Best Day Trips from Nairobi

Kenya is a country with it all; there are beaches, safaris, mountains, a thriving capital, 5-star accommodations, etc. Unlike most travelers visiting Kenya, I passed on the safari, as I was coming from Tanzania and just did one there. This left me scrambling to find non-safari related day trips to occupy my time while in Nairobi. Below, I’ll highlight my three favorite day trips from Nairobi.

1) Giraffe Centre  

Located just 20 kilometers from the city center is Giraffe Centre , a place where you can actually feed giraffes. I’ve been to many parks/zoos in my life, but never have I been able to feed a giraffe! Coming from a three-day safari in Tanzania where I was a spectator from the vehicle, I was itching for some interaction with animals, and this was the perfect place. After you pay for your ticket, an employee will give you some food in a small cup for the giraffes, and you’re on your own from there. Enjoy the fun!

2) Hell’s Gate National Park + Lake Naivasha 

Hell’s Gate National Park is named after a narrow break in the cliffs, once a tributary of a prehistoric lake that fed early humans in the Rift Valley, which lies 100 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. This park is a perfect day trip from Nairobi, especially those that enjoying cycling. Here, you can rent a bike and ride around the park, which is the perfect way to explore. Afterwards, head on over to Lake Naivasha and take a boat ride. This is a great opportunity to see hippos, eagles, and other animals up close. Hell’s Gate and Lake Naivasha are usually combined as a tour, which can be booked on TripAdvisor, Viator, etc for about $120. 

3) Mt. Longonot 

A hidden gem in Kenya for sure! Named after the Maasai word “Oloonong’ot”, meaning “mountains of many spurs” or “steep ridges”, Mt. Longonot hosts some of the most stunning views in Kenya. This stratovolcano is located about 60 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It takes about four to five hours to trek around the entire crater. Just make sure to bring extra layers! It gets cold up there!

If you’re limited on time and only have time for one day trip, I recommend Mount Longonot, assuming you’re not climbing Mount Kenya later. If you are climbing Mount Kenya, I’d opt for Giraffe Centre.