Nairobi National Park
Safari suitability: 7/10
Find your tourPerfect for city dwellers and short-stayers wishing to meet rhinos on their doorstep.
What YAS members think
Highlights
- World’s only wildlife park located so close to a city; easily reached from Nairobi
- Home to four of the big five, including black rhinos and lions
- Major rhino and elephant sanctuary close to the main entrance
- Spectacular wildebeest and zebra migrations
- Over 400 species of endemic and migratory birds
About Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park, sometimes called Kifaru Ark or ‘Rhinoceros Sanctuary’, was Kenya’s first national park, established in 1946. Only 7 kilometers (4 miles) south of the centre of Nairobi, it is the world’s only protected area that lies so close to a capital city. This makes the park very accessible and provides an ideal opportunity to witness some unique wildlife even for those with limited time.
Despite covering a relatively small area of 117 square kilometers (45 square miles) and its proximity to civilization, Nairobi National Park boasts a great variety of flora and fauna. Open grass plains are home to four of the big five - black rhinos, lions, leopards and buffalos – which can be seen on a regular basis.
The park is not big enough for elephants, but elephant orphans can be seen in the park’s sanctuary ran by the David Sheldrick Trust. Orphaned and sick animals are brought here from all over Kenya with the aim to release them back into the wild when ready. The sanctuary is known to be very successful and provides the visitors with a rare opportunity to see the endangered giants roaming in their natural habitat. They also answer calls from other Parks if elephants or rhinos there need their specialized medical assistance.
Nairobi Park is fenced in its northern, eastern and western boundaries to separate the wildlife from the city. In the south, there is a natural border created by the Mbagathi River, which features a riverine forest. The south border is opened to the Kitenegela Conservation Area and the Athi-Kapiti plains. An important migration corridor is located in this part of the park. It allows the animals to reach the plains in the wet season and then return to the park in the dry season where they are provided with additional water sources in the form of man-made dams built along the river. Many large herbivores can be spotted around this area and spectacular wildebeest and zebra migrations can be observed in July and August.
The park’s permanent river and dams support a large number of bird species and other aquatic biome. Hippopotami reside in the pools and the river area is a paradise for bird watchers who can expect to see many of the over 400 species found here, 20 of them seasonal migrants from Europe.
Nairobi National Park has been praised for its conservational efforts. In 1989, Kenyan president burnt twelve tons of ivory on a site within the park. The scene is now marked as the Ivory Burning Site Monument and reminds the visitors of the tragedy of elephant poaching.
Nairobi National Park activities
The park has a selection of walking trails and you can take the Nairobi Safari Walk. Video shows and guided tours are available from the Wildlife Conservation Education Center. The park is a popular picnic and special events destination for the local city population.
When is the best time to visit Nairobi National Park?
The park can be visited throughout the year. January to March is hot and dry, April to June is hot and wet and July to October is known to be very warm and wet. During the dry season, migrating herbivores gather in the park to access the scarce water.
Nairobi national park is one of the best premier parks in Kenya, as the only park in the world that is so close to the city this is a must visit to anyone in Kenya for a safari, Here you will see 4 of the big five including the rhinos that are critically endangered with only a few remaining in the wild as well as other wildlife species and a variety of birds. if you are looking for a wildlife safari experience within Nairobi this is the park for you. Early morning game drives from 6 am is the best time to visit this park as this is the time when predators are most active getting the most of the cool morning weather to make a kill. 8 hours is enough to explore all parts of the park.
