I had just landed in Nairobi from Canada, still adjusting to the 8-hour time difference.
From the moment I stepped out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport ( JKIA), I felt a mix of excitement and curiosity.
Immediately I arrived, Adequate Safaris welcomed me with a warm smile and a smooth transfer to Pride Inn Azure. A luxurious hotel where I would be staying all week. Pride Inn Azure was a haven just as I had envisioned, modern rooms with plush beds, soft white linen, with large windows perfect for viewing the Nairobi skyline. I was impressed.
Are you planning your first trip to Nairobi, and you are looking for inspiration for an unforgettable Nairobi Adventure, or are you just curious about what it’s like to explore Nairobi with expert guidance like Adequate Safaris? This blog is for you.
DAY 1: Arrival & Settling In
After arriving in Kenya, I was very excited to start my Nairobi adventure, but first things first, settling in.
Once I felt settled, at around 2:00 PM, Adequate Safaris gave me a small introduction to the city.
They took me to the Sarit Center Mall, which was just 6 minutes away.
At the mall, I wandered slowly, letting myself absorb every detail. The vibrant colors of the locally designed fabrics caught my attention immediately, each reflecting Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.
I ran my fingers over the handcrafted jewellery, admiring the skill and care poured into each piece.
At some point, I was hungry, and I had to bite something. I sampled local snacks like samosas filled with spiced vegetables, mandazis that were soft, sweet, and comforting, with a cup of freshly brewed Kenyan coffee so rich and aromatic that it seemed to carry the warmth of the city itself.
As I walked through the corridors of Sarit Center, I felt a growing excitement and appreciation for Nairobi.
Through my entire experience at Sarit Center, I noticed it is almost impossible not to get lost. Even locals joke about it. One minute you are browsing Masai beadwork, the next minute you are at the food court, wondering if that was the same corridor you were in 5 minutes ago. I was left thinking this is what adventure feels like inside a mall. An adequate safari tour guide did this intentionally, ensuring I experienced the mall fully.
Getting lost in Sarit Center, actually, it ain’t that frustrating, it is fun and human. I got a chance to discover hidden boutiques and stumbled upon things I did not know I needed.
By the time we left Sarit Center, my hands were full of small souvenirs, and my stomach was full.
This was the perfect and lighthearted way to be in synch with the city’s energy while feeling fully guided and cared for by Adequate Safaris.
Back to the hotel that evening, as I looked out at the glowing Nairobi skyline from the rooftop, I laughed at myself a little as I told myself, somehow getting lost at the Sarit Center is a rite of passage to every Nairobi newcomer, and it was at that point that I was fully initiated.
DAY 2: Where The City Meets Safari
The second day of my Nairobi adventure was all about getting close to wildlife, and thanks to Adequate Safaris, where every moment felt effortless and deeply personal.
Here is my experience with some of the things I did in Nairobi.
1. Nairobi National Park
We set out very early in the morning, at 6:00 am. The city was still waking up, roads quiet and the sun rising as it cast a soft glow over Nairobi.
Within just 20 minutes of Pride Inn Azure, we arrived at Nairobi National Park, a place that always feels magical because of the wildlife with the Nairobi skyline in the background.
One of the best things and must-haves is having a guide who is well-knowledgeable, and Adequate Safaris gave me the best guide.
He explained to me the park’s ecosystem, pointing out animal tracks, bird species, and how to silently spot predators without disturbing them. “ Patience is key here, the wild animals are in charge, we are just visitors.” He said.
The most awaited time came, spotting my first Lion. It was a moment of pure awe. I stared at it for a moment. I could not believe it. I was so happy.
Despite spotting the Lion, I also got a chance to see zebras grazing nearby, giraffes stretching gracefully to nibble at treetops, and a rhino moving slowly across the savannah, massive and majestic.
2. Nairobi Safari Walk
After the excitement of spotting my first lion at Nairobi National Park, we decided to continue with the wildlife adventure on foot at the Nairobi Safari Walk, which is just opposite Nairobi National Park.
I remember the tour guide telling me that this was the perfect way to slow down, observe, and connect with nature more intimately. I was ready for this.
The Nairobi Safari walk is a 360-degree elevated wooden boardwalk winding through natural forest, grasslands, and marshy areas.
