8 Must-Visit Attractions in Nairobi: Best Day Trips & Excursions
8 Must-Visit Attractions in Nairobi: Best Day Trips & Excursions
Nairobi is a fun-filled city located in Africa. It combines four elements: wild animals, cultural experiences, historical sites, plus nature all in one location at the same time. It has the unique distinction of being the only capital city in any country where there is a national park immediately next door.
If you have limited time while travelling to or from Africa, or may have only a few days between safaris, don’t worry, because Nairobi has many day trips and excursions. You can go from watching lions at dawn to having tea on a tranquil farm at dusk.
Here are eight must-see places in Nairobi to provide you with amazing experiences while you are visiting.
- Nairobi National Park – Wildlife Next to the City
Nairobi National Park is among the top five extraordinary parks worldwide. Less than a 10-minute drive from downtown Nairobi, Nairobi National Park provides a real safari experience without having to leave Nairobi.
Among its many wildlife species are lions, rhinos, buffalo, and several bird species that inhabit the park. The largest concentration of living black rhinos is here, making this park one of the world’s best places to see these endangered animals.
The most popular activity to do at this park is a wildlife drive. Early morning drives provide the best chance of viewing animals as they are most active during this time. It makes for a truly phenomenal opportunity to see wildlife against a backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline.
2. Giraffe Centre – Up Close with Gentle Giants
The Giraffe Centre is a well-known attraction that draws visitors from both local and international audiences. The primary purpose of the centre is to support the conservation efforts of Rothschild’s Giraffe, which is an endangered species.
By allowing people to feed giraffes from an elevated area and get up close and personal with giraffes to create lasting memories with photographs, this experience is both enjoyable and informative for all families.
In addition to providing all these wonderful experiences for individuals visiting the centre, it also provides individuals with educational materials on giraffe conservation and protecting wildlife habitats in order to raise awareness of the contributions made by various species of animals.
3. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Elephant Orphanage Experience
One of the most delightful places to visit in Nairobi is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
They rescue orphaned baby elephants, raise them, and eventually release them back into the wild. Visitors can come to the trust during designated visiting hours to see the baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud.
You will learn about each elephant’s life and about the work taking place to conserve their species.
This is a very emotional and educational visit for anybody who has an interest in animals.
4. Karen Blixen Museum – A Step into History
The place where the well-known Danish writer Karen Blixen lived is now home to a museum called Karen Blixen Museum.
Here you will find the renowned book called Out of Africa, named after her life when she lived in Kenya.
At this museum, you will be able to join guided tours around the house, the outdoor gardens, and the history of colonial Kenya.
Visitors have the chance to learn about Karen Blixen and how she contributed to the world through her written works.
The area surrounding the museum is tranquil, with beautiful gardens that provide a perfect location for a relaxing break from your busy schedule while visiting Nairobi.
5. Ngong Hills – Scenic Views and Outdoor Adventure
If you love nature and outdoor activities, the Ngong Hills are an excellent destination.
Ngong Hills are located just outside of Nairobi and provide visitors with breathtaking views of both the Great Rift Valley and the city skyline.
You can enjoy beautiful views from the top of the hills as you hike through the fresh air and stunning scenery. In addition to this, there are wind turbines located throughout Ngong Hills that provide a unique element to the landscape.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Ngong Hills is a great option.
6. Karura Forest – Nature Within the City
Situated in the centre of Nairobi, Karura Forest is often overlooked by locals.
The protected area of the forest contains walking trails, bicycle paths, picnic areas, and waterfalls – making it an excellent venue for enjoying nature without having to travel outside of the city.
While in the forest, visitors can take a stroll through the caves, continue on their cycling journey, or just relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
For those who enjoy morning exercise, joggers use the trails within Karura as an excellent venue to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
7. Bomas of Kenya – Cultural Experience
Located in Nairobi, the Bomas of Kenya allows you to experience Kenya’s diverse cultural heritage through traditional homes built by the tribes of Kenya. You will have the opportunity to view the traditional buildings and see some of the cultural practices associated with each community.
Many of the shows performed at Bomas of Kenya highlight the traditional dances of the different tribes. The performances combine music, dance, and storytelling, representing each of Kenya’s different regions.
Bomas of Kenya is an excellent way to see all of the different cultures that exist in Kenya in one place.
8. Kiambethu Tea Farm – Tea, History, and Relaxation
Located right next to the city of Nairobi is Kiambethu Tea Farm, an oasis for anyone looking to unwind.
Kiambethu is also one of Kenya’s oldest tea plantations and offers engaging tours that explain how tea is grown, processed, and marketed.
In addition to learning about tea, you’ll be able to walk through beautiful fields of green tea, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the sights of rolling hills, forests, and valleys surrounding the plantation.
On top of all this, you have the option of having an amazing lunch made from fresh ingredients sourced directly from the farm, and you also have the opportunity to sample a variety of teas produced at Kiambethu.
How to Plan Your Nairobi Day Trips
Attractions in and around Nairobi have sufficient proximity for one or two days of touring.
A typical itinerary consists of:
- Morning game drive at Nairobi National Park.
- Tour of David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
- Visiting the Giraffe Centre.
A second day can consist of:
- Karen Blixen Museum.
- Bomas of Kenya.
- Karura Forest or Ngong Hills.
Or you could spend an entire day relaxing at Kiambethu Tea Farm.
Best Time to Visit Nairobi Attractions
One can visit Nairobi at any time of the year.
The best time to do outdoor activities or to see wildlife in Nairobi is during the dry season, which is from June to October and from January to February.
But, even during the rainy season, many attractions are open to visit.
Final Thoughts
Nairobi isn’t just the main entry point into the fantastic national parks (safari parks) of Kenya; it also has many other attractions that offer visitors a variety of experiences based on animals, art and culture, the heritage and history of the nation, and the amazing scenery of the areas around.
Some examples of what you can do while in Nairobi include seeing lions living in their natural habitat at the Nairobi National Park, feeding giraffes by hand at the Giraffe Centre, enjoying afternoon tea at Kiambethu, and so much more.
If possible, spend some time before or after your safari visiting at least one or two of Nairobi’s attractions; you won’t regret it!
