The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a sanctuary for orphaned elephants and other wildlife. Families can watch feeding sessions, learn about the conservation work, and even adopt an elephant.
Nairobi National Park is one of the only national parks in the world located within a city's boundaries. It's a great spot for families to spot lions, zebras, giraffes, and other wildlife.
The Giraffe Centre allows visitors to feed and interact with giraffes in their natural habitat. Afterward, families can stop by Mamba Village to learn about crocodile breeding and see crocs from hatchlings to adults.
Karen Blixen Museum is home to exhibits about the author of "Out of Africa" and Kenya's colonial history. The nearby Nairobi National Museum offers exhibits on Kenyan culture, history, and art.
Karura Forest is a tranquil oasis in the city. Families can rent bikes, hike, or birdwatch along the peaceful trails. The forest also features a waterfall and caves to explore.
Maasai Market offers an array of handicrafts and souvenirs from local artisans. Afterward, families can check out Bomas of Kenya to learn about the country's diverse native cultures through traditional dances, songs, and architecture.
Spend the last day in Nairobi exploring any attractions missed earlier in the trip. Families can take a hot air balloon ride or visit the Nairobi Arboretum for some nature walks and picnics.
To get around Nairobi, families can hire a taxi, rent a car, or take public transportation. Taxis can be hailed on the street or ordered through an app like Uber or Bolt. Rental cars offer more flexibility but require an International Driver's License. Matatus (minibusses) are the most popular form of public transportation but can be crowded and unpredictable. Budget around Ksh3000 per day for transportation costs.
If families have more time, they can take a day trip to Lake Naivasha or the Maasai Mara National Reserve. If they have less time, they should prioritize the attractions based on their interests. Keep in mind that some attractions may have long lines or require advance booking. Always check the opening and closing hours for all the tourist locations and make sure you plan accordingly.
Nairobi's international airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), located 15 km southeast of the city centre. Another smaller airport, Wilson Airport (WIL), is located 6 km south of the city centre and serves domestic flights and some regional destinations. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and airport shuttle services are available to get to and from the airports. Plan to spend around Ksh2000 to Ksh5000 for airport transfers depending on the mode of transportation.