You don't have to drive for a day to sleep under the stars. There are good camping sites in and near Nairobi, many of them affordable, from forest trails on the city's edge to lakeside camps two hours away. Here are our picks, plus tips for keeping it cheap.
In and on the edge of Nairobi (under 1 hour)
- Oloolua Nature Trail, Karen: forest walks, a waterfall and a caves trail, with space for camping close to the city. It's ideal for first-timers and families.
- Private gardens and event grounds: many families and schools hold "backyard" or compound camps. All you need is hired tents and bedding.
Within 1–3 hours of Nairobi
| Campsite area | Why go | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Naivasha (e.g. Fisherman's Camp, Camp Carnelley's) | Lakeside camping, hippos, boat rides | Families, friends, first-timers |
| Hell's Gate National Park | Cycling among wildlife, gorge walks, park campsites | Active groups, budget trips |
| Mount Longonot | Crater-rim hike, camping near the gate | Hikers |
| Ol Donyo Sabuk National Park | Forest mountain, buffalo, views over Thika | Quiet weekends |
| Sagana | Riverside camps, white-water rafting and kayaking | Adventure groups, team building |
| Kereita Forest, Kiambu | Bamboo forest, zip-lining and outdoor activities | Groups, corporates |
| Lake Magadi | Hot springs, flamingos, desert landscapes | Adventurous campers (bring shade!) |
For destinations further away, such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Mount Kenya, see best camping sites in Kenya.
How to keep camping cheap
- Choose public or park campsites over private resorts. They're usually the cheapest places to sleep.
- Rent a package instead of buying gear. Our Panamount Package starts at about KES 2,000 per night for two people, including bedding.
- Share a large tent and car-pool with friends.
- Bring your own food and cook at camp with a hired camp kitchen.
- Go on non-holiday weekends, when sites are quieter and sometimes cheaper.
Gear checklist for a weekend near Nairobi
Tent, sleeping bags, mattresses, camp chairs, a lantern, a cooler and a cooker. Everything is available from Kifaru Kampers in Karen. See our rental price guide or family camping on a budget.
Need gear or a full camp setup?
Tell us your dates, location and group size. Kifaru Kampers will recommend the right equipment and send you a quote.
Request a quote Call +254 738 201701 WhatsApp usFrequently asked questions
Where can I camp in Nairobi?
Options on the edge of the city include the Oloolua Nature Trail in Karen and private grounds. Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate, Mount Longonot, Ol Donyo Sabuk, Sagana and Kereita Forest are within a few hours' drive.
What are cheap camping sites near Nairobi?
Public and national park campsites, such as those at Hell's Gate and near Mount Longonot, and simple lakeside camps at Naivasha are usually the most affordable. Confirm current fees with the site before you go.
Can I hire camping gear for a weekend near Nairobi?
Yes. Kifaru Kampers in Karen hires tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, chairs, coolers and lanterns, with packages from about KES 2,000 per night.
Do I need to book campsites in advance?
For weekends and public holidays, yes. Book the campsite and your gear early.