Short Road Trips From Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital, is not just a gateway to world-famous safaris but also a hub for incredible short road trips. From the vibrant savannahs of Amboseli to the serene waters of Lake Naivasha, there is a wealth of natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure awaiting just a few hours’ drive from the city. Whether you’re a resident looking for a quick escape or a visitor eager to explore more of Kenya’s diverse landscapes, this guide to short road trips from Nairobi is your perfect companion.

1. Amboseli National Park: A Day Trip to the Foot of Kilimanjaro

Distance from Nairobi: 240 km (Approx. 4 hours by road)

Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, nature lovers

Activities:

• Game Drives: Amboseli is known for its large herds of elephants and the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. A game drive offers a chance to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and more.
• Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds, Amboseli is a bird watcher’s paradise. Look out for the African fish eagle, flamingos, and the rare Taita falcon.
• Cultural Tours: Visit a Maasai village to learn about the local culture, traditions, and way of life. You can engage in traditional dance, try Maasai beadwork, or even participate in a goat roasting ceremony.
• Photography: The stunning landscape with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background makes Amboseli a photographer’s dream. The contrast of the snow-capped peak against the African plains is simply mesmerizing.

Best Time to Visit: June to October during the dry season, when animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.

2. Lake Nakuru National Park: Flamingos and Rhinos Galore

Distance from Nairobi: 160 km (Approx. 2.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, bird watchers, families

Activities:

• Game Drives: Lake Nakuru is renowned for its population of black and white rhinos, lions, leopards, and large herds of buffaloes. The park is fenced to protect the animals from poachers, making it one of the best places in Kenya to see rhinos.
• Bird Watching: Lake Nakuru was once famous for its massive flocks of flamingos. While their numbers have decreased due to rising water levels, you can still spot thousands of these pink beauties, along with pelicans, cormorants, and over 400 other bird species.
• Makalia Falls: A short drive within the park takes you to the scenic Makalia Falls, a perfect spot for a picnic. The falls are especially impressive during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak.
• Viewpoints: The park has several viewpoints, such as Baboon Cliff and Lion Hill, offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding park. These are perfect spots to capture the beauty of Lake Nakuru.
• Walking Safaris: While most of the park is explored by vehicle, there are designated areas where you can take a guided walking safari, providing a more intimate experience with nature.

Best Time to Visit: The park is a year-round destination, but the dry season (July to September) offers the best wildlife viewing.

3. Lake Naivasha: A Serene Escape with a Dash of Adventure

Distance from Nairobi: 90 km (Approx. 1.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Nature lovers, bird watchers, families, couples

Activities:

• Boat Rides: Explore Lake Naivasha’s calm waters on a boat ride, where you can see hippos up close and spot a variety of birds, including African fish eagles, herons, and kingfishers.
• Crescent Island Game Sanctuary: Accessible by boat, this island is a hidden gem where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and more. It’s one of the few places in Kenya where you can enjoy a safari on foot.
• Hell’s Gate National Park: Just a short drive from Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate offers an adventurous escape with activities like hiking, rock climbing, and cycling through the dramatic gorge. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including buffaloes, zebras, and gazelles.
• Visit to Elsamere: Once the home of Joy Adamson, the author of Born Free, Elsamere is now a conservation center and museum. Enjoy a cup of tea by the lake as you learn about Joy and George Adamson’s work with wildlife.
• Bird Watching: Lake Naivasha is a birding hotspot with over 400 species. The lush vegetation around the lake makes it an ideal spot for bird watchers.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (July to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, but the lake and its surroundings are beautiful year-round.

4. Hell’s Gate National Park: Adventure and Scenic Beauty

Distance from Nairobi: 90 km (Approx. 1.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Adventurers, nature enthusiasts, families

Activities:

• Cycling: One of the unique features of Hell’s Gate is that visitors can cycle through the park. Renting a bike and cycling alongside zebras, gazelles, and warthogs is a thrilling experience.
• Rock Climbing: The park’s towering cliffs and gorges provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing. Fischer’s Tower and Central Tower are popular spots for both beginners and experienced climbers.
• Hiking: Explore the park on foot by hiking through its scenic gorges. The Ol Njorowa Gorge, with its hot springs and geothermal activity, is particularly fascinating. A guided tour is recommended for safety.
• Wildlife Viewing: While Hell’s Gate is not known for big predators, it is home to a variety of herbivores, such as buffaloes, zebras, elands, and antelopes. The lack of large predators makes it a safe environment for walking and cycling.
• Bird Watching: The park is a haven for bird watchers, with species like the Rüppell’s vulture, Verreaux’s eagle, and augur buzzard frequently spotted.

