Our most recommended things to do in Nairobi

Joy David • January 12, 2024
  • Experience a Half-Day Game Drive at Nairobi National Park


Embark on a 40-minute journey to Nairobi National Park in an open-roofed van, offering unparalleled views of the wilderness along the way. Opt for the private open-sided jeep upgrade for added comfort and a more immersive experience deep into the bush. Your knowledgeable guide, a seasoned professional, will pick you up from your hotel early in the morning, providing insightful information about the upcoming game drive.


Upon arrival at Nairobi National Park, commence a 4-hour game drive in the same open-roofed van, allowing for a panoramic 360-degree view of the surroundings. Keep a keen eye out for wildlife such as lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, jackals, and various other animals. Don't miss the playful monkeys near the gate – be ready with your camera to capture these lively creatures.


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Standing during the drive, you'll have the opportunity to spot animals from a distance, observing them in their natural habitats. After an exhilarating half-day safari adventure, your driver will safely return you to your hotel, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.


  • Embark on a Day Trip from Nairobi: Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center


Commence your journey by being picked up from your Nairobi hotel, and first, visit the Giraffe Center. Witness giraffes in their semi-wild habitat, gaining insights into their behaviors, characteristics, and ongoing conservation initiatives. Don't miss the chance to interact with and feed these graceful creatures.


Proceed to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where a stroll through the center introduces you to baby elephants eagerly awaiting their feedings. Observe their playful antics in the water, enjoy their milk gargling sessions, and delve into the unique stories of each elephant. After the youngest members are fed, witness the feeding of the 2-3-year-olds, some now capable of self-feeding. Marvel as they skillfully handle their large milk bottles with their trunks, swiftly consuming gallons of milk.


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Concluding your enriching day, make a final stop at the Kazuri Beads Factory. Here, admire the exquisite beads and pottery crafted by African women, providing a glimpse into their skilled artistry.


As the day comes to an end, return to Nairobi, having experienced a memorable day in the company of incredible wildlife and cultural craftsmanship.


  • Explore the Maasai Mara Reserve on a 3-Day/2-Night Group Safari from Nairobi


Embark on a captivating 3-day tour to discover the renowned Maasai Mara Reserve, hailed as Kenya's premier wildlife viewing destination. Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, this reserve is often considered the crown jewel of Kenya's wildlife areas. Witness the spectacular annual wildebeest migration, a mesmerizing phenomenon involving over 1.5 million animals that transpires from July to November, a spectacle unique to the Maasai Mara.


Day 1:

Commence your safari by being picked up from your hotel in Nairobi city center at 8:00 a.m. Drive to the Maasai Mara Nature Reserve, passing by the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas. Arrive in time for lunch after checking in at your camp. In the evening, embark on a game viewing drive in the Mara Reserve, providing opportunities to spot the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at Miti Mingi/Rhino camp. Retreat to your large, private tent equipped with a bed, linen, shower, and toilet. Mosquito nets and a refreshing evening shower are provided.


Day 2:

Dedicate the entire day to exploring the Maasai Mara in search of the Big Five. Enjoy picnic lunches in the Reserve while marveling at the beauty and splendor of the Mara. Venture all the way to the river, a prime spot for witnessing the wildebeest crossing from Serengeti. Encounter resident hippos and crocodiles along the banks of the Mara river throughout the year. After the exhilarating game drive, return to the camp for dinner, entertainment, and overnight.


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Day 3:

Savor your breakfast and check out. Journey back to Nairobi, where upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your city center accommodation.


Option: Enhance your tour by opting for a hot air balloon ride. Be picked up by the balloon safari vehicle and proceed to the launch area. Drift over the park, witnessing the animals and enjoying an incredible sunrise, followed by a buffet breakfast and champagne. Alternatively, include an evening visit to a local Masai village for a cultural tour, delving into the traditions and lifestyle of the Masai community through interaction with the local people.


