Bomas of Kenya
Nairobi Region
Bomas of Kenya is a cultural tourist village located in Langata, Nairobi, approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. Established in 1971 under the Kenya Tourist Development Corporation, it was designed to preserve and promote Kenya's diverse cultural heritage by showcasing traditional homesteads from various Kenyan tribes. Visitors can explore authentic reconstructions of huts made from mud, thatch, and wood, reflecting the social organization and lifestyles of different communities. The site features one of Africa's largest auditoriums, home to the renowned Bomas Harambee Dancers, who perform traditional songs and dances accompanied by ancestral musical instruments. Additionally, Bomas of Kenya hosts a gallery exhibiting cultural artifacts such as stools, vessels, and musical instruments used in rituals and ceremonies. Guests can enjoy local traditional cuisine at the Utamaduni Restaurant and shop for crafts including beadwork, carvings, and African attire. The facility also includes a library and multimedia center offering extensive information on Kenyan cultures for researchers and tourists alike. Bomas of Kenya has played a significant role in Kenya's political history, serving as the venue for the National Constitutional Conference that produced the influential "Bomas Draft" in 2004. It has also been the national tallying center for Kenyan elections. The site underwent major renovations starting in 2025 to upgrade its facilities and to construct the Bomas International Convention Complex, enhancing Nairobi's appeal as a conference destination.
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Tip: The best time to visit Bomas of Kenya is during the dry seasons to enjoy outdoor cultural performances comfortably. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially for group visits or special dance shows. Visitors can benefit from discounts available for students and large groups. The Utamaduni Restaurant offers a unique opportunity to sample authentic Kenyan cuisine, so plan to include a meal during your visit. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the diverse cultures represented and are worth booking when available.
Interesting facts
- •Bomas of Kenya houses one of the largest auditoriums in Africa.
- •The resident Bomas Harambee Dancers troupe was founded in 1973 and named in honor of Kenya's first president, Jomo Kenyatta.
- •The venue was the site of the National Constitutional Conference that produced the influential "Bomas Draft" constitution in 2004.
- •Bomas of Kenya has served as the national tallying center for Kenyan elections, including the 2022 elections.
- •A major renovation starting in 2025 aims to include the new Bomas International Convention Complex to boost Nairobi's conference tourism.
History
Bomas of Kenya was established in October 1971 by the Kenya Tourist Development Corporation, initiated by Barack Obama Sr., to preserve and promote Kenya's cultural tourism.
It was strategically located near Nairobi National Park to attract tourists.
In 2003-2004, it hosted the National Constitutional Conference, resulting in the "Bomas Draft" constitution, which proposed significant political reforms.
The site has also served as the national tallying center for Kenyan elections over the years.
In 2025, Bomas of Kenya began major renovations including the construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex to modernize and expand its facilities.
Place Guide
Traditional Homesteads Exhibit1971
This area features reconstructed traditional huts from various Kenyan tribes, built with mud, thatch, and wood. The exhibit emphasizes the social organization, lifestyle, and customs of the communities they represent.
Bomas Harambee Dancers Auditorium1973
Home to one of Africa's largest auditoriums, this venue hosts performances by the Bomas Harambee Dancers, who present traditional songs and dances adapted from Kenyan communities, accompanied by ancestral musical instruments.
Cultural Artifacts Gallery
This gallery displays stools, vessels, musical instruments, and other cultural artifacts used by various Kenyan communities in rituals and ceremonies, providing a deeper understanding of their traditions.
Utamaduni Restaurant
A dining venue offering traditional Kenyan cuisines, allowing visitors to experience authentic local flavors during their visit.
Craft Shops
Shops offer a variety of local handiwork including beadwork, carvings, traditional artifacts, and African attire, ideal for souvenirs and cultural gifts.
Library and Multimedia Centre
A resource center containing books, periodicals, audio and video materials on Kenyan culture, supporting research and education for students, teachers, and tourists.
Contact
Phone: 020 2022426
