Exploring the Wild Wonders of Nairobi Safari Tours and Beyond
As the safari capital of Africa, Nairobi has plenty of safari activities for its visitors to see and participate in. From the Nairobi National Park to wildlife sanctuaries, history museums, world-class hotels, and cultural markets tourists have plenty of activities to fill their day. And when night comes, the city is lit with residents and visitors gathering at trendy clubs and pulsating discos to celebrate life.
Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime!
Beyond the bustling city, you can dive into the heart of Kenya to discover the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures. What exactly can you expect when you embark on a Nairobi safari tour? Let’s find out below.
Book your Tour From Nairobi With Us
To book your safari from Nairobi package, we invite you to contact us via phone or WhatsApp at +254-704-532-105. You can also connect with us via email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
Our senior consultant James Gatheru is available to discuss and help you shape your safari itinerary so you get top value for your money.
Tours From Nairobi - Photos by Our Clients
Discovering Nairobi's Top Safari Destinations - Single-Day Adventures
As Kenya’s bustling capital, Nairobi provides access to numerous iconic safari destinations worldwide. While most international visitors come to the capital via the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, others access it via road from other nations or through the port city of Mombasa.
A typical Kenya safaris package may include:
- Day trips around the city to explore its wildlife sanctuaries and other attractions. These trips are an excellent option for travellers with limited time
- Multi-day tours from Nairobi to explore its national parks.
We’ll cover multi-day tours to Kenyan safari parks a little later but for now, let’s check out the top attractions within the city
Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park, a unique wildlife sanctuary, is located just a few minutes from the bustling city. It offers the chance to observe a variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and rhinos, within city confines. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for the numerous bird species, such as ostriches, eagles, and secretary birds, that call this sanctuary home.
Don’t miss the chance to marvel at the park’s stunning attractions, including soaring cliffs, gorges, rock towers, the hippo pool, and the historical ivory-burning site
Nairobi National Park is a true testament to the harmony between urban development and wildlife conservation, making it an exceptional destination for a Nairobi Kenya safari. For tourists trooping in from Nairobi airport, it’s an ideal starting point for a safari from Nairobi.
Bomas of Kenya
Culture buffs will have a wonderful time at the Bomas of Kenya. This living museum displays and celebrates the various tribes of Kenya by showcasing their music, art and handicrafts, village life, and cultures. Utamaduni restaurant in Bomas of Kenya prepares sumptuous meals derived from the different cultures of Kenya so you can taste a bit of Kenyan culture.
Giraffe Center
A short drive from the city centre and near the Nairobi National Park is the Giraffe Center, home to the critically endangered Rothschild giraffe. Thanks to the giraffe-height wooden structures you can watch these towering animals up close and allow them to feed directly from your hands. You might even spot warthogs scavenging on fallen pallets around the giraffes’ hooves. Away from the giraffes, you can embark on self-guided walking safaris along the serene 1.5km nature trail down to the Gogo River.
Other attractions in Nairobi include the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the National Museum of Kenya, and the Karen Blixen Museum.
Other Unique Wildlife Encounters Near Nairobi
Unforgettable wildlife experiences can be found at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of African wildlife. The trust operates an elephant orphanage and also cares for rhinos. Visitors have the rare opportunity to observe and interact with these incredible animals in a controlled environment.
Other unique wildlife encounters near Nairobi include the Nairobi Safari Walk, where you can explore a raised boardwalk through a variety of habitats, and the Karen Blixen Museum. The Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the renowned author and her love for Kenya’s wildlife. These experiences allow you to gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse wildlife that calls Nairobi home and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
Discovering Top Kenya Safari Destinations – Multi-Day Adventures
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, multi-day safari tours provide the perfect opportunity. Ranging from 3-day excursions to extended 12-day adventures, these tours offer a comprehensive exploration of Kenya’s top national parks and game reserves.
Multi-day tour packages often include comfortable accommodations allowing you to experience the thrill of waking up surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll have the opportunity to witness incredible wildlife encounters, such as the Great Migration in the Masai Mara.
Luxury Safari Experiences
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and indulgence, luxury safari experiences offer the finest accommodations, personalized services, and unique wildlife encounters in Kenya’s premier safari destinations. Focusing on exclusivity and exceptional hospitality, luxury lodges and tented camps cater to guests seeking unforgettable experiences in the heart of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
In addition to the opulent accommodations and fine dining, luxury safari experiences often include:
- Private game drives with expert guides
- Witnessing Kenya’s incredible wildlife in an intimate and personalized setting
- Indulgent spa treatments amid the African savannah
Best Safari Parks Outside of Nairobi
Journeying beyond Nairobi’s city limits allows you to explore and witness the magic of African wildlife in their natural habitats in Kenya’s national parks. Popular wildlife parks include the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary, Tsavo National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Samburu Game Reserve.
