If you’re short on time but still want to experience the heart of Kenya, a Nairobi City Tour is your perfect adventure. Nairobi is the only capital city in the world where you can enjoy a full safari in the city, complete with big game, vibrant culture, and modern urban life. Whether you’re on a quick layover, a business trip, or a short stay, this tour offers a seamless way to explore the best of the city and its wild surroundings. The Nairobi City Safari allows you to witness lions and rhinos in their natural habitat at Nairobi National Park, just minutes from the city center. You can also visit iconic attractions like the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and Karen Blixen Museum, all within a day’s reach. With convenient pickup options, experienced local guides, and flexible itineraries, this Nairobi city travel experience is a must for any visitor.
Why Choose a Nairobi City Safari?
Where else can you go from the bustling city center to a wildlife park in less than 30 minutes? A Nairobi City Safari offers just that. It’s the ultimate urban safari adventure in Nairobi, combining world-class wildlife viewing with rich cultural attractions.
Imagine seeing lions, rhinos, and giraffes with Nairobi’s skyline in the background—this is the essence of a city safari in Nairobi.
Top Attractions on a Nairobi City Tour
1. Nairobi National Park City Safari
A key highlight of any Nairobi city tour is a visit to Nairobi National Park. Just a short drive from the CBD, this remarkable park is home to lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and endangered black rhinos. It’s the only wildlife park in the world that borders a bustling capital city. The Nairobi 4×4 city safari offers an unforgettable wildlife experience without ever leaving the urban area.
The best time to visit Nairobi National Park is early in the morning, between 6:00 am and 9:00 am, when animals are most active and easier to spot. However, evening game drives are also a great option, especially between 3:30 pm and 6:30 pm, when temperatures drop and wildlife begins to emerge again from the shade.
Entry tickets must be purchased in advance through the eCitizen platform at www.ecitizen.go.ke. Visitors need to register and pay online using mobile money, debit/credit cards, or bank transfers. Cash is not accepted at the gate. Ticket prices vary for Kenyan citizens, residents, and international tourists, each with specific rates.
Whether you’re on a half-day safari in Nairobi city or exploring as part of a longer Nairobi city safari tour, Nairobi National Park provides a truly authentic African safari experience—right at the edge of Kenya’s vibrant capital.
2. David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Tour
No Nairobi city tour is complete without visiting the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, one of the most heartwarming stops on any Nairobi city safari. This world-renowned conservation center rescues and rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants, many of whom lost their mothers due to poaching or human-wildlife conflict.
The orphanage is open to the public only once a day, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. During this magical hour, visitors watch the baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud, while keepers share their stories and explain the conservation efforts behind this noble project.
To visit, you must book online in advance through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s official website. Entry slots fill up fast, so early booking is essential, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Entry Fees:
- Kenyan residents: KES 2000 per adult and KES 500 per child.
- Non-residents: USD 20 per adult and USD 5 per child.
Payments are preferably made in cash at the gate. However, M-Pesa is also accepted as an alternative method. Cash payments are the preferred option, and credit or debit cards are not accepted.
This stop adds meaning and emotional depth to your Nairobi safari tour, connecting you directly with Kenya’s conservation mission.
3. Giraffe Centre Nairobi Visit
The Giraffe Centre is one of Nairobi’s most iconic attractions, offering a unique chance to interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes. Visitors can feed these gentle giants, take photos, and learn about giraffe conservation efforts. It’s a must-see on any Nairobi safari tour with wildlife.
Visiting Times:
The Giraffe Centre is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, it’s recommended to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds and get the best chance to feed and interact with the giraffes.
Ticket Payment:
Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance, with prices generally ranging from KSh 1,500 for adults and KSh 700 for children (prices may vary). For convenience, you can also pre-purchase tickets online via the Giraffe Centre’s website, making it easy to plan ahead for your Nairobi city sightseeing experience.
4. Karen Blixen Museum
Step into the colonial past with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum. This museum was once the home of the famous Danish author of Out of Africa and provides insight into her life and experiences in Kenya. The house, set on a beautiful 4-acre property, is now a national monument and a must-see on your Nairobi city tour.
- Visiting Hours: The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with the last entry at 5:30 PM. It’s a great place to explore during the day for a mix of culture and history.
- Entry Tickets: Entry to the Karen Blixen Museum is KSh 1,200 for adults and KSh 600 for children (Kenyan residents). For non-residents, the entry fee is KSh 2,000 for adults and KSh 1,000 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the museum entrance, and you can also pay via mobile money platforms like M-Pesa for added convenience.
Visiting the Karen Blixen Museum adds a rich historical layer to your Nairobi city tour and offers a peaceful, reflective environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Kazuri Beads Tour
Located in the outskirts of Nairobi, Kazuri Beads is a must-visit spot for those interested in handmade crafts. Kazuri, which means “small and beautiful” in Swahili, produces beautiful ceramic beads and pottery. These beads are crafted by local women, offering an empowering story behind each piece. Visitors can tour the workshop, observe the bead-making process, and purchase unique souvenirs.
6. Kobe Beads Visit
Another top attraction is Kobe Beads, renowned for its unique and vibrant beadwork. Kobe is a social enterprise that specializes in handmade glass beads, which are often used in jewelry. The beads are crafted using traditional techniques and are a great way to support the local community. A visit to Kobe Beads allows you to purchase high-quality, artisanal jewelry and learn about the bead-making process, making it a perfect addition to your Nairobi city tour.
7. Nairobi National Museum & Railway Museum
Dive into Kenyan history and art at the Nairobi National Museum, or explore Kenya’s railway heritage at the Nairobi Railway Museum. These stops are perfect for adding depth to your Nairobi city excursion.
Activities to Do on a Nairobi City Tour
A Safari in the City (Nairobi) isn’t just about wildlife. It’s a full cultural and urban experience. Here are the top activities to do on a Nairobi city tour:
- Morning Game Drive at Nairobi National Park with chances to spot big cats and rhinos.
- Feed Giraffes at the Giraffe Centre and learn about endangered species conservation.
- Adopt a Baby Elephant at the Elephant Orphanage and support wildlife rescue efforts.
- Visit Local Markets like Maasai Market for handmade souvenirs and traditional crafts.
- Explore Nairobi’s Art Scene at the Nairobi Gallery and Banana Hill Art Gallery.
- Take a Walking Tour through Nairobi CBD for historical and political insights.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine at restaurants like Nyama Mama or Java House.
- Experience Nightlife in Westlands or Kilimani for a taste of Nairobi’s vibrant culture.
These Nairobi city tour experiences give you a deep dive into both sides of Nairobi—urban sophistication and natural wonder.
Where to Stay During a Nairobi City Safari
Whether you’re focused on wildlife or city comfort, accommodation near Nairobi National Park and Nairobi city offers the best of both worlds. Here are some top choices:
Near Nairobi National Park:
- The Emakoko – A luxury boutique lodge inside Nairobi National Park. Ideal for premium city safari in Nairobi stays.
- Nairobi Tented Camp – The only tented camp inside the park, offering an authentic Nairobi safari experience.
- Masai Lodge – Overlooks the park with easy access to wildlife and guided tours.
Within Nairobi City:
- Giraffe Manor – Iconic and world-famous, perfect for combining luxury with giraffe interactions.
- Sarova Panafric – Centrally located with easy access to all Nairobi city sightseeing stops.
- Eka Hotel – Great for layover safari in Nairobi due to its proximity to the airport.
- Hemingways Nairobi – A 5-star hotel in Karen near the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre.
- Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport – Perfect for travelers on a quick Nairobi short safari trip or half-day safari in Nairobi city.
Each of these stays complements your Nairobi city travel experience, making it seamless, safe, and memorable.
Flexible Safari Options in Nairobi
Whether you’re looking for a half-day Nairobi city tour, a private city safari, or a walking city tour, Nairobi offers unmatched convenience and variety. From wildlife to cultural tours and historical sites, your Nairobi day tour with local guide is fully customizable.
Final Thoughts
There’s no better way to explore Kenya’s capital than through a Nairobi city tour. It’s a unique blend of urban charm and wild beauty—truly a Safari in the City Nairobi style. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, culture, history, or just sightseeing, this Nairobi city safari has it all.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a Nairobi city tour by 4×4, visit iconic attractions like the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage, and explore the beating heart of East Africa in one unforgettable experience.