Extend Your Big 5 Trip: Things to Do Around Karen Before or After the Expo

Many Big 5 Construct Kenya visitors fly thousands of kilometres for three show days. Adding even half a day before or after the expo turns a work trip into a memorable one, and Karen is well placed for it. Most of Nairobi's best-known wildlife and heritage sites are a short drive from the hotel.

If you have a half day

Nairobi National Park game drive

Nairobi National Park sits on the edge of the capital, with the city skyline in view, and is home to giraffes, zebras, buffalo, antelope and, with luck, rhinos and lions. It is close to Karen, so a half-day drive fits neatly around a flight or a free afternoon. Karen Plains Hotel offers guided half-day and full-day tours in a 4x4 Land Cruiser or a mini van. Read what to expect on a game drive.

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery

The Trust's public visit runs daily from 11:00 to 12:00 (except 25 December), when orphaned elephants are fed and cared for. According to the Trust, visits must be booked in advance directly with its Nairobi office (same-day bookings are not possible, and third-party tickets are not accepted), and the Nairobi National Park entry fee is paid separately.

Giraffe Centre and Karen Blixen Museum

Feed endangered Rothschild's giraffes at the Giraffe Centre, then visit the former home of the Out of Africa author. Our half-day tour (about four hours) includes return transport from the hotel. See our Karen Blixen Museum guide and things to do near the Giraffe Centre.

If you have a free evening

• Dinner in Karen: the area has some of Nairobi's most relaxed restaurants. See our Karen restaurant guide.
• See what is on across the city on our Twende! events hub.
• Recover in your room with a 60-minute in-room massage after three long days on your feet.

If you have a full day

• Combine the park in the morning with the elephant nursery at 11:00 and the Giraffe Centre in the afternoon. Book the nursery well ahead.
• Hire a concierge tour guide for a day tailored to your interests, from markets and galleries to Nairobi's architecture. For construction professionals, the city's changing skyline is part of the story. Read the architects who shaped modern Nairobi.

If you have two or more days

The Masai Mara

The weekend after the show is a natural time for a short safari. You can fly from Wilson Airport, about 13–15 minutes from Karen, or travel by road with our private 4x4 Mara transfer. See our Masai Mara planning guide and road vs flight comparison.

Ngong Hills

For a walk with wide views over the Rift Valley, the Ngong Hills are close to Karen. See our Ngong Hills day trip guide.

Before the expo or after?

• Before: if you arrive on Tuesday 20 October (Mashujaa Day, a public holiday), a gentle afternoon at the Giraffe Centre helps shake off jet lag. Check opening arrangements for the holiday first.
• After: Saturday 24 October works well for a half-day game drive before an evening flight, with bags stored at the hotel after the 10:00 check-out.

See how it all fits in our five-day Big 5 itinerary.

Planning your Big 5 stay? Add extra nights and book direct, or send your dates and team size to info@karenplainshotel.com or WhatsApp +254 796 989 928. Our front desk is open 24/7.

Frequently asked questions

What can I do in Karen with half a day?

A Nairobi National Park game drive, the Sheldrick elephant nursery visit (11:00–12:00, booked in advance) or the Giraffe Centre and Karen Blixen Museum.

Do I need to book the Sheldrick elephant nursery in advance?

Yes. The Trust requires advance booking through its Nairobi office and does not accept same-day or third-party bookings.

Can I do a Masai Mara safari after Big 5?

Yes. Flights leave from Wilson Airport near Karen, or you can travel by road with a private 4x4 transfer.