So you’re only in Nairobi for a few days, you want to have some authentically Nairobi experiences but not sure where to start. Not to worry, we have you covered! Here are 10 fun places to visit in Nairobi on a short trip.  

10 Fun Places to Visit in Nairobi on a Short Trip 

Nairobi is no ordinary capital. It’s the only city in the world with a national park on its doorstep, a thriving cultural scene, and decades of history layered into every landmark. 

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a short layover, Nairobi has a lot to offer—and each experience comes with a backstory that makes it even more compelling.

Here’s your guide to 10 fun places to visit in Nairobi—each packed with history, heart, and just the right amount of adventure.

1. Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park established in 1946, was Kenya’s first national park—and one of the first in East Africa. It was established to protect wildlife threatened by rapid urban development.

So what makes Nairobi National park so special? 

Where else can you spot a pride of lions with skyscrapers in the background? With over 100 mammal species, including black rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes, this park is a wild oasis in the middle of a bustling city. It’s a photographer’s dream and a conservation success story.

2. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage)

In memory of her husband, David Sheldrick, the founding warden of Tsavo East National Park, Daphne created this haven in 1977 to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned baby elephants and rhinos whose mothers were victims of poaching.

Folks, prepare to fall in love! Watching these baby elephants bottle-feed, play in the mud, and gradually heal is an emotional and educational experience. You’re not just visiting a sanctuary—you’re witnessing second chances in action.

3. Giraffe Centre

Giraffe centre on the other hand was established in 1979 by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville to conserve the endangered Rothschild giraffe, whose numbers were critically low in the 1970s.

This conservation success story lets you get up close and personal with these gentle giants. You can feed them, pet them, and even get a giraffe “kiss” if you’re brave enough. 

It’s fun, interactive, and deeply meaningful.

4. Nairobi National Museum

While the current National museum building has fairly recently been renovated, the Nairobi national museum was actually established in 1929. Created by the East Africa Natural History Society to showcase Kenya’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage.

What makes this a must-see Nairobi activity?

Fossils of early humans, tribal artifacts, art galleries, and taxidermy displays—it’s a crash course in everything Kenya. 

Don’t miss the Hominid Vault where remains of early humans like Homo habilis are kept. It’s like stepping into a time machine.

5. Mamba Village Nairobi

Fifth on our list is Mamba village, established in the early 1990s. It was created to offer crocodile farming for conservation and tourism, while also providing a fun, family-friendly recreational space.

Why is this spot on our list?

Want to see a 200 kg croc launch itself out of the water for a chunk of meat? This is the place. You can even carry baby crocodiles – so cool!

You’ll also find ostriches, a boating pond, and a peaceful environment for unwinding—great for families and first-time visitors.

6. Karura Forest

This beautiful living monument has been protected since 1932 and revitalized in the early 2000s thanks to environmentalist Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize winner.

Karura was once threatened by land grabs, but thanks to activism championed by Wangari Maathai, it was saved and turned into a protected urban forest.

This is the perfect spot to walk, jog, or cycle through quiet trails surrounded by waterfalls, ancient caves, and native trees. It’s a green escape in the middle of the city, and a tribute to Kenya’s environmental heroes.

7. Bomas of Kenya

Bomas of Kenya was established in 1971 by the Government of Kenya to preserve and celebrate Kenya’s cultural diversity through traditional music, dance, architecture, and storytelling. 

Bomas means homes/houses, so you’ll get a chance to see different houses from different tribes.

More than just a performance venue, Bomas offers a cultural deep-dive into over 40 ethnic groups in Kenya. The dances are high-energy, the costumes are authentic, and the experience is both educational and entertaining.

8. Village Market & Maasai Market

Coming close to the end of our list now we have one of the best malls in Kenya if not the BEST mall in Kenya. 

Originally built as a shopping and leisure hub for diplomats and expats, it has evolved into a vibrant mall for locals and tourists alike.

Village Market is a special place to visit for upscale shops, rooftop dining, and family-friendly entertainment. Depending on the day you go there, you might be treated to an open air market full of authentic Maasai bead and leather creations. 

Maasai Market, A mobile market (rotates locations weekly) where artisans sell handcrafted jewellery, bead work, paintings, and souvenirs.

9. Kazuri Beads Women’s Factory

Kazuri Beads Women’s Factory was established by Lady Susan Wood in 1975. Originally started as a small workshop to help single mothers earn a living, Kazuri has grown into an international social enterprise.

This is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Take a guided tour through the entire process—from moulding to painting to firing. Every bead is handmade, and every purchase supports a woman’s livelihood. It’s shopping with a soul.

10. Nairobi Railway Museum

Finally, we have the Nairobi Railway Museum established in 1971 by the East African Railways to preserve the legacy of the East African Railway, which played a vital role in Kenya’s colonial and post-independence development.

Here you’ll walk through actual train cars used in the early 1900s, including those involved in the construction of the “Lunatic Express.” It’s a time capsule for railway buffs, history lovers, and curious travellers alike.

Ready to Experience Nairobi with Meaning and Magic?

Each of these destinations is more than just a tourist attraction—they are part of Kenya’s living story. From wildlife rescue missions to cultural preservation and women’s empowerment, Nairobi offers rich, multi-layered experiences that go beyond the surface.

Our Nairobi Tour Package is specially curated to cover many of these incredible spots—so you don’t have to choose between fun and meaning. We handle the logistics while you soak up the culture, history, and unforgettable memories.

👉 Book your Nairobi tour today with Tribal Adventures and explore the city like a local—with heart, history, and a little bit of wild.