Day Excursions from Nairobi

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Discover Nairobi: A Vibrant City Full of Day Trip Adventures

Founded at the turn of the 20th century, Nairobi has transformed from a modest railway depot into a bustling cosmopolitan hub with a population of over three million. Today, Nairobi stands as one of Africa’s most dynamic cities, offering a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local explorer or an international traveler, there’s no shortage of exciting day trips in Nairobi. From wildlife experiences at Nairobi National Park to cultural visits at the Karen Blixen Museum, the capital is surrounded by incredible attractions just a short drive away. Discover the best of Nairobi with unforgettable day tours that showcase the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Included/Exclude

Tour Plan

PFA SE-001: Kenya Railway Museum

Nairobi exists because of the Uganda Railway. The Nairobi Railway Museum is filled with fascinating historical photographs and relics from old trains, as well as actual locomotives and carriages you can climb aboard. One notable exhibit is the carriage in which Charles Ryall was dozing in 1900 when a lion seized him through the window, broke his neck, and carried him off. A visit to this museum offers a rich insight into the colonial and industrial history of Kenya. The museum is open daily from 09:00hrs to 18:00hrs.

Prices include:

- Pick up from within Nairobi

- Private transportation in a custom safari land cruiser

– Services of a trained and experienced English speaking driver/guide

Not Included

- Entrance fee approximately USD5 per person

PFA SE-002: The August 7th Memorial Trust

The August 7th Memorial Park is one of a kind—serving not only as a memorial, but also as a symbolic place of historical and educational significance for both Kenyans and the world at large. The Park is owned and managed by a non-profit trust and is maintained entirely through gate collections from visitors and generous support from individuals, private donors, and the corporate sector. The Trust is dedicated to preserving the sanctity of the park as a quiet refuge for victims, their families, and the general public.

PFA SE-003: National Museum of Kenya/Snake Park

A visit to the Nairobi National Museum offers an immersive cultural and historical experience, making it one of the best day trips in Nairobi for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and wildlife fans. The museum houses the iconic Leakey family discoveries from Tanzania’s Olduvai Gorge and Kenya’s Koobi Fora, which shed light on early human evolution. While the wildlife displays may feel dated, they are accompanied by an impressive collection of traditional Kenyan tribal artifacts, including weapons, ornaments, and ceremonial headdresses—perfect for those looking to understand the country’s diverse heritage.

Art lovers can explore the exciting contemporary exhibitions at the Kuona Trust Art Center, where original works are available for purchase in the upstairs gallery. The museum also features original watercolors by Joy Adamson, author of Born Free, as well as compelling exhibits on Kenya’s modern political history.

Within the grounds, you’ll find a well-maintained Snake Park that’s home to live East African snakes such as puff adders, black and green mambas, and other fascinating reptiles. A newly opened aquarium showcases both marine and freshwater fish species, adding to the museum’s natural history charm. For nature lovers, there’s a free bird walk every Wednesday at 8:30 AM, departing from the museum parking lot—an excellent add-on to your Nairobi day tour.

PFA SE-004: Nairobi National Park – 4hrs

Nairobi National Park is a must-visit destination and one of the most unique day trips in Nairobi. It’s the only national park in the world located within a capital city, offering a surreal blend of urban backdrop and raw wilderness. Just minutes from the city center, you can embark on a thrilling half-day or full-day safari and encounter an incredible variety of wildlife.

Visitors have the chance to see rhinos, leopards, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, warthogs, antelopes, and over 400 species of birds. The only major animal not found in the park is the elephant. Wildlife movements follow natural patterns, and during the rainy season, some animals migrate outside the park into open Maasai lands through the unfenced southern boundary. However, a resident population of plains game and predators ensures excellent sightings all year round.

The park also includes the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, where injured, sick, or abandoned animals are rehabilitated and reintroduced into the wild. Visitors can also enjoy the Safari Walk and Education Centre, which provides a guided experience into Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts—perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers.

PFA SE-005: Karen Blixen & giraffe Centre – 4hrs

Experience one of the most iconic day tours in Nairobi with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the famed Danish author behind the memoir Out of Africa. Karen Blixen, known by her pen name Isak Dinesen, lived in this colonial-era farmhouse between 1914 and 1931 while managing a coffee plantation at the foot of the Ngong Hills. The beautifully restored house and tranquil grounds now serve as a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into early settler life and literary history. Right next door, you can relax and enjoy a meal or coffee at the charming Karen Blixen Coffee Garden restaurant.

This half-day excursion is perfectly paired with a stop at the nearby Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Get up close and personal as you feed these gentle giants from a raised platform—an unforgettable highlight for families and animal lovers alike.

Before returning to your hotel, the tour includes a visit to Utamaduni Craft Centre, where you can admire and purchase a wide selection of authentic African art, jewelry, textiles, and handmade souvenirs. This 3-hour cultural experience combines history, conservation, and local craftsmanship, making it one of the most enriching day trips in Nairobi.

PFA SE-006: Daphne Sheldrick Animal Orphanage – 2hrs

Just a short drive from Nairobi National Park, the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage offers one of the most heartwarming and memorable day trips in Nairobi. This renowned conservation center rescues and rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants and rhinos—many of whom have lost their families to poaching. Under the dedicated care of their human keepers, these animals are eventually reintroduced into the wild, primarily in Tsavo National Park.

The orphanage is open to the public every morning from 11:00 AM to 12:00 noon. During this hour-long visit, guests can witness the calves enjoying their playful mud baths, being bottle-fed, and engaging with their caregivers in a nurturing and educational environment. It’s an inspiring and family-friendly experience that supports critical wildlife conservation efforts in Kenya.

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers, conservation advocates, and anyone seeking an authentic and meaningful Nairobi safari experience in a short timeframe. Whether on its own or combined with a visit to Nairobi National Park, it’s an unforgettable addition to your Nairobi itinerary.

PFA SE-007: Bomas Of Kenya – 3hrs

The word "Boma" is derived from Kiswahili and means "homestead"—a fitting name for the Bomas of Kenya Cultural Centre, one of the most authentic cultural day trips in Nairobi. Located just a short drive from the city center, this national treasure was established by the Kenyan government to preserve and celebrate the country’s rich cultural heritage through music, dance, architecture, and traditional crafts.

During your visit, you’ll explore traditional homesteads representing several of Kenya’s major ethnic communities, including the Kikuyu, Luo, Kamba, Maasai, and Mijikenda. The highlight of the experience is the daily cultural dance performance held every afternoon—an energetic showcase of tribal rhythms, costumes, and storytelling that captures the spirit and diversity of Kenya’s people.

This is an ideal Nairobi excursion for those interested in ethnic culture, heritage tourism, and interactive learning. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or group, the Bomas of Kenya tour is a vibrant and educational way to connect with the soul of Kenya.

PFA SE-008: Carnivore Experience – 2hrs

Known worldwide for its legendary meat feast, the Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi offers a dining experience unlike any other. Perfect for welcome or farewell lunches and dinners, this venue is a favorite for both locals and tourists looking for a bold, flavorful culinary adventure.

Here, a wide selection of meats—including four types of wild game—is roasted on traditional Maasai swords over a charcoal pit and carved directly onto your plate. This open-air restaurant provides an energetic, authentic atmosphere and is especially popular with foodies and meat lovers seeking a unique Nairobi dining experience.

From beef, pork, and lamb to exotic cuts like ostrich and crocodile (when available), Carnivore’s all-you-can-eat style and signature sauces make it a memorable part of any Nairobi day trip or evening out. Vegetarian options are also available upon request.

PFASE-009: Oldonyo Sabuk National Park

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park, a rugged, forest-covered mountain rising dramatically above the Athi Plains. Known locally by the Kikuyu people as Kirima Mbogo, or "The Buffalo Mountain," this hidden gem is located just a short drive from Nairobi and offers one of the most scenic and peaceful day trips from Nairobi.

At its summit, Ol Donyo Sabuk offers panoramic views of the vast Athi River Valley, the lush pineapple plantations of Thika, and—on a clear day—the snow-capped peaks of both Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is home to buffalo, monkeys, birds, and diverse flora, making it ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

The trip also includes a stop at the nearby Fourteen Falls, one of Kenya’s most impressive waterfalls, located just 5km from the park entrance. The roaring falls and misty spray offer a dramatic photo opportunity and a refreshing end to this nature-filled adventure.

PFA SE-010: Day trip to Lake Naivasha/Hells Gate National Park

Begin your adventure with an early morning departure from Nairobi, descending into the dramatic Great Rift Valley en route to Hell’s Gate National Park. This park is one of the few in Kenya where visitors can walk, cycle, or drive among wildlife, offering a truly immersive experience in nature.

Major attractions include game viewing, spectacular gorge hikes, hot springs, birdwatching, and close encounters with rock formations and nesting raptors in the cliffs. The landscape is awe-inspiring, dotted with volcanic rock towers and geothermal steam vents—making it a top choice for adventure day trips from Nairobi.

After your morning exploration, enjoy a scenic lunch at one of the charming Lake Naivasha resorts. In the afternoon, take a tranquil boat ride on Lake Naivasha, spotting hippos and exotic birdlife, or opt for a walking safari at the nearby Crescent Island Sanctuary. Here, you can walk safely among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles in a serene lakeside setting.

The day concludes with a late afternoon return drive to Nairobi—an unforgettable blend of landscapes, wildlife, and adventure all in one.

PFA SE-011: Day Trip to Lake Nakuru National Park

Depart Nairobi in the early morning and travel through the scenic Great Rift Valley, with a brief stop at the viewpoint to marvel at the panoramic escarpment and sprawling landscapes below. This journey takes you to one of Kenya’s most famous parks—Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its dramatic alkaline lake and incredible birdlife.

Enjoy a mid-morning game drive across the park’s diverse ecosystems, where you may encounter white rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, baboons, and—if you're lucky—leopards and lions. Lake Nakuru is a bird lover’s paradise, famous for hosting flamingos, pelicans, and over 400 other bird species.

Break for lunch at the scenic Lake Nakuru Lodge, nestled within the park and offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding savannah. After a relaxed meal, take a final short game drive as you exit the park, capturing last glimpses of wildlife before your drive back to Nairobi in the early evening.