Walking slowly allowed me to notice details I had missed from the game drive, like a troop of monkeys swinging effortlessly between branches, a bushbuck pausing to graze, and butterflies landing delicately on leaves.
By the time we came to the end of the boardwalk, I felt a deeper connection to Nairobi’s wild heart.
3. David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Nairobi
Next, we headed to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a sanctuary for rescued baby elephants.
Adequate Safaris had arranged this special visit that allowed me to watch their daily feeding routine.
What was more interesting was watching the baby elephants play in mud, splashing water on themselves and leaning affectionately against their caretaker was very heartwarming.
Thanks to Adequate Safaris for ensuring I have had enough time to observe, photograph and even gently interacting with the baby elephants without hurting them.
The guide also shared insights about broader conservation efforts which gave the experience depth beyond the visuals.
4. Giraffe Center
The day definitely would not be complete without visiting the Giraffe Center.
Here I got the chance to feed the Rothschild Giraffe which was one of those surreal experiences that make you laugh, marvel and whisper all at once when its soft velvety tongue brushed against my hand as it accepted the food. It was a sensation that was ticklish.
Also, here I got to learn how giraffes have favourite keepers, how they recognize individual visitors and even how they communicate subtle social cues with eachother.
By the end of the second day, I felt a deep connection to Nairobi’s wildlife and a huge appreciation to Adequate Safaris guides who are very informed, knowledgeable, professional and friendly for making my day unforgettable.
DAY 3: Stepping Into Nairobi’s History & Culture
I woke up very early in the morning ready to experience a day totally different from the thrilling wildlife experience I had the previous day.
Adequate Safaris had created for me an itinerary that would take me through some of the best things to do in Nairobi, showing me a side of the city full of history, culture and vibrant traditions.
For anyone wondering what to do in Nairobi, this day would be a perfect mix of museums, gardens and interactive cultural experiences.
5. Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi
Our first stop was the Karen Blixen Museum nestled in the leafy suburbs of Karen.
On our way, the guide narrated to me the story about Blixen’s life in Kenya and how Karen Blixen Museum came into existence.
By the time we were getting there, it felt like I was stepping into a living memoir making it one of the enriching activities to do in Nairobi.
Walking into the museum felt like I could hear Karen Blixen scratching her pen and the soft murmur of the garden outside. A perfect place for personal reflection.
Visiting Karen Blixen was both educational and personal, a true example of the best things to do in Nairobi.
6. Nairobi National Museum
Next we proceeded to the Nairobi National Museum. A must-visit for anyone searching for fun things to do in Nairobi or activities to do in Nairobi that go beyond the ordinary.
Nairobi National Museum beautifully blends Kenya’s Natural history, art and cultural heritage.
Inside the Museum I stared at the pre-historic fossils, tribal art, traditional costumes and contemporary Kenyan art. Every exhibit felt like having a conversation with Kenya itself.
On the other hand, the history section was particularly striking. In that, I saw lifelike displays of lions, giraffes and rhinos. The same animals I had seen when I went for the game drive at Nairobi National Park.
This was not just a museum, Its actually one of the best things to do in Nairobi if you are looking for a deep enriching experience and Adequate Safaris is ready to give you exactly that.
7. Bomas of Kenya
In the afternoon Adequate Safaris took me to the Bomas of Kenya, one of the most vibrant and fun things to do in Nairobi.
The moment I stepped here, the energy shifted immediately. You could hear drums from afar, you could see dancers moving in perfect rhythm and the colour of traditional attires everywhere.
We got in got our seats and watched traditional dances. They were very interesting to watch that I almost joined the dancers on stage but sadly my two left feet could not allow me.
As usual my guide always came through, he explained to me the meaning behind each dance and how different communities use movement and music to tell stories of daily life, rites of passage and celebration.
Beyond the dances, I also explored the traditional homesteads. Each homestead represented a different community and walking through them felt like travelling across kenya in a single afternoon.
If you are wondering what to do in Nairobi beyond game drives and city tours, Bomas of Kenya is the place to be.
Let Adequate Safaris include in your itinerary so that you do not watch culture but instead you experience it, understand it and, feel it.
DAY 4: Connecting With Nature
After the three days of wildlife, history and culture, Day 4 promised a refreshing escape into Nairobi’s Natural beauty and Adequate Safaris had planned it so perfectly.
This was the best day to enjoy some of the best things to do in Nairobi.
