Nairobi is the largest city in East Africa and has a population of over four million people. Tourists visit the city to explore its vibrant society, nightlife, and attractions, such as Nairobi National Park and Giraffe Centre. Besides, this city has earned itself a reputation as a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, or just need to pick up some groceries, there’s a mall in Nairobi with what you need. Continue reading for the lowdown of the best malls in Nairobi, Kenya.
1. TRM – Thika Road Mall
Thika Road Mall is located on Thika Road and is open from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. The mall has more than 100 outlets, including a supermarket, hospitals, banks, and eateries such as Artcaffē, Pizza Inn, and Burger King. It boasts a free and secure parking space that accommodates over 700 vehicles. That aside, there is a state-of-the-art convention center on the premises with internet connectivity.
2. Two Rivers
Two Rivers was opened in 2017 and is about 30 minutes from the Nairobi CBD. It’s the largest mall in East and Central Africa, with over 200 stores and on a 100-ac (40.47-ha) tract of land. Besides its anchor tenant Carrefour, this mall is home to stores such as Nike, LC Waikiki, Burger King, and Ashley Furniture.
Most outlets within the Mall operate from 8 a.m. to midnight. Besides shopping, this mall is a great place for entertainment, both for kids and adults. Two Rivers Theme Park is ready and prepared to make your family retreat fun.
The mall also boasts the largest Ferris wheel on this side of Africa, standing at 60 m (196.85 ft) tall. The Ferris wheel offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and is accessible daily, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. That aside, the mall’s dancing fountains are a sight to behold.
3. Garden City Mall
About 4 km (2.49 mi) from Thika Road Mall is Garden City Mall. This trendy mall opened in May 2015 and is spread across 3 floors. Here, you will find over 100 shops, including a supermarket, banks, and restaurants.
One of the mall’s highlights is its 3-ac (1.21-ha) central park, which is ideal for the young ones to run around. Musical performances and product launches are some events taking place in the mall occasionally. You don’t have to venture out for fine dining as eateries such as KFC, Big Square, Mambo Italia, and Galitos have set up shop within the shopping destination.
4. The Junction Mall
The Junction Mall is in the heart of Nairobi, along Ngong Road. Anchored by Carrefour, this mall boasts a wide range of stores and services that satisfy your shopping needs. Some outlets in this indoor shopping destination include Safaricom, Woolworths, Artcaffe, and City Walk. Other than being clean, it’s not crowded.
Parking space here is safe and offered at a fee.
5. Yaya Centre
Shop at Yaya Centre, one of the oldest malls in Nairobi. This mall on Argwings Kodhek Road is 5 km (3.11 mi) from the city center. It has over 100 shops, including Nairobi Sports House, Healthy U, Toyworld, and Chandarana Supermarket.
Its Maasai market is hosted each Sunday on the mall’s second floor, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Yaya Centre prides itself on having ample parking space. One of the parking lots is accessible through the food court.
6. Sarit
Sarit has been in existence since 1983. This mall has undergone a series of renovations to make it trendy. Also, it’s clean, secure, and has a wheelchair-accessible entrance. You will find brands such as Babyshop, Carrefour, Planet Yoghurt, and Samsung in the mall.
As a world-class shopping destination, it features a spacious yet secure parking space. Plus, it features a baby room that is available for free.
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7. Galleria Mall
Experience shopping at Galleria Mall. It boasts over 70 outlets, including Carrefour, Woolworths, and Text Book Center. Mbuzi Munch, Urban Burger, and Pizza Hut are some eateries on the premises, ensuring you have something tasty to put in your stomach.
This upscale mall also has a Maasai market, perfect for getting yourself an African souvenir. That’s not all. Events such as canvas painting and unplugged bands make this shopping destination attractive.
8. Westgate Shopping Mall
If you’re looking for a mall that will keep you busy for hours, Westgate Shopping Mall is the place to go. It’s in the Westlands neighborhood and has been a shoppers’ paradise since 2007. Its over 80 outlets are spread over 5 floors.
Whenever you get hungry after a shopping spree, grab some food at one of the mall’s restaurants. The in-house restaurants include Pizza Inn, Subway, and Tapas Ceviche Bar and are open till late daily.
The best part about this mall is its cinema, where you can enjoy the latest movies. The cinema is spacious and features comfortable recliners. Westgate’s bowling alley is another recreational site worth visiting.
9. The Village Market
The Village Market is a destination for shopping, fine dining, leisure, and pleasure. Adidas, Jaff’s Optical House, Bata, and Nairobi Sports House are among the 150 local and international outlets within the mall. Most of the outlets here are open daily, from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
If you are here for leisure, drop by the bowling alley and test your shooting skills. The 15,000 sq ft (1393.56 sq m) trampoline park is there to keep the young ones happy. That aside, over 300 events take place in this mall.
Each Friday, The Village Market hosts the Maasai market on its rooftop.
10. The Hub Karen
Since opening its doors in February 2016, The Hub Karen has continued to bring out a stylish shopping experience in Nairobi. It’s set on a 20-ac (8.09-ha) parcel of land in the heart of Karen. It receives about 55,000 visitors per week.
As a premier one-stop shop, it boasts over 85 local and international retailers, including Babyshop, Bata, LC Waikiki, Carrefour, and Furniture Palace. There are eateries such as Domino’s Pizza, KFC, and Mister Wok on the premises. Its parking space can accommodate about 1,200 cars, so worry less about where to keep your automobile.
Prayer rooms and battery charging stations are other thoughtful amenities available. Enjoy some fresh air by the artificial lake or go zip lining before leaving the establishment as well.
11. The Waterfront Karen
One of Nairobi’s most elegant malls, The Waterfront Karen, offers a delightful shopping experience surrounded by picturesque views. Located in the affluent Karen suburb, this mall caters to discerning shoppers who seek luxury and exclusivity. The architecture and design of The Waterfront Karen are a unique blend of modernity and African aesthetics, creating a serene and inviting ambiance.
This trendy mall in Nairobi houses renowned local and international brands, for example, Samsung, Naivas supermarket, and Optica. Fashion enthusiasts will find many options, from designer apparel to trendy accessories. For food connoisseurs, The Waterfront Karen offers an array of dining options. CJ’s is among the eateries on this premises.
The mall not only satisfies shopping and dining desires but also provides ample entertainment opportunities. It features a state-of-the-art cinema where visitors can catch the latest blockbuster movies. Additionally, the rooftop hosts events like live music performances and art exhibitions.
12. Prestige Plaza Shopping Mall
Located along Ngong Road, Prestige Plaza Shopping Mall is a go-to destination for a diverse shopping experience. With its convenient location and wide range of stores, this shopping destination attracts locals and tourists alike. The mall has been in existence for more than 20 years now and houses over 65 stores. It boasts an extensive selection of stores, offering everything from clothing to electronics.
Tech-savvy individuals will appreciate the mall’s electronic stores, where the latest gadgets and gizmos are readily available. Whether you’re looking for a new smartphone or innovative home appliances, Prestige Plaza has got you covered.
Beyond shopping, the mall caters to families with a dedicated entertainment zone for kids. This area includes arcade games, a play zone, and fun activities to keep the little ones entertained while parents shop.
Premier shopping malls in Nairobi
Nairobi is a shopper’s paradise, with many great malls providing diverse products and services. With an array of shopping destinations available in this part of Kenya, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which mall is right for you. Hopefully, the list above of the best malls in Nairobi helps you make your shopping experience seamless.