10 Best Things to Do in Nairobi: Excursions & Adventures

Dubbed “the Safari Capital of the World”, Nairobi is a city that gives meaning to the phrase. It is one of the few cities on earth where you can see lions in the savannah in the morning and fine dine in a modern city in the evening. The capital of Kenya, Nairobi, is a perfect blend of wildlife, history, culture, adventure, and urban attractions.

Whether you are going to Kenya for a safari, passing through on your way to the coast, or looking for an urban getaway, Nairobi offers limitless experiences for every kind of traveler, from world-famous wildlife destinations to hillside hiking and everything in between.

This guide will provide you with the best things to do in Nairobi to help you make the most of your trip while understanding why this city is one of the best places to visit in East Africa.

Why Visit Nairobi?

Numerous tourists view Nairobi as just a place where they begin their safari. They fail to realize that the city is worth visiting for days.

Some reasons why you should remain in Nairobi are:

• Fantastic wildlife encounters
• Interesting history and culture
• Great parks and forests
• Various adventure activities
• Good restaurants and nightlife
• Shops and local markets
• Convenient access to other attractions nearby

No matter whether you spend one day or several days in Nairobi, the city has something for anyone.

1. Go on a Safari at Nairobi National Park

A trip to Nairobi without visiting Nairobi National Park is not complete. It is said to be the only national park in a city center.

It is just a short journey away from the city.

Besides the Nairobi skyline in the background, wildlife found there includes:

• Lions
• Black rhinos
• Buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Cheetahs
• Hyenas
• A variety of birds

The morning safari is an ideal time to see wild animals in their natural habitat.

Reasons to visit: 

An amazing quick safari

Ideal for busy tourists

Some of the best wildlife conservation in Kenya, especially for black rhinos

2. Visit the Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is one of the major attractions in Nairobi, beloved by families all around.

Set up with the purpose of conservation of endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, the Centre allows visitors to experience feeding these creatures from up high.

Highlights of the Centre include:

• Feeding the giraffe
• Learning about giraffe preservation
• Educational displays
• Nature trek through an indigenous forest

It is one of the finest places to be near wild animals.

3. Meet Baby Elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Another amazing experience in Nairobi is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

This orphanage assists in the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants before releasing them back into the wild.

The visitors at this venue can observe:

• Baby elephants being fed
• Bathing in mud
• Playing with the keepers
• Informative talks on conservation activities

This place allows visitors an insight into important conservation initiatives being taken in Kenya.

4. Explore the Karen Blixen Museum

Karen Blixen Museum is a must-visit place for history buffs.

Karen Blixen was a Danish writer whose autobiography, Out of Africa, became a cinematic masterpiece.

Visitors will find:

• Historical rooms
• Stunning gardens
• Original furniture
• Colonial architecture.

The museum gives insight into the colonial past of Kenya as well as the early days of the Europeans settling there.

5. Hike Ngong Hills

If you are keen about outdoor activities, you should visit Ngong Hills, which is one of the best hiking sites near Nairobi.

Being located slightly more than an hour away from the city, the hills give stunning views of the Great Rift Valley.

Things to do include:

• Hiking
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Bird watching

The climate is cool, making it a great getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

6. Walk Through Karura Forest

Karura Forest is one of Nairobi’s most treasured locations.

This protected urban forest provides an oasis of tranquillity where visitors can spend time in nature within the confines of Nairobi.

A few activities to do at Karura Forest are:

• Hiking
• Cycling
• Jogging
• Visiting waterfalls
• Birdwatching
• Photography

Karura is a perfect escape for tourists who could use a break from their safari trips.

7. Experience Kenyan Culture at Bomas of Kenya

If you want to know about the cultural heritage of Africa, Bomas of Kenya is the place to be.

You will get to witness:

• Traditional performances
• Cultural entertainment
• Indigenous architecture
• Local music
• Cultural homesteads of different ethnic groups
• Bomas of Kenya offers visitors a chance to discover the cultural diversity of Kenya.

8. Enjoy a Tea Tour at Kiambethu Tea Farm

Kiambethu Tea Farm, which is situated in proximity to Nairobi, provides a peaceful countryside retreat.

At the tea estate, guests can:

• Explore the tea farm
• Understand how tea is made
• Sip freshly prepared Kenyan tea
• Join a forest walk
• See colobus monkeys
• Delight in a tasty lunch at the farm

The serene surroundings make Kiambethu Tea Farm the perfect day trip destination from Nairobi.

9. Discover the Nairobi National Museum

The National Museum of Nairobi is an amazing place to discover Kenya’s culture, biodiversity, and history.

The exhibitions include:

• Old fossils
• Archaeological findings
• Animals on display
• Kenyan arts
• Culture with artifacts

Visiting the museum is really worth it for people who want to gain knowledge about Kenya prior to going on the safari.

The snake park and the botanical gardens only add to the experience.

10. Experience Nairobi’s Food, Shopping, and Nightlife

Nairobi is fast becoming one of Africa’s hottest food spots.

When it comes to the food scene in Nairobi, visitors can go for:

• Kenyan cuisine
• Restaurants from around the world
• Rooftop bars
• Craft markets
• Modern shopping malls
• Cafe scene

Some of the city’s popular shopping places include:

• Maasai Market
• Village Market
• Two Rivers Mall
• The Hub Karen

These establishments have plenty of locally made products, souvenirs, artworks, and fashion.

Best Day Trips from Nairobi

If there’s a little free time at your disposal, consider going for short visits to nearby attractions outside the city.

Some of the most favored day trips from Nairobi include:

• Lake Naivasha
• Hell’s Gate National Park
• Mount Longonot National Park
• Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Crescent Island
• Limuru tea farms

Best Time to Visit Nairobi

Nairobi is a year-round travel destination.

The best months are:

• January to March
• June to October

During these periods, tourists enjoy:

• Good temperatures
• Clear skies
• Great viewing of wildlife
• Good conditions for sightseeing

The elevation level of the city contributes to moisture content compared to many capitals of African countries.

Tips for Exploring Nairobi

• Start game drives early in the morning.
• Spend at least two or three days in the city.
• Make reservations for top attractions beforehand, especially during the peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes to walk around the city.
• Carry light jackets, especially in the morning and evening.
• Travel with good guides/tour operators.

Suggested 3-Day Nairobi Itinerary

Day 1

• Nairobi National Park
• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
• Giraffe Centre

Day 2

• Karen Blixen Museum
• Bomas of Kenya
• Masai Market

Day 3

• Kiambethu Tea Farm or Ngong Hills
• Karura Forest
• Dinner at some of Nairobi’s best restaurants

This itinerary is a perfect combination of experiences full of nature, culture, history, and relaxation.

Why Nairobi Should Be on Every Traveler’s Bucket List

Nairobi has something that only a few cities in the world can offer. What other city allows its visitors to do a safari in the early hours of the morning, feed amazing giraffes before lunch, witness elephant conservation in the afternoon, and enjoy a perfect dinner in fine restaurants overlooking the city skyline?

Final Thoughts

Nairobi is not just a mere entrance to Kenya’s well-known safari parks; it is a place that escalates the prospects of remarkable escapades. One can experience everything from prosaic encounters with wild animals at the Nairobi National Park and spend some time with giraffes and elephants, live a second-life experience through enlightening hikes, culture fest and museums, and visit tea farms.

It doesn’t matter if you are looking for adventure tours, tourism, history, or a vacation with your family, because you can be assured that in Nairobi you would get unforgettable experiences regardless of your choice made.