Best Time to Visit: Hell’s Gate is accessible year-round, but the dry season (June to October) is ideal for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking.

5. The Aberdare National Park: Misty Forests and Majestic Waterfalls

Distance from Nairobi: 160 km (Approx. 3 hours by road)

Ideal for: Hikers, nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts

Activities:

• Game Drives: The Aberdare National Park is known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and the elusive bongo antelope. The misty environment adds a touch of mystery to your safari.
• Waterfall Visits: The park is home to several stunning waterfalls, including the 300-meter Karuru Falls, the Gura Falls, and the Chania Falls. These are perfect spots for photography and picnics.
• Hiking and Nature Walks: The Aberdare Range offers excellent hiking opportunities. Trails vary from easy walks through the forest to more challenging hikes to the park’s peaks, such as Ol Donyo Lesatima and Kinangop.
• Fishing: The park’s rivers, particularly the Chania and Guru rivers, are popular spots for trout fishing. Enjoy a peaceful day by the riverbanks surrounded by nature.
• Treetop Lodges: If you decide to extend your trip, spend a night in one of the park’s unique treetop lodges, such as The Ark or Treetops. These lodges offer incredible views of wildlife at waterholes and salt licks, especially during the evening.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to September) is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, although the park’s misty atmosphere is present year-round.

6. Mount Longonot National Park: A Volcano Climb Close to the City

Distance from Nairobi: 70 km (Approx. 1.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Hikers, adventurers, nature lovers

Activities:

• Hiking: The main attraction at Mount Longonot is the hike to the crater’s rim. The trail is steep and challenging but rewards hikers with spectacular views of the crater, the Great Rift Valley, and Lake Naivasha in the distance.
• Crater Rim Walk: For those with extra energy, a walk around the crater rim offers even more stunning views. The circuit is about 7 km and can take 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelopes. While the animals tend to stay away from the hiking trails, you might spot some during your climb.
• Picnicking: After your hike, enjoy a well-deserved picnic at one of the designated picnic spots in the park. The fresh air and beautiful scenery make it a perfect place to relax and refuel.

Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to October) is the best time for hiking, as the trails are less slippery.

7. Ol Pejeta Conservancy: A Day Trip to See the Big Five

Distance from Nairobi: 200 km (Approx. 3.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, families, conservation enthusiasts

Activities:

• Game Drives: Ol Pejeta is one of the best places in Kenya to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). The conservancy is particularly famous for its large population of black and white rhinos, making it a prime destination for rhino enthusiasts. The game drives in Ol Pejeta offer close encounters with these majestic animals, along with giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and more.

• Visit to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Ol Pejeta is home to the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, where orphaned and rescued chimpanzees are rehabilitated. A visit to the sanctuary is both educational and heartwarming, offering insights into the efforts to protect these intelligent primates.
• Guided Walking Safaris: For a more immersive experience, join a guided walking safari where you can explore the conservancy on foot. Walking safaris provide a unique perspective on the flora and fauna of the region, allowing you to notice details often missed from a vehicle.
• Night Game Drives: For those staying overnight or willing to extend their day trip into the evening, Ol Pejeta offers night game drives. These excursions allow you to spot nocturnal animals like lions, leopards, and hyenas, as well as experience the conservancy’s landscape under the stars.
• Horseback Riding with Rhinos: One of the most unique experiences in Ol Pejeta is horseback riding through the rhino enclosure. This activity allows you to get incredibly close to these magnificent creatures in a safe and controlled environment.
• Conservation Visits: Ol Pejeta is a leading model for wildlife conservation. Take a tour to learn about their various initiatives, including anti-poaching efforts, community projects, and sustainable tourism practices.

Best Time to Visit: Ol Pejeta is a year-round destination, but the dry season (June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

8. Kiambethu Tea Farm: A Relaxing Day in the Highlands

Distance from Nairobi: 30 km (Approx. 1 hour by road)

Ideal for: Families, couples, history enthusiasts

Activities:

• Tea Farm Tour: Located in Limuru, Kiambethu Tea Farm offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi. The farm tour includes a walk through the tea fields where you can learn about the tea-making process, from planting to harvesting to processing. The tour is both informative and relaxing, perfect for those interested in agriculture and history.
• Garden Walks: The farm’s lush gardens are a delight to explore, with a variety of indigenous plants, flowers, and trees. Guided walks through the forest reveal the natural beauty of the area and offer a chance to spot some of the local wildlife, including colobus monkeys and various bird species.
• Lunch with a View: The tour concludes with a traditional Kenyan lunch served on the farmhouse veranda, overlooking the sprawling tea plantations. The farm-to-table experience is enhanced by the tranquil surroundings and fresh air.
• Tea Tasting: No visit to Kiambethu is complete without sampling the farm’s tea. You’ll learn how to properly brew and taste tea, gaining a deeper appreciation for this popular beverage.