  • Experience Nairobi through a Unique Lens: Guided Tour with Former Street Kids


Embark on an extraordinary 3-hour guided walking tour in Nairobi, delving into the heart of the city's Downtown region with guides who were once street children. Meet these inspiring individuals, now transformed and eager to share their personal stories and insights with you.


As you walk through the city center, gain authentic perspectives into the lives of local youth and former street children. Your guides will provide firsthand accounts of their experiences in their former 'home,' connecting their captivating life stories to the places you visit. Discover the circumstances that led them to the streets and learn about the survival skills they developed during those challenging times.


Throughout your journey in Nairobi, your guides will not only narrate their personal transformations but also shed light on their ongoing efforts to improve the situations of their families and friends. This tour offers a unique opportunity to be inspired by the resilience and energy of these individuals, providing a more intimate and personal exploration of Nairobi.


  • Explore Nairobi: National Park, Baby Elephant Encounter, & Giraffe Center Tour


Commence your day with an early pickup from your Nairobi accommodation, setting the stage for a short journey to Nairobi National Park. Dive straight into an exhilarating game drive, unraveling the park's wonders and encountering its diverse wildlife. Witness the majestic sight of animals grazing against the city skyline, creating a unique backdrop. The game drive extends until 11:00 AM, providing ample time to immerse yourself in the natural beauty.


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Next, venture to the Giraffe Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating people about endangered animals and environmental conservation. Engage with knowledgeable guides who offer insights into giraffes and seize the opportunity to hand-feed these graceful creatures under the guidance of trained staff.


Continue your adventure at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant and rhino orphanage within the western end of Nairobi National Park. Here, witness the heartwarming spectacle of baby elephants being fed milk from bottles. The dedicated keepers will share detailed information about each elephant, including their names and the stories of how they came to be orphaned. This visit provides a unique chance to adopt a baby elephant and contribute to their well-being. Immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of these orphaned elephants and appreciate the conservation efforts underway.


  • Discover Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha: Day Trip from Nairobi


Embark on a fascinating day trip to Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha to explore the captivating nature around the Rift Valley. Perfect for those with limited time in Nairobi, this one-day safari combines the unique landscapes of Hell's Gate Park and the scenic beauty of Lake Naivasha.


Hell’s Gate, one of Kenya’s smaller national parks, invites you to explore on foot. Opt for a game walk or choose a bicycle ride (optional) to traverse the park amid gracefully grazing gazelles, larger antelopes, zebras, and giraffes. Immerse yourself in the delightful experience of being surrounded by wildlife. Take a nature walk along the shores of the lake and enjoy a boat ride to spot hippos, buffalo, waterbuck, antelope, giraffes, zebras, and more.


Hell's Gate National Park, situated between Lake Naivasha and the Longonot and Suswa volcanoes, is covered by ashes from the Longonot eruption that occurred a century ago. The park is renowned for its geothermal station, Lower Gorge, and spectacular scenery, including cliffs, volcanoes, gorges, and geothermal steam.


Make the most of your time in Nairobi with this enriching day trip that combines adventure, wildlife, and natural wonders in Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha.


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  • Nairobi National Park Guided Tour: Full or Half-Day Adventure


Located just 6 miles (10 km) from the heart of Kenya's capital, Nairobi National Park boasts 44 square miles (114 square km) of pristine savanna, home to a diverse array of migratory game animals. Established in 1946, this park offers an immersive wildlife experience, and you have the option of a half-day or full-day guided tour.


For the half-day adventure, your journey begins with an early morning pick-up at 6 AM from your hotel. Arriving at Nairobi National Park around 6:30 AM, embark on an exhilarating 4-hour game drive through the park. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of game animals, including black rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a multitude of wild bird species. The park's open border on its southeast perimeter provides a natural corridor for the seasonal migration of game animals during the rains. Don't miss the opportunity to witness Kenya's incredible wildlife up close! Additional attractions include the ivory burning site monument and walking trails at hippo pools. After the 4-hour game viewing drive, return to Nairobi and be dropped off at your hotel. Note that the National Park tour is 5 hours in total.


Opt for the full-day tour to extend your adventure. This option includes visits to the giraffe center, lunch at the Tamarind, a trip to the Karen Blixen Museum, and a return to the hotel. In the evening, pick up at 7 PM for a dance show and a sumptuous dinner. The tour concludes with a transfer back to your hotel in Nairobi around 11 PM. Choose the duration that suits your preferences and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife of Nairobi National Park.


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How to Learn Cycling in Nairobi

By Critical Mass • July 22, 2025
Cycling offers so many benefits for adults—and it’s never too late to start riding. Here’s exactly how to get started. 1. Gear Up: Bike, Fit & Safety Choose the right bike : Make sure your bike fits—stand over it and ensure you can comfortably reach handlebars and brakes. Adjust it : Lower the seat so your feet touch the ground initially . Prioritize safety : Always wear a proper-fitting helmet, gloves, and reflective gear, especially in Nairobi's morning or evening traffic. 2. Find a Learning Community in Nairobi Consider these reputable local instructors and programs: Bike it or Hike It : Offers beginner sessions for adults—3 to 5 session courses, group rides, and family-friendly routes. They’ll even come to your location for training. Contact: 0726 729 737 . Nairobi Bike School : Structured lessons, equipment provided. Contact: 0738 196 843 . Cycling Accessories & Parts (CAP) : Lessons + rentals + gear advice. Budget ~KSh 1,800/session and bike hire ~KSh1 500 if you just want to refresh. Direct contact through 0798154123 or https://www.facebook.com/cyclingaccessoriesandparts/ Bike Park Kenya : Hands-on mountain biking in Tigoni—perfect to learn in a safe off-road environment . Critical Mass Nairobi : Social group rides monthly—great for real-life traffic practice in a supportive crowd . 3. Learn the Fundamentals (Adapted from Bicycling’s 6‑step method): Mount/dismount practice : Lean bike lightly, brake, step on/off confidently. Braking drills : Walk next to the bike and practice even, gradual braking to build control . Balance & glide : Scoot with your feet, hoist feet up and glide—stay balanced for ~3 seconds before pedaling . Vision : Look forward—not down—to maintain line and stability . Pedal launch : Start with one foot at 2 o’clock on the pedal; push and bring the other foot onboard . 4. Practice on Safe, Scenic Routes Once basics are mastered, ride on gentle, low-traffic Nairobi routes: Karura Forest : 5–15 km loops through greenery, waterfalls, wildlife. Bikes available to rent .You can get a guide from Bike it or Hike it at Kes 1800 for 2 hours. Contact them through 0726 729 737 Nairobi Arboretum : Calm 3 km loops perfect for mastering turns in a park environment . Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary : 5–10 km mixed terrain trails, great for balancing on slight inclines . Karen & Langata routes : 20–30 km leisure rides through quiet neighborhoods and coffee country . Nairobi National Park perimeter : ~35 km for confident learners—high chance of wildlife sightings . 5. Join Events & Ride Sociably Group rides foster learning and motivation: Monthly Critical Mass tours —fun, communal city riding . Loop Gravel Series & family-friendly rides in Tigoni, Jubilee Race, and others—all beginner-inclusive . Cycling & beer tours around Karura for social riders who want to balance fun and fitness. 6. Stay Consistent & Build Skills Ride often : Aim for at least 2–3 rides weekly to improve balance, endurance, and confidence. Use training plans : Consider beginner-friendly plans like Bicycling’s 4–8 week base-building regimen for structure . Your trainer will give you a plan book if keen to master the skills. Maintain your bike : Regularly check brakes, gears, and tires. Shops like CAP, Probike Kenya, Spin Kings, Cycle World, Velokart offer maintenance and tuning . Have a mechanic from 0798154123 or https://www.facebook.com/cyclingaccessoriesandparts/ check your bike on site or off site. 7. Progress at Your Pace Start slow—fresh air, gentle paths, safe instruction. Advance gradually—longer rides, light hills, group rides. Celebrate milestones—first glide, first solo loop, first organized ride. Stay patient—remember, adult learners sometimes fall, but practice and encouragement go a long way . Final Thoughts Learning to cycle in Nairobi is not just about acquiring a skill—it’s an entry into a vibrant, supportive community and eco-friendly lifestyle. Gear up, start small, find local mentors, and choose safe, enjoyable routes. Soon, you'll be gliding confidently through Karura Forest, navigating city streets with ease, and joining group rides like a pro. Happy pedaling! 🚴‍♀️🌿