Here is how day 4 went down:
8. Karura Forest
We started the morning at Karura Forest, a hidden gem in the heart of Nairobi.
Even though it is so close to Nairobi CBD, once I entered into the forest it felt different.
I was guided through well-marked trails sharing the forest’s history, conservation efforts and the wildlife that calls it home. They include:
- Suni
- Harvey’s Duiker
- Bushbucks
- Bushpigs
- Genets
- Porcupines
As I immersed myself deep into the Karura Forest I found myself slowing down. It was therapy for me.
In addition, the forest has waterfalls, bamboo grooves and caves and with Adequate Safaris guidance, I explored spots that many travellers miss. Stopping at the waterfall, I paused to take the sound of the rushing water as the mist cooled my face.
Also, Karura Forest offers diverse of outdoor activities that you can engage in when you visit, they include:
- Walking
- Jogging
- Cycling on marked trails
- Exploring waterfalls
- Exploring Maumau Caves
- Birdwatching
- Picnics
If you are looking for what to do in Nairobi when you want peace, beauty and little adventure Karura Forest is the place to be.
Did you know that Karura Forest host an event every month mostly on saturdays Known as the “ Sounds of Africa” or “ Cinema in Nature” by Sounds of Freedom Africa which uses audio experiences to tell Kenyan stories amidst nature blending history, art and the forest’s sounds for unique cultural walks and explorations.
This combination of culture and nature turns a simple walk into a full experience.
Other Places to to experience and connect with Nature in Nairobi are:
9. Ololua Nature Trail
Ololua Nature Trail is a refreshing escape for anyone looking for fun things to do in Nairobi that blends nature, adventure and relaxation.
Similarly, the nature trail offers travellers a chance to slow down, breathe and enjoy the peaceful side of Nairobi that many travellers do not expect to find within the city.
Some of the best activities to experience in Ololua are:
Nature Walks
Nature walks are the most popular activities in Ololua.
Here travelers and enjoy slow morning or evening strolls, create memories and simply taking in fresh air.
Therefore, this makes it one of the most accessible activities to do in Nairobi for families, friends, couples and solo travellers.
Picnic Experience
Olulua has some of the best spots for picnics surrounded by nature.
Here, travellers bring picnic baskets and enjoy quiet moments outdoor as they bond and create unforgettable memories.
Bird Watching
The nature trail is a home to a variety of bird species. Here bird lovers and nature enthusiasts can spot colourful birds along the way.
10. Ngong Road Forest
Ngong Road Forest is one of the most underrated green spaces and a perfect option for travellers looking for fun things to do in Nairobi without leaving the city.
This indigenous forest offers a peaceful retreat where nature, adventure and relaxation come together.
Are you looking for the best thing to do when you need a break in a quiet place? Ngong Road Forest is an ideal choice.
11. Ngong Hills
Let me talk to the hikers for a minute. Ngong Hills is one of the places in Nairobi that you can call home.
This places offers everything you crave in ten fold. Say, steady climbs, views, fresh air and a strong sense of movement from from one peak to the next.
Some other activities you can enjoy in Ngong Hills apart from hiking are:
Zip Lining
Ziplining in Ngong Hills is one of the most thrilling activities that you decide to trust yourself and just let go.
This experience is a mix of calm and adrenaline. Your heart races for a moment while every distraction from the city below melts away.
You are up there suspended in the air, alive in a way that is hard to explain. It just hits different.
I will tell you for free to try this. You will thank me later.
Archery
Archery here is not just a sport, It is meditation in motion. It teaches you patience, focus and timing.
After few rounds even if and if the arrows are not always perfect, there is that playful energy, laughter at missed shots, cheers for near hits and that pride when you finally hit the bull’s eye.
Archery is one of the best activities in Nairobi that entertains you, challenges you and finally leaves you feeling more present than anything else.
Bike Riding
Bike riding in Ngong Hills is a different kind of experience. Here it about experiencing the Hills in motion while discovering hidden paths.
Every pause becomes meaningful in that, at some point you will stop at a view point lean on your bike as you take it all in.
By the time you are done you will feel some sense of satisfaction and pride in accepting the challenge to cycle over hills and you enjoyed it.
d) Picnics
When was the last time you sat down and did absolutely nothing and felt good about it?
That is exactly what picnics in Ngong Hills give you. The moment you lay yout mat on the grass as you enjoy the views, something inside you softens.
