Best 1-Day Safari Trips from Nairobi – See Kenya’s Wildlife in Just One Day

If you’re visiting Kenya and have only one day to experience its incredible wildlife, you’re in luck. Nairobi is uniquely positioned right next to some of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. From Nairobi National Park, where lions roam against a city skyline, to the vast open plains of Amboseli with Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, you can enjoy unforgettable Nairobi day trip safaris without long travel times.

At Annest Kenya Safaris, we’ve handpicked the best one-day safari from Nairobi options so you can make the most of your time, whether you’re on a layover, a business trip, or just passing through.

Nairobi National Park Day Tour – Wildlife at the City’s Edge

Distance from Nairobi: 15 minutes from city center
Highlights: Lions, giraffes, rhinos, buffalo, over 400 bird species
Best for: Travelers with very limited time

A Nairobi National Park day tour is perfect if you want maximum wildlife in minimum time. You’ll see lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more, all set against the surreal backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline.

Why we love it: It’s the only national park in the world located within a capital city, and game drives here can easily be combined with a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage or the Giraffe Centre.

Related: Safari from Nairobi | Half day Nairobi National Park Safari Package

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife activity.

Amboseli National Park Day Safari – Elephants with Kilimanjaro Views

Distance from Nairobi: 4 hours by road / 45 minutes by flight
Highlights: Large herds of elephants, Mount Kilimanjaro views, lions, cheetahs, buffalo
Best for: Iconic landscapes and photography lovers

If you have a full day, a one day safari from Nairobi to Amboseli delivers big. You’ll capture incredible photos of elephants strolling with the snow-capped peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background.

Why we love it: Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to see large tusker elephants up close.

Related: Amboseli Kenya Safaris | Safari from Nairobi

Best time to visit: June to October for clear views of Kilimanjaro.

Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island Day Trip – Wildlife & Boat Rides

Distance from Nairobi: 1.5–2 hours
Highlights: Hippos, giraffes, zebras, birdlife, walking safari on Crescent Island
Best for: A mix of land and water safari experiences

Lake Naivasha is a peaceful freshwater lake known for its abundant birdlife and relaxed walking safaris. On this Nairobi day trip safari, you can enjoy a boat ride among hippos, then walk among giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island with no vehicles in sight.

Why we love it: It’s a completely different pace from game drives and perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Related: Lake Naivasha Safari from Nairobi | Safari from Nairobi | Lake Nakuru

Best time to visit: Year-round, but mornings offer the calmest waters for boat rides.

Hell’s Gate National Park & Lake Naivasha Combo

Distance from Nairobi: 2 hours
Highlights: Cycling among wildlife, scenic gorges, hot springs
Best for: Adventure seekers and active travelers

Combine Hell’s Gate National Park with Lake Naivasha for a unique 1-day safari. Cycle past zebras and gazelles, hike the dramatic gorges, then relax with a boat ride on the lake.

Why we love it: It’s an active, immersive safari that’s perfect for those who want more than just game drives.

Related: Safari from Nairobi

Best time to visit: Dry season for safer gorge hikes.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Rhino Sanctuary & Big Five

Distance from Nairobi: 3.5 hours by road
Highlights: Rare northern white rhinos, chimpanzee sanctuary, Big Five game drives
Best for: Conservation-focused travelers

If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation, a one-day safari from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta is a must. It’s home to the last two northern white rhinos on Earth and offers excellent Big Five sightings.

Why we love it: You get both a safari and a behind-the-scenes look at important wildlife conservation work.

Related: Safari from Nairobi

Best time to visit: Year-round.

Tips for Booking Your Nairobi Day Trip Safari

• Start early: Most tours depart between 5–6 am for the best sightings.
• Dress in layers: Nairobi mornings can be cool, but days warm up quickly.
• Bring a camera with zoom lens: Wildlife sightings can be close or far.
• Book with Annest Kenya Safaris, we handle all transport, park fees, and meals so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

Why Choose Annest Kenya Safaris for Your One-Day Safari from Nairobi

• Local Expertise: We know the best routes, spots, and timing to maximize sightings.
• Customizable Itineraries: Choose from pre-planned trips or create your own day safari.
• Seamless Service: Hotel pick-up, park entry, and expert guides included.

Ready to Make the Most of Your Day in Kenya?

Don’t waste a precious day in Nairobi — let us turn it into a wildlife adventure you’ll never forget.

Book Your Nairobi Day Safari Now or WhatsApp us for instant confirmation.

FAQs – Nairobi Day Trip Safaris