The short answer
- Time needed
- 1 full day
- Elephant orphanage
- Late morning public visit; book ahead
- Giraffe Centre
- KES 1,500, 9am to 5pm
- Nairobi National Park
- US$80 a day
Nairobi is the only capital city with a national park on its edge, where lions, rhinos and giraffes roam in front of the skyline. The best sights are in the south western suburbs near the park, so a day trip is easy to plan around flights.
A day in Nairobi
6:30
Nairobi National Park
An early game drive for rhinos, lions and giraffes with the city behind them. About US$80 per person.
11:00
Sheldrick elephant orphanage
Watch orphaned baby elephants being fed and learn about their rescue, in a one hour public visit. Booking ahead is required; about US$20.
13:00
Lunch in Karen
The leafy suburb near the park has garden restaurants.
14:30
Giraffe Centre
Feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes from a raised platform. KES 1,500 for adults, open 9am to 5pm.
16:00
Karen Blixen Museum
The farmhouse of the author of Out of Africa, at the foot of the Ngong Hills.
Where to stay
- Karen and Langata: Quiet, green and close to the park and these sights.
- Near the airport: Convenient for late arrivals and early flights.
- Westlands: Restaurants and nightlife, but further from the sights.
Rather have a trip to Kenya made just for you?
Answer a few quick questions and a local specialist will send you a free, no-obligation itinerary and price.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book the elephant orphanage?
Yes. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's public visit runs once a day in the late morning and must be booked in advance.
Is Nairobi National Park worth it?
Yes, as a half day before or after your safari. It is one of the best places in Kenya to see rhinos.
Sources we checked
Kenya month by month
More Kenya guides
Best time to visit Kenya: safari seasons, rains and the migration
June to October and January to February are the best months for a Kenya safari, with dry weather and animals gathered near water. July to October adds the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, at peak prices.
Updated 16 October 2026
The Great Migration in Kenya: when and where to see it
Around 1.5 million wildebeest, with zebras and gazelles, circle between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara. They are usually in the Mara from July to October, with river crossings peaking in August and September.
Updated 16 October 2026
How much does a Kenya safari cost? Prices, park fees and a calculator
Expect about US$150 to 250 per person per day on a budget safari, US$300 to 500 mid range and US$700 or more for luxury, including park fees. Park fees alone can be US$200 to 600 per person on a short Masai Mara trip.
Updated 16 October 2026
Masai Mara safari guide: reserve or conservancy, how long and how to get there
The Masai Mara is Kenya's most famous safari, with big cats all year and the Great Migration from July to October. Choose between the busy national reserve and quieter private conservancies, and allow at least two or three nights.
Updated 16 October 2026