Nairobi National Park – A Safari in the City
Just a short drive from Kenya’s capital, Nairobi National Park is a unique wildlife sanctuary where wide-open grass plains meet a backdrop of city skyscrapers. As the only national park within a capital city in the world, it offers an unforgettable blend of urban convenience and raw African wilderness — perfect for travelers with limited time or those looking for a quick yet thrilling safari.
Wildlife to See:
Spot an incredible range of wildlife including rhinos, lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, eland, and impalas. The park is one of the best places in Kenya to see black and white rhinos, and also hosts over 400 bird species, including crowned cranes, ostriches, and secretary birds.
Best Time to Visit:
-
July to October — Dry season with the best chances for spotting wildlife around waterholes
-
January to February — Warm, dry, and less crowded
-
Avoid April and May — Rainy season can make tracks muddy and wildlife harder to spot
What to Expect:
Close-up wildlife encounters just minutes from Nairobi’s CBD, guided game