Things to Do in Nairobi
Things to do in Nairobi: 12 best attractions & tours
The only capital on Earth with a national park inside it — lions, baby elephants, giraffes, museums and markets. Here's everything to see, and how to do it.
The best things to do in Nairobi are a Big Five game drive in Nairobi National Park (10 km from the city), seeing rescued elephants at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (open daily 11am–12pm), hand-feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, and visiting the Karen Blixen Museum, Bomas of Kenya and the Nairobi National Museum. You need 1–2 days; Nairobi is safe with normal city precautions, and a private guided tour with hotel or airport pickup is the easiest way to explore — ideal even on a JKIA layover.
| City | Nairobi — capital of Kenya & safari gateway |
| Main airport | Jomo Kenyatta International (JKIA), ~30–45 min from the city |
| Top attraction | Nairobi National Park (Big Five within the city) |
| Time needed | 1–2 days (half-day & full-day tours available) |
| Best time to visit | Year-round; dry season best for game drives |
| Getting around | Private car with driver-guide (recommended) |
Welcome to Nairobi
A wild capital and the gateway to Kenya's safari parks
Most Kenya safaris begin in Nairobi — a vibrant, green city where glass towers share the skyline with acacia trees and, remarkably, free-roaming wildlife. It’s a genuine destination in its own right: you can see lions and rhinos inside the city limits, feed endangered giraffes, meet orphaned baby elephants, and dive into Kenyan history, art and culture — all in a day or two.
Whether you have a full day, an afternoon, or a long layover at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), this guide covers the best things to do in Nairobi and how to see them safely on a private, guided Nairobi excursion with door-to-door pickup.
12 best things to do in Nairobi
The wildlife, culture and history that make Nairobi unmissable — most can be combined into one private tour.
From Airport to Adventure – Nairobi Layover Safaris
Only have a few hours in the city? We offer airport pick-up and fast-track tours, perfect for:
Travelers with long layovers
Visitors arriving early or leaving late
Those looking for a short 1-day safari from Nairobi
Travel Tips for Visiting Nairobi
Best time to visit: Nairobi is great year-round, with mild weather and sunny days
Getting around: Use trusted guides or pre-arranged transfers — traffic can be heavy
Safety: Nairobi is safe when you stay in main tourist areas and travel with licensed operators
Airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is just 15–30 minutes from most hotels and Nairobi National Park
Ready to Explore Nairobi?
Let us help you plan the perfect Nairobi day tour — whether it’s a quick stopover or the beginning of your big adventure.
Email:booking@annestkenyasafaris.com
WhatsApp:+254112458884
View Nairobi Excursions »
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1Day L. Nakuru, Naivasha day tour
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2 Days L. Nakuru, Naivasha tour
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Overnight Masai Mara safari
3 Days Masai Mara Safari Tour
3 Days Amboseli Safari tour
3 Days Tsavo East & Amboseli Safari
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4 Days Tsavo East, Tsavo West & Amboseli Safari
4 Days Masai Mara safarii
4 Days Lake Nakuru & Naivasha Masai Mara Safari
5 Day Masai Mara Game Reserve & Amboseli
5 Day Amboseli , Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara
5 Day Ol Pejeta Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara
6 Day Amboseli , Naivasha, Nakuru & Masai Mara
6 Day Tsavo West, Amboseli , Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari
7 Day Amboseli, Lakes Naivasha and Nakuru, and the Masai Mara One week safari
7 Day Samburu, Aberdares, Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha, and Masai Mara
7-Day Luxury Kenya Fly-In Safari
6 days Masai Mara,Amboseli Fly in Safari
Frequently Asked Questions – Nairobi Travel
Yes! Nairobi offers wildlife, culture, and comfort before or after your trip to Masai Mara, Amboseli, or the coast. It’s the perfect introduction to Kenya.
Absolutely. Nairobi National Park offers Big Game just 10 km from downtown. You can see rhinos, lions, giraffes, and more on a half-day safari.
The most popular combination is the Giraffe Centre + Elephant Orphanage, often paired with a city tour or game drive.
Yes, especially when guided by a professional tour company. Stick to known areas and avoid traveling alone at night.
Just contact us or request a quote — we offer same-day confirmations and private or group options.