Top 15 Things to Do in Nairobi for a Day
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is an exciting city with a vast array of activities to enjoy in just one day. From cultural attractions and outdoor adventures, to delicious cuisine and nightlife hotspots, there are a lot of things to do in Nairobi for a day.
In this article, we’ll provide an overview of some popular activities that you can do in Nairobi for a day. But before that, here is how you can book your safari in Kenya and our most booked tours.
How to Book Your Nairobi Tour With AjKenyaSafaris.com
Anyone who is yet to visit the country, Kenya, is missing out on a lot. The state has a lot to offer in terms of its beautiful sceneries, culture and also history. The country is currently a leading tourist destination. Come and experience the beautiful Kenyan sceneries, the striking uniqueness of their culture and while at it learn one Swahili word or two.
Book your safari now by sending us an email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com. You can also call or WhatsApp us at +254-748-258-880.
See Our Featured Tours and Most Booked Packages
| Our Top Tours for 2023/24 | Price Per Adult Sharing | The Detailed Itinerary |
| 3-DAY LUXURY 2024 MIGRATION TOUR | FROM USD 2845 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Mombasa Valentine Getaway 2024 | From USD 2180 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Amboseli Safari | From USD 734 | See the Itinerary |
| 1-Day Nairobi National Park & Giraffe Center Tour | From USD 119 | See the Itinerary |
| 1-Day Nairobi National Park & Nairobi Animal Orphanage Tour | From USD 34 | See the Itinerary |
| 12-Day Kenya Wildlife & Beach Safari | From USD 4216 | See the Itinerary |
| 18-Day Kenya Family Safari | From USD 5849 | See the Itinerary |
| 2-Day Hell’s Gate & Lake Nakuru Safari | From USD 507 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Huduma Day Safari to Masai Mara | From USD 950 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Camp Packages | From USD 1015 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Christmas Packages | From USD 1010 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Easter Packages | From USD 985 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Festive Packages | From USD 1315 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Lodge Safari | From USD 995 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Packages | From USD 955 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Packages from Nairobi | From USD 995 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Masai Mara Safari | From USD 954 | See the Itinerary |
| 3-Day Ol Pejeta Easter Safari | From USD 1175 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Africa Migration Masai Mara Packages | From USD 1360 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day L. Naivasha & Masai Mara Easter Safari | From USD 1249 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day L. Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1174 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day L. Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1162 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Masai Mara Camp Packages | From USD 1195 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Masai Mara Easter Packages | From USD 1235 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Masai Mara Migration Packages | From USD 1360 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Mombasa & Diani Safari | From USD 937 | See the Itinerary |
| 4-Day Mombasa & Diani Valentine Safari | At USD 1405 | See the Itinerary |
| 5-Day Flying Safari to Masai Mara & Ol Pejeta Conservancy | From USD 3777 | See the Itinerary |
| 6-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari from India | From USD 1730 | See the Itinerary |
| 7-Day Kenya Christmas Safari | At USD 3093 | See the Itinerary |
| 7-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari | From USD 1884 | See the Itinerary |
| 8-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari | From USD 4413 | See the Itinerary |
| 8-Day Wildlife & Beach Safari | From USD 1585 | See the Itinerary |
The Top 15 Things to Do in Nairobi for a Day or Two
A beautifully assembled art gallery is the only thing that can compare to the beauty and magnificence that emanates from the country Kenya. The state is one that boasts of beautiful sceneries such as the snow-peaked Mt. Kenya.
A nation whose magnificent sandy beaches will leave you mesmerized. Previous records have shown the country, due to its splendor and radiance, attracts millions of tourists from all over the world.
While the coast makes up for most of the country’s beauty, the nation’s capital Nairobi City (County) is also one site to behold. So once you are done exploring the sandy beaches and mountains, you can make a final stop at Nairobi and while you are at it, here is a list of fun things to do in Nairobi for a day.
1. Must Visit Destination in Nairobi – Giraffe Center
One of the most popular attractions in Nairobi is the Giraffe Center. This conservation center is dedicated to protecting and studying endangered species of giraffes, including the Rothschild’s giraffe. You can take a guided tour of the grounds, or even go on an hour-long feeding safari.
This is a great way to get up close and personal with these gentle giants, as well as learn a lot about their habitat. Plus, you can also take the opportunity to purchase some souvenirs from the center’s shop.
2. Things to Do in Nairobi for a Day – David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The Elephant Orphanage is also located in Karen which is only 15km away from the Nairobi CBD. This is the only place in the country where you get to see these lovely giant up-close.
It is here that you will get to see how catastrophic the poaching menace is. The elephant orphanage only charges $20 for adults and $5 for children.
3. Best Activities to Do in Nairobi – Nairobi Animal Orphanage
One of the coolest things to do in Nairobi for a day is to visit the Nairobi Animal Orphanage. This wildlife sanctuary is home to over 25 species of animals from across Africa, including zebras, warthogs, baboons and giraffes. You can wander around the park, taking in all the sights, sounds and smells of the wildlife.
There are also educational talks held at various times throughout the day, where visitors can learn more about the animals in their care. You’ll get a chance to feed some of these animals too – a great experience for all ages!
4. Things to Do in Nairobi – Nairobi Safari Walk
The Nairobi Safari Walk is a conservation-based refreshment facility that is second to none. The center is only 7 KM from the beautiful capital city and just 30 meters away from the Nairobi National Park entrance.
The doors of the Nairobi Safari Walk are open on a daily basis from 9 am to 5:30 pm. Here you can expect to be treated to the bedazzling site of a rich variety of wildlife.
Carry your camera with you because some of the animals in the Nairobi Safari Walk are a rare sight in the world. Some of these animals are; the Albino Zebra, the Bongo, and the White Rhino.
5. Things to Do in Nairobi this Weekend – Nairobi National Park
The Nairobi National Park is another must-visit attraction in the city. This vast wildlife refuge spans over 117 square kilometers and is home to over 500 species of mammals, birds and reptiles.
You can take a guided tour of the park, which will include a game drive through some of the most famous savannas in the world. You’re likely to spot a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants and rhinos. There are also several picnic spots and nature trails for you to explore too.
6. Best Attractions in Nairobi – Karen Blixen Museum
The Karen Blixen Museum is also a great place to visit in Nairobi. It was the home of author and adventurer Karen Blixen, best known for her novel, Out of Africa. Here you can explore the grounds which inspired the novel, as well as view exhibits on the life and work of this extraordinary woman.
The museum is also a great place to take photographs – you’ll definitely get some great shots of the surrounding area.
7. Things to Do in Nairobi this Weekend – Nairobi National Museum
The Nairobi National Museum is in so many ways similar to the Nairobi Safari Walk. They both allow the experience of seeing some of the rarest kinds of wildlife in the universe.
They allow you to share in the magnificence of Kenyan culture. The exhilarating place is only 1.5 kilometers from the city center.
8. What to Do in Nairobi for 2 Days – Maasai Market Shopping
You have probably heard of the Kenyan Maasais. The mentioned is a Kenyan tribe that boasts of one of the most celebrated cultures in the world. Nothing says Kenya like a Maasai culture based souvenir and no place sells these souvenirs better than the Maasai Market.
The market sells everything from the Maasai fabrics, curio, wood carvings, local paintings, drawings, and curio. You can also find Maasai fabrics when you visit Masai Mara.
9. Free Things to Do in Nairobi – Village Market
You should probably highlight this one on your list. The Village Market comes top in the list of the best malls in the country. Shopping at the Village Market is an experience you will never forget.
The mall does not only shelf some of the best local and international products but is also home to a food court that serves delicacies from all over the world. For those who treasure movie night, there is no better place to visit.
You kids will also have a blast at the water slides and bowling alleys in the area. Accessing the market is completely free of charge, all you have to carry with you are your bargaining skills.
10. Best Places to Visit in Nairobi for Couples – Dinner at Carnivore
The Carnivore located at Lang’ata Road is undoubtedly one of the world’s finest open-air restaurants. The exquisite location is only 5 kilometers away from the Town Centre. Dining here is an experience you will live to narrate to your friends.
The thing that stands out most of the restaurant is the serene atmosphere the place has to offer. This is the place to be if you are among the type that values the rich taste of game meat. For those who have not tried game meat yet, how about having a taste of the Ostrich or the crocodile?
11. Things to Do in Nairobi Today – Go Karting
This place is for those who have a high need for speed. People who are passionate about racing will also have a blast here.
The facility gives people a ten-minute chance to race each other through windy tracks. For the ‘The Fast and Furious’ fans, this is the chance to recreate those Vin Diesel scenes.
12. Fun Things to Do in Nairobi as a Couple – Go Skating
The person who said there is no ice in East Africa had probably never visited the Panari Sky Centre. People who have previously visited the country highly commend the place for its class and elegance.
The facility is a few meters away, 2m to be exact, from the airport and so you could make this your last stop before heading back home. Opening times at the Panari Sky Centre are varying, so make it a point to double-check with them at their official website.
Moreover, you will be excited to know that the facility also doubles up as a hotel.
13. Things to Do in Nairobi for a Day – Art Collections
Are you one of those interested in learning about the rich Kenyan culture? The Banana Hill Art Gallery is the right stopover for you. The art gallery houses some of the country’s best paintings.
The place is just a minute away from the Village market. You will get to share in the beauty and marvels of art. The mesmerizing antiques will surely take your breath away. The Kenyan Art Collection unquestionably deserves to be on your list of fun things to do in Nairobi for a day.
14. Unique Places to Visit in Nairobi – Theatres
Do art and culture fascinate you? If yes then you will be thrilled to know that the country has a string of local theaters just waiting for you. Make it a point to visit the Alliance Francois, the Kenya National Theatre, and the Phoenix Players.
The theaters listed above are some of the best in the East African Region.
15. Fun Places to Visit in Kenya – Kenya National Archives
The Kenyan National Archives is located at the center of the country’s city. This is a bonus in that apart from learning about the exciting history of the country you also get to experience the impressiveness of the country’s capital city. With the best travel agency, you will have the country’s history at your full disposal.