Excursions
Kenya’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural experiences make it an ideal destination for short day trips and excursions. Both Mombasa and Nairobi serve as excellent starting points for one-day adventures, offering travelers the chance to explore iconic national parks, historical sites, and natural wonders without the need for extended stays.
Day Tours/Excursions from Mombasa
Mombasa, located along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline, offers a mix of coastal beauty and rich cultural history, along with easy access to nearby wildlife reserves. Here are some of the best day trips starting from Mombasa:
Mombasa City Tour
- Distance: In and around Mombasa.
- Highlights: Explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Mombasa City. This tour includes visits to iconic landmarks such as Fort Jesus, a 16th-century Portuguese fort, the bustling Old Town, famous for its narrow streets and Swahili architecture, and the Mombasa Tusks. The tour also includes a visit to the local markets and a walk along the vibrant coastline.
- Ideal for: History enthusiasts and those interested in coastal culture.
Wasini Island and Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park
- Distance from Mombasa: Approx. 2.5 hours by road.
- Highlights: This excursion is a marine lover's dream, offering snorkeling or diving experiences in the pristine waters of Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park. The park is home to coral reefs, colorful fish, and the chance to spot dolphins. Afterward, enjoy a Swahili-style seafood lunch on Wasini Island and a cultural tour of the local villages.
- Ideal for: Snorkeling, diving, and marine wildlife experiences.
Day Tours/Excursions from Nairobi
Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is a bustling city surrounded by natural wonders. Day trips from Nairobi are perfect for travelers looking to enjoy wildlife safaris, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences without venturing too far from the city.
Nairobi National Park
- Distance from Nairobi: Approx. 30 minutes by road.
- Highlights: Located just outside the city center, Nairobi National Park is one of the only national parks in the world situated within a capital city. The park is home to lions, rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, and more, with the city skyline as a backdrop. The tour includes a morning or afternoon game drive, and you may also visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage or the Giraffe Centre afterward.
- deal for: A quick, wildlife-filled escape without leaving Nairobi
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Giraffe Centre
- Distance from Nairobi: Approx. 30 minutes by road.
- Highlights: A visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage allows you to learn about the conservation efforts to protect orphaned baby elephants. You can see them being fed and playing in the mud. Next, visit the Giraffe Centre, where you can feed and interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes.
- Ideal for: Families and animal lovers interested in conservation.