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Temples & religious sites

Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family

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Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family

Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family

The Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family is the seat of the Archdiocese of Nairobi. It stands on the site of the city's first stone building from 1904, though the current structure was completed in 1963 and designated a basilica in 1982. Visitors go here to see the architecture of the primary Catholic church in the city and to observe its role as a religious center in Nairobi.

Getting There

The basilica is located within the central business district of Nairobi. If you are staying in the city centre, it is accessible via a short walk or a quick taxi ride. Depending on your exact starting point, travel time typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.

Visit Duration

Allow approximately 45 to 90 minutes to walk through the grounds and view the interior of the basilica.

When to Visit

The site is generally quiet during weekday mornings, but it becomes crowded during Sunday mass and other religious holidays. Visitors should be mindful of scheduled services to avoid interrupting worshippers.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, the basilica can be combined with several other landmarks within walking distance:

  • Teleposta Towers (0.2km)
  • Nyayo House (0.3km)
  • Kenyatta International Convention Centre (0.3km)
  • Jamia Mosque (0.4km)

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Family

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Teleposta Towers

Views & landmarks

Teleposta Towers

Teleposta Towers is a 27-story high-rise on Kenyatta Avenue in central Nairobi, standing among the tallest buildings in the city. It's a landmark worth noting as part of the downtown skyline.

0.2 km away

Nyayo House

Views & landmarks

Nyayo House

A 27-story high-rise at the intersection of Uhuru Highway and Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi. It houses several government departments, including the immigration office, and is considered a downtown landmark.

0.3 km away

Kenyatta International Convention Centre

Views & landmarks

Kenyatta International Convention Centre

This 32-story building is a landmark of Nairobi, completed in 1974 based on an idea by Jomo Kenyatta. It was once the tallest building in Nairobi and is known as one of Africa's leading conference venues.

0.3 km away

Jamia Mosque

Temples & religious sites

Jamia Mosque

A mosque on Banda Street in Nairobi's central business district, built between 1925 and 1933. As the city's leading Islamic institution, where Friday prayers are held, it offers a glimpse into the local religious culture.

0.4 km away

Uhuru Park

Parks & gardens

Uhuru Park

This park is located near Nairobi's central business district and was opened by President Jomo Kenyatta in 1969. It features an artificial lake and several monuments, and on weekends comes alive with skateboarders.

0.4 km away

Times Tower

Views & landmarks

Times Tower

A 140-meter office tower rising in downtown Nairobi, it is one of Kenya's tallest buildings. It houses the headquarters of the Kenya Revenue Authority and has become an emblem of the city's skyline.

0.5 km away