Each park provides unique wildlife encounters and stunning scenery and can take longer than a day to explore fully. Imagine the thrill of spotting lions, elephants, and rhinos roaming freely against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, or witnessing thousands of flamingos painting the shores of Lake Nakuru a vibrant pink hue. The opportunities for awe-inspiring encounters with nature are endless on Nairobi safari tours!
Masai Mara National Reserve
Known for its expansive plains and abundant wildlife, the Masai Mara is home to the “Big Five” game animals—the African elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The game reserve is served by two major rivers, the most prominent being the Mara River where hippos and crocodiles lurk beneath the surface.
Masai Mara and the Serengeti National Park have gained world renown because of the enthralling Great Wildebeest Migration. Imagine standing in the middle of the Masai Mara National Reserve and witnessing thousands of wildebeest and other mammals on their 800 km-plus perilous journey across East Africa.
The Great Migration, which occurs from July to October, makes this period the most popular time to visit the Masai Mara. Everything is dramatic – from the thundering hooves to the million-plus moving across the savannah to the dramatic river crossings, and intense predator-prey interactions. It’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed!
The Masai Mara serves as both a wildlife haven and a cultural gem. Home to the Maasai people, visitors have the opportunity to engage in enriching cultural experiences, gaining insight into the traditional way of life of this fascinating tribe. From the rolling hills and iconic acacia trees to the vibrant Maasai culture, the Masai Mara National Reserve is a must-visit destination on a Kenya safari. And the perfect backdrop for wildlife photography.
Amboseli National Park
Nicknamed “The Land of the Giants,” Amboseli National Park, is renowned for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Africa’s highest peak. Situated at the base of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is a tapestry of habitats including arid bush, grasslands, meadow forests, woodlands, swamps, and seasonal lakes.
As you traverse Amboseli National Park, you’ll encounter a variety of wildlife species, including:
- Elephants
- Cape buffalo
- Impala
- Lion
- Cheetah
- African Wild dogs
On a clear day, the park offers unparalleled views of Mount Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peaks, providing an unforgettable backdrop for your wildlife sightings. Amboseli Park is an excellent choice for travellers seeking awe-inspiring landscapes and close encounters with Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
Lake Nakuru National Park & Hell’s Gate National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park offers:
- Flamingo-covered shores
- Diverse wildlife such as rhinos, lions, and leopards
- A captivating pink oasis
- An alkaline lake that attracts a myriad of bird species, including flamingoes, pelicans, and kingfishers
- A mesmerising spectacle for birdwatchers and nature lovers
In addition to the enchanting birdlife, Lake Nakuru National Park, a renowned game reserve, is also home to the endangered black and white rhinos offering visitors the chance to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Just a few hours from Kenya’s capital city is Hell’s Gate National Park—the one park in Kenya that you can actually explore on foot. With superb scenery and evocative landscapes comprising cliffs, rock towers, gorged gauges, and plumes of geothermal steam, Hell’s Gate is ideal for cycling, rock climbing, bird watching, and exploration.
Both Hell’s Gate and Lake Nakuru national parks are located in Nakuru county, just under 3 hour’s drive from Nairobi. You can incorporate visits to these destinations in your tour package of the Maasai Mara.
Tsavo National Park
Centuries ago two maneless lions preyed on Mombasa – Uganda railway construction workers and managed to kill more than 35 of them. The situation was so bad that the project came to a temporary halt—until Lt. Col. Patterson hunted and killed these Man-eating lions of Tsavo.
Tsavo National Park, Kenya’s oldest and largest wildlife reserve was split into Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. It’s home to the Big 5, cheetahs, wild dogs, wild cats, bushbucks, elands, giraffes, African savanna hares, jackals, Zebras, and bird species among many others.
Tsavo East is mostly flat with dry plains making it ideal for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and guided walking safaris. Tsavo East can be accessed by road and air, unlike Tsavo West which is only accessible via road transportation.
The rugged wilderness that makes Tsavo West National Park comprises belts of riverine vegetation, scrublands, woodlands, rocky ridges, open grasslands and the Mzima springs. The mixed habitat makes Tsavo West National Park feel lusher. Both parks offer a thrilling safari experience for the adventurous traveller.
Samburu Game Reserve
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari from Nairobi then the Samburu Game Reserve should make your best Kenya safaris list. Here, savannahs, forests, and mountains combine beautifully and can be a refreshing break from the typical endless plains of Maasai Mara and other national parks.
Samburu Game Reserve is home to a unique set of wildlife species that include the striped hyena, gerenuk, Grevy Zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa Oryx, and Somali Ostrich. Those alongside African wild dogs, elephants, leopards, and lions.
The game reserve has fewer lodges and fewer visitors which means you won’t be tripping over other tourists to capture magical moments. Or worse, have a bunch of tour vehicles spoil what would have been an epic predator-prey scene.
Planning Your Nairobi Adventure & Tour From Nairobi
Before setting out on your tours from Nairobi, consider several factors, including:
- The optimal time to visit
- Budget
- Tour operator
- Accommodation preferences
- Park entrance fees
The dry season (December– February and June – August) is generally considered the best time to visit Nairobi for Kenya safaris, as wildlife sightings are more frequent and the weather is more favourable for outdoor activities.
When planning your budget for a Kenya safari, keep in mind that Kenya safari packages typically include:
- Accommodations – options range from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious tented camps
- Transportation – private tour in a luxury 4*4 or shared tour van
- Meals – full board meals
- Activities such as walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris and boast safaris as they apply
All of these factors can influence the overall cost of your trip. Additionally, air transfers from airstrips in the various parks to Nairobi airport can be expensive but significantly reduce travel time. This means you’ll have the chance to maximise your safari experience.
When selecting a tour operator, ensure they are reputable, knowledgeable, and have a strong focus on safety. While at it, find one that’s committed to sustainable tourism practices.
Cultural Experiences on Nairobi Safari Tours
A tour from Nairobi offers more than just wildlife encounters; it also provides an immersive experience in the rich local culture. By visiting Maasai villages and engaging with local communities, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of traditional customs and ways of life.
One way to engage with local communities is by participating in cultural activities, such as exploring the Maasai culture in the South Rift Valley. Supporting local businesses and respecting local customs and traditions is also essential for fostering positive relationships with the communities you visit.
You can also explore Nairobi’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, shopping for unique souvenirs at local markets and supporting the talented artisans who create them.
Safety Tips for Your Nairobi Safari Tour
To guarantee safe and enjoyable Kenya safaris in our national parks, it’s important to adhere to safety guidelines and select a reliable tour operator. Look for a reputable tour operator who prioritizes your safety, provides a well-maintained safari vehicle and uses experienced guides.
Before you embark on your tour from Nairobi, check the safari van or land cruiser jeep offered by the operator. The vehicle should have seatbelts and roll bars for your safety and feel comfortable too.
Lastly, follow the safety instructions given by your guide, as they have an intimate understanding of wildlife behaviour and can help you avoid danger.
Should you go out on a stroll by yourself, always be aware of what’s going on around you. Pick-pocketing is real, so you’ll want to limit the amount of cash you carry, just in case.
Sustainable Tourism in Nairobi Safaris
Responsible travellers ought to champion sustainable tourism in Nairobi safaris, which includes endorsing eco-friendly practices, interacting with local communities, and respecting wildlife and their habitats. By choosing tour operators and accommodations that prioritize sustainability and conservation efforts, you can help ensure the long-term viability of tourism and its impact.
Some ways to support eco-friendly practices in Nairobi safaris include reducing waste, utilizing renewable energy sources, and minimizing water consumption. Additionally, engage with local communities by participating in cultural activities, supporting local businesses, and respecting local customs and traditions.
When it comes to wildlife encounters, avoid contact with wild animals, do not feed them, and stay on designated trails. Be aware of the impact of your actions on the environment and take steps to minimise your impact. In so doing you’ll be contributing to the preservation of Nairobi’s incredible wildlife and the communities that depend on them.
Summary
Embarking on a Nairobi safari tour is an unforgettable adventure that offers a unique blend of captivating wildlife encounters, immersive cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose a day trip or an extended multi-day safari Nairobi’s top safari destinations promise an awe-inspiring journey into the heart of Kenya’s iconic wildernesses. With a focus on responsible travel and supporting local communities and conservation efforts, your safari can leave a positive impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Safari Cost in Nairobi?
You can experience an unforgettable safari in Nairobi for as little as US$299 per person per night, but to enjoy peak season attractions with exceptional guides prices can go up to US$2000!
Can You Go on Safari From Nairobi?
Yes, you can absolutely go on safari from Nairobi! You can take a day trip to Nairobi National Park and other attractions in the city like the elephant orphanage. Or, you can travel further out to Ol Pejeta Wildlife Sanctuary, Tsavo East & West National Parks, Maasai Mara, and Samburu National Park. You can expect to see a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and more.
What Is the Best Safari in Nairobi?
The best safari in Nairobi is the awe-inspiring Maasai Mara National Reserve. Masai Mara Safari allows you to marvel at its vast savannahs and abundance of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and elephants. A wildebeest migration masai mara safari package allows you to witness the remarkable annual migration of wildebeest and zebra.
What Is the Best Time To Visit Nairobi for a Safari Tour?
Favourable weather conditions to visit Nairobi for a Safari tour are in July to October. This is the dry season and is ideal for wildlife sightings.
What Types of Accommodations Are Available for Nairobi Safari Tours?
Experience Nairobi safari tours in style, with a wide range of accommodations available from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious tented camps and eco-friendly options!