BlogA City Where the Wild Still Roams Free
If you think Nairobi is just a quick stopover before heading out to the Maasai Mara or Amboseli, think again.
This city is seriously cool — a unique mix of urban energy and wild safari vibes, where you can spot lions with skyscrapers in the background. Whether you have a full day, a few hours, or just want to get a taste of Kenya’s culture and nature before your safari kicks off, here are some of my favorite things to do in Nairobi — including a brand new must-visit: the Museum of Illusions!
Nairobi National Park – Safari… in the City!
Yep, you can go on a proper safari without even leaving town.
Just 15 minutes from downtown, Nairobi National Park is home to lions, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo — all doing their thing with the city skyline behind them. It’s surreal and worth doing, especially if you’re short on time but still want that Big Five thrill (minus elephants, though — they prefer bigger spaces).
Top Tip: Book an early morning or late afternoon game drive for the best wildlife sightings and magical lighting for your photos!
📍 Location: 15 minutes from Nairobi CBD
🕰️ Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Meet Baby Elephants
One of Nairobi’s most heart-melting experiences.
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust rescues orphaned baby elephants, raises them with lots of love, and eventually reintroduces them back into the wild.
If you visit between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm, you’ll get to see these adorable little ones being bottle-fed and rolling around in the mud.
Top Tip: You can even adopt an elephant and follow their journey! 🐘
📍 Location: Near Nairobi National Park
🕰️ Best Time: 11:00 AM (daily)
Giraffe Centre – Get a Giraffe Kiss
If you’ve ever dreamed of feeding a giraffe from your hand — or even getting a cheeky giraffe kiss — this is the place.
The Giraffe Centre focuses on conserving the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, and it’s such a fun, family-friendly stop. Grab a handful of pellets, hold it between your lips if you’re feeling brave, and wait for that slobbery smooch!
Top Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds — and the giraffes are hungriest in the morning!
📍 Location: Lang’ata, Nairobi
🕰️ Best Time: Morning
Karura Forest – Escape the City Rush
Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Karura Forest is Nairobi’s leafy secret oasis.
There are peaceful walking and cycling trails, waterfalls, bamboo groves, caves to explore, and loads of birdlife to spot.
It’s a perfect spot to relax, exercise, or enjoy a picnic in nature — right in the city!
Top Tip: Rent a bike and explore the longer trails if you have time.
📍 Location: Gigiri, Nairobi
🕰️ Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Karen Blixen Museum – Out of Africa Vibes
If you’ve read Out of Africa or seen the movie, you’ll love stepping into the real-life world of Karen Blixen.
The museum — her former home — is beautifully preserved and gives you a little peek into colonial Kenya, her life as a coffee farmer, and the stories that made her famous.
Top Tip: Pair a visit here with the nearby Giraffe Centre and Kazuri Beads Factory for a full ‘Karen’ day out.
📍 Location: Karen, Nairobi
🕰️ Best Time: Late morning
Bomas of Kenya – A Cultural Celebration
Want to experience Kenya’s rich, vibrant traditions without leaving Nairobi? Head over to Bomas of Kenya for energetic tribal dance performances, colorful costumes, and a journey through Kenya’s incredible cultural diversity.
You’ll also see traditional homestead replicas and get a deeper understanding of local life.
Top Tip: Catch the afternoon dance shows — they’re lively, colorful, and full of infectious energy.
📍 Location: Lang’ata, Nairobi
🕰️ Best Time: Afternoon
Kazuri Beads Factory – Beautiful Crafts, Big Heart
If you love meaningful souvenirs, you have to check out the Kazuri Beads Factory.
Here, you can watch artisans — mostly single mothers — creating beautiful handmade jewelry and ceramics. Each piece you buy helps support local women and their families.
Top Tip: Great place for gifts that actually make a difference.
📍 Location: Karen, Nairobi
🕰️ Best Time: Anytime
Nairobi Safari Walk – A Mini Safari in an Hour
If you don’t have time for a full game drive, the Nairobi Safari Walk is a fab alternative.
This raised boardwalk meanders through a wildlife sanctuary where you can spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, rhinos, and more — perfect for little adventurers (and big ones too).
Top Tip: It’s stroller-friendly and a great option for families!
📍 Location: Near Nairobi National Park
🕰️ Best Time: Morning or late afternoon
Museum of Illusions Nairobi – Mind-Bending Fun
Brand new and seriously cool, the Museum of Illusions in Nairobi’s Westlands is an absolute must-visit!
Get ready for a reality-bending experience with mind-boggling exhibits, gravity-defying rooms, and Insta-worthy photo ops around every corner. Perfect if you’re looking for something different to do in the city.
Top Tip: Bring your camera — you’ll want to snap everything!
📍 Location: Westgate Shopping Mall, Westlands
🕰️ Best Time: Late morning or afternoon
Nairobi: More Than Just a Stopover
Honestly, Nairobi has so much more going for it than most travelers realize.
From game drives and giraffe kisses to elephant cuddles and illusion rooms, this city packs a serious punch when it comes to adventure and culture.
So don’t just pass through — give Nairobi a chance to surprise you. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Need help planning your Nairobi adventures? Let Classic Explorers craft your perfect city safari!
