On top of exploring the city’s fun weekend activities and enjoying outdoor BBQ, sipping effervescent libations during golden hour at a sky-high watering hole enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding environment is something you should prioritize. From longtime standbys like Sarabi rooftop bar in Sankara and Brew Bistro to vibey newcomers like Fifteen rooftop and Sky Lounge at Emara Ole-Sereni there are plenty of spots to take in the panorama of the lit Nairobi skyline and have your main-character moment. In this city that never stops sprawling, here’s our roundup of the best rooftop bars in Nairobi City to living off chilled cocktails and immaculate views.

Fifteen Rooftop

Perched at the 15th floor, the rooftop bar stands among the highest in the city. Found on top of the apart hotel The Curve by the Park, the modern and sleek Fifteen Rooftop, displays a well framed view of the Nairobi National Park. Taking inspiration from the best rooftop lounges around the world, the bar offers a really impressive drink menu, including a large set of well-crafted cocktails, beers, wines in both glass and by bottle, a wide section of whiskey, gourmet fusion dishes and also some tasty bar bites. The prices are quite hefty, but if you look beyond that and towards the view, you will see it is worth it. Open year-round, you can enjoy the magnificence of the Sunset Lounge.

Unseen Nairobi

Unseen Nairobi in Kilimani—is a breezy new rooftop at the Wood Avenue Plaza. Decked out on the 12th floor, the garden style rooftop bar is a  hidden gem offering amazing panoramic views. The ambiance mimics hanging out on top of a friend’s apartment. Up here you find a magical open-air rooftop, where you can enjoy a menu filled with Asian-inspired dishes and  with a wide selection of both food and drinks, with the highlight being the rooftop brunch and the rooftop movies  they host. and events like ‘Movie Quiz’. Open 7 days a week and year-round, you can visit for after work chill vibes.

Sky Lounge at Emara Ole-Sereni

Sky Lounge , a stylish rooftop cocktail bar, located top of the luxurious 5-star Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel.  Both indoor lounge and open-air terrace, the swanky rooftop bar allows you to enjoy a sweeping 360-degree views of the Nairobi skyline. Perfect spot for fantastic evening cocktails, served both through an exploration of classic ‘Tried & True cocktails. Sophisticated yet chill in atmosphere, this is an Insta-worthy spot available for corporate & private events.

Brew Bistro Rooftop

Known for their amazing service and quality regarding everything, along with spectacular views over Nairobi’s skyline, Brew Bistro boasts as one of the most stylish Nairobi rooftop bars.  Located on top of Fortis Tower in Westlands, this is the place for craft cocktails and amazing panoramic views in a lush and vibrant setting.

Apart from the wide variety of crafted beers and their fine cocktails they also offer toothsome gastro pub dishes.  It’s perfect place for both after work and post dinner cocktails, soaking in the sophisticated but vibrant atmosphere.

Sky Bar Westlands

Recapturing the spirit of a classic rooftop lounge in a contemporary setting, The Sky Bar Westlands is an all-season and tasteful refuge to enjoy re-imagined cocktails and lovely Nairobi views. Blending comfy indoor seating with a lush, open-air terrace, the rooftop menu holds extra love for iconic cocktails, but is also complemented with an extensive drinks menu and a tasty selection of delectable bar bites. Refined yet relaxing in atmosphere, this 13th floor rooftop bar is a great space to gather with friends for some classic lounge vibes.

Belvedere Grill

Perched on the 6th Floor of Nextgen Mall, one of Nairobis most vibrant and trendy malls, Belvedere grill is a new addition to the ever-growing Nairobi’s rooftop scene. The newest hidden gem mixes laid-back stylish lounge spot with tables and bar seating, framed by panoramic views over Nairobis business district and the airport skyline.

Up here you can enjoy a menu filled with quality over quantity, including a set of well-crafted cocktails, beer on both bottle and draught, wine and bubbles by the glass and a few bar bites and delectable cusines.