Being the oldest park in Kenya, Nairobi National Park is also a favorite tourist destination due to its proximity to the capital city of Nairobi. Located along the Embakasi River, Nairobi National Park presents an authentic and lush Kenyan landscape filled with gorges, forests and open plains. Only about 7 kilometers from the city center, it is an ideal location for those who do not want to travel long and far to experience the safari atmosphere that Kenya is known for.
Visitors enjoy various exciting activities while in the park. Taking the Safari Walk is one of the fun things to do while in Nairobi National Park. Located at the park entrance, Safari Walk is a modern facility that fuses Kenyan conservation efforts with ecotourism. Here, you’ll marvel at the simulated forests, savannahs, and wetlands that dominate Kenya’s surroundings. You will become familiar with Kenya’s distinctive flora and fauna, most of which are endangered. As guests, you have the option of participating in tree identification activities and entertaining talks and conferences about the country’s parks and reserves.
Meet the Safari Animals
The Rhino Sanctuary is one of the highlights of your visit to Nairobi National Park. This is one of the rare places where you will come face to face with the black rhino, one of the most endangered species on African safaris. Around 400 species of birds have been recorded as inhabiting the immediate vicinity of the park, making Nairobi National Park an incredible place for bird watching. Additionally, there are numerous scenic walking trails for visitors to follow, as well as picnic sites where families and friends can relax to share a meal together.
If you’re hoping for a more exciting adventure, take a guided tour of the park to get an up-close look at Africa’s fiercest animals, called the “Big Four,” which include leopards, rhinos, buffalo and lions. Other wild creatures that you can see are ostriches, giraffes, elands, hippos and crocodiles. Definitely bring your camera!
pet orphanage
Right next to the Nairobi National Park; the Animal Orphanage is another attraction worth visiting. This facility houses wild animals such as antelopes, baboons, cranes, leopards and cheetahs that were found injured or abandoned in various regions of Kenya. During the period from July to October, the national park is also a great place to witness the migration of wildebeest and zebra. This show highlights the journey of more than a million animals in search of water and pasture.
You can conveniently arrange a guided park adventure with most tour operators and agencies in town, including hotel pickup and drop-off. Alternatively, you can rent a vehicle and drive to the park on your own, as it is easily accessible via Langata Road. The Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) regularly operate a bus service that takes tourists from the city center for a tour of the park every weekend and on public holidays.
Advice
The ideal time to visit the park is between the months of March and July. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it easy to see animals in the wild. Essentials for your Nairobi National Park safari exploration include a comprehensive guide, sun protection gear, and plenty of water.