3 Days in Nairobi: The Ultimate Adventure Guide for Nature and Fun

We spent three days in Nairobi as part of our Kenya trip, and it was a blast. The city offers a mix of nature, activities, and culture that kept us busy. From wildlife encounters to exploring vibrant markets, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family, Nairobi is worth your time.

Why Choose Nairobi for Your Trip

Nairobi is a great mix of nature and city life. It’s perfect for couples, families, and budget travelers. The city has something for everyone. You can explore wildlife parks, dive into local culture, or just relax. Plus, it’s easy to get around and affordable.

For photographers, Nairobi is a dream. The landscapes are stunning, and the wildlife is up close. If you’re traveling with your family, there are plenty of kid-friendly spots too. Nairobi offers a lot without breaking the bank.

Day 1: Wildlife and Nature Escapades

We started our trip with nature adventures. Nairobi is famous for its wildlife experiences.

Nairobi National Park

This park is unique because it’s so close to the city. You can see lions, giraffes, and rhinos with skyscrapers in the background! We took a morning game drive here—it costs about $43 per adult and less for kids. Bring your camera; the animals are amazing to photograph.

Giraffe Centre

Next stop was the Giraffe Centre. It’s a fun place where you can feed giraffes by hand! Entry costs about $15 per adult, but it’s worth it for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Families will love this spot as kids can interact with these gentle giants.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

In the afternoon, we visited this elephant orphanage. Baby elephants stole our hearts as they played in the mud! Entry requires an advance booking online at around $7 per person, so plan ahead.

Day 1 was all about getting close to nature while staying near the city. It set the tone for an exciting trip.

Day 2: Exploring the City’s Culture and Markets

The second day was all about diving into Nairobi’s culture.

Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC)

We started at KICC for panoramic views of Nairobi from its rooftop helipad. Tickets cost around $4 per person, making it budget-friendly yet memorable. Don’t forget your camera—the view is fantastic!

Maasai Market

Later, we headed to Maasai Market to shop for souvenirs like jewelry and crafts made by locals. The market moves locations daily, so check online before going. Bargaining here is expected—don’t be shy!

Uhuru Park

In the afternoon, we relaxed at Uhuru Park in downtown Nairobi. This green space is free to enter and perfect if you want downtime after shopping or exploring.

Day 2 showed us another side of Nairobi—its vibrant culture and bustling markets mixed with peaceful spots like Uhuru Park.

Day 3: Relaxing and Wrapping Up the Adventure

On our last day in Nairobi, we decided to slow down. After two busy days, it was time to relax and enjoy the city at a calmer pace.

Karura Forest

We started the morning with a visit to Karura Forest, a peaceful green escape just outside the city center. It’s perfect for walking, jogging, or even cycling. Entry costs around $5 per person, and it’s worth every penny. The forest is full of trails, waterfalls, and shaded picnic spots.

We took an easy hike and enjoyed the sound of birds chirping. Families will love how kid-friendly this place is—there’s plenty of open space for children to run around.

The Village Market

For lunch, we headed to The Village Market, a shopping and dining spot that’s both modern and laid-back. We tried some local dishes at one of its restaurants but also noticed options for international cuisines if you’re not feeling adventurous with food. After eating, we strolled through shops selling everything from clothes to handmade crafts.

Bomas of Kenya

In the afternoon, we visited Bomas of Kenya, a cultural center showcasing traditional Kenyan life. Entry fees are about $10 per adult. Here, you can see replicas of tribal villages and watch cultural performances like music and dance shows. It’s a fun way to learn about Kenya’s diverse heritage without leaving Nairobi.

Relaxation Time

As evening approached, we returned to our hotel for some downtime by the pool before packing up. If you're planning your own trip, take this as a reminder: leave some room in your itinerary for rest—it makes all the difference!

Day 3 was calm yet fulfilling—a perfect wrap-up to our Nairobi adventure.

Until We Meet Again, Nairobi

Nairobi surprised us in so many ways. In just three days, we experienced wildlife encounters that felt straight out of National Geographic, explored vibrant markets filled with culture, and found peaceful green spaces right in the heart of the city.

This Kenyan capital offers something special for everyone—whether you’re traveling as a couple looking for unique experiences or bringing your family along for an unforgettable adventure on a budget. Plus, it’s an incredible destination for photographers who want stunning shots of animals and landscapes.

If you’re planning your next trip but haven’t considered Nairobi yet—do it! This city has left us with memories that will last forever. Until next time!