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For travelers transiting through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) or Wilson Airport, a Nairobi layover tour offers the perfect way to turn waiting time into an unforgettable mini-safari adventure. Imagine spotting lions, rhinos, and giraffes with Nairobi’s skyline rising in the background — all within minutes of the airport.
Our Nairobi Airport Layover Safaris are designed for travelers on short or long layovers who want to experience Kenya’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes without leaving the city. With flexible departure times, convenient airport pick-up, and private vehicles, you’ll enjoy a world-class safari in the heart of Nairobi.
🦁 Why Choose a Nairobi National Park Layover Safari
- World’s only national park beside a capital city – Spot lions, rhinos, and giraffes with the Nairobi skyline in the background — a scene you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.
- Just 25–30 minutes from JKIA – The park’s proximity to the airport makes it ideal for short layovers; you can enjoy a real Kenyan safari without leaving Nairobi. See Google Map directions here.
- Home to the Big 4 (minus elephants) – See lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos, plus giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and over 400 bird species in their natural habitat.
- Scenic landscapes and landmarks – Explore wide-open savannahs, acacia woodlands, and iconic sites like the Ivory Burning Monument and Hippo Pools Trail.
- Expert-guided game drives – Travel in a 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, guided by experienced local safari guides who know the best routes for wildlife sightings.
- Flexible half-day or full-day tours – Choose a 4–5 hour express safari for short layovers or a 10-hour full-day adventure combining the park with nearby attractions like the Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi Safari Walk, and Elephant Orphanage.
- Year-round wildlife viewing – Nairobi National Park is fenced only on one side, allowing free movement of animals from the wider ecosystem — wildlife sightings are excellent all year.
- Great value and convenience – No need for long transfers or domestic flights — you’ll enjoy a full safari experience and still make it back to the airport in time for your next flight.
- Ideal for all travelers – Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this layover safari offers a safe, hassle-free introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and culture.
✈️ Layover Safari Options
We’ve partnered with NairobiPark.org to offer two tailored Nairobi Layover Safaris designed around your transit time.
- For layovers of 6 hours or more, choose the Half-Day Safari (4–5 hrs) — a focused Nairobi National Park game drive, perfect for a quick yet authentic wildlife experience near the airport.
- For longer layovers of 12+ hours, the Full-Day Safari (up to 10 hrs) offers a deeper adventure combining the park with top attractions like the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and Nairobi Safari Walk.
Below are the details for both safari options.
1️⃣ Full-Day Nairobi Layover Tour (8–10 Hours)
Perfect for travelers with a long layover (12+ hours).
- Duration: 8 hours to 10 hrs
- Safari Start: Early morning, with pick-up from JKIA or your Nairobi hotel
- Safari End: Late afternoon, with drop-off at JKIA or your hotel
- Highlights: Game drives in Nairobi National Park, visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre, and optional lunch at a local restaurant.
Itinerary
- Pick-Up: Early pick-up from JKIA or your nearby hotel.
- Morning Game Drive in Nairobi National Park: Begin with an early morning drive to Nairobi National Park, where you will explore open savannahs, acacia woodlands, and wetland areas. Witness diverse wildlife, including lions, rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species, all against Nairobi’s cityscape backdrop. This urban safari experience is unique to Kenya, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
- David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: After the game drive, visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a sanctuary for orphaned elephants. Observe the baby elephants being fed, playing in the mud, and interacting with their caretakers. You’ll learn about Kenya’s efforts to protect and rehabilitate elephants.
- Lunch (Optional): Enjoy a lunch break at a nearby restaurant or hotel, where you can savor Kenyan cuisine or international dishes.
- Afternoon Visit to the Giraffe Centre: Continue to the Giraffe Centre, where you can get up close with the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Feed the giraffes, learn about their conservation, and enjoy the lush surroundings.
- Return to JKIA: After a fulfilling day, return to JKIA with plenty of time to check in for your onward flight.
Package Includes
- Pick-up and drop-off at JKIA or Nairobi hotel
- Park entry fees for driver and vehicle
- Professional driver-guide
- Game drive in Nairobi National Park and any 3 nearby attractions such as Elephant Orphanage, Utamaduni Center, Giraffe Center, Animal Orphanage, Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi Safari Walk, among others.
- Bottled drinking water
Package Excludes
- Optional lunch at a restaurant
- Park entry fees for guests to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Nairobi NP, and Giraffe Center.
- Tips and personal expenses
| Number of Guests | Price per Person (USD) | Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $220 | $220 |
| 2 people | $150 | $300 |
| 3 people | $120 | $360 |
| 4 people | $100 | $400 |
| 5 people | $90 | $450 |
| 6 people | $70 | $420 |
| 7 people | $60 | $420 |
Prices include private vehicle, driver-guide, JKIA pick-up and drop-off, and bottled water.
2️⃣ Half-Day Nairobi Layover Safari (4–5 Hours)
Ideal for travelers with shorter layovers (4-5 hours).
- Duration: 4 hours
- Safari Start: Morning or afternoon, depending on flight schedule
- Safari End: Timed to ensure return to JKIA for onward flights
- Highlights: Game drive in Nairobi National Park and optional visit to the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (depending on timing).
Itinerary
- Pick-Up: Pick-up from JKIA for a streamlined experience.
- Game Drive in Nairobi National Park: Embark on a half-day game drive through Nairobi National Park, spotting a variety of wildlife within the city’s borders. With a focus on efficiency, you’ll see popular sites and high-probability wildlife viewing areas, capturing a memorable glimpse of Kenya’s natural beauty.
