Three days in Nairobi is the perfect length of time to explore this booming and bustling capital city. I am frequently asked for itineraries for Nairobi and Kenya, and I advise everyone not to pass through Nairobi without allowing some time to explore Kenya’s capital city.
Three days in Nairobi gives you enough time to see some Kenyan wildlife, eat at Nairobi’s best restaurants, experience some arts, crafts, and culture, and shop.
It’s tempting as a local to advise you to explore only the off-the-beaten-track Nairobi destinations, but I would be doing the city an injustice. Our tourist attractions are incredible; spend a morning (or a whole day) at Nairobi National Park, hand-feed an elephant, kiss a giraffe, and watch a traditional Maasai show. I would recommend these unmissable Nairobi attractions to everyone who visits the city.
This 3 days in Nairobi itinerary showcases the city’s unique blend of culture, nature, and history. Here’s a plan to make the most of your time:
3 Days in Nairobi Itinerary – Day 1: Explore Nairobi’s Wildlife and Culture
Morning: Nairobi National Park
One of Nairobi’s many claims to fame is that it is the only city in the world with a safari destination in the middle of a residential, urban area. The park is indeed right in the city. At night, we can hear lions roaring and hyenas barking from our gardens.
Nairobi National Park is a 110 sq kilometre area of wildland packed with animals. You can see rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, lions, giraffes, zebras, and much more.
Fun fact: Nairobi National Park is only fenced around the city line; along its eastern edge, the park is open to the Athi Plains, so wildlife can follow traditional routes and travel in and out of the designated park area. Sometimes, Nairobi National Park teems with animals, and others less so. There are no elephants within the park, as they were removed due to human-wildlife conflict – although a few have been known to sneak in now and again.
Take a picnic and lunch with a view of the city skyline and one of the three picnic sites and or head over to Cultiva in Karen.
Lunch: Cultiva Restaurant
Cultiva Restaurant, voted one of the best restaurants in the world in 2024, is an eco-friendly, farm-to-table dining experience. The restaurant, tucked in a Karen backstreet, has a rustic feel that belies the care and precision of the food. The restaurant uses only organic and locally sourced ingredients (much of it grown on-site) and is one of the best restaurants in Nairobi.
Afternoon: David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Explore the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Nairobi’s Elephant Orphanage. Do note that, as of 2024, you must book online and far in advance to get a slot at arguably the most popular tourist attraction in Nairobi. Visitors to David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust can meet the family of orphaned elephants ranging from the cutest bottle-fed babies to rambunctious teenagers. Learn about the work the trust does rescuing elephants from all over East Africa and raising them before relocating them back to the wild.
Giraffe Centre
Just a few minutes’s drive from the elephant orphanage is the Giraffe Sanctuary. Visit the Giraffe Centre Nairobi to spend time with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes and learn about the conservation efforts in Kenya. The best part about visiting the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi is the chance to hand-feed these magnificent animals. It’s a very interactive experience that shouldn’t be missed.
Evening: Dinner at The Talisman
The Talisman is a Nairobi institution loved by tourists and residents alike. You’ll find half of Karen propping up the bar or dancing into the early hours on a Friday and Saturday night. The restaurant is vibrantly decorated with rich Persian carpets, Kitengela stained glass, and ancient carved doorways. The food and service are always excellent.
3 Days in Nairobi Itinerary – Day 2: Nairobi’s Art, History, and Markets
Morning: Karen Blixen Museum
Time to get cultural with a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum. The former home of Karen Blixen is now a museum. Famed for her book (which was made into a movie), Out of Africa, the book encapsulated a moment in time for Nairobi and gives an excellent insight into its colonial history and life in Kenya under British rule.
Karen Blixen’s house is incredibly well-preserved, with plentiful artefacts and lush gardens.
Kazuri Beads
Visit the Kazuri Beads workshop on Langata Road, where local women make handmade ceramic beads and pottery. Kazuri Beads offers employment opportunities for women in marginalised communities, giving them financial independence. You can tour the workshop, meet the women, and buy their jewellery and other artisan souvenirs.
Lunch: Matteos Restaurant
Head to Matteos Restaurant for the best Italian food in town. Owned by an Italian family, this lush outdoor space is the perfect setting for homemade pasta, sumptuous steaks, and delicate thin-crust pizzas.
Afternoon: Nairobi National Museum
Delve further into Kenya’s rich history, culture, and biodiversity at Nairobi National Museum. Explore the museum’s collection of fossils, including the famous “Turkana Boy,” and exhibits on Kenya’s various ethnic groups.
Evening: INTI
Eat at INTI, recently voted the No. 1 restaurant in Nairobi; it’s located at the top of the One Africa building and has panoramic views across the city. INTI is a Nikkei restaurant offering Peruvian / Japanese fusion – think ceviche, meat grills, wok-fried meals, and sushi.
If you fancy experiencing Nairobi’s vibrant nightlife, hit up The Alchemist or K1 Klub House, which has live music and DJs
3 Days in Nairobi Itinerary Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Shopping
Morning: Kibera Slum Tour
I believe that the whole point of travelling is to view the world from a different perspective, to see and experience other cultures. A visit to Kibera, one of Africa’s largest informal settlements, gives you an insight into the day-to-day life of over 1 million Nairobians. While visiting Kibera is generally safe, the slum is a maze of tiny streets and can feel intimidating if you are alone. Go with a reputable guide who can show you local projects and community initiatives.
Visit the Kibera Art Centre, where artists create and sell art to support local education.
Lunch: The River Café – Karura Forest
The River Café is located at the entrance to Karura Forest and offers a tranquil forest setting where you can watch monkeys dance over indigenous trees. The menu is relaxed, with salads, pasta, burgers, and excellent cocktails. There is a playground for kids.
Afternoon: Karura Forest
Explore Karura Forest, a 1000-hectare urban forest in the city centre. The peaceful forest is home to various monkeys, mammals, and reptiles. Its tranquillity is a startling contrast to the city’s chaos and Kibera’s cramped quarters. There are a variety of walking trails from 3K to 21, and you can hire bikes at the entrance if you prefer to cycle.
The Village Market
Finish your trip by shopping at The Village Market, arguably Nairobi’s best shopping mall. The centre has a fabulous mix of shops, from known brands to African crafts; there are tons of cafes, restaurants, and bars – and a great food court with little boutiques and wine shops.
Evening: Hero Restaurant
Hero Restaurant is located on the 9th floor of the Trademark Hotel in The Village Market. Recently voted one of the top 50 best bars in the world, this superhero-themed restaurant (tastefully done; this isn’t Disneyland) has spectacular views across the city, an incredible cocktail, and delicately present, flavour-packed Japanese food.
Where To Stay In Nairobi
Looking for five-star luxury hotels in Nairobi? Check my blog on 5 star hotels in Nairobi
Nairobi City Centre Hotels
Sarova Stanley Hotel
Part of the Sarova group of hotels, the Stanley is one of the older hotels in Nairobi. This Victorian-era landmark has been updated with modern facilities and is perfectly located for business within the CBD. A five star hotel in Nairobi, its rooms retain an elegant grandeur. It has four restaurants, a heated pool and gym, and extensive conferencing facilities.
Radisson Blu Hotel and Residence
The Radisson Blu Residence Nairobi Arboretum is a luxury hotel near the Arboretum, a large green space in the city. Its location offers scenic views and a serene environment that is relatively close to Nairobi’s bustling central business district.
The residence typically offers spacious apartments with modern furnishings, well-equipped kitchens, and amenities such as free Wi-Fi, fitness centres, and restaurants that serve local and international cuisine.
Nairobi Airport Hotels
Emara Ole Sereni
The Emara Ole Sereni is better than your average Nairobi Airport Hotel. It occupies an enviable position right on the edge of Nairobi National Park. It has three restaurants and a fabulous roof top bar with unbeatable views.
Westlands Nairobi Hotels
Villa Rosa Kempinski
One of the best hotels in Nairobi. This towering monolith is as pink as its name and is full of all the luxuries and mod cons one could wish for. Two hundred rooms, four restaurants and bars, gym, wellness spa, conferencing facilities and easy access to all Westlands offers.
Sankara Hotel
Five-star hotel catering to the business market but hip enough to hang out in. Right in the city’s heart, Sankara is a modern hotel with 156 sleek rooms. 6 restaurants and bars, a wellness centre and swanky rooftop pool and conference and meeting rooms if you must work.
Karen Hotels
Karen Gables
This Cape Dutch-inspired boutique hotel is situated down a quiet lane at one of the most prestigious addresses in Nairobi. Once inside, you are spirited away from city life into a world of tinkling streams and nature-filled gardens. A home away from home that will replenish your soul. It has just 4 bedrooms, and meals are eaten at a large old-fashioned dining table with other guests. It’s as close to Out of Africa as you will get without going on safari.
Giraffe Manor Hotel
Nairobi’s most famous hotel, Giraffe Manor, is a beautiful colonial-era building attached to the Giraffe Sanctuary. Set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest, the Giraffe Manor is one of Nairobi’s most iconic buildings. The original manor was built in 1930 and is an ivy-clad, stone-built beauty. Guests at the hotel frequently share their breakfast with the giraffe, who poke their heads through the window.
The Residences at Karen Country Club
Karen Country Club is home to one of the country’s top golf courses. A venerable institution, this private members’ club offers accommodation at its residences; staying here gives you access to the club’s 3 bars and restaurants, the onsite spa, pool and gym and the option for golf in dazzlingly gorgeous surroundings. They have single rooms for business travellers and apartments which would fit a family.
Hemingway’s Hotel
Part of a collection of luxury Kenyan hotels, Hemingway’s elegance and serenity are unmatched in Nairobi. It houses an excellent restaurant, a sundowner bar with views over the Ngong Hills and an onsite spa and pool. Top end luxury, you’ll get all the holiday feels here.
Gigiri Nairobi Hotels
Tribe Hotel
The Tribe Hotel Nairobi is the original Village Market hotel – a fabulous hotel in a great spot. 137 rooms, a top-end restaurant a luxurious spa. This boutique luxury five-star hotel doesn’t feel like it’s in a mall.
Trademark Hotel
Brand new hotel within the Village Market. A glorious 215-bedroom shiny gem in the mall offers access to all the shops and restaurants. The hotel caters to a business market, but its location within the mall also makes it a great spot for leisure and tourist guests.
Lavington Hotels
The Social House
For something different, try The Social House. More of a ‘happening’ than a hotel, The Social House has four floors of bars and restaurants and a rooftop pool. They rent gorgeous rooms, have a fitness centre and free Wi-Fi. A fun place to stay
How to Travel Around Nairobi
Transport: The easiest way to navigate the city is to hire a driver or use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for easy and safe travel. Alternatively, you could rent a car if you’re more comfortable driving. Read blog on travelling around Kenya.
Safety in Nairobi
Nairobi isn’t particularly dangerous; as with all cities, keep your belongings secure and avoid venturing into unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night. Read blog on safety in Nairobi.
Nairobi Weather
Nairobi has a mild climate year-round, so light clothing is perfect, but remember the rainy seasons between April – June and November/ December where it can be TORRENTIAL with a lot of flooding. Read blog on what to pack for Kenya.
3 Days in Nairobi Itinerary – Further Reading
39 Unmissable Tourist Attractions in Kenya – 2024
The Ultimate 10 Days in Kenya Itinerary 2024
21 Incredible Family Friendly Resorts in Kenya 2024
The Madaraka Express SGR Train Kenya 2024
Book Your Kenya Trip – Insider Tips
Find everything you need for visiting Kenya on my TRAVEL RESOURCES page.
Find everything you need for moving to Kenya in my THE EXPAT GUIDE TO LIVING IN NAIROBI book.
- Kenya Accommodation: Booking.com has the cheapest rates for hotels and guest houses in Kenya.
- Accommodation Reviews: TripAdvisor is my go-to portal for checking reviews on accommodation/restaurants in the local area. I never book without checking TripAdvisor first.
- ESIM: Airalo allows you to access the Internet from virtually any country without paying roaming charges
- Car Rental: Rental Cars is managed by Booking.com – guaranteed reliable.
- Tours and Guides in Kenya : Check out Get Your Guide and Viator – reputable companies that do tours within Kenya and East Africa.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I recommend Visitors Coverage, which covers you for East Africa and offers ‘special insurance’ for safaris and adventure sports:
- Visitors Coverage
- Compensair – if you have a cancelled or delayed flight, you may get a refund.
