Best Backpacking Destinations in Nairobi, Kenya

1. Nairobi National Park

Home to a diverse wildlife including lions, rhinos, and leopards within city limits.

Wildlife Diversity: One of the few national parks in the world located close to a capital city.
Accessibility: Easily reachable by public transportation from Nairobi's central business district.
Photography Opportunities: Ideal for wildlife photography enthusiasts without traveling far from the city.

Orphaned elephant and rhino rescue and rehabilitation center.

Elephant Rescue: Provides a unique opportunity to observe and interact with orphaned elephants.
Rhino Conservation: Contributes significantly to the preservation of endangered black rhinos.
Community Engagement: Offers opportunities for volunteering and educational programs.

A conservation project dedicated to the Rothschild's giraffe species.

Giraffe Feeding Experience: Allows visitors to hand-feed and interact with these gentle giants.
Environmental Education: Promotes awareness about conservation efforts for endangered species.
Accessibility: Located within the suburbs of Nairobi, easily reachable by taxi or bus.

A high-altitude park offering scenic views and abundant wildlife.

Scenic Beauty: Known for its waterfalls, moorlands, and bamboo forests.
Wildlife Spotting: Home to elephants, black rhinos, and a variety of bird species.
Hiking Opportunities: Offers challenging hikes for avid backpackers and trekkers.

Famous for its flamingo population and diverse wildlife.

Flamingo Colony: Hosts one of the largest flamingo populations in the world.
Rhino Sanctuary: Protected area for the critically endangered black rhino.
Photography Opportunities: Ideal for photographing wildlife and landscapes.

Famous for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife.

Great Migration: Witness millions of wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara River.
Diverse Wildlife: Home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Offers unparalleled views of the wildlife below.

A freshwater lake with diverse birdlife and boat tours.

Birdwatching: Home to over 400 bird species, including pelicans and flamingos.
Hell's Gate National Park: Adjacent park offering hiking, hot springs, and geothermal attractions.
Boat Tours: Allows visitors to explore the lake and spot hippos and crocodiles.

A high-altitude park featuring diverse landscapes and challenging climbs.

Hiking Opportunities: Offers a range of hikes, from easy trails to challenging climbs.
Scenic Beauty: Known for its glaciers, forests, and alpine landscapes.
Wildlife Spotting: Home to elephants, buffalo, and a variety of bird species.

Famous for its elephant population and views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Elephant Population: Hosts one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro Views: Offers stunning views of the mountain on a clear day.
Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Two adjoining parks known for their diverse wildlife and red elephants.

Red Elephants: Known for the unique red color of their dust-covered hides.
Diverse Wildlife: Home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a variety of bird species.
Yatta Plateau: The world's longest lava flow, offering hiking opportunities.

A reserve famous for its unique species of animals and scenic beauty.

Unique Wildlife: Home to the Samburu Special Five – Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and Gerenuk.
Scenic Beauty: Features the Ewaso Nyiro River, palm-dotted hills, and scenic vistas.
Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing unique wildlife species against beautiful backdrops.

A historical Swahili coastal town with ancient architecture and a laid-back atmosphere.

Historical Architecture: Features ancient stone buildings, mosques, and traditional Swahili houses.
Cultural Experiences: Offers insights into the region's rich Swahili culture and history.
Beach Relaxation: Features pristine beaches, perfect for relaxation and beach activities.

A unique park offering geothermal attractions, hiking trails, and birdwatching.

Geothermal Attractions: Features hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots.
Hiking Opportunities: Offers hiking trails through scenic landscapes.
Birdwatching: Hosts a variety of bird species, including vultures and eagles.

A lesser-known park offering wilderness experiences and diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Experience: Provides a remote, untouched wilderness experience.
Diverse Wildlife: Home to elephants, rhinos, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
Rivers and Waterfalls: Features the Tana River and several scenic waterfalls.

A tour exploring Nairobi's vibrant culture, history, and modern attractions.

Cultural Experiences: Offers insights into Kenyan culture, art, and traditions.
Historical Sites: Visits historical sites like the Karen Blixen Museum and the National Museum.
Modern Attractions: Includes visits to the Nairobi National Park, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and bustling markets.