Not All BNPL Models Are Created Equal: Why Some Thrive in Africa While Others Stall

By Riderental blogs • July 21, 2025
The African digital lending space is full of contradictions right now. 📈 M-Kopa just sold over 1 million smartphones . 📊 Watu Credit hit 3 million financed devices . ❌ Meanwhile, Wabeh is scaling down in Kenya. 🤝 Engage Capital is acquiring Lipa Later , which has had its own struggles. So, what gives? Many point fingers at Kenya’s economy: “people don’t pay loans,” they say. But here’s the thing—if that were entirely true, how is M-Kopa thriving? Why has Watu managed to finance millions of assets? 🔍 The answer: There are two very different digital lending models at play in Africa. A Tale of Two Models Type A: Asset Financing (Economic Enablement) Targets the unbanked/informal economy Finances income-generating assets (smartphones, boda bodas, solar systems) Uses IoT lockout features for credit enforcement High-touch, agent-driven distribution Funded via patient capital Examples: M-Kopa, Watu, Asaak, Moove Type B: BNPL for Consumption (Lifestyle Smoothing) Targets salaried, banked consumers Used for fashion, electronics, travel Integrated into POS and online checkouts Short-term, interest-free “Pay-in-4” style Funded via merchant fees & securitization Examples: Lipa Later, Payflex, Payjustnow Why the Disconnect? What we’re seeing isn’t a failure of BNPL—it’s a failure of Product-Market-Ecosystem Fit . Type A works in capital-scarce but high-need environments Type B needs strong credit bureaus , digital merchants , and deep capital markets So when BNPL players targeting consumption default in underdeveloped markets, it’s not because of "bad customers"—it’s often because the model isn’t ecosystem-ready . Final Thought Two models. Two different growth engines.One continent. Before launching or investing in a digital lending product in Africa, ask: ✅ Are you solving for income or lifestyle ? ✅ Do you have the infrastructure to support your model's risk, funding, and scale needs ? 🔗 Let’s challenge the single-story narrative around digital lending in Africa. 💬 I’d love to hear your thoughts: Are we overestimating BNPL potential in underbanked markets? Is asset-based lending the future of inclusive finance? 👇 Drop your insights, experience, or questions in the comments. #FintechAfrica #BNPL #DigitalLending #ProductMarketFit #FinancialInclusion #Startups #InvestingInAfrica #MkopA #WatuCredit #LipaLater #VentureCapital #FinancialServices #EmergingMarkets

Top Cars Tourists Rent While in Kenya (And Where to Hire Them Hassle-Free)

