Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a bustling metropolis that boasts a rich cultural heritage, a diverse population and a wealth of natural and man-made attractions. From sprawling national parks to bustling street markets, Nairobi has something for every type of traveler. In this post, we will highlight the best attractions and things to do in Nairobi, to help you make the most of your visit to this vibrant city. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or simply soaking up the local culture, Nairobi has plenty to offer. So, let’s dive in and explore the top must-see sights of this fascinating East African city.

The 15 Best Activities in Nairobi

1. Nairobi Day Tour Elephant Orphanage Giraffe Center and Bomas of Kenya
2. 9 Days Classic Kenya Family Safari
3. 3 Days Masai Mara Group Joining Safaris Budget Daily Departures
4. Half Day Nairobi National Park Shared Tour from Nairobi
5. 8 Days Amboseli National Park Great Rift Valley Lakes and Masai Mara
6. Adventure in the City Nairobi National Park
7. Nairobi National Park and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Tour
8. 3 Hours National Museum of Kenya
9. 5 Day Hiking Mount Kenya Via Chogoria Route from Nairobi
10. 7 Day Amboseli Naivasha Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru
11. Nairobi Airport Layover Tour Nairobi City
12. Nairobi City Walking Tour With Traditional Kenyan Lunch
13. Giraffe Center and Karen Blixen Tour from Nairobi
14. 6 Day Best of Mid Northern Kenya
15. Nairobi All Inclusive Multi Park Safari Experience

The 15 Best Activities in Nairobi

1. Nairobi Day Tour Elephant Orphanage Giraffe Center and Bomas of Kenya

This full-day guided tour takes you to three of Nairobi’s most popular attractions. First, visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a haven for orphaned elephants and rhinos. Next, head to the Giraffe Center, which aims to educate the public about the plight of the Rothschild giraffe. Finally, spend time exploring Bomas of Kenya, where you can experience authentic Kenyan music, dancing, food, and culture in replicas of traditional tribal villages. Your professional guide/driver will provide hotel pickup and drop-off, and bottled water is included. Entrance fees to Nairobi National Park and the Giraffe Center are also included. Alcoholic drinks and food are available for purchase throughout the day. The tour starts at 6:00 AM, and pickup can be arranged from any hotel, residence, or the nearest airport.

2. 9 Days Classic Kenya Family Safari

This 9-day Classic Kenya Family Safari offers an opportunity to explore the natural highlights of Kenya including Maasai Mara National Park, Lake Naivasha, and the Tsavo Conservation Area. This family-friendly excursion allows you to discover the region’s wildlife at a leisurely pace while traveling in a pop-roof van and open-top boat. You can look out for lions, elephants, giraffes, and other native animals while benefiting from the insights and insider tips of your guide. The tour price includes luxury accommodation, meals, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free trip. Round-trip transfers are also provided from your hotel. Book now to immerse yourself in over five natural attractions and have a memorable family adventure in Kenya.

3. 3 Days Masai Mara Group Joining Safaris Budget Daily Departures

This multi-day small-group safari tour takes you on an adventure through Maasai Mara National Reserve, where you’ll witness some of Africa’s iconic wildlife. The tour offers comfortable tented accommodation with delicious meals served daily. With a maximum of 15 participants, this budget-friendly safari will allow you to mingle with fellow travelers. Observing three big cats and East Africa’s “Big Five” in their protected habitats, you’ll get an up-close look at these majestic creatures during evening game drives that stay until closing time. Breakfast and dinner are provided on two days, with lunch included on all three. Gratuities are also included. You can conveniently head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup. Round-trip transfers are included from central Nairobi, with an upgrade option for airport pickup. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the beautiful wilderness of Maasai Mara National Reserve.

4. Half Day Nairobi National Park Shared Tour from Nairobi

Experience Nairobi’s wildlife without leaving the city on a half-day shared tour of Nairobi National Park. Benefit from pickup at your accommodation at 5:45 AM and get insights about the park’s diverse wildlife from your driver/guide as you explore. Look out for lions, leopards, cape buffaloes, giraffe, zebras, ostriches, and more with the Nairobi’s city skyline as a backdrop. Stay refreshed with bottled water, snacks, and lunch provided by the tour operator. This tour allows a maximum of 6 travelers and has a cancellation policy that allows full refunds up to 24 hours in advance of the start time. Note that the admission ticket to the park is not included.

5. 8 Days Amboseli National Park Great Rift Valley Lakes and Masai Mara

This 8-day safari takes you on an adventure through Kenya’s top national parks, including Masai Mara National Game Reserve, Amboseli National Park, and Lake Naivasha. With the help of your guide, you’ll spot a variety of wildlife, from elephants to lions, in their natural habitats. Travel in a custom-made safari vehicle, ensuring everyone gets a window seat, and enjoy lodging, meals, and activities as included in the itinerary. With pickup options available from both YWCA Parkview Suites and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you can easily join this incredible journey through East Africa.

6. Adventure in the City Nairobi National Park

Experience the adventure in Nairobi National Park with our selected hotel pickup and drop-off. You will enjoy the comfort of transportation by 4WD air-conditioned open-roof van, with free Wi-Fi, and accompanied by an English speaking professional licensed driver/guide. On this 4-hour tour, you will explore the famous park, witness the stunning wildlife, and learn about their habitats. The park entry fees of $43 will be paid by credit card. Refreshments and alcohol beverages will be provided on this tour. The tour/activity is not wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps. The cancellation policy is a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance of the experience. Don’t hesitate to join us for a memorable tour experience.

7. Nairobi National Park and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Tour

Travellers short on time can still experience Kenya’s native wildlife on this Nairobi National Park and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage tour. Witness African animals in their natural habitat on a morning safari drive through Nairobi National Park, followed by a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage where rescued elephants and rhinos are rehabilitated for release into the wild. Learn about the work being done to protect the region’s native species with all taxes, handling charges, park fees, and round-trip transfers included in the tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Nairobi hotels is also included. Food and drinks are not provided, however. Optimize your time in Nairobi by seeing two top attractions in just one day with this private tour that includes a bonus educational experience.

8. 3 Hours National Museum of Kenya

The Nairobi National Museum and Snake Park are two of Nairobi’s most distinctive attractions. This half-day private excursion will take you to both sites where you can learn about Kenya’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Explore art collections, archaeological displays, and galleries documenting native flora and fauna at the museum before heading over to the snake and crocodile nature park.

Travel in comfort in a private vehicle and enjoy door-to-door pickup and drop-off with no hidden fees. Admission tickets to both attractions are included in the tour price, as well as tips and meals. This tour takes only a few hours, leaving the afternoon and evening free to explore other top sights in Nairobi.

You can head directly to the meeting point in Nairobi or request pickup. Pick-up points are also available. The tour starts at 08:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience two of Nairobi’s top attractions in just one tour.

9. 5 Day Hiking Mount Kenya Via Chogoria Route from Nairobi

Enjoy a 5-day hiking adventure up Mount Kenya via the Chogoria Route, starting from Nairobi. With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll get to hike through picturesque landscapes and viewpoints, including Lake Ellis. This hassle-free trip includes tent rental and all meals, so you can pack light and focus on the journey. Park fees and permits, round-trip transfers, and guides are all included in the package. Come see rainforests, bamboo forests, and other stunning natural sights on this unforgettable Mount Kenya hiking experience.

10. 7 Day Amboseli Naivasha Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru

Experience the best of Kenya’s wildlife and natural beauty with our 7 Day Amboseli Naivasha Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru tour. This private tour includes pickup and drop off from your hotel or the airport in Nairobi, all park fees, a private vehicle, gratuities, and non-alcoholic drinks.

On Day 1, we’ll depart Nairobi for Amboseli National Park, with two stops along the way. On Day 2, we’ll spend the day on a full game drive in Amboseli National Park, where you’ll have the chance to spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife.

On Day 3, we’ll journey to Lake Naivasha, stopping once along the way. Day 4 will take us to Lake Nakuru, where we’ll make two stops. On Day 5, we’ll head to the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, stopping once. Day 6 will be a full day of game drives in the Maasai Mara, where you’ll have the opportunity to see Africa’s “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. On the final day, we’ll depart from the Mara and head back to Nairobi.

Please note that confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking. This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not recommended for pregnant travelers. However, most travelers can participate, and public transportation is available nearby.

Join us for an unforgettable journey through some of Kenya’s most spectacular landscapes and wildlife habitats with our 7 Day Amboseli Naivasha Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru tour.

11. Nairobi Airport Layover Tour Nairobi City

Bypass the taxi lines and make the most of your Nairobi layover by departing the airport and heading out for a private city tour. With this convenient way to check off top Nairobi landmarks, you’ll get out of Nairobi Airport quickly with private transport included. Having admission included eliminates time wasted in ticket lines, so you can enjoy the personalized service of a private tour. Highlights include a visit to the American Embassy Memorial Garden’s rooftop observatory, exploring a local market, and relaxing in Uhuru Park. All park entrance fees are included, and lunch is available for purchase at your own expense. Pick up and drop off are available at the airport, Nairobi hotels, Airbnb or private apartments. Expect to visit Kenyatta International Conference Center and Uhuru Park, with one hour admission ticket included for each attraction.

12. Nairobi City Walking Tour With Traditional Kenyan Lunch

Immerse yourself in Nairobi’s vibrant neighborhoods with a 5-hour walking tour of the city, including a traditional Kenyan lunch. Join a knowledgeable guide to stroll through the shady paths of Uhuru Park, a tranquil oasis in Nairobi’s bustling central business district. Then, take in the imposing Kenyan parliament buildings and visit Mzee Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum. Discover Kenya’s rich artistic traditions and regional handicrafts at the National Archives.

The tour also includes a visit to August 7 Memorial Park, built to commemorate the 1998 US Embassy bombing. Explore the city by foot and public transport with a friendly local guide. After working up an appetite, enjoy a classic Kenyan meal at a nearby restaurant.

This half-day Nairobi sightseeing tour provides a unique opportunity to experience the city’s fascinating culture and daily life. Book now and enjoy an unforgettable walking tour with a Kenyan lunch.

13. Giraffe Center and Karen Blixen Tour from Nairobi

Begin your Nairobi adventure with a 4-hour tour to the Giraffe Center to see giraffes living in a semi-wild state. Daisy Rothschild, a giraffe calf rescued from the Western Kenya border, and her family are part of the herd living in Giraffe Manor. Take the nature trail to the Gogo River and search for giraffes in the wild.

Next, visit the home of Karen Blixen made famous by the film Out of Africa. Karen Blixen lived in the house from 1917 to 1931 when the farm was sold, and she left Kenya. From the garden, enjoy magnificent views of the Ngong Hills. End the tour by shopping for original hand-made crafts at a nearby beads center run by African women.

This tour includes all entry fees, transportation, a guided tour of the Giraffe Center and the Karen Blixen Museum, and tips/gratuities. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children and individuals with mobility issues.

14. 6 Day Best of Mid Northern Kenya

Explore the mid-northern region of Kenya on this 6-day tour that takes you through Samburu National Reserve, Aberdare National Park, and Masai Mara National Park. You’ll begin your journey from Nairobi and drive to Samburu National Reserve for two days, where you’ll have a full day to enjoy game drives and spot wildlife like elephants, lions, and Grevy’s zebras. On day three, you’ll head to Aberdare National Park for more game drives before driving to Masai Mara National Park on day four. Here, you’ll get to explore the park’s vast savannah plains and spot the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos. On day five, you’ll have another full day to explore Masai Mara before heading back to Nairobi on day six. This tour includes private transportation, dinner and breakfast, gratuities, and one-stop on each of the five days. Please note that personal expenses are not included in the tour, and you can either head directly to the meeting point or request pick-up from various locations.

15. Nairobi All Inclusive Multi Park Safari Experience

You will embark on an all-inclusive multi-park safari experience. This half-day tour begins with hotel pickup followed by a visit to the Nairobi National Park. Here, you will have the opportunity to view wildlife, such as lions and rhinos, without having to leave the city limits. Your guide will share information and fun facts about the park and its inhabitants throughout the game drive.

The tour also includes visits to other top attractions in Nairobi, such as the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Center. With transportation provided throughout the day, you can sit back and relax while you enjoy the stunning landscape and wildlife that Nairobi has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is one of the most popular destinations in Africa. It is a bustling city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it an interesting place to visit. If you are planning to travel to Nairobi, you probably have a lot of questions about the city. In this blog post, we will be answering some of the most frequently asked questions about Nairobi.

1. Is Nairobi safe for tourists?

Safety is a top concern for many travelers, and it is no different when it comes to Nairobi. While the city has had its share of security issues in the past, it has come a long way in recent years. The government has invested heavily in security and tourism infrastructure, which has made Nairobi a safer place for tourists.However, it is still important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas, keep your belongings close, and be aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to ask your hotel or tour guide for safety tips and recommendations.

2. What is the best time to visit Nairobi?

Nairobi enjoys a temperate climate throughout the year, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). However, the best time to visit Nairobi is during the dry season, which runs from December to March and from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant, and you are more likely to spot wildlife in the national parks.

3. Where are the best places to visit in Nairobi?

Nairobi has a lot to offer, from cultural attractions to natural wonders. Some of the must-visit places in Nairobi include:

a. Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is one of the most unique national parks in the world, located just a few kilometers from the city center. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Visitors can take a game drive or a guided walking safari to explore the park.

b. Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is a conservation center that aims to protect and breed endangered giraffes. Visitors can interact with these gentle giants and even feed them from a raised platform.

c. Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum is a former home of the Danish author Karen Blixen, famous for her memoir, Out of Africa. The museum showcases the fascinating life of Karen Blixen and the colonial history of Kenya.

d. Nairobi National Museum

The Nairobi National Museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and wildlife of Kenya. The museum has a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and artwork, including an exhibit on the famous paleoanthropologist, Richard Leakey.

4. What are the best dishes to try in Nairobi?

If you are a food lover, Nairobi has a lot to offer. Some of the most popular dishes to try in Nairobi include:

a. Ugali and sukuma wiki

Ugali and sukuma wiki is a staple dish in Kenya, made of maize flour and collard greens. It is a simple yet delicious meal that is popular among locals and tourists alike.

b. Nyama choma

Nyama choma is a grilled meat dish that is a must-try in Nairobi. It is usually made of beef or goat meat, seasoned with Kenyan spices, and served with ugali and kachumbari (a side salad).

c. Chapati and beans

Chapati and beans is another popular dish in Nairobi, made of flatbread and spiced beans. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for vegetarians.

5. What is the currency used in Nairobi?

The currency used in Nairobi is the Kenyan shilling (KES). It is advisable to exchange your currency at a bank or a reputable forex bureau. Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but it is always best to have some cash on hand.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Nairobi

If you are planning to visit Nairobi, Kenya, for the first time or are a repeat traveler, you will be surprised by how much the city offers in terms of tourist attractions. Nairobi is not just the capital of Kenya but also a cultural and economic hub, hosting diverse ethnic groups and cultures. The city also offers an impressive array of wildlife and nature reserves, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse food scene. Below is your ultimate guide on how to make the most out of your time in Nairobi.

1. Visit Nairobi National Park

One of the remarkable things about Nairobi is that it offers an opportunity to see wildlife within the city limits. Nairobi National Park is only seven kilometers from the city center and the perfect way to acquaint yourself with Kenya’s wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and lions. The park also offers stunning views of the city skyline, and it’s an excellent location for taking photographs to commemorate your visit.

2. Discover Kenyan Culture at the National Museum

For a taste of Kenyan culture and history, visit the National Museum. It houses numerous exhibits on Kenya’s history, culture, and biodiversity. It’s a great way to learn about the country’s colonial past and understand its cultural heritage. You will also get to see the oldest human remains ever discovered, dating back over two million years.

3. Have a Bite of Local Cuisine

Nairobi’s food scene is a reflection of its diverse ethnic groups, and it can be challenging to pick just one type of cuisine to sample. However, there are several must-try dishes and restaurants that offer a taste of Kenya’s culinary heritage. Visit Mama Oliech, a local restaurant famous for its fish fry, or sample the national dish, Ugali, at Tamarind Nairobi, located in Karen.

4. Explore the Nairobi Gallery

The Nairobi Gallery is an art gallery and museum that features contemporary African art, including traditional masks and sculptures from various regions in the country. The gallery also has paintings and photographs that showcase the city’s rich history.

5. Experience Nairobi’s Nightlife

Nairobi’s nightlife scene is alive and kicking, and it rivals many other cities in the world. Head to Westlands for a wide selection of bars and clubs that offer a vibrant atmosphere and music options ranging from African beats to modern pop. For a more laid-back atmosphere, visit Alchemist Bar, which offers an outdoor setting and a mix of local and international DJs.

6. Visit the Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is an excellent opportunity to interact with some of Kenya’s most famous animals up close. You will get a chance to feed the giraffes by hand and learn more about their habitat and conservation efforts. The center also has a nature trail that offers stunning views of Karen and the surrounding Ngong Hills.

7. Tour the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for elephant calves that have been orphaned in the wild. The sanctuary aims to care for these animals and reintroduce them to their natural habitats once they are old enough. Visitors can watch the calves being fed and learn more about the conservation efforts being made to protect these majestic animals.

8. Check Out the Bomas of Kenya

The Bomas of Kenya is a living museum that showcases Kenya’s diverse ethnic groups’ culture and heritage. Visitors will get to see traditional dance and music performances, handicrafts, and artifacts from different regions in the country. It’s an excellent way to learn more about Kenya’s rich cultural history and its diverse communities.In conclusion, Nairobi offers a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and history that provides visitors with a unique experience. Follow this guide, and you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time in the city.