KICC View Deck – Nairobi’s Sky-High Window to Kenya
- maria maris
- Oct 26
- 4 min read
Rising above the heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District, the KICC View Deck Nairobi offers a 360-degree panorama that few places in East Africa can match. From this iconic rooftop, the city stretches endlessly — shimmering towers, green parks, bustling markets, and beyond them, the soft silhouette of the Ngong Hills in the west.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Nairobian, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) view deck reveals a Nairobi that feels both familiar and awe-inspiring — the true pulse of modern Kenya seen from the sky.
KICC View Deck Nairobi – The Pride of the City
The Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is one of Nairobi’s most recognizable landmarks — a circular, terracotta-colored tower shaped like a traditional African drum. It was commissioned in 1967 by Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, and completed in 1973.
Designed by Norwegian architect Karl Henrik Nøstvik, the KICC was envisioned as a symbol of Kenya’s independence, progress, and African identity. Today, it stands not just as a conference hub but as a cultural and architectural masterpiece that defines the Nairobi skyline.
The highlight? Its rooftop helipad, now transformed into a public viewing deck — the highest accessible point in Nairobi, offering unrivaled views of the city’s energy and elegance.
What You See from the Top of the KICC
Once you reach the 28th-floor terrace, the entire city unfolds below you like a living map.
North:
The dense maze of downtown Nairobi, with its banks, government buildings, and clock towers.
West:
The tranquil green spaces of Uhuru Park and Central Park, where families picnic and joggers trace winding paths.
East:
The growing business district of Upper Hill with modern glass towers and international offices.
South:
On clear days, you can see the Ngong Hills, and if you’re lucky, even Mount Kenya peeking faintly in the distance.
As the sun dips, the skyline glows in golden light — making it one of Kenya’s best sunset spots and an absolute favorite for photographers, couples, and travelers seeking serenity above the city rush.
How to Visit the KICC View Deck Nairobi
The KICC sits on Harambee Avenue, in the heart of the city’s central district — close to Parliament, City Hall, and the Supreme Court.
🚗 By Road:
Taxis, ride-sharing apps, and public buses all stop near the KICC entrance. From Nairobi CBD, it’s a short 5-minute drive or a pleasant 10-minute walk.
✈️ By Air:
From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), it’s roughly 30 minutes by car depending on traffic.
🕓 Opening Hours:
Daily: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best Time: Late afternoon before sunset (4:30–6:00 PM) for golden-hour photography.
💵 Entrance Fees (approximate):
Citizens: KES 200
Residents: KES 400
Non-Residents: KES 500Children pay half price. Tickets are available at the reception on the ground floor.
Things to Do at KICC View Deck
1. Capture Nairobi from Above
Bring your camera or smartphone — the rooftop deck offers unbeatable angles of Nairobi’s skyline. Photographers especially love the contrast between the modern skyscrapers and colonial-era buildings below.
2. Watch the Sunset Over the Hills
As the city lights flicker on, the skyline glows gold and amber. It’s a serene reminder that Nairobi is a city of both hustle and beauty.
3. Visit the Conference Halls and Rotunda
Inside the KICC, visitors can see Kenya’s architectural heritage through marble corridors, circular auditoriums, and the iconic Amphitheatre, which hosts major events and cultural festivals.
4. Attend an Event or Exhibition
The KICC regularly hosts international summits, art expos, and product launches. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with a trade fair or music event in the main hall.
5. Relax at the Ground-Floor Café
Grab a Kenyan coffee or cold juice after your rooftop climb and enjoy people-watching as business executives, artists, and tourists' cross paths in this cultural crossroads.
The Architecture and Design of KICC
The KICC’s cylindrical design draws inspiration from African tradition — its tower shaped like a drum, symbolizing unity, while the plenary hall beside it resembles a hut, representing community.
The use of terracotta tiles and concrete pays homage to natural African earth tones, blending
modernism with heritage. Its open plaza with flagpoles and fountains was built to represent a new, confident Kenya stepping into independence.
Best Time to Visit KICC View Deck
The best times are:
Morning (8:00–10:00 AM): For clear skies and less crowd.
Late Afternoon (4:30–6:00 PM): For spectacular sunset views.
Avoid lunchtime (noon–2 PM) when heat and glare can be strong.
On clear days after rain, visibility is excellent — perfect for spotting Nairobi’s distant suburbs and natural surroundings.
Where to Stay Near KICC View Deck
Being at the city’s core, several top hotels are within walking distance:
Sarova Stanley Hotel – Nairobi’s oldest luxury hotel, a colonial-era gem.
Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi CBD – Modern elegance with rooftop dining.
Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel – Budget-friendly comfort near Moi Avenue.
Safety and Visitor Tips
Always carry a valid ID or passport; security checks are mandatory.
Be mindful of wind — the rooftop can get breezy.
Keep phones and cameras secured with straps.
Photography for personal use is allowed; drones require special permission.
Visit with a guide if you want deeper insight into the building’s history.
Conclusion – Touching the Sky in Nairobi
From the streets below, the KICC tower is an architectural icon — but from its rooftop, it becomes something more profound: a symbol of Kenya’s ambition and beauty.
Standing on the KICC View Deck, you see Nairobi as it truly is — a city of contrast and promise, where tradition meets innovation, and the horizon feels like an open invitation.
Whether you come for the photos, the sunset, or simply the peace above the noise, this sky-high perch will make you fall in love with Nairobi all over again.
Safety Reminder: Visit during official hours and follow all KICC security and photography guidelines.