Nairobi National Park is one of the most unique safari destinations in the world — a wildlife park located just minutes from Kenya’s capital city. With Nairobi’s skyline rising in the background, visitors can encounter lions, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, cheetahs, and more than 400 bird species. Its location makes it the perfect choice for travelers with limited time, a layover in Nairobi, or those seeking a short but unforgettable safari.
Where is Nairobi National Park?
Nairobi National Park is located just 7 km (4 miles) from Nairobi’s city center.
- By Road: 15–30 minutes from most Nairobi hotels, depending on traffic.
Many visitors combine the park with nearby attractions like the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre, and Karen Blixen Museum.
Why Visit Nairobi National Park?
- Close to the City – Perfect for short trips and layovers.
- Big Game Viewing – Home to four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino — but no elephants).
- Rhino Sanctuary – Kenya’s most successful black rhino sanctuary.
- Birdwatching Paradise – Over 400 bird species, including migratory birds between November and April.
- Unique Photography – Capture wildlife against a backdrop of skyscrapers.
- Conservation Success – A pioneer in rhino conservation and urban wildlife protection.
Wildlife in Nairobi National Park
Despite being close to the city, Nairobi National Park hosts diverse wildlife:
- Big Game: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, elands, hartebeests, hippos, and crocodiles.
- Predators: Regular sightings of lions and cheetahs; leopards are present but elusive.
- Birdlife: Over 400 bird species, including crowned cranes, ostriches, secretary birds, vultures, and migratory species.
Nairobi National Park is particularly famous for its large rhino population, making it one of the best places in Kenya to see these endangered animals.
Best Time to Visit Nairobi National Park
- Year-Round: Wildlife viewing is consistently good.
- Dry Seasons (July–October & January–March): Best visibility and predator sightings.
- Wet Seasons (November & April–May): Lush green landscapes, migratory birds, and fewer tourists.
Early morning and late afternoon game drives are the best for spotting predators before the heat of the day.
Nairobi National Park Safari Packages & Costs
Safari prices vary based on duration, transport, and add-on activities.
Costs vary depending on number of people — smaller groups and private tours cost more per person, while larger groups lower the cost.
Most visitors choose the half-day Nairobi safari (USD 180 – USD 300), which gives enough time for a rewarding game drive and can easily be combined with the Giraffe Centre or Elephant Orphanage.
Nairobi National Park is one of Kenya’s most affordable safari options, especially for short stays.
Picnic and Viewing Sites in Nairobi National Park
The park features several designated picnic and observation points where visitors can relax, enjoy meals, and watch wildlife in safety.
- Ivory Burning Site & Picnic Area – Historic site where Kenya burned ivory to fight poaching; today a popular picnic spot with conservation displays.
- Kingfisher Picnic Site – Near wetlands, great for birdwatching and family picnics.
- Mokoiyet Picnic Site – Scenic views of the Nairobi skyline, perfect for photography.
- Impala Observation Point – Elevated viewpoint with sweeping plains; ideal for sunrise and sunset shots.
- Hippo Pools Picnic Site – Along the Athi River, excellent for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds, with short walking trails.
These spots combine relaxation with wildlife encounters, making Nairobi National Park ideal for families and day-trippers.
Top Activities
- Game Drives – Half-day or full-day tours with expert guides.
- Birdwatching – Excellent for both beginners and experienced birders.
- Photography Safaris – Capture rhinos, lions, and giraffes with Nairobi’s skyline in the background.
- Picnics – Enjoy designated picnic sites inside the park.
- Conservation Learning – Educational visits to rhino conservation zones.
- Add-On Excursions – Combine with the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage for a full Nairobi wildlife experience.
Photography Highlights
- Rhinos with Nairobi Skyline – A unique shot found nowhere else in the world.
- Predator Sightings – Lions and cheetahs in golden morning light.
- Birds in Wetlands – Especially during rainy seasons.
Sample Safari Itinerary – Half-Day Nairobi National Park Safari
- Morning: Pick-up from hotel or airport → Game drive inside the park.
- Afternoon (optional add-on): Visit the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage before returning to the hotel or airport.
Conservation Efforts
Nairobi National Park is a flagship conservation area:
- Kenya’s leading black rhino sanctuary, critical for species recovery.
- Strong anti-poaching patrols and monitoring programs.
- Works with local communities to balance urban growth and wildlife protection.
- Acts as a green lung for Nairobi, protecting habitats and biodiversity.
FAQs about Nairobi Park
Q: How far is Nairobi National Park from the city center?
The park is only 7 km (4 miles) from Nairobi city center — about 15–30 minutes by road from most hotels, depending on traffic.
Q: How far is Nairobi National Park from the airport (JKIA)?
It’s around 25–30 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and 15 minutes from Wilson Airport, making it perfect for layover safaris.
Q: What animals can I see in Nairobi Park?
You can see four of the Big Five — lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos (but no elephants). Other wildlife includes giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, hartebeests, elands, and over 400 bird species.
Q: Does Nairobi Park have elephants?
No — elephants are not found in Nairobi National Park. For elephants, visit Amboseli National Park or Maasai Mara.
Q: Can I do a safari in Nairobi National Park during a layover?
Yes — it’s one of the most popular Nairobi layover safaris, ideal for travelers with 5–10 hours between flights.
Q: How long do you need for a Nairobi safari?
A half-day safari (4–5 hours) is perfect, but a full day gives you time to explore more areas and combine with the Giraffe Centre or Elephant Orphanage.
Q: Can I combine Nairobi Safari with other attractions?
Yes — popular 1-day Nairobi tours include the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and the Karen Blixen Museum.
Book Your Nairobi Safari with Ahambi Tours
Experience Kenya’s wildlife without leaving the city. At Ahambi Tours, we organize Nairobi National Park safaris for layovers, day trips, or custom itineraries. With expert guides and seamless transfers, we make your Nairobi safari unforgettable.
📩 Contact us today to plan your Nairobi National Park safari.