Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Nairobi with a gentle introduction to the city's layout, visiting the iconic KICC rooftop for panoramic views and exploring the nearby August 7th Memorial Park.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in central Nairobi. Take time to rest and acclimate after your flight. If you arrive early, take a short walk around your neighborhood to get oriented with local shops and cafes.
2-3 hours
$15-25 (airport transfer)
Pre-arrange airport pickup through your accommodation for safety and convenience, typically costing $15-25
Lunch
A casual cafe near your hotel serving international and Kenyan dishes
Mixed international and local
Mid-range
Afternoon
KICC rooftop viewing platform
Visit the Kenyatta International Convention Centre's rooftop observation deck for 360-degree views of Nairobi's skyline. From this vantage point, you'll see the sprawling city, Uhuru Park, and on clear days, glimpses of the distant Ngong Hills. The building itself is an architectural landmark and offers excellent orientation to the city's geography.
1-2 hours
$5-10
Evening
Evening stroll and dinner
Take a gentle walk to August 7th Memorial Park, a poignant memorial to the 1998 embassy bombing, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Westlands or CBD area serving nyama choma (grilled meat) or other Kenyan specialties
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Business District or Westlands (Mid-range hotel with modern amenities)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and dining options while offering secure, comfortable accommodation for your first night
Keep small US dollar bills for tips and small purchases; many places accept dollars alongside Kenyan shillings
Day 1 Budget: $90-130
Dive into
Kenya's rich history and biodiversity at the National Museum of
Kenya, followed by a peaceful afternoon at The Nairobi Arboretum.
Morning
Explore
Kenya's premier museum showcasing the country's natural history, culture, and contemporary art. Highlights include paleontological discoveries from the Leakey family's excavations, extensive ethnographic collections representing
Kenya's diverse communities, and the impressive Gallery of Contemporary East African Art. The museum provides essential context for understanding
Kenya's place in human evolution and its cultural diversity.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A garden restaurant near the museum area with outdoor seating
Continental and Kenyan fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
The Nairobi Arboretum
Stroll through this peaceful 30-hectare urban forest featuring over 350 species of indigenous and exotic trees. The arboretum offers shaded walking paths, diverse birdlife, and a tranquil escape from the city bustle. It's popular with locals for jogging and picnicking, providing an authentic glimpse into Nairobi's outdoor lifestyle.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Dinner and relaxation
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Kilimani or Hurlingham neighborhoods, known for diverse dining options ranging from Ethiopian to Italian cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Westlands or Kilimani (Comfortable hotel or guesthouse)
These neighborhoods offer excellent restaurant choices and are centrally located for accessing various parts of the city
Bring binoculars to the Arboretum for birdwatching; over 100 bird species have been recorded there
Day 2 Budget: $85-115
Experience an unforgettable full-day safari in Nairobi National Park, where wildlife roams with the city skyline as a backdrop.
Morning
Nairobi National Park morning game drive
Start early for the best wildlife viewing in Africa's only national park bordering a capital city. The park hosts over 100 mammal species including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and the endangered black rhino. The surreal sight of wildlife against Nairobi's skyscrapers creates unique photography opportunities. Morning hours offer the most active animal behavior and cooler temperatures.
4-5 hours
$45-60 (park entry plus vehicle)
Book a guided safari vehicle the day before for the best experience and wildlife spotting expertise
Lunch
Picnic lunch at designated spots within the park or at the park's picnic site
Packed lunch
Budget
Afternoon
Nairobi Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage
Continue your wildlife experience at the Nairobi Safari Walk, a raised boardwalk through different habitat zones showcasing
Kenya's ecosystems. Then visit the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, which cares for injured and abandoned animals. See animals up close that might have been distant during your morning drive, and learn about conservation challenges facing
Kenya's wildlife.
2-3 hours
$15-20
Evening
Early dinner and rest
Return to your hotel to freshen up, then enjoy an early dinner at a nearby restaurant. Consider trying mukimo (mashed peas and potatoes) or ugali (maize porridge) with sukuma wiki (collard greens)
Where to Stay Tonight
Westlands or Karen area (Mid-range hotel or lodge)
Karen is closer to the park entrance and offers a more suburban, leafy environment perfect for relaxing after a safari day
Bring layers as early morning game drives can be chilly, but it warms up considerably by midday
Day 3 Budget: $110-145
Get up close with endangered Rothschild giraffes and explore the former home of Out of Africa author Karen Blixen.
Morning
Giraffe Centre
Visit this conservation center dedicated to protecting the endangered Rothschild giraffe. From a raised platform, you'll feed these gentle giants and even receive giraffe kisses. The center offers educational programs about giraffe conservation and habitat preservation. The experience is magical for all ages and provides excellent photo opportunities as giraffes extend their long purple tongues to take food pellets from your hand.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Arrive early to avoid crowds and have more intimate time with the giraffes
Lunch
A restaurant in Karen shopping center with garden seating and international menu options
International and Kenyan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Karen Blixen Museum
Step into colonial-era
Kenya at the former home of Danish author Karen Blixen, who wrote Out of Africa. The beautifully preserved house contains original furniture and personal items, offering insights into settler life in early 20th-century
Kenya. The surrounding gardens are lovely for a stroll, and knowledgeable guides bring the era to life with stories of Blixen's coffee farm and relationships with the local Kikuyu community.
1.5-2 hours
$10-12
Evening
Dinner in Karen
Enjoy dinner at one of Karen's upscale restaurants, many featuring outdoor seating, fireplaces, and extensive gardens. The area is known for excellent dining establishments serving everything from traditional Kenyan to contemporary fusion cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Karen suburb (Boutique hotel or guesthouse)
Staying in Karen keeps you close to tomorrow's activities and offers a quieter, more residential atmosphere with excellent accommodation options
The Giraffe Centre has a nature trail through indigenous forest that most visitors miss; it's worth exploring for birdwatching
Day 4 Budget: $95-125
Spend a rejuvenating day exploring Nairobi's largest urban forest with its waterfalls, caves, and extensive trail network.
Morning
Karura Forest exploration
Enter this 1,000-hectare indigenous forest through one of several gates and explore the extensive network of walking and cycling trails. The forest features beautiful waterfalls, caves with historical significance, and diverse wildlife including monkeys, bushbucks, and over 200 bird species. The well-maintained Karura Foot Path offers peaceful walking through dense canopy, providing a complete escape from urban life despite being in the heart of the city.
3-4 hours
$5-8
Consider renting a bicycle at the entrance for around $5 to cover more ground
Lunch
A casual cafe near the forest entrance or pack a picnic to enjoy at designated spots within the forest
Light meals, sandwiches, or packed lunch
Budget
Afternoon
Continue Karura Forest exploration
Discover the forest's hidden gems including the riparian areas along the river, the impressive waterfall viewpoint, and the historic Mau Mau caves used during
Kenya's independence struggle. The afternoon light filtering through the canopy creates beautiful photography conditions. Take your time to simply relax on benches along the trails and absorb the tranquility.
2-3 hours
Included in morning entry
Evening
Dinner and cultural show
Head to a restaurant featuring live traditional music or a cultural performance. Several establishments in the Westlands and Kilimani areas offer evening entertainment alongside dinner
Where to Stay Tonight
Westlands or Gigiri (Mid-range hotel)
These areas are close to Karura Forest and offer numerous dining and entertainment options for the evening
Download a trail map from the forest's website before visiting, or pick up a paper map at the entrance to navigate the extensive trail system
Day 5 Budget: $75-105
Discover
Kenya's railway heritage and enjoy the green spaces that provide breathing room in the bustling city center.