Sort by:
Nairobi National Park is a rare gem that offers an unparalleled wildlife experience right on the doorstep of Kenya’s bustling capital. As one of the few national parks located within a city, it seamlessly blends urban and natural environments, providing a unique opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife with the city’s skyline as a backdrop. Wildlife and Scenery The park is home to an impressive array of animals, including lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 species of birds. The open grass plains, acacia bushland, and scattered highland forest create diverse habitats that support this rich biodiversity. The park’s compact size makes it possible to see a lot in a short time, but it doesn’t feel overcrowded, maintaining a sense of wilderness. Accessibility and Convenience Being just a short drive from Nairobi’s city center, the park is easily accessible. This makes it an ideal destination for a quick escape from urban life or for tourists with limited time. The well-maintained roads and clear signage within the park make navigation straightforward, whether you're on a self-drive safari or part of a guided tour. Facilities and Services Nairobi National Park is well-equipped with visitor facilities, including picnic sites, campsites, and designated walking trails. The park also offers educational centers and a Safari Walk, which provide valuable insights into the conservation efforts and the park’s ecosystem. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience with their insights and hospitality. Conservation Efforts The park is also a testament to successful conservation efforts, especially for endangered species like the black rhinoceros. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located within the park, allows visitors to learn about and support the rehabilitation of orphaned elephants and rhinos, adding a meaningful conservation aspect to the visit. Value for Money Given its proximity to the city and the quality of the wildlife experience, Nairobi National Park offers excellent value for money. The park fees are reasonable, and there are various packages available for different types of visitors, including residents, non-residents, and students. Final Thoughts Nairobi National Park is a must-visit for anyone in Nairobi. It offers a unique blend of urban and wildlife experiences that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a quick safari experience, a nature enthusiast wanting to explore diverse habitats, or a conservation supporter interested in learning about local efforts, Nairobi National Park has something to offer. Highly recommended for a memorable and enriching wildlife adventure.
This unique juxtaposition of natura and urbanity park was one of the highlights during our safari. The stunning views of Nairobi's iconic skyline from the park gave me a thrilling experience. Our knowledgeable guide took us all over the park giving us a chance to explore to the last minute. We were able to come in contact with lions, giraffes, rhinos and zebras. This is a one tour destination that was an extension of our planned safari. Nairobi National Park offers a lot to any traveler landing in Kenya.
Nairobi National Park is fairly well-known among guests that visit Nairobi, Kenya. The biggest reason why this is a famous park is the fact that it's located within the city of Nairobi premises. It does not have so much to show compare to the likes of Masai Mara or Amboseli, but it's worth taking a look if you have few hours in Nairobi. The park is in the outskirts of the city on the way to Athi-River area. It has variety of wildlife such as Giraffes, Buffalos, Hyenas and Zebras. Also has so much birdlife with the likes of Vultures, African Eagles, feral parrots etc. I believe there is so much to see for a day here. Worth a visit.
Nairobi national park was the first national park in Kenya and is approximately seven kilometers south of Kenya’s capital Nairobi. There is only a fence separating the park’s wildlife from the metropolis and you can actually see the city’s skyscrapers from the park. The uniqueness of this park can be felt given that it is the only protected area in the entire world with numerous animals and birds and close to a capital city. This in itself makes Nairobi national park tours one of the most after sort tours in Kenya for short stays in the city. This is a principle attraction for visitors to Nairobi and despite its proximity to civilization and relative small size for an African park, it boasts of a large and varied wildlife population. It is a unique and un spoilt wildlife haven within sight of the city’s skyline. Zebra, cheetah, lion, giraffe and antelopes among other animals can be seen roaming in the open plains with a section of highland forest and stretches of broken bush country. Family holidays Many people would want to for cheap all inclusive vacations and this is not an exactly bad thing since there are many special vacations that won’t break your bank. You can go for a trip to see different animals in the park and this is one of the greatest destinations for family holidays. You can be sure to enjoy seeing the different attractions this park has to offer. There is a wide range of habitats from open grass plains to Rocky River gorges and dry forest. This attracts a wide range of wildlife with more than four hundred species of bird being recorded in the park. The park also hosts more than a hundred types of mammals and it could take you at least four hours to get around and see most of the park It only takes about twenty minutes to get to Nairobi national park and so when planning for your Nairobi national park tours, you can rest assured you will save yourself long drives while trying to get to the park. You will also get to see at least four of the five big five animals.
Are you there may be you are transiting or staying in Nairobi hotels and looking for some excursions to do within a limited time? Then your answer, in block letters, will be Nairobi National Park. The best time to visit this park is very park is morning hours from 0630hrs because mostly the animals are very active.
Nairobi is blessed with a great national park which is a few miles from the City Center and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and suitable for early morning or afternoon game drive. Nairobi National Park allows one to enjoy at least 4 hours game drive in the search of African wildlife such as the Lions, Leopard, Buffalos, Black African Rhino, Masai Giraffes, Baboons, Noisy Monkeys, Ostrich, Impalas, Zebras Hippopotamus among other animals and bird species. The park entrance fees are pocket friendly to all categories non Residents USD $35 covid-19 Rates that is expected to end on July 2021, Resident kshs.400/= and Citizens kshs.400. Feel free to arrange a visit To Nairobi National park even when you are on transit and discover the Nature and beauty of Nairobi City. "Zuru" Nairobi National Park and create great safari memories...
This is the only national park in the world, if you are lucky you can be able to see four of the big 5 and among others, over 400 species. You will also find zebra, giraffes, hippos, buffalo, antelopes, crocodiles, cheetah and gazelles. Further to that this is the oldest park in East Africa.
This is the world's only wildlife capital considering its only a short drive from the central business district. One of its unique attractions is the view of Nairobi city right from the park and its incredible for photographers. The safari walk is also amazing. The park is home to various species of wild animals and bird species. Some of the animals you can spot are lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes and black rhinos. It basically has 4 of the BIG FIVE minus elephants. While in the capital of Kenya it's a nice place to go with your family for a half-day tour as it offers picnic sites as well and it's near to the airport.
The park has very close proximity to the city of Nairobi and is easily accessible, with excellent tracks - part tarmac, part gravel. There are lots of animals that are easy to come-by on a regular game drive including the lion, giraffe, buffalo, eland, the impala, the elusive leopard, ostrich, gazelle, black rhino, hartebeest not forgetting the interesting to watch and ever-active baboons. The David Sheldrick elephant orphanage, the animal orphanage, and the Safariwalk Board offer an unforgettable complete safari experience. Coupled up with the all-time good weather, this park is my personal favorite.
Nairobi National park happens to be the only park in the world where animals roam freely in their natural habitat and surprisingly located just next to Nairobi city.
Getting to Nairobi National Park from Nairobi
Nairobi National Park is one of the most accessible parks to reach. It's a one-hour drive from the international airport, making it a great option for those with very limited time. It is also possible to take public buses, if budgets are tight.
The following airlines travel to Nairobi National Park
Low-cost airline operating domestic services in Kenya. Fly540 is East Africas premier low cost airline offering low fares on scheduled flights all year round to destinations within Kenya, South Sudan and Zanzibar. Headquartered in Nairobi and operating from Jomo Kenyatta International and Wilson Airports, Fly540 Kenya flies to Eldoret, Kisumu, Lamu, Lodwar, Malindi, Mombasa and across the border to Juba and Zanzibar. We believe that our passengers should not only enjoy affordable, safe and comfortable air travel, but also consistent and excellent customer service. Visit website
Also flies to:
Precision Air is a publicly-listed Tanzanian airline and a leader in providing scheduled flight services to over 10 destinations within and outside Tanzania from its main hub Dar es Salaam. The company operates on the principle that quick, comfortable and reliable service is the best way to serve its customers. Through its customer-focused approach, many have become part of the Precision Air family. Precision Air started with its headquarters in Arusha - the midpoint between the Cape and Cairo, which is the entry point to many of Tanzania's world-renowned landmarks and national parks. The headquarters of Precision Air are now Dar es Salaam, the business complex of the country, which is home to a vast size of traffic travelling within and outside Tanzania. Visit website
Also flies to:
Nairobi map
Nearby parks and game reserves
Related articles
Latest photos