- Optional Stop at Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: If time allows, conclude your safari with a short visit to either the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
- Return to JKIA: After your safari, you’ll be promptly returned to JKIA with ample time to complete pre-departure requirements.
Package Includes
- Pick-up and drop-off at JKIA
- Park entry fees for driver and vehicle
- Professional driver-guide
- Bottled water
Package Excludes
- Visits to other destinations other than Nairobi NP such as Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
- Park entry fees for guests.
- Tips
| Number of Guests | Price per Person (USD) | Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $180 | $180 |
| 2 people | $90 | $180 |
| 3 people | $80 | $240 |
| 4 people | $60 | $240 |
| 5 people | $55 | $275 |
| 6 people | $50 | $300 |
| 7 people | $45 | $315 |
🚙 Our 4×4 Land Cruiser Safari Vehicles
- Safari-customized with pop-up roofs for 360° viewing and wide canvas windows for excellent side visibility and photography.
- Spacious and comfortable, seating up to 7 passengers, each with a window seat and plenty of legroom.
- All-terrain performance – Designed to handle Nairobi National Park’s rugged tracks and river crossings smoothly and safely.
- Expert driver-guides – Operated by licensed, English-speaking guides experienced in wildlife tracking and photography.
- Comfort features – Air-conditioning, cooler boxes for water, and charging ports for your devices.
- Well-maintained and fully insured, meeting all tourism safety standards.
- Eco-conscious – Operated under low-emission and no-idling policies to protect the park’s environment.
Important Information
- Customizable Timing: Both packages can be customized based on your layover duration, allowing for flexible start and end times.
- Comfort and Convenience: Vehicles used are 4×4 Land Cruisers or safari vans with ample seating and large windows for optimal wildlife viewing.
- Safety and Security: Each safari includes a licensed, knowledgeable driver-guide to ensure a safe and enriching experience.
- Baggage Storage: Secure storage options are available for your luggage during the safari, allowing you to travel light and enjoy the tour fully.
🛂 Visa & Entry Requirements for Nairobi Layover Safaris
- Apply for a Kenya eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization): All foreign passengers leaving JKIA for a layover tour must obtain an eTA in advance at www.etakenya.go.ke (EAC citizens are exempt).
- Purpose of Visit: Select “Transit / Layover – Short Visit” or “Tourism” and indicate Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) as your entry point.
- Documents Needed: Valid passport (6+ months), passport photo, flight itinerary, and proof of safari booking or hotel stay.
- Fee & Processing: USD 30 per person; processed online within 1–3 business days (apply at least 3–5 days before travel).
- On Arrival: Present your eTA approval and passport at immigration; our driver will meet you at arrivals for your safari.
- Notes: eTA is single-entry, valid 90 days; not available on arrival; children under 16 are exempt.
Booking Information
Advance booking is recommended to ensure a smooth and timely experience. Please provide your flight details to help us plan your safari to fit seamlessly within your layover window.
These Nairobi Layover Safaris are a great way to maximize your time in Kenya, whether you have a few hours or a full day. Witness Kenya’s natural beauty and wildlife without leaving Nairobi and turn your layover into an unforgettable adventure!
🕶️ Important Travel Info
🕓 Layover Time Guide
| Safari Option | Minimum Layover Required | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half-Day | 6–8 hours | 4–5 hours | Nairobi National Park + Optional Giraffe Centre |
| Full-Day | 12+ hours | 8–10 hours | Nairobi National Park + Giraffe Centre + Elephant Orphanage + Karen Blixen |
💳 How to Book
To reserve your Nairobi National Park Layover Safari, email your flight details and group size to:
📧 bookings@jkiairport.com
In your email, please include:
- Arrival and departure flight times
- Number of guests
- Preferred safari option (Half-Day or Full-Day)
- Any special requests
Once received, we will send you an email with a quote and require that you confirm your booking with a 50% deposit. The rest can be paid before the start of your safari. Our preferred payment option is online Pesapal link but can also accept bank transfer and MPesa.
✈️ Why Choose the JKIA Layover Safari
- Closest wildlife park to an international airport anywhere in the world
- Seamless airport pick-up and drop-off
- Flexible options for both short and long layovers
- Private vehicles and personalized itineraries
- Operated by professional safari guides with years of experience
🌄 Summary at a Glance
| Feature | Half-Day Safari | Full-Day Safari |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 4 – 5 Hours | 8–10 Hours |
| Pick-up / Drop-off | JKIA or nearby hotel | JKIA or nearby hotel |
| Main Activities | Game drive in Nairobi National Park | Game drive + Giraffe Centre + Elephant Orphanage + Karen Blixen |
| Cost (per person) | From $45–$180 | From $60–$220 |
| Park Entry Fees | $80 (adult) / $40 (child) | Over $100 for adults and over $40 for kids |
| Meals | Optional meal stop | Lunch recommended but not included |
| Ideal Layover Time | 6–8 hours | 12+ hours |
| Book by Email | bookings@jkiairport.com | bookings@jkiairport.com |
🦁 Experience Africa’s Wild Heart — Without Leaving the City
From the runway to the savannah, Nairobi Layover Safaris transform your waiting hours into an extraordinary adventure. In just a few hours, you can spot lions, rhinos, giraffes, and zebras, visit Kenya’s top conservation centers, and still make it back for your next flight.
Make your Nairobi layover memorable — not wasted.📧 Email: bookings@jkiairport.com
You can email us at bookings@jkiairport.com or,
or simply fill out the form below to book your Nairobi layover safari.