If you have free time to take a one day trip from Nairobi, there are many options from which to choose. Hells Gate National Park is my personal favourite because you can either visit or stay at Lake Naivasha which is such a stunning location. But if you want to go on a wildlife safari, this particular park is nowhere near as interesting as some of the options I will tell you about in this post.
Here’s my top picks for the best day trips from Nairobi for you to consider.
1. Cycling in Hell’s Gate National Park
Imagine cycling through a park where the landscape feels straight out of a movie set—Hell’s Gate National Park is just that! Located near Naivasha, it’s a unique spot where you can bike alongside zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. No need for a guide in a vehicle; you’re free to explore on two wheels. The towering cliffs, gorges, and geothermal steam vents add to the dramatic scenery. It’s an adventurous yet laid-back way to enjoy Kenya’s natural beauty, especially when you stop to take in the views at landmarks like Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower. This is also a relatively relaxed day trip from Nairobi because the drive time is kept to a minimum.
2. Hike Mount Longonot from Nairobi (1 Day Trip)
If you’re up for a challenge and looking for day trips from Nairobi, hiking Mount Longonot is a must-do. Just an hour’s drive from Nairobi, this hike offers a fantastic escape from the city. The trail is steep and will get your heart pumping, but the reward is worth every step. Once you reach the crater rim, the panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and the lush greenery below are simply breathtaking. The hike around the crater is an adventure in itself, making it a perfect one-day getaway that mixes a workout with some serious scenery.
3. Amboseli National Park: One Day Trip from Nairobi
Dreaming of seeing elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro as the backdrop? A day trip to Amboseli National Park from Nairobi makes that dream a reality. Sure, it’s a bit of a drive compared to other day trips from Nairobi—about four hours each way—but once you’re there, the sight of massive elephant herds roaming the plains is unforgettable. The park’s swamps and savannas are teeming with wildlife, from giraffes to lions, making every moment a photo opportunity. And let’s not forget the birdlife; over 400 species can be spotted here. It’s a long day, but the memories are worth it.
4. Wildlife Safari in Nairobi National Park
Fancy a safari without leaving the city? Nairobi National Park is your answer. Just a stone’s throw from the city center, this park is a haven for wildlife. Picture this: lions, rhinos, and giraffes roaming freely with the Nairobi skyline in the background—it’s a surreal experience! The park is small enough to explore in a few hours, but it packs a punch with the diversity of animals you can see. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape or a tourist with a tight schedule, a safari here offers a slice of Kenya’s wild side without the travel. Given the location, this is certainly the most accessible day trips from Nairobi when it comes to a wildlife safari.
5. Lake Nakuru Day Tour from Nairobi
A day trip from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru is a bird lover’s paradise, but there’s so much more to see. The lake is famous for its flocks of flamingos, turning the shores pink when they’re in season. But that’s just the beginning. The surrounding national park is home to rhinos, lions, and leopards, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts. The drive from Nairobi is about two and a half hours, and once you’re there, the mix of landscapes—from dense forests to sweeping grasslands—keeps the adventure exciting. It’s a perfect day out for anyone looking to experience Kenya’s natural beauty.