Morning
Explore
Kenya's fascinating railway history at this charming museum featuring vintage locomotives, carriages, and railway memorabilia. The collection includes steam engines that built the Uganda Railway, luxurious colonial-era dining cars, and exhibits documenting the railway's crucial role in
Kenya's development. You can climb aboard several historic trains and imagine the era when rail was the primary link between the coast and the interior.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A local eatery in the city center serving traditional Kenyan dishes like pilau rice, beef stew, and chapati
Traditional Kenyan
Budget
Afternoon
Central Park Nairobi and Uhuru Gardens
Relax at Central Park Nairobi, a popular urban green space where locals gather for recreation and relaxation. Then visit Uhuru Gardens,
Kenya's most important national monument commemorating the struggle for independence. The park features monuments, memorial sites, and open spaces with historical significance. It's a place where Kenyans connect with their national heritage and celebrate freedom.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Evening
Dinner in the city center
Explore the dining scene around Kenyatta Avenue or head to the Java House area for a variety of restaurants offering everything from Indian to Italian cuisine alongside Kenyan favorites
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Business District (Mid-range hotel)
Central location provides easy access to tomorrow's activities and evening dining options
Uhuru Gardens is particularly meaningful on national holidays when special ceremonies take place; even on regular days, it offers insight into
Kenya's independence journey
Day 6 Budget: $70-95
Enjoy a more relaxed day exploring Nairobi's art scene and catching up on any missed experiences from the week.
Morning
Nairobi Gallery
Visit this contemporary art gallery housed in a historic building that was once the first Provincial Commissioner's office. The gallery showcases rotating exhibitions of Kenyan and East African artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works. It's an excellent window into
Kenya's vibrant contemporary art scene and the creative expressions of modern African artists addressing social, political, and cultural themes.
1.5-2 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A trendy cafe or bistro in the Westlands area known for brunch offerings and specialty coffee
International brunch fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
Leisure time and shopping
Take the afternoon at your own pace. Consider visiting local markets for souvenirs including Maasai beadwork, soapstone carvings, and textiles. Alternatively, revisit a favorite location from earlier in the week, relax at your hotel, or explore a neighborhood you haven't yet discovered. This flexible time allows you to personalize your experience based on your interests and energy levels.
3-4 hours
$20-40 (depending on shopping)
Evening
Special dinner experience
Treat yourself to dinner at an upscale restaurant, perhaps one specializing in game meat where you might try ostrich, crocodile, or other exotic options prepared with contemporary flair
Where to Stay Tonight
Westlands or Karen (Mid-range to upscale hotel)
These areas offer the best dining options for a special evening and comfortable accommodations for your second week
When shopping for souvenirs, prices at markets are negotiable; expect to pay about 50-60% of the initial asking price after friendly bargaining
Day 7 Budget: $85-125
Venture to the southern suburbs for a scenic hike through indigenous forest with waterfalls and rich biodiversity.
Morning
The Oloolua Nature Trail
Hike through this beautiful nature reserve in Karen featuring indigenous forest, a scenic waterfall, and the historic Oloolua House ruins. The trail winds through dense vegetation, crosses streams, and offers opportunities to spot colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and numerous bird species. The forest's cool microclimate and peaceful atmosphere make it a favorite among Nairobi's hiking community. The waterfall, especially impressive during rainy season, provides a perfect rest stop.
3-4 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A restaurant in Karen with outdoor seating and views of the surrounding greenery
International and Kenyan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Relaxation and local exploration
Spend the afternoon exploring the Karen area at leisure. Visit local shops and boutiques, or simply relax at a cafe enjoying the suburban atmosphere. The area has several artisan workshops and galleries worth browsing. This slower afternoon allows recovery from the morning's hike while still experiencing the upscale residential character of this historic neighborhood.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Dinner in Karen
Enjoy dinner at one of Karen's renowned restaurants, many featuring fireplaces, extensive wine lists, and elegant gardens perfect for a relaxed evening
Where to Stay Tonight
Karen suburb (Boutique hotel or lodge)
Staying in Karen provides a resort-like atmosphere while remaining accessible to city attractions
Wear proper hiking shoes for Oloolua as the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially near the waterfall
Day 8 Budget: $80-110
Experience Nairobi National Park from a different perspective with afternoon game viewing when different animals are active.
