NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK

Nairobi National Park is a unique wildlife reserve located just 7 kilometers (4 miles) from Nairobi’s city center, making it the only national park in the world bordering a capital city. It was established in 1946, making it Kenya’s first national park.

Key Highlights:

1. Wildlife:

Home to a wide variety of animals including lions, leopards, rhinos, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, impalas, hartebeests, and ostriches.

One of the best places in Kenya to see black rhinos, as the park is a rhino sanctuary.

Though it lacks elephants (due to its size and proximity to the city), the diversity of wildlife is still impressive.

2. Landscape:

Features open grass plains, scattered acacia bushes, riverine forests, and seasonal wetlands.

Offers iconic views of wildlife with Nairobi’s skyline in the background—a surreal juxtaposition of nature and urban life.

3. Attractions:

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage): Located at the park’s edge, it rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants.

Nairobi Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage: Great for close-up wildlife encounters and educational experiences.

4. Activities:

Game drives (early morning and late afternoon are best).

Bird watching: Over 500 bird species recorded.

Walking trails and picnicking at designated sites.

5. Accessibility:

Easily accessible by road from Nairobi city.

Ideal for day trips, especially for visitors with limited time.

6. Conservation Importance:

Critical wildlife corridor for animals migrating from the south of Nairobi.

Faces conservation challenges due to urban encroachment and infrastructure development, including roads and railways.

Opening Hours & Fees:
Open daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM