5-Day Nairobi Itinerary: The Perfect First Trip

Nairobi packs an incredible amount into a compact destination — safari gateway where wildlife roams against a modern city skyline. Five days gives you enough time to hit the highlights, discover a few secret spots, and still leave room for spontaneous detours.

Here is a tried-and-tested 5-day itinerary that balances must-sees with off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive and settle into your accommodation in CBD — central business district with markets and historical buildings. Take it easy — grab a coffee, orient yourself, and shake off the jet lag.

Late Afternoon: Head to Nairobi National Park for your first taste of what makes Nairobi special. The late-afternoon light is ideal for photos and the crowds start to thin.

Evening: Dinner in the CBD — central business district with markets and historical buildings area. Try Nyama Choma — flame-grilled meat, Kenya's national barbecue tradition — it is the quintessential local dish and the perfect way to kick off your trip.

Day 2: The Iconic Highlights

Morning: Start early at Giraffe Centre. Arriving before 9 AM means fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.

Afternoon: After lunch, make your way to Nairobi National Museum. Budget about 2–3 hours here to fully appreciate the experience.

Evening: Explore the Westlands — modern dining, nightlife, and shopping malls neighborhood on foot. Street food stalls serve excellent Sukuma Wiki — collard greens sautéed with onions and tomatoes at a fraction of restaurant prices.

Day 3: Deep Dive into Culture

Morning: Visit David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage — one of Nairobi's most culturally significant sites. Hire a local guide for about $8 to get the stories behind the sights.

Afternoon: Wander through the Kilimani — upscale restaurants, cafes, and boutique hotels district. This is where locals shop, eat, and socialize, so the vibe is refreshingly authentic.

Evening: Treat yourself to a mid-range dinner featuring Pilau — spiced rice with meat and aromatics. Expect to spend around $18 per person.

Day 4: Off the Beaten Path

Morning: Today is about discovery. Head to Karura Forest — urban forest with hiking, cycling, and waterfalls in the city — a spot most tourists overlook entirely.

Afternoon: Check out Ngong Hills — ridge hike with views of the Rift Valley and Nairobi. The Langata — wildlife attractions and green residential areas area is great for a leisurely walk and a late lunch.

Evening: Experience Nairobi's nightlife scene — Westlands — clubs, cocktail bars, and rooftop lounges.

Day 5: Final Gems & Departure

Morning: Use your last morning to visit Kazuri Beads — women's cooperative making hand-painted ceramic jewelry in Karen or revisit a favorite spot from earlier in the trip.

Late Morning: Pick up souvenirs at Maasai Market — rotating location with beadwork, carvings, and textiles — support local artisans and avoid airport markup.

Afternoon: Head to the airport with memories (and a full camera roll) to last a lifetime.

Pro Tips

• Transport: Uber and Bolt are the safest and most convenient transport options
• Budget: A comfortable mid-range daily budget is about $70 per day including meals, transport, and activities.
• Packing: Pack neutral-colored safari clothing — no bright colors or white You will average 12,000–15,000 steps per day on this itinerary.
• Etiquette: Greet people warmly — Kenyans value politeness and small talk
• Safety: Do not walk in the CBD or remote areas after dark

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Category	Budget	Mid-Range	Luxury
Daily Total	$25	$70	$250
5-Day Total	$125	$350	$1250

Final Thoughts

Five days in Nairobi is enough to fall in love with the place — and to start planning your return trip. This itinerary is a starting point; feel free to swap days around based on weather, energy levels, and serendipitous discoveries.

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