Morning
Leisure morning
Enjoy a relaxed morning at your accommodation, perhaps sleeping in or enjoying a leisurely breakfast. Use this time to organize photos, journal about your experiences, or simply rest. If feeling active, take a short walk around the neighborhood or visit a nearby cafe for specialty Kenyan coffee and people-watching.
3-4 hours
$5-10
Lunch
A casual restaurant near your hotel serving light meals and refreshments
International or cafe fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
Nairobi National Park afternoon game drive
Return to Nairobi National Park for an afternoon safari experience. Different animals are active at different times, and the afternoon light creates beautiful photography conditions. Focus on areas you didn't fully explore during your first visit, and try to spot species you may have missed. The park's Impala Observation Point offers panoramic views across the plains toward the city skyline.
3-4 hours
$45-60
Arrange your safari vehicle in the morning to depart around 2-3 PM for optimal afternoon lighting
Evening
Dinner and reflection
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating where you can reflect on your safari experiences. Consider trying nyama choma at a local grill where meat is prepared over open flames
Where to Stay Tonight
Karen or Langata (Mid-range lodge or hotel)
These areas near the park allow for easy access while offering peaceful evening environments
Visit the Impala Observation Pt during your afternoon drive for the best panoramic views of the park with the city skyline backdrop
Day 9 Budget: $95-130
Connect with
Kenya's complex history through memorial sites and conservation monuments.
Morning
Ivory Burning Site & Picnic Area
Visit this significant conservation site within Nairobi National Park where President Daniel arap Moi burned 12 tons of ivory in 1989, making a powerful statement against poaching. The monument commemorates
Kenya's commitment to wildlife protection and marks a turning point in global conservation efforts. The site includes informational displays about elephant conservation and the ongoing fight against illegal wildlife trade.
1-2 hours
$5-8 (park entry if not combined with game drive)
Lunch
A picnic at the Ivory Burning Site picnic area or a restaurant near the park
Packed lunch or casual dining
Budget to Mid-range
Afternoon
August 7th Memorial Park extended visit
Return for a more contemplative visit to the August 7th Memorial Park, which honors victims of the 1998 US Embassy bombing. The peaceful memorial garden features a reflecting pool, memorial walls with victims' names, and informational exhibits about the tragedy. It's a sobering reminder of terrorism's impact and a place for quiet reflection on resilience and remembrance.
1-2 hours
Free
Evening
Evening at leisure
Enjoy a quiet dinner at a neighborhood restaurant, perhaps trying Swahili coastal cuisine with coconut-based curries and biryanis that reflect
Kenya's Indian Ocean heritage
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Nairobi or Westlands (Mid-range hotel)
Central location provides convenience for your remaining days and easy access to various dining options
The Ivory Burning Site is best visited in the morning when the light is ideal for photography and before the midday heat
Day 10 Budget: $75-100
Return to Karura Forest to explore sections you missed and enjoy favorite spots at a leisurely pace.
Morning
Karura Forest - alternative trails
Explore different sections of Karura Forest, focusing on areas you didn't visit during your first trip. Try the longer trails that lead to more remote areas of the forest, or rent a bicycle to cover more ground. The forest's extensive network means you can have an entirely different experience on a second visit, discovering new viewpoints, quieter glades, and different wildlife sightings.
3-4 hours
$5-8 (plus $5 for bike rental if desired)
Lunch
A cafe near the forest with healthy options like salads, smoothies, and grilled dishes
Healthy cafe fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
Leisure and local neighborhood exploration
Spend the afternoon exploring the neighborhoods around Karura Forest, such as Muthaiga or Gigiri. These upscale residential areas feature interesting architecture, local shops, and cafes. Alternatively, return to your accommodation for a spa treatment or pool time, allowing your body to rest while still enjoying your surroundings.