By otoooh rentals • July 10, 2025
When planning a trip to Kenya, one of the top questions international travelers ask is: “What’s the best car to rent for my safari, beach trip, or Nairobi city tour?” Whether you're landing at JKIA (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) , headed to the Masai Mara , exploring Nairobi National Park , or driving to Diani Beach , having the right rental car can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll highlight the most popular cars tourists rent in Kenya , answer key questions about car hire in Nairobi , and show you how to book the perfect ride through www.riderentals.co — Kenya’s #1 car rental platform. Why Tourists Rent Cars in Kenya Tourists visiting Kenya rent cars for: Game drives and safaris Airport transfers from JKIA, Moi Airport, or Wilson Road trips to Naivasha, Nanyuki, Diani, Tsavo, and beyond Business or diplomatic visits Weekend getaways and city exploration Top Cars Tourists Love to Rent in Kenya 1. Toyota Land Cruiser Prado Best For: Safaris, executive travel, and long-distance road trips Why Tourists Love It: Powerful, spacious, off-road ready, perfect for game parks like Masai Mara or Amboseli. Google Search Terms Tourists Use: "4x4 safari car hire Kenya" "Land Cruiser for rent in Nairobi" "self-drive car for safari in Kenya" 2. Toyota Noah/Voxy Best For: Family travel, group trips Why Tourists Love It: Spacious, fuel-efficient, comfortable for city tours and countryside trips. Common Searches: "cheap family car rental Nairobi" "Toyota Noah for hire with driver in Kenya" 3. Toyota RAV4 Best For: Couples, solo travelers, light off-road adventures Why Tourists Love It: Affordable, compact SUV, good for both city and safari. Search Queries Include: "rent a 4x4 SUV in Nairobi" "affordable self-drive SUV Kenya" 4. Toyota Alphard/Vellfire Best For: Luxury airport transfers, VIP guests, weddings Why Tourists Love It: Stylish, extremely comfortable, perfect for business or luxury leisure travel. Popular Search Terms: "luxury van hire Nairobi" "chauffeur-driven Alphard in Kenya" 5. Toyota Fielder/Axio Best For: Budget travelers, city movement Why Tourists Love It: Affordable, compact, perfect for Nairobi and nearby towns. What They Google: "cheap car rental in Kenya" "affordable self-drive cars Nairobi" 6. Toyota Hilux Double Cab Best For: Adventure trips, rugged terrain Why Tourists Love It: Heavy-duty, great for Lake Turkana, Lamu overland, or remote missions. Search Examples: "4x4 Hilux for rent Kenya" "pick-up truck rental Kenya for safari" 7. Mercedes-Benz E-Class / S-Class Best For: Corporate guests, luxury travelers Why Tourists Love It: Executive comfort, ideal for business meetings, VIP pickup, and wedding rides. Common Google Searches: "hire a Mercedes-Benz in Nairobi" "luxury car hire JKIA airport" 8. Toyota Hiace / Nissan Caravan Best For: Large groups, team tours Why Tourists Love It: Seats 10–14 people, ideal for missionary trips, conferences, and tour companies. What Tourists Search: "rent a van for group travel Kenya" "tour van rental with driver in Nairobi" What Tourists From Around the World Search Before Renting a Car in Kenya "How to rent a car in Kenya" "Best self-drive cars for tourists in Nairobi" "Hire a car for safari in Kenya" "Where to rent a car near JKIA airport" "Car rental with driver in Kenya" "Top car rental companies in Nairobi" "Toyota Prado for rent Masai Mara" "Budget car rental Kenya for tourists" ✅ Why www.RideRentals.co is the Best Car Hire Option for Tourists in Kenya www.riderentals.co has become the go-to car rental platform for tourists across the world thanks to: 🔹 Vast Fleet Selection From 4x4s for safari to executive cars and budget-friendly options , you’ll find your perfect ride. 🔹 Instant Booking & Transparent Pricing No hidden fees. What you see is what you pay. 🔹 Self-drive or Chauffeur Options Book a driver or take the wheel — your choice. 🔹 Airport Pickups & Drop-offs Get your car delivered right at JKIA , Wilson , or Mombasa airport . 🔹 WhatsApp Support Get help in real-time by chatting with the support team at: +254 714 877948 🔹 Trusted by Locals & International Visitors Awarded: Best Corporate Car Rental Firm 2023 Most Innovative Car Rental Platform (Customer Experience & Tech) 2024 Just Landed in Kenya? Here's How to Rent Your Car in Minutes Visit www.riderentals.co Browse cars by location, date, or car type Choose between self-drive or with driver Confirm & pay via M-Pesa, card, or PayPal Get your car delivered to the airport, hotel, or Airbnb 📞 Need help booking? Call or WhatsApp: +254 714 877948 (Lina - Bookings Office) Final Word Whether you’re headed to the wild savannahs of Kenya or just looking to explore Nairobi in comfort, renting the right car can define your travel experience. With a wide selection of tourist-friendly vehicles and seamless service, www.riderentals.co is the best way to rent a car in Kenya. Book today and explore Kenya your way!