Nairobi National Park
Experience a unique safari adventure right in the heart of Nairobi, with diverse wildlife against a stunning city skyline.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active.
Nairobi National Park
Best Time
Animals are most active.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a unique safari adventure right in the heart of Nairobi, with diverse wildlife against a stunning city skyline.
"A unique safari right next to the city! Nairobi National Park is such an amazing place."
🎯 Go Early for Wildlife
Animals are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Avoid midday heat! :sunrise:
🚗 Vehicle Fees Apply
Expect separate fees for your vehicle on top of park entry. Costs vary by car size. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rhino Sanctuary
Nairobi National Park
Spot numerous white rhinos, often with their young, in this protected sanctuary. A truly special sight!
Iconic Nairobi Skyline View
Various viewpoints within the park
Witness the unique contrast of wildlife against the backdrop of Nairobi's city skyline. Unforgettable!
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Safari Walk Experience
Nairobi Safari Walk
Get up close with various animals on foot in a controlled environment, perfect for a different perspective.
Big Cat Sightings
Various areas of the park
Keep an eye out for lions and other big cats, especially during cooler parts of the day.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Park Entry and Vehicle Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Wildlife
Animals are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Avoid midday heat! :sunrise:
🚗 Vehicle Fees Apply
Expect separate fees for your vehicle on top of park entry. Costs vary by car size. :car:
🧺 Pack Snacks & Drinks
You can bring your own food and drinks, but remember to avoid single-use plastics. +1 :picnic_sun:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Especially if you plan to do the Safari Walk. You'll be doing some walking! :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Wildlife
Animals are most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Avoid midday heat! :sunrise:
🚗 Vehicle Fees Apply
Expect separate fees for your vehicle on top of park entry. Costs vary by car size. :car:
🧺 Pack Snacks & Drinks
You can bring your own food and drinks, but remember to avoid single-use plastics. +1 :picnic_sun:
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Especially if you plan to do the Safari Walk. You'll be doing some walking! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Skyline
The unique city skyline backdrop is a must-photograph. Get creative!
🗺️ Explore Beyond Hotspots
Don't just stick to famous spots; drive to all parts of the park for amazing discoveries. :compass:
⏳ Allow 5 Hours
Plan for at least 5 hours to fully explore and enjoy the park's diverse wildlife. :hourglass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique experience of a safari so close to the city, with many spotting a diverse range of animals including rhinos and giraffes. The convenience and the striking contrast of wildlife against the Nairobi skyline are frequently highlighted as major positives. However, some guests have noted issues with drivers not adhering to wildlife viewing distances.
"Great experience and fun day. I saw most of the animals although when it was announced that there was a lion in the area, everyone would rush to get there and they'd get close to the lion to get photo opportunities and they drove in the path in which the lion was walking and I didn't like that. There's supposed to be a 10 meter distance from you and the animals which was not followed by many of the drivers.
Overall a great experience."
Tammy Evans
"Wonderful place, amazing nature and animals. Go there as early as you can. Animals hide when it’s sunny and hot. Drive to all parts of the park (not only the famous sites) you will be amazed. Ideally you will need 5 hours there. Toilets are not easy to find so be ready for that."
Loujayne Alashhab
"This national park is a hidden pearl. It is adjacent to the Nairobi international airport but it has so many beautiful animals. Its south side is open to other reserves which allows the animals to move around. We saw lion, dozens of giraffes, hundreds of zebras, over 15 white rhinos with a baby rhino, hyenas, ostrich, all kinds of antelope, etc in a short 3 hours. Very good place to visit if you only have a short time in Nairobi"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nairobi National Park is conveniently located just a short drive from the city center and Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. Many tour operators also offer pick-up services from your hotel.
While you can drive your own vehicle, many visitors opt for guided game drives. You can arrange for a safari vehicle and driver through tour operators or sometimes at the park entrance.
Public transport options are limited for direct access to the park entrance. It's generally recommended to use taxis, ride-sharing apps, or organized tours for a more convenient experience.
The park is remarkably close to the city center, often reachable within 30 minutes depending on traffic. This proximity is one of its most unique features.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer guided tours, including private safaris and group tours. These often include transportation and a knowledgeable guide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees vary for Kenyan citizens, residents, and non-residents. Expect to pay around Ksh 430 for residents and USD 43 for non-residents. Vehicle fees are separate and depend on the car's size. +1
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's advisable, especially during peak seasons or if you're booking a guided tour. You can often pay at the gate.
The park is generally open from early morning until late evening. It's best to check the official KWS (Kenya Wildlife Service) website for the most up-to-date operating hours.
Discounts may be available for Kenyan citizens and residents. It's always a good idea to inquire about any special offers or packages when booking.
Yes, you can drive your own vehicle into the park, but be aware of the separate vehicle entry fees. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for potential off-road driving.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
You can see a wide variety of animals including lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos (both black and white), giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, hyenas, ostriches, and numerous bird species.
Yes, lions are present in the park, though sightings can be unpredictable. Early morning and late evening are often the best times to spot them.
The Nairobi Safari Walk is a section within the park where you can explore on foot to see various animals, including rhinos and other savanna inhabitants, in a more controlled environment. +1
Toilets can be scarce and difficult to find in some areas of the park, so it's advisable to use facilities when you see them.
A significant portion of the park is not fenced, allowing for natural wildlife movement between the park and surrounding areas, which contributes to its unique ecosystem.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining facilities within the park itself. It's highly recommended to bring your own packed lunch and snacks to enjoy during your visit. +1
Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and drinks. However, please ensure you do not leave any plastic waste behind. +1
There are many excellent restaurants in Nairobi city offering diverse cuisines. Consider exploring options in areas like Westlands or Karen for a variety of dining experiences.
Designated picnic areas are available within the park, providing a pleasant spot to enjoy your packed meals amidst nature.
While food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed, it's generally advised to check the park's specific regulations regarding alcoholic beverages.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a clear view of wildlife and the Nairobi skyline offers great photo opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly stunning.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to avoid disturbing wildlife. It's best to confirm the latest regulations with park authorities before your visit.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens is useful for landscape shots, including the city skyline.
Some tour operators may offer specialized photography tours that focus on optimal wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities.
Mornings and late afternoons offer soft, golden light ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, creating strong shadows. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited. Encourage your children to be quiet and observant during game drives to increase their chances of spotting animals. The unique sight of the city skyline alongside wildlife can also spark great conversations about conservation and urban planning.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid higher weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. While a full-day game drive is ideal, even a half-day visit can be incredibly rewarding and fit within a tighter budget.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, which creates a magical atmosphere and softer shadows. Bring a telephoto lens to capture detailed shots of animals from a safe distance. While lions can be elusive, their sightings are incredibly rewarding for photographers.
Be mindful of ethical photography practices; avoid pressuring guides to get too close to animals, as this can disturb them. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Urban Safari Experience
+2This unique setting also means that the animals here are accustomed to human presence and noise, often allowing for closer sightings than in more remote parks. However, this closeness also brings challenges. Some visitors have noted that drivers sometimes get too close to animals, disregarding recommended distances for wildlife viewing.
The park's southern boundary is largely unfenced, allowing for natural wildlife migration corridors. This integration with the surrounding ecosystem is vital for the park's biodiversity and offers a more authentic safari feel, despite its urban location.
Navigating Park Entry and Fees
It's a good practice to confirm the latest fee schedule before your visit, as these can be subject to change. While you can often pay at the gate, booking through a tour operator might streamline the process, especially if you're opting for a guided safari. Remember that these fees contribute directly to the park's conservation efforts, so your visit supports a vital cause.
Visitors are permitted to bring their own food and drinks, which can be a cost-effective option. However, there's a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility, so please ensure you carry out all your waste and avoid single-use plastics.
Best Times for Wildlife Viewing
Early morning game drives offer the advantage of witnessing the park come alive as the sun rises, often providing opportunities to see predators like lions on the move. Late afternoon drives, especially around sunset, can also be rewarding, with animals becoming active again as the temperature drops and the light becomes softer and more photogenic.
Weekdays generally experience lower visitor numbers compared to weekends, offering a more serene and less crowded experience. This can lead to more relaxed wildlife viewing and better photo opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit