TRAVEL AFRICA
On weekdays, you might be forgiven for believing that Nairobi is all cold coffee and loud voice notes. You do not have to go far for the city to change shape.
Within an hour or two, the buildings give way to waterfalls, forest paths, green hills, and open views that make the city feel like it is much further away than it really is.
For travellers who want a little adventure, but still want to be back in time for dinner, Nairobi is a surprisingly good base for day trips. These escapes are close, varied, and just wild enough to make you feel as if you have earned your cup of roadside tea when winding down afterwards.
THE NGONG HILLS First stop: These are the Ngong Hills made famous by Out of Africa. But do not think about the movie now. You don’ t need the reference to feel the pull. The seven rolling hills rise above the landscape like a long green staircase, with wide views over the whole Great Rift Valley. You will feel like you are on top of the world. You will also think about how you need to exercise more.
On weekends, the Ngong Hills feels alive. Couples picnic, hikers stop for photos, and local runners go by quickly, with a calm cruelty of people who consider uphill running a hobby. There is wind, dust, laughter, and that one person climbing in jeans. It is not too perfect or touristy.
If the Ngong Hills is the dramatic wildchild of Nairobi, then refreshing Karura Forest is the calm and peaceful cousin.
JUNE 2026 / INBOUND SA 21