Best Short Safaris from Nairobi – 1 to 3-Day Wildlife Adventures
Why Take a Short Safari from Nairobi?
Nairobi is one of the few cities in the world where you can go on a safari just minutes away! Whether on a business trip, a weekend getaway, or short on time, a one to three-day safari is the perfect way to experience Kenya’s incredible wildlife without venturing too far.
Best One-Day Safaris from Nairobi
1. Nairobi National Park – Best Half-Day Safari
Why Visit?
✔ Closest wildlife park to Nairobi (just 15 minutes from the city center).
✔ Home to lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes.
✔ Ideal for travelers with limited time.
Tour Duration: 4–5 hours (morning or afternoon game drive).
Add-ons: Visit David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center after your safari.
2. Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island – Best for Boat Safaris
Why Visit?
✔ Scenic boat safari among hippos.
✔ Walking safari alongside giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
Tour Duration: Full day (7 AM – 6 PM).
Add-ons: Cycle safari in Hell’s Gate National Park.
3. Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Best for Rhino Viewing
Why Visit?
✔ Home to the last two northern white rhinos.
✔ Big Five safari + a chimpanzee sanctuary.
Tour Duration: Full day (6 AM – 7 PM).
Add-ons: Visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Best 2-Day Safaris from Nairobi
1. Masai Mara 2-Day Safari – Best for Big Five Spotting
Why Visit?
✔ Kenya’s top safari destination known for Big Cats & the Great Migration.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Depart from Nairobi, afternoon game drive.
- Day 2: Morning game drive, return to Nairobi.
2. Amboseli 2-Day Safari – Best for Elephants & Kilimanjaro Views
Why Visit?
✔ Famous for large elephant herds & Mount Kilimanjaro backdrops.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Drive from Nairobi, afternoon game drive.
- Day 2: Morning safari, return to Nairobi.
3. Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha – Best for Birdwatching & Rhino Spotting
Why Visit?
✔ Flamingos, rhinos & boat safaris in one trip!
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru (game drive).
- Day 2: Lake Naivasha boat safari + Crescent Island walking tour.
Best 3-Day Safaris from Nairobi
1. 3-Day Maasai Mara Safari – Classic Short Safari
Why Visit?
✔ Increased chances of seeing the Big Five & the Great Migration.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Depart from Nairobi, afternoon game drive.
- Day 2: Full-day safari in Maasai Mara.
- Day 3: Morning game drive, return to Nairobi.
2. 3-Day Samburu Safari – Best for Rare Wildlife
Why Visit?
✔ Spot the rare “Samburu Five” – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx & gerenuk.
Itinerary:
- Day 1: Drive from Nairobi, afternoon game drive.
- Day 2: Full-day safari.
- Day 3: Morning safari, return to Nairobi.
How to Choose the Best Short Safari from Nairobi
| Safari Type | Best For | Recommended Destination |
|---|---|---|
| Half-Day Safari | Quick wildlife experience | Nairobi National Park |
| One-Day Safari | Scenic views & wildlife | Lake Naivasha, Ol Pejeta |
| 2-Day Safari | Big Five spotting | Maasai Mara, Amboseli |
| 3-Day Safari | Best overall wildlife experience | Maasai Mara, Samburu |
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
Nairobi National Park safari – Only 15 minutes from the city!
Yes! Options include Nairobi National Park, Ol Pejeta, or Lake Naivasha.
Costs range from $150 to $1,500, depending on duration & luxury level.