2-3 hours
$10-30
Evening
Dinner and evening entertainment
Seek out a venue with live music, perhaps featuring Benga or contemporary Kenyan musicians. Several restaurants and clubs in Westlands offer live performances on weekends
Where to Stay Tonight
Westlands or Gigiri (Mid-range hotel)
These areas offer excellent evening entertainment options and are convenient for forest access
Karura Forest is particularly beautiful in the early morning when mist rises from the river and bird activity is at its peak
Day 11 Budget: $80-115
Revisit favorite wildlife spots and discover any remaining attractions in the Karen area.
Morning
Giraffe Centre return visit
Return to the Giraffe Centre for another magical encounter with these endangered animals. With your previous experience, you'll be more relaxed and can focus on photography, conversation with staff about conservation efforts, or simply enjoying the peaceful interaction. Take time to walk the nature trail you may have missed on your first visit, offering forest walks and additional wildlife viewing.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Lunch
A restaurant in Karen known for its garden setting and farm-to-table approach
Contemporary Kenyan or fusion
Mid-range
Afternoon
Karen area exploration
Explore additional Karen attractions or revisit favorites. Browse local boutiques selling Kenyan crafts, visit artisan workshops, or relax at a garden cafe. The area has a village-like atmosphere despite being part of Nairobi, with a slower pace perfect for your final full days. Consider visiting local craft centers where you can see artisans at work.
2-3 hours
$15-30
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of Nairobi's finest restaurants, celebrating your two-week journey with excellent food and perhaps a Kenyan wine or Tusker beer
Where to Stay Tonight
Karen suburb (Boutique hotel or lodge)
Karen offers a peaceful final nights with excellent dining options for your farewell dinner
Purchase any final souvenirs in Karen where quality is generally higher than at airport shops, though prices are also higher
Day 12 Budget: $90-130
Spend your penultimate day revisiting favorite spots and soaking in final impressions of Nairobi.
Morning
The Nairobi Arboretum return visit
Return to the Nairobi Arboretum for a peaceful morning walk among the trees. With the knowledge you've gained over two weeks, you'll appreciate the space differently, perhaps noticing bird species you now recognize or simply enjoying the tranquility with a deeper connection to the city. Bring a book or journal to spend contemplative time on one of the benches.
2-3 hours
$3-5
Lunch
A favorite restaurant from earlier in your trip, returning to enjoy dishes you particularly liked
Your choice based on preferences
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final explorations and packing
Use the afternoon for any last-minute activities, shopping for forgotten souvenirs, or revisiting a favorite neighborhood. Return to your accommodation with enough time to pack thoughtfully, organizing your purchases and ensuring you have room for everything. Take time to review your photos and reflect on your experiences.
3-4 hours
$20-40
Evening
Casual dinner near accommodation
Keep the evening low-key with dinner at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying one last Kenyan dish you haven't yet sampled, or returning to a favorite spot for a final meal
Where to Stay Tonight
Near airport or central location (Mid-range hotel)
Choose accommodation convenient for your departure time, either near the airport for early flights or in a favorite neighborhood for late departures
Confirm your airport transfer the night before and allow extra time for Nairobi traffic, which can be unpredictable
Day 13 Budget: $75-105
Final morning in Nairobi before your departure, with time for last impressions and journey home.
Morning
Leisurely breakfast and check-out
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, savoring Kenyan coffee and reflecting on your two-week journey. Complete check-out procedures, ensuring you have all documents and belongings. If time permits before your transfer, take a final short walk around the neighborhood, capturing last photos and impressions of Nairobi life.
2-3 hours
$0 (included in accommodation)
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or en route depending on flight time
Airport dining or quick stop
Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, allowing at least 3 hours before international flights. The airport has duty-free shopping where you can make final purchases of Kenyan coffee, tea, or crafts. Take time to browse and enjoy the last moments in
Kenya before your flight home, carrying memories of incredible wildlife, beautiful forests, and warm Kenyan hospitality.
3-4 hours
$15-25 (airport transfer)
Evening
Departure
Board your flight home with memories of an unforgettable two weeks exploring Nairobi's unique blend of urban energy and wild beauty
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Save some Kenyan shillings for airport tips and small purchases; exchange remaining currency before security
Day 14 Budget: $40-70