Day Trips Nairobi

Day Trips in Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for day trips. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, or adventure, here are some exciting options to consider:

1. Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre

  • Visit the world-famous David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, where you can see rescued baby elephants being raised back to health.
  • Next door, stop by the Giraffe Centre, a sanctuary for Rothschild’s giraffes, where you can feed and interact with these gentle giants.

2. National Park Day Trips

  • Head to Nairobi National Park, just 7km from the city centre, for a chance to see the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses.
  • Alternatively, visit Lake Naivasha or Hell’s Gate National Park for a unique day trip experience.

3. Cultural Experiences

  • Visit the Bomas of Kenya, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Kenyan culture through replicas of 27 different tribes’ villages.
  • Stop by the Karen Blixen Museum, a colonial-era farmhouse turned museum that showcases the author’s life and work.

4. Markets and Food

  • Explore the vibrant city markets at City Market or Gikomba Market for a taste of local cuisine and unique shopping experiences.
  • Visit the famous Carnivore Restaurant for a classic Kenyan BBQ experience featuring grilled meats and seafood.

Tips and Essentials

  • Transportation: Use matatus (minibuses) or hire a private car to get around the city. Consider using ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt.
  • Weather: Nairobi’s weather is generally warm, with two rainy seasons. Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the long rains in March-May and October-November.
  • Safety: Take necessary precautions when visiting crowded areas and markets. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use secure transportation options.
  • Time Zone: Nairobi is 3 hours ahead of GMT.

Getting There

Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) receives international flights from major carriers. From the airport, you can take a taxi or matatu to your destination within the city.

Budgeting

Day trips in Nairobi can be budget-friendly, with most activities costing between KES 500-2,000 (~USD 5-20). Consider purchasing a SIM card or portable Wi-Fi hotspot for data-enabled navigation and communication.