities | Thika Superhighway |
| The Junction Mall | Vibrant atmosphere, cinemas | Fashion, entertainment | Ngong Road |
| Galleria Mall | Near tourist attractions | Quick shopping, souvenirs | Lang’ata Road |
| TRM (Thika Road Mall) | Amusement park, cinemas | Budget shopping, casual dining | Thika Superhighway |
💡 Expert Shopping Tips in Nairobi Malls
- Security Checks: Be prepared for security screenings at mall entrances—common practice for safety.
- Payment Options: Most malls accept credit cards, M-Pesa, and cash, but always carry some cash for smaller purchases.
- Free Wi-Fi: Many malls offer free Wi-Fi, especially in food courts.
- Parking: Paid parking is standard; rates vary between malls.
- Bargaining: While fixed prices are common in malls, you can negotiate in artisan markets inside malls (like Maasai Markets).
🌍 Ready to Shop in Nairobi?
Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, handmade crafts, or a place to unwind with family, Nairobi’s malls have it all. Plan your visit and discover the vibrant shopping culture of Kenya’s capital city