Nairobi, a bustling metropolis in the heart of Africa, is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the rich cultural heritage or take in the sights and sounds of nature, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy during your stay. Here are 12 things you don’t want to miss when you’re in Nairobi.
The most popular Kenyan destination for safari tours is the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Conservancies in the Mara Triangle. Mara is popular because of its abundant wildlife, including the “big five” (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino) and the yearly Wildebeest migration.
Unlike other Parks such as Nairobi National Park which has 4 out of the 5 Big 5, Mara has all Big 5 and the full spectrum of other wildlife. The conservancies also offer more intimate game viewing at a fraction of the cost, without large groups or tourist buses.
7 Reasons to go to Maasai Mara on your 2-day Kenya Safari:
- Home to the “Big Five”: Maasai Mara is home to the lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino – all at once! You’ll have a front-row seat for some of the most diverse wildlife in Africa. The Mara North Conservancies has the largest concentrations of lions and cheetahs in Kenya.
- Sensational Scenery: The Maasai Mara is home to stunning rolling plains, hills and rivers. Picture grasslands dotted with acacia trees, herds of wildebeest and hundreds of different bird species.
- The Wildebeest Migration: Every year, over two million wildebeests migrate across the Mara River in search of fresh grasslands to graze. Witness this awe-inspiring event – one of nature’s greatest spectacles!
- Cultural Experiences: Maasai Mara is also home to the Maasai people, an ancient nomadic tribe that has lived off the land for centuries. Enjoy cultural experiences and visit traditional villages while on your safari.
- Unparalleled Game Viewing: The Mara Triangle – a section of the park in the north – offers some of the best game viewing in Africa. Spot the Big Five and more on game drives in this area.
- No Crowds: The Mara North Conservancies offers private, low-density experiences with fewer tourists. Enjoy a tranquil safari experience without large buses or long queues at viewpoints.
- Great conservancy efforts: Mara North Conservancies are managed by a dedicated team of conservationists working with local communities to protect the ecosystems and wildlife. Support their efforts by visiting this area on your safari.
What our 2-day Mara Trip offers:
- Transport: Our 2-day tour includes round-trip airport transfers, with a knowledgeable driver to take you around the park.
- Accommodation: We provide basic accommodation in the form of a tented camp near the river. All meals and drinks are included.
- Game Drives: Our guides will take you on game drives in both the Mara Triangle and Mara North Conservancies during the day and evening, so that you can experience the beauty of this unique ecosystem.
- Cultural activities: On your last day, you’ll have the chance to visit a traditional Maasai village and learn more about their history and culture.
- Hot air balloon: We offer a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara for an added fee. This activity is subject to weather conditions and availability.
But you could also choose to stay in Nairobi during your 2-day trip to Kenya. Below are fun stuff you can do;
12 Things to do in Nairobi for 2 Days:
Day 1:
Visit the Giraffe Center:
My first item to recommend would be a visit to the Giraffe Center, located in Karen. This center is home to the Rothschild’s giraffe and offers visitors the chance to observe and interact with some of Africa’s most majestic animals.
Visit Nairobi National Park:
Take a day trip out to explore Nairobi National Park, situated just 7 km from the city centre. Here, you can witness the wildlife of Kenya up close in their natural habitat. Elephants, lions, cheetahs, zebra and many more species can be seen here.
Explore the markets:
The streets of Nairobi are full of vibrant markets where you can find a variety of goods from traditional crafts and fabrics to fresh produce. Take a stroll through the markets and explore all of the unique items offered here.
Day 2:
Visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust:
This trust is dedicated to protecting African elephants from poaching, hunting and habitat loss. Here, you can learn more about conservation efforts as well as view and interact with the rescued elephants.
Visit The National Museum:
The National Museum of Kenya is a great way to learn more about the country’s culture, history, and wildlife. With its impressive exhibits and interactive displays, it’s sure to be an interesting visit.
Explore Langata Botanical Gardens:
Located just outside the city, the Langata Botanical Gardens offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi. Here, you can wander through lush gardens and take in some spectacular views.
Visit The Karen Blixen Museum:
The Karen Blixen Museum was once home to author Karen Blixen, who wrote the famous book Out of Africa. Here, you can explore her home and learn more about her life in Kenya.
Take a Safari:
No visit to Nairobi would be complete without taking a safari. Here, you can witness majestic wildlife up close and get an unforgettable experience of the African wilderness.
Explore Karen Blixen Coffee Garden and Cottages:
This charming garden is a great spot to relax, unwind and take in some stunning views. It’s also home to the famous KBC (Karen Blixen Coffee) that you don’t want to miss!
Visit Karura Forest:
Karura Forest is a lush green paradise located just outside the city. Here, you can explore the many trails and take in some of Nairobi’s beautiful nature.
Visit The Maasai Market:
Located in the heart of downtown Nairobi, this bustling market offers a variety of handmade goods from traditional crafts and textiles to fresh produce. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or something unique, this is the place to go!
Visit Kazuri Beads Factory:
At the Kazuri Beads Factory, you can learn more about the art of bead making and take home some unique accessories made by local artisans.
