Nairobi Sketch Tour is gearing up for its first gathering of 2026, inviting artists of all skill levels to converge in the Central Business District for a vibrant, free urban sketching session on February 1.
The event promises a laid-back yet immersive experience, where participants will capture landmarks, street scenes and the pulsating energy of Nairobi, while interacting with fellow creatives in a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Hosted by the Nairobi Sketch Tour collective, a group committed to crafting art-centric cultural experiences across the country, this edition marks a return to where it all began: Nairobi’s CBD, the birthplace of the very first sketch tour.
The tours offer a unique window into Kenya’s artistic heritage and influences, as well as the everyday beauty found in the mundane moments of city life.
Through sketching and exploration, the city itself becomes a living, breathing subject for artists and curious adventurers alike.
Yuto Saito, a cultural anthropologist who visited Kenya and took part in one of the tours, shared his experience on his Peek blog, Cultural Experiences Worldwide.
“Reflecting on the Nairobi Sketch Tour, I realised that this journey was more than just a tour; it was an exploration of identity, history and creativity. Each sketch became a personal narrative, capturing the essence of Nairobi’s soul,” he wrote.
Past editions have featured themed gatherings such as Umbo Langu: Anatomy and collaborations with platforms like the African Book Fair, where sketching merged seamlessly with literature in creative harmony.
Recent tours tied to occasions like Mashujaa Day and photography walks along Kenyatta Avenue have also drawn strong interest from audiences eager to experience Nairobi’s history through art.
No prior drawing experience is required, making the gathering accessible to beginners and professionals alike.
Its appeal lies in the tour’s social and creative energy, often sparking unexpected connections.
“We’ve seen people fall in love on our tours, both friendships and romantic so who knows, your Valentine’s date might just be with us on that day,” co-founder Gift Kyansimire Oroni, also known as Zordfiles, joked while speaking about the upcoming edition.
Beyond artistic expression, the initiative promotes community building and creative collaboration.
“I loved everything about the Wanawake tour. I’ll definitely be returning,” a past participant shared on the tour’s website.
The event also aligns with Nairobi’s fast-growing art scene, joining similar initiatives such as the Kibera Arts District’s street art tours, which highlight creativity’s power in public spaces.
In a city brimming with cultural energy from music festivals to literary forums, the sketch tour stands out as a low-pressure yet meaningful way to engage with Nairobi’s stories.
Organisers are aiming for the “biggest gathering of artists in Nairobi’s CBD,” encouraging participants to bring along their sketchbooks, supplies and snacks.
“Come all. Bring your watercolours, pens, charcoals, pencils or whatever else you use in your sketchbook. Come see what other artists are doing and meet some cool people while at it,” the co-founder Sheldon Mutei said.
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