Nairobi is the practical gateway to Kenya’s safari circuit, but it also holds its own attractions, including a national park with wild giraffes and lions visible against the city skyline.
Why Visit Nairobi
Nairobi is unique among world capitals for having a full national park within its city limits, and it serves as the logistical hub for most Kenyan safari itineraries into the Maasai Mara and beyond.
Top Things To Do in Nairobi
- Nairobi National Park – a wildlife park with lions, giraffes, and rhinos visible against the city’s skyline in the background
- Giraffe Centre – a conservation center where visitors can feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes at eye level
- Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – an elephant orphanage with a public visiting hour, a popular and worthwhile stop
- Maasai Mara safari – typically reached by a short flight or a longer drive from Nairobi, the classic Kenyan safari destination
Best Tours and Experiences in Nairobi
Masai Mara 3 Days Tour Safari Private 4WD Landcruiser
6 Days Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli Budget Group Safari
5 Days Maasai mara, Lake Nakuru, samburu private lodge safari
Best Time to Visit Nairobi
July to October coincides with the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, making it the most popular safari season.
Practical Tips for Visiting Nairobi
- Book the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s public visiting hour in advance, it’s a limited, popular daily slot
- Use Nairobi mainly as a logistics base, most travelers spend limited time in the city itself before heading to safari areas
- Book flights to the Maasai Mara well ahead during peak migration season (July-October)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need much time in Nairobi itself?
Most travelers spend one to two days in the city, mainly for the Giraffe Centre and Sheldrick Trust, before heading to safari areas.
How do I get from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara?
Most visitors take a short domestic flight (about 45 minutes) rather than the longer 5-6 hour drive.
Final Thoughts
Nairobi works best as a short stop before your main safari, budget a day or two for its wildlife conservation sites before heading further afield.
Planning your trip? See our full Nairobi Travel Guide for top attractions, practical tips, and easy day trips.
Explore Attraction Reviews: Planning specific visits in Nairobi? See our detailed comparison guides: Maasai Mara Tours: Day Trip by Road or Fly-In Safari Package?, Giraffe Centre & Elephant Orphanage Tickets: Standard Entry or Combo Ticket?.
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