Visit the Elephant Orphanage:
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s elephant orphanage is home to rescued baby elephants who are being rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Here, you can get an up-close look at some of Africa’s most majestic animals.
Read more on this post with detailed list of 27 things to do in Nairobi
Can I go on a safari for just 2 days in Nairobi?
Yes, it is possible to go on a safari for just two days in Nairobi. There are many tour operators that offer day safaris from Nairobi to the nearby national parks and reserves. These trips usually include game drives, bush walks and other activities, so you can get an unforgettable experience of the African wilderness in just two days.
However, it is best to book these safaris in advance as they can be very popular and fill up quickly. You should also make sure that you have the appropriate clothing and equipment for a day out in the bush. In addition, you should check with your tour operator about any safety precautions that may need to be taken during the trip. Lastly, make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun when you are out in the bush. With proper preparation and precautions, a two-day safari can be a great way to explore more of Nairobi and its incredible wildlife.
How to plan a 2-day trip to Nairobi:
I would suggest the following tips when planning a two-day trip to Nairobi:
• Choose your accommodation wisely and book it in advance. This will allow you enough time to explore the city. If you book accommodations in locations out of the City such as in Limuru or Naivasha you will have more time to explore the nearby national parks and reserves.
• Make sure to book your safari in advance as these can be popular and fill up quickly.
• Be mindful of the weather when packing for your trip; Nairobi can get very hot during certain times of year.
• Research any safety precaution that may need to be taken while in the City, such as avoiding certain areas or taking extra care when walking around at night.
• Bring plenty of water and a hat with you while exploring Nairobi and its attractions.
• Lastly, make sure to enjoy your time in Nairobi; there is so much culture, nature, and art to explore!
How much will a 2-day safari cost me?
The cost of a two-day safari in Nairobi will depend on the type of tour you choose and how many people are going. Generally, safaris range from $200 to $400 per person per day but can be higher or lower depending on what is included. You should also factor in costs for food, accommodation, and any additional activities you may want to do. It is best to shop around and compare prices before booking a safari as there are many tour operators who offer different packages and prices. Ultimately, the cost of a two-day safari in Nairobi will depend on what you plan to do and how much you are willing to spend.
If you are on a tight budget, you can opt to rent our self-drive campervans with or without a driver and will cost you no more than $250 per day depending on the period the year.
2 days Kenya budget safari:
Kenya has many budget-friendly safari options for those looking to explore the country in two days. From luxury campsites located near national parks to day trips from Nairobi to nearby reserves, there is something for everyone. For those on a tight budget, camping in national parks and reserves can be an affordable option and you may even be able to bargain with tour guides for a lower rate. You can also look into short day trips from Nairobi which usually include game drives, bush walks and other activities. Additionally, there are many budget-friendly accommodations in Kenya that offer comfortable rooms at a fraction of the cost of more expensive hotels.
Read more about affordable camping safari in Kenya here.
You can also opt for these luxury safaris with high-end amenities and activities such as fly camping.
Top 3 2-day Safari Packages in Kenya:
Maasai Mara:
One of the best safari packages in Kenya is to explore the world-famous Maasai Mara. This two-day tour will take you into the heart of the reserve, where you will be able to view some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife including lions, cheetahs and elephants. On the first day, you are picked up or you pick up your rental car from Nairobi and then drive to the park which is about 6 hours – entering through Sekenani gate. If you start at 8 am, you’ll get there in the afternoon, ready for lunch, rest and an evening game drive. The second day is spent exploring the Mara River and the surrounding savannahs by jeep or on foot. The night will be spent in a luxury safari camp with access to the pool and other amenities.
Amboseli National Park:
Another excellent two-day safari package is to explore Amboseli National Park, which is home to some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife. On the first day, you will travel from Nairobi to the park and will arrive in the afternoon. You can then enjoy an evening game drive or take a nature walk with a knowledgeable guide. On the second day, you will explore further into the reserve by jeep and observe elephants, zebras, lions, buffalo and much more. The night is spent at a luxurious lodge or tented camp with access to all the amenities.
Lake Nakuru:
This is my favorite two-day safari package in Kenya. On the first day, you are picked up from Nairobi and drive to Nakuru National Park. You will be mesmerized as you explore the park’s vast savannahs, seeing wildlife including flamingos, white rhino and lions on game drives.
Lake Nakuru is known for wide variety of bird species – over 500 including flamingoes. During the Nov to March period, the lake is a bright pink and can be seen from far.
The second day is spent exploring Lake Nakuru, where you will observe thousands of pink flamingos, black and white rhinos and other wildlife. There are endangered white rhinos under armed guard in this park.
You can also spend some time at the shores of the lake for a picnic or simply to relax and take in the views. The night is spent at one of the park’s luxury lodges.
How many days for kenya safari?
The ideal time to come for a safari is from 7 to 14 days. This will allow you to visit multiple parks and reserves, as well as take part in activities such as game drives, bush walks, boat rides and more. However, if your time is limited, it is still possible to enjoy a safari experience in Kenya with just two days. With careful planning and consideration of your budget and interests, you can still get the most out of your limited time and enjoy a memorable safari.
Related:
- Also, check our 1-day safari and 3-day safari guides.