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Explore Nairobi’s best kept secrets

photo © Great Plains Mara Nyika
Home » Blog » Explore Nairobi’s best kept secrets

9 March 2025

Did you know that Nairobi is the only capital city in the world with a national park right on its doorstep? That’s just one of the amazing surprises waiting for you in this African metropolis!

While many travellers see Nairobi as just a gateway to Kenya’s famous safaris, those in the know understand it’s a destination worth exploring in its own right. From remarkable wildlife encounters to rich cultural experiences, Nairobi offers  adventures that perfectly complement your Kenyan safari journey.

OUR FAVORITE NAIROBI EXPERIENCES

KAREN BLIXEN MUSEUM

Step into literary history at the former home of Danish author Karen Blixen, whose memoir “Out of Africa” captured the romance and challenge of colonial Kenya. This well-preserved farmhouse offers a glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past, with original furnishings and personal belongings telling the story of Blixen’s 17 years in Kenya.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens with views of the Ngong Hills, the museum brings to life the world described in Blixen’s famous memoir and the subsequent Oscar-winning film. History buffs and literature lovers alike will appreciate this window into Kenya’s past.

Photo © Andrew Rowdon

DAPHNE SHELDRICK ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE

There’s something truly magical about watching baby elephants play in the mud, drink from giant bottles, and learn the skills they’ll need to return to the wild. At the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, you’ll witness conservation in action as dedicated keepers raise orphaned elephants, many victims of poaching.

Consider “adopting” an elephant to support their journey back to the wild and enjoy a private afternoon visit to see your elephant going to bed!

THE GIRAFFE CENTRE

Imagine feeding a giraffe by hand, feeling their rough tongue grab a pellet from your palm as their gentle eyes gaze into yours. At the Giraffe Centre, home to endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, you can get closer to these majestic creatures than you ever thought possible.

The elevated feeding platform puts you at eye level with the world’s tallest land mammals. It’s not just fun, it’s educational too, with knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating giraffe facts and conservation challenges. And yes, if you’re brave, you can even get a “giraffe kiss”!

Photo © Ann Warner Photography

WILDLIFE WITH A CITY BACKDROP

Where else can you photograph a lion with skyscrapers in the background? Just 7km from downtown Nairobi lies a 117 square kilometer wildlife haven housing over 400 species of birds and a remarkable variety of mammals including lions, rhinos, buffaloes, and giraffes.

Our half-day game drives take you through diverse habitats from open grass plains to acacia woodlands and rocky gorges. The iconic photo opportunity? Capture wildlife roaming freely with Nairobi’s skyline providing a surreal backdrop!

KIAMBETHU TEA FARM

Experience Kenya’s famous tea industry firsthand at Kiambethu Tea Farm, established in 1910 and one of Kenya’s first tea farms. During your visit, you’ll learn about the fascinating journey from seedling to cup, exploring the lush tea fields and witnessing the careful harvesting process.

Enjoy a guided nature walk through the indigenous forest that borders the farm, where your guide will point out local plants and their traditional medicinal uses. The experience culminates with a delightful farm-fresh lunch and, of course, a tasting of the farm’s excellent tea.

KAZURI BEADS FACTORY & POTTERY CENTRE

Discover the inspiring story behind Kazuri Beads, where beautiful handcrafted ceramics help create sustainable employment for disadvantaged women. Founded in 1975, this fair-trade workshop now employs over 340 women who transform clay into colorful beads and pottery.

Your tour takes you through the entire production process from clay preparation and bead shaping to glazing and firing. Meet the artisans as they work, learn about their lives, and browse the factory shop for unique, handmade souvenirs that make a difference in the community.

Don’t miss out on this chance to embark on an unforgettable journey

 

Published: 9 March 2025 Posted Under: Blog

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Appointments can be arranged to speak to one of our wildlife holiday experts by telephone or video/zoom meeting. Once we have found out more about you and listened to your expectations and aspirations, we will create a suggested itinerary for you.
Book your wildlife holiday based on the itinerary provided or make a few tweaks/changes to get everything exactly as you want it. We tailor-make all of our itineraries based on your specifications, but we will always make recommendations to give you the very best wildlife experience.
Confirm your wildlife holiday once you are happy with the final itinerary. At this stage a deposit will be required to secure your holiday and full terms and conditions will be forwarded with your paperwork including when the balance payment is due.

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