So, you’ve decided to embark on a trip to Kenya: obtained all the necessary Visa information, made hotel reservations, and are now packing your bags, but you are still not sure what things to do and see?
Kenya is a magical destination with much to offer tourists and travelers. This sometimes makes it hard for visitors to decide on activities, especially when they only have a few days or weeks!
If you are still wondering where to start, below is a list of the top day trips from Kenya’s capital, Nairobi.
Note: Covid-19 has changed the way we travel. Planning in advance and checking travel restrictions for different destinations is essential. If you need a Kenyan Tourist Visa, you can learn more about it and Apply Online via Byevisa.
Top day trips to take from Nairobi
1. History & Cultural Traveler
Photo Credit Travel Discover Kenya: traveldiscoverkenya.com
The Bomas of Kenya
If you are curious about Kenyan culture and its communities, then The Bomas of Kenya is a must-visit. You will experience their diversity here through music, dances, and traditional architecture.
Maasai Markets
Maasai Markets are open-air markets in Nairobi where people see and buy gifts such as jewelry, wood carvings, paintings, drawings, beads, clothes and fabrics, necklaces, sisal bags, and more. They are held in different city locations throughout the week.
Nairobi National Museum
The Nairobi National Museum is a great destination for exhibits on Kenya’s history, wildlife, culture, and contemporary art.
National Archives
Built in 1906, The National Archives is the custodian of Kenyan Government archives and records. It has a collection of tribal weaponry, stamps, masks, artifacts, instruments, clothes, and other ancient items from all over Africa. This attraction is located along Moi Avenue opposite the Hilton Hotel.
Nairobi Walking Tours
Every city has a history – dark, fun, and interesting – and Nairobi is no exception. If you are keen on such, you can join a city walking tour and wander along the streets as you understand its past and present. Some of the city attractions include old buildings, monuments, and parks.
2. Day Trips for Safari & Wildlife Lovers
There is a saying among tourists: “You haven’t been to Africa if you haven’t seen the Big Five”. While this is not entirely true, a trip to Kenya is more memorable after sighting the Big Five. Some of the best places to visit in a day include;
- Nairobi national park
- Maasai Mara national park
- Amboseli national park
- Daphne Sheldrick elephant orphanage
- The Giraffe Center
- Lake Nakuru National Park
3. Adventure Travelers & Hikers
Mount Satima in the Aberdares
The Aberdares
Aberdare ranges are home to a number of mountains and hiking trails. To an avid adventurer, this is home. One can hike up some of the highest peaks in Kenya while experiencing the best of nature. The Elephant Hill, Mt. Satima, Rurimeria moorland, and Mt. Kinangop are darling to most hikers.
Beginner’s Paradise
Ngong Hills near Nairobi and Mt Longonot along the rift valley are great hiking destinations for a moderate day.
The Forest Kereita
Kereita Forest “The Forest” is a place for adrenaline junkies. At Kereita hours from Nairobi, you can choose between several activities including zip-lining, bike riding, archery, paintballing, nature walks, and horse riding.
Other top spots for adventurers
- Ngare Ngare forest: Nature walks, Natural swimming pools, canopy walks, and more.
- Hell’s gate national park: Rock climbing, bike riding, hiking, and exploring gorges.
4. The Relaxed Tourist
Diani Beach by Diani Backpackers
A trip doesn’t have to be all about history, nature, and adventure. In fact, you don’t have to climb Mt. Kenya or visit Maasai Mara to experience Kenya’s magic.
Watching sunsets, sunrises, and feeling the sand beneath your feet along the Kenyan Coast is as memorable. Diani Beach, Mombasa, Kilifi, and Watamu are some of the best coastal destinations.
5. Roadtrippers
Photo Credit Peter Ndung’u: petersize10.com
Yes, besides Big Five Safaris and mountains, Kenya has a number of fun road trip destinations. Whether you are in a hired car or an overland truck, you can be sure to experience the hinterland by road. Below are some of the best road trips in Kenya.
Drive to lake Turkana western side
Lake Turkana, known as the world’s largest permanent desert lake, can be accessed either on the Eastern or Western side. A road trip on the western side takes you through scenic destinations of the rift valley and Turkana land.
Trip to the Northern Frontier
The road from Nairobi to Moyale – Part of the Great North Road – takes you through some of the best places in Kenya. Along the road, a traveler can stop and explore the Chalbi desert or hike up Mt. Ololokwe.
Travel Tip
Now that you have your visa ready, made reservations, and decided on Day Trips, read more about what to know before traveling to Kenya.
Enjoy your trip!
Featured image courtesy of The Forest Kereita