Here simple snacks with family and friends taste even better than usual back at home, conversations flow easily and even quiet moments feel full.
Have you noticed how picnics in Nairobi aren’t just picnics anymore?
Gen Zs have completely redefined the vibe whereby they have turned what was just simple hangout to potluck picnics and rainbow picnics whereby everyone shows up carrying something like home-cooked food, colourful snacks matching your outfits, drinks, flowers, speakers and even aesthetic cutlery.
No one does too much but it is usually creative and communal and that somehow becomes the magic.
DAY 5
By day 5 I was ready to experience something different. From day one I had experienced Nairobi’s calm, green spaces and cultural side. Now I wanted something fun.
Adequate Safaris had curated my itinerary so well that this day ended but one of the exciting day of my trip.
Come with me.
Quadbiking
This was the first activity of the day at Misitu Raha in Karen. I was my first time doing this and for sure I was ready for the challenge. They say, there is always a first time in everything and this was it for me.
Quadbiking is one of those activities to do in Nairobi that instantly wakes you up despite how many times you fall. Also, this experience is fast, messy, loud and incredibly freeing.
Tip: You do not need experience, just the willingness to let go and enjoy the ride.
By the time my time was up to enjoy the experience, I was smiling nonestop.
Visited the Museum of Illusion
From adrenaline to curiosity real fast. My next stop was the Museum of Illusion and this place completely surprised me.
Here the moment you step in, logic immediately takes a back seat. What you start seeing are floors tilted, mirrors multiplying you, rooms flip your sense of size and gravity and suddenly you start questioning what is real and what is not.
The experience here was interactive and surprisingly mind blowing. I found myself laughing,posing for photos and genuinely amazed on how easily our minds canbe tricked.
It is one of those fun things to do in Nairobi that works for everyone be it solo travellers, friends, couples and even families.
If you are wondering what to do in Nairobi despite the attractions, day 5 is your answer. Experience quad biking for the thrill and then Visit Museum of Illusion for the Curiosity.
One lesson I learnt on this day is that Nairobi will surprise you only when you let it and for sure it did. I would highly recommend this experience.
DAY 6
Moving on swiftly, on this day Adequate Safaris had planned it so perfectly where I will be experiencing deep relaxation during the day the later at night step out into Nairobi’s vibrant night life. Two different moods but as usual I said no to nothing.
Spa Experience at Emara Ole Sereni
My morning hours was spent at my hotel room as I enjoyed one of my best Taylor Perry Movies “ Beauty in Black” as I waited for the afternoon hours to go for my spa treatment.
The spa treatment was a must-do experience for me that felt like a full reset. Every muscle on my body finally relaxed, stress melted away and for the first time in days my mind completely switched off.
If you are looking for relaxing activities to do in Nairobi, a spa day at Emara Ole Sereni is pure therapy.
Nairobi Night Life at Mass House, Ngong Road
After my spa treatment at Ole Sereni at around 4:00 O’clock, I went back to the hotel to get ready for the next agenda of theday which was to experience the Nairobi Night lfe.
One thing about Nairobi, people are very friendly and honest someone told me if you are looking forward to experience the Nairobi nightlife with ease I have to be fed. As they say “ Foundation” in slung before going out to party.
I took that advice seriously and I ensured I had heavy dinner. Thanks to Pride Inn Azure chefs for feeding me well.
Around 8:00 PM, I was set to go out and have a good time at the Mass House. You Only Live Once ( YOLO).
When I got there, the energy was instant, the music was loud, the crowd was stylish and the atmosphere pulsed with excitement. For sure, everyone there had come to let loose and enjoy the night.
Not forgeting the DJs on the decks, they did a good job ensuring the crowd was entertained all through.
It was at this moment where strangers turned to dance partners and for hours nothing else mattered apart from the music and the moment.
The Mass House showed me a different side of Nairobi, bold,vibrant and unapologetically fun.
I agree 100% that this is one of those fun things to do in Nairobi at night if only you want to feel Nairobi’s heartbeat after dark.
I never wanted to leave Mass House but I had had enough for the night. I was fiullfilled.
DAY 7
Day 7 arrived quietly. Just that familiar mix of gratitude and reluctance that comes with the last day of a good trip.
As I checked out and prepared my journey back to Canada, Nairobi felt like a destination and more like home.
