Nairobi National Park, Kenya

Nairobi National Park is a one-stop destination for those looking for the ultimate city-edge safari experience.

Unlike traditional wildlife parks, Nairobi National Park offers a taste of the wild without ever leaving the city limits. It is a worthwhile introduction to Kenya’s animal and birdlife and the perfect destination for those who are short on time but would want to have a glimpse of some of Africa’s iconic wildlife.

Visitors have the opportunity to see the “Big Five” and other wildlife in their natural habitat against the backdrop of a vibrant capital city skyline.

About Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is located on the outskirts of Nairobi, just 7 km south of the city centre and less than 5 km from the runway of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It is an ideal destination for day trips from Nairobi or to start or end any Kenya safari.

Spanning only 117 square km (45 square miles), Nairobi National Park is relatively small compared to other Kenyan wildlife parks and reserves like Masai Mara and Tsavo East and West.

It features diverse ecosystems, ranging from thick woods near the city outskirts, open grassy plains that slope gently from west to east, a wooded confluence of several rivers to rocky ridges covered with lush vegetation, providing a suitable habitat for various wildlife species.

The park sustains an incredible variety of wildlife, including four of the Big Five (excluding elephants). As such, a typical Nairobi National Park safari guarantees unparalleled wildlife viewing: expect to see a lion prowling the rolling grasslands, or watch a zebra graze against the backdrop of the shimmering city skyscrapers.

Wildlife in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is home to a significant population of rhinos, for which it is nicknamed ‘Kifaru Ark’ (Kifaru means Rhino in Swahili)—a symbol of its successful role in rhino conservation. There are approximately 50 critically endangered black rhinos (white rhinos are also present), with the park providing Africa’s densest concentration.

Predators including lions, cheetahs, hyenas and the more elusive leopard are frequently sighted on the park’s grasslands, while the woodlands are browsed by Maasai giraffes. Herbivores, such as wildebeest and zebra, traverse the Kitengela conservation area and migration corridor to the south of the park to occupy the Athi-Kapiti plains.

Other regularly spotted species include Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, warthogs, impalas, giraffes, ostriches and buffaloes.

There are over 400 species of both resident and migratory birds, making the park a top birding destination. Fascinating species to look out for include vultures, ostriches, crowned cranes, kori bustards, ground hornbills, Egyptian geese, and black-necked herons.

Activities in Nairobi National Park

• Game drives
• Safari walks
• Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
• Wildlife photography
• Night drives 

Best time to visit Nairobi National Park

Although Nairobi National Park is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October and January to February. These months provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities due to sparse vegetation and animals congregate around water sources and the clear air offers particularly spectacular views of the capital city.

How to get to Nairobi National Park

The park’s proximity to the city offers travelers a convenient stopover, being just 7 km (20-minute drive) south from the city centre, and less than 5 km from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) at which most international flights typically arrive.

The paved, well-maintained and clearly signposted road network, along with the official park map (available at the gate) offer easy access and navigation in and around the park.

Most local safari outfitters offer half-day trips; but if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can hire a taxi for a few hours. Alternatively, the Kenya Wildlife Service shuttle operates on weekends and public holidays and departs from Development House in the city center or from the main gate of the park.

Where to stay in Nairobi National Park

There’s a vast array of accommodation options located on the outskirts of Nairobi National Park ranging from comfortable guesthouses to five-star hotels and lodges and tented camps. They offer high-end and immersive safari experiences with exclusive access to game viewing. Here are our top picks.

1. Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel set in the leafy Langata suburb of Nairobi. Surrounded by 12 acres of private land, the Safari Collection owned and operated property is famous for its resident herd of Rothschild giraffe and is one of the most unique places to stay on a Kenya safari.

2. The Emakoko Lodge

This gem of a lodge is an ideal place for a secluded, intimate, and exclusive African bush experience with easy game viewing on your doorstep and a host of activities available. It is located in a seemingly remote and hidden valley, 45 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

3. Ololo Safari Lodge

This charming ranch-style lodge seamlessly combines a classic African safari experience with the comfort of luxury living. Its close proximity offers guests quick access to Nairobi National Park via the lodge’s private footbridge over the Mbagathi River for afternoon and morning game drives.

Sample wildebeest migration safaris

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