Explore 15 exciting day trips from Nairobi, offering a variety of adventures from wildlife safaris and scenic hikes to cultural tours and adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, these day trips promise unforgettable experiences just a short drive from the city.
1. Day Trips From Nairobi: Amboseli Day Trip from Nairobi
Amboseli National Park, located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, offers stunning views of Africa’s highest peak and is renowned for its large herds of elephants. This iconic park is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species, making it a must-visit destination for safari enthusiasts.
On your day trip to Amboseli, you’ll embark on a game drive through the park’s open savannah and swamp areas, offering incredible opportunities to spot wildlife against the backdrop of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Whether you’re photographing elephants, watching lions roam, or simply enjoying the serene landscapes, the park offers an unforgettable experience.
You can also enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the views of the park, making it an ideal opportunity to relax in the natural surroundings before continuing your safari adventure.
Activities:
- Game drives to spot wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and more
- Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Picnic lunch in the park with scenic views
Pricing (Per Person sharing for 2):
For Residents: Ksh 21,000
For Non-Residents: $270
2. Day Trips From Nairobi: Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island
Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater lake, is famous for its rich birdlife and resident hippos. During your visit, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake, where you’ll have the chance to spot hippos basking in the water and a variety of bird species. After the boat ride, head to Crescent Island, a stunning wildlife sanctuary where you can embark on a walking safari. Here, you’ll encounter giraffes, zebras, and other animals roaming freely in their natural habitat. This tranquil and scenic experience offers a perfect introduction to Kenya’s natural beauty and is one of the most popular day trips from Nairobi.
Activities:
- Boat ride on Lake Naivasha
- Visit Crescent Island for wildlife encounters
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 12,750
- For Non-Residents: $160
3. Day Trips From Nairobi: Hell’s Gate National Park
One of the day trips from Nairobi that features a range of activities is Hell’s Gate National Park. It is famous for its dramatic scenery, including the Hell’s Gate Gorge. The park offers a great mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. As you explore the park, you will encounter various wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, and gazelles. The landscape is truly stunning, with towering cliffs and geothermal activity adding to the park’s unique atmosphere.
Activities:
- Scenic hike through the park
- Visit the Hell’s Gate Gorge
- Wildlife viewing
- Optional rock climbing
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 16,000
- For Non-Residents: $138
4. Day Trips From Nairobi: Kiambethu Tea Farm
Another of the popular day trips from Nairobi is a visit to Kiambethu Tea Farm. It is an ideal place for those interested in learning about tea cultivation and the process of making tea. Located in the beautiful tea-growing region, the farm offers a guided tour where you will discover how tea is grown, harvested, and processed. After the tour, enjoy a scenic walk around the farm and sample freshly brewed tea during a tasting session. It’s a relaxing and educational experience surrounded by lush landscapes.
Activities:
- Guided tea farm tour
- Tea tasting
- Scenic walks
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 10,000
- For Non-Residents: $120
5. Day Trips From Nairobi: Swara Plains Conservancy
Swara Plains Conservancy is located on the outskirts of Nairobi, offering a serene environment for wildlife viewing and cycling. You’ll ride through the conservancy and spot wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, and gazelles while enjoying panoramic views of the Ngong Hills. The area is peaceful, with the Ngong Hills serving as a beautiful backdrop for an unforgettable day outdoors.
Activities:
- Cycling through the conservancy
- Wildlife sightings
- Scenic views of Ngong Hills
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 15,000
- For Non-Residents: $130
6. Nairobi National Park Half Day Trip
Nairobi National Park is unique as it is a wildlife reserve located just outside Nairobi’s bustling city center. It offers an incredible opportunity to spot lions, rhinos, and leopards with the city skyline in the background. A safari here is one of the few places in the world where you can see such iconic wildlife in a city setting, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Activities:
- Safari within the park
- Wildlife spotting (lions, leopards, rhinos)
- Nairobi skyline in the background
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 14,750
- For Non-Residents: $128
7. Day Trips From Nairobi: Gatura Purple Tea Farm
Located in Gatura, the Purple Tea Farm offers a unique opportunity to learn about the cultivation of purple tea, a rare and flavorful tea variety. On a guided tour, you’ll explore the farm and see how purple tea is grown and processed. The tour ends with a tasting session, where you can enjoy the distinct taste of purple tea while surrounded by the beautiful farm setting.
Activities:
- Visit the Purple Tea Farm for a guided tour
- Learn about purple tea cultivation and processing
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 10,000
- For Non-Residents: $128
8. Day Trips From Nairobi: Unforgettable Ol Pejeta Safari – A Wildlife and Conservation Experience Like No Other
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Kenya’s most renowned wildlife conservancies, offering a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of wildlife, including the famous Big Five. Located just a few hours from Nairobi, it’s a perfect day trip for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts. The conservancy is also home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos, making it a significant conservation site.
During the day trip, you’ll embark on a game drive through the vast plains, spotting wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. There’s also the chance to visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned chimpanzees. For those looking for an even more immersive experience, guided bush walks are available to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings of the conservancy, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind before continuing your exploration.
Activities:
- Game drives to spot wildlife, including the Big Five
- Visit to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary
- Guided bush walk to explore the conservancy’s ecosystem
- Optional visit to the Rhino Sanctuary
- Picnic lunch in a scenic location within the conservancy
Pricing (Per Person):
- For Residents: Ksh 26,000
- For Non-Residents: $330
9. Day Trips From Nairobi: Experience the Artistic Wonder of Kitengela Hot Glass – A Creative Journey Near Nairobi
Kitengela Hot Glass is a fascinating glassblowing studio where artisans create stunning glass art and sculptures. You’ll have the chance to see the glassblowing process up close and admire the beautiful creations. It’s also a great place to shop for unique souvenirs, making it a perfect stop for art enthusiasts and collectors.
Activities:
- Visit the glassblowing site
- Admire glass art and sculptures
- Shop for unique souvenirs
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 9,750
- For Non-Residents: $104
10. Day Trips From Nairobi: Discover the Hidden Gem of Lake Elementaita – A Tranquil Escape in the Great Rift Valley
Lake Elementaita is a soda lake located in a scenic area known for its diverse birdlife, including flamingos. The lake is a great spot for bird watching, and you can also visit nearby Soysambu Conservancy for more wildlife sightings. The area offers beautiful views and is perfect for photography and relaxation.
Activities:
- Visit Lake Elementaita
- Bird watching (flamingos)
- Wildlife spotting in Soysambu Conservancy
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 13,250
- For Non-Residents: $132
11: Day Trips From Nairobi: Explore Lake Nakuru – A Stunning Safari Escape in the Heart of the Rift Valley
Lake Nakuru National Park, located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning beauty and diverse wildlife. Famous for its large population of flamingos, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. In addition to the spectacular birdlife, the park is home to a variety of animals, including both black and white rhinos, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and more.
On this day trip, you’ll enjoy a game drive through the park’s varied landscapes, from lush forests to open grasslands, offering ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. Don’t miss the panoramic views from Baboon Cliff, a popular viewpoint within the park.
You can also enjoy a picnic lunch near the lake or in one of the designated areas within the park, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Activities:
- Game drives to spot wildlife, including flamingos, rhinos, and the Big Five
- Birdwatching and scenic views of the lake
- Visit Baboon Cliff for panoramic views
- Picnic lunch by the lake or in a designated area
Pricing (Per Person):
- For Residents: Ksh 9,500
- For Non-Residents: $80
12. Day Trips From Nairobi: Conquer Mount Longonot – A Volcanic Hiking Adventure in the Great Rift Valley
Ngong Hills is a beautiful and tranquil destination perfect for a hiking adventure. The hills offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, and after a refreshing hike, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic at the summit, taking in the fresh air and sweeping landscapes.
Activities:
- Hike in the Ngong Hills
- Picnic with views of the countryside
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 21,000
- For Non-Residents: $260
Day Trips From Nairobi: Mount Longonot Hiking Expedition
Embark on an exhilarating hiking adventure at Mount Longonot, an active volcano located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. This challenging trek takes you to the summit of the mountain, offering spectacular panoramic views of the valley below. As you hike to the crater, you’ll be immersed in the stunning natural beauty of the area, with sweeping vistas and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Inside the crater, keep an eye out for wildlife that roams freely within the volcanic landscape. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this hike offers a rewarding experience for those looking to explore Kenya’s unique geology and wildlife.
Activities:
- Hike to the crater of Mount Longonot
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley
- Spot wildlife within the crater and along the hike
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 16,250
- For Non-Residents: $140
14. Giraffe Centre and Sanctuary Half Day Trip
At the Giraffe Centre, you can meet and feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes. The center is dedicated to the conservation of this species, and visitors can learn about the giraffes’ biology and behavior. It’s a great place to interact with these gentle giants and support conservation efforts.
Activities:
- Feed and interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 10,250
- For Non-Residents: $92
15. David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half Day Trip
The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is one of the best places to meet baby elephants and learn about elephant conservation. The orphanage rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants, and visitors can feed them, watch them play, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect these amazing animals.
Activities:
- Meet baby elephants
- Feed them
- Learn about elephant conservation
Pricing (Per Person Sharing for 2 People):
- For Residents: Ksh 12,250
- For Non-Residents: $108
Conclusion
Gemfinders Safaris offers all the exciting day trips from Nairobi mentioned above and more, ensuring a memorable adventure for every traveler. If you’re seeking nature, culture, or wildlife, these day trips from Nairobi, we will provide you with unforgettable experiences. For more information or to book, reach out to safaris@gemfinderssafaris.com/reservations@gemfinderssafaris.com or call/WhatsApp +254742 324593/+254797512036.