Much appreciation to Adequate Safaris for making my trip interesting and fun from day 1 to day 6. Every transfer, every booking both air tickets and hotel and activities were more than I even expected. I never had to worry about a thing.
This is an experience that will stay with me as long as I live and I am very sure I will return and experience more of Nairobi.
For the best Nairobi Tour experience I’d for sure recommend Adequate Safaris.
Book today via email deals@adequatesafaris.com or you can call directly and make a booking on +254711711498.
Other Fun Activities To Do In Nairobi
Even after my trip was over. Nairobi City still had alot to offer that I could not finish experiencing in 7 days 6 nights.
Here are other fun activities to do in Nairobi.
Brunch
Nairobi really takes brunch seriously. During brunch you spend your weekends exploring one restaurant after another. Think about rooftop views, leafy gardens with amazing food.
Some of the best restaurants for brunch in Nairobi are:
- The Social House
- Emara Ole Sereni
- Kempinski, Westlands
- Alloy Restaurant, Sarit Center
- Kahvalti Cafe, Kilimani
- By The Garden
- Papparoti Kenya
- The Harvest
- The Dawn Restaurant
Just to mention a few here you will have the best brunch experience.
Wine Tasting
Recently, Nairobi has grown as one of the best wine tasting destinations. This experience is perfect if you are looking forward to experience different kinds of wine and also meet new people and socialize.
What makes wine tasting special is the atmosphere. It is not stiff or overly formal. People ask questions, tell stories, joke about what their wine taste like and learn together.
Wine tasting is an amazing experience that you should not leave out your bucket list when you visit Kenya.
Therefore, some of the best place to go for wine tasting are;
- The Liquor Library in Tigoni when you need to go out of town.
- The Wine Box
- Trade Mark Hotel
- Wine & Bottle
- The Harvest
- Botanica
Sip & Paint
Sip & Paint in Nairobi is one of those experiences in Nairobi that feel low pressure, social and unexpectedly freeing. You walk into a space not knowing exactly what you are going to create, and thats the beauty of it.
What makes sip & Paint special is the shared experience.
Note: you do not have to be perfect but do your best.
Visit The Giraffe Manor
Visiting Giraffe Manor feels unreal. It always feels like a dream you did not know Nairobi offered.
Imagine the feeling of having breakfast or lunch at the Giraffe Manor then a giraffe appears at a window near you. Its a magical experience that stops you completely.
Shopping at Masai Market
Looking to visit somewhere that culture feels more alive? Masai Market is the place to be.
Similarly, this place is not just about shopping, it is also about interacting with local artisans, hearing stories behind every handmade piece, you also learn the art of bargaining and by the time you are leaving you carry home items that carry meaning.
- Nganya Culture/ Matatu Culture
Ever wondered what it feels like to ride a moving party through the streets of Nairobi? Thats definitely what Nganya culture is all about in Nairobi.
If riding a Nganya is about getting to your destination, you are wrong.
Truth be told its always about the energy and the thrill of being part of a culture that is chaotic, creative and fun.
A big shout out to Nganya Kenya for keeping Nairobi’s streets alive with energy, colour and creativity.
Conclusion
To wrap up, Nairobi is a city that surprise you in the best ways. The best things to do in Nairobi are not only about places but about how the city makes you feel alive, connected, relaxed and inspired all at once.
If you are planning a trip and you want to experience Nairobi fully, comfortably, safely and authentically Adequate Safaris are simply the best choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Nairobi worth travelling for first time visitors?
Yes. Nairobi is one of the best cities in the world where you can experience wildlife, culture, adventure, relaxation and nightlife all in one place.
2. How many days are enough to explore Nairobi properly?
Ideally, five to seven days is perfect where you will have the chance to explore some of the best activities in Nairobi in a relaxed pace.
3. Is Nairobi safe for first time travellers?
Yes. Nairobi is safe when you travel with trusted tour operators like Adequate Safaris who will ensure secure transport for you.
4. Can travelling to Nairobi becombined with other destinations in Kenya?
Yes. Nairobi is the best starting point when exploring Kenya. It can easily be combine with other destinations like Masai Mara, Amboseli, Naivasha or the Kenyan Coast.
In addition, Adequate specializes with seamless multi-destination itineraries that start or end in Nairobi.
“ Karibu Nairobi”