Best Time to Visit: The farm is open year-round, but the cool, misty mornings of Limuru make the experience particularly refreshing during the hot months of January and February.

9. Ngong Hills: A Day of Hiking and Panoramic Views

Distance from Nairobi: 30 km (Approx. 1 hour by road)

Ideal for: Hikers, adventurers, nature lovers

Activities:

• Hiking: The Ngong Hills offer some of the best hiking trails near Nairobi, with trails that cater to various levels of fitness. The hike along the ridge provides stunning panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley to the west and Nairobi to the east. The fresh, cool air and open spaces make this a perfect day out for nature lovers.
• Picnicking: There are several scenic spots along the trail where you can stop for a picnic. Enjoying a meal while taking in the expansive views is a great way to break up your hike and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
• Photography: The Ngong Hills are a photographer’s paradise, with endless opportunities to capture the landscape’s dramatic contours and sweeping vistas. The play of light and shadow over the hills throughout the day creates a constantly changing scene.
• Cultural Visit: Nearby, you can visit a Maasai community to learn about their traditional lifestyle, customs, and crafts. This cultural interaction adds a meaningful dimension to your visit to the Ngong Hills.

Best Time to Visit: The hills can be visited year-round, but early morning or late afternoon is the best time to hike to avoid the midday heat.

10. Karura Forest: An Urban Oasis for Nature and Recreation

Distance from Nairobi: Located within Nairobi

Ideal for: Families, runners, cyclists, nature lovers

Activities:

• Nature Walks: Karura Forest is a large urban forest offering over 50 kilometers of walking, running, and cycling trails. It’s an ideal place to escape the city without leaving it. The well-maintained trails wind through lush greenery, past waterfalls, and along streams, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
• Cycling: Bring your bike or rent one on-site to explore the extensive network of cycling paths. Cycling through the forest is a popular activity, especially on weekends, as it combines exercise with the beauty of nature.
• Picnicking: The forest has designated picnic sites where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. These spots are perfect for families or groups looking to spend a relaxing day out in the fresh air.
• Bird Watching: Karura is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching. The forest’s diverse habitats, from wetlands to wooded areas, support a wide range of birds, providing ample opportunities for bird enthusiasts.
• Historical Sites: Explore the caves and waterfalls within the forest that have historical significance. The Mau Mau Caves, for instance, were used by freedom fighters during Kenya’s struggle for independence.

Best Time to Visit: Karura Forest is accessible throughout the year. The cool, shaded trails are especially pleasant during the hotter months.

11. Fourteen Falls: A Scenic Waterfall Adventure

Distance from Nairobi: 65 km (Approx. 1.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, adventure seekers

Activities:

• Waterfall Viewing: Fourteen Falls, located on the Athi River, is a spectacular natural attraction where 14 separate falls cascade over a wide cliff. The falls are a great spot for photography, especially after the rainy season when the water volume is at its peak.
• Boat Rides: Take a boat ride across the river to get a closer view of the falls. The boat ride is not just about the falls but also offers a chance to enjoy the surrounding landscapes from the water.
• Bird Watching: The area around the falls is rich in birdlife, including herons, kingfishers, and cormorants. It’s a peaceful place to sit and watch birds as they go about their day.
• Nature Walks: Explore the lush vegetation and natural beauty around the falls on a guided nature walk. The area is relatively untouched, offering a sense of tranquility and a connection to nature.
• Picnicking: There are several spots near the falls where you can set up a picnic. The sound of the cascading water provides a relaxing soundtrack as you enjoy your meal.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the rainy season (March to May) when the falls are most impressive, but the area is accessible year-round.

12. The Great Rift Valley Viewpoints: Scenic Stops Along the Highway

Distance from Nairobi: 30-50 km (Approx. 1-1.5 hours by road)

Ideal for: Photographers, nature lovers, travelers

Activities:

• Scenic Viewing: The Great Rift Valley is one of the most spectacular natural features in Kenya, and the viewpoints along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway offer stunning views of this vast geological formation. These viewpoints are ideal for photography and simply soaking in the grandeur of the landscape.
• Photography: Capture the panoramic views of the valley, which stretches as far as the eye can see, dotted with lakes, hills, and escarpments. The changing light throughout the day offers different moods and tones, making it a photographer’s delight.
• Shopping for Souvenirs: The viewpoints often have local vendors selling crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. It’s a great opportunity to pick up a unique piece of Kenyan art or craftwork to remember your trip.
• Picnicking: Some viewpoints have areas where you can stop for a picnic, enjoying the fresh air and scenic beauty while having a meal.

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for visiting the viewpoints when the lighting is best for photography and the temperatures are cooler.

13. Thika: A Historical and Agricultural Hub

Distance from Nairobi: 45 km (Approx. 1 hour by road)

Ideal for: History buffs, nature lovers, families

Activities:

• Visit to Chania Falls: Chania Falls is one of the main attractions in Thika, offering a picturesque spot for relaxation and photography. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great place for a peaceful nature walk.
• Explore the Blue Post Hotel: This historic hotel, built in 1908, is not just a place to stay but also a site of historical significance. The hotel grounds are beautiful, with well-manicured gardens, and it provides a good base for exploring the nearby falls.
• Pineapple Plantations Tour: Thika is known for its vast pineapple plantations. A tour of these farms offers insights into the agricultural processes that make this region one of the leading pineapple producers in Kenya. You’ll learn about the planting, harvesting, and processing of pineapples and get to taste some fresh, sweet pineapple straight from the source.

• Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park: Just a short drive from Thika, this park is centered around the mountain of the same name. It offers hiking opportunities for those looking to explore its slopes and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The park is home to wildlife such as baboons, colobus monkeys, and buffaloes, and it’s a less crowded alternative to the more popular parks around Nairobi.
• Fourteen Falls: If you have time, you can also visit the nearby Fourteen Falls from Thika, combining it with the other attractions in the area for a full day of exploration.

Best Time to Visit: Thika can be visited year-round, but the best time for outdoor activities is during the dry season (June to October).

14. Nairobi National Park: The World’s Only Wildlife Park in a Capital City

Distance from Nairobi: Within the city (Approx. 20 minutes from the city center)

Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, families, tourists with limited time

Activities:

• Game Drives: Nairobi National Park is unique for being a wildlife reserve located so close to a major city. The park is home to a variety of animals including lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and rhinos. The open savannah, with the city’s skyline in the background, creates a surreal experience as you embark on a game drive.
• Walking Safaris: For a more intimate experience with nature, take a guided walking safari through the park. This allows you to explore areas that vehicles cannot reach, providing close encounters with smaller wildlife and plant species.
• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Located within the park, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a sanctuary for orphaned elephants. Visitors can watch the baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud, learning about the conservation efforts to protect them.
• Nairobi Safari Walk: This raised boardwalk offers an opportunity to view animals like leopards, lions, and rhinos in enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. The walk is informative and ideal for families with children.
• Bird Watching: The park is also a birding haven with over 400 species recorded. Bird watchers can spot species like the kori bustard, crowned crane, and secretary bird.

Best Time to Visit: Nairobi National Park is accessible year-round, but early morning and late afternoon are the best times for game viewing.

15. The Karen Blixen Museum: A Journey into Kenya’s Colonial History

Distance from Nairobi: 15 km (Approx. 30 minutes by road)

Ideal for: History buffs, literature lovers, cultural enthusiasts

Activities:

• Museum Tour: The Karen Blixen Museum, located in the former home of the famous Danish author Karen Blixen, offers a glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past. The house is preserved with its original furniture, and the tour provides insights into Blixen’s life and work, including her famous book Out of Africa.
• Explore the Gardens: The museum’s grounds include beautiful gardens that overlook the Ngong Hills. These gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll and offer a peaceful environment where you can reflect on the historical significance of the place.
• Cultural Experiences: The museum often hosts cultural events and exhibitions, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Kenya’s heritage. Check the museum’s schedule for any special events during your visit.
• Shopping for Souvenirs: The museum has a gift shop where you can purchase books, handicrafts, and other souvenirs related to Karen Blixen and Kenyan culture.

Best Time to Visit: The museum is open year-round, but visiting in the morning or late afternoon can offer a quieter experience.

Inconclusion, Nairobi is a prime location for short road trips that offer a diverse range of experiences, from thrilling wildlife encounters and serene lakeside retreats to adventurous hikes and cultural explorations. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle of the city for a few hours or embark on a full-day adventure, the destinations outlined above provide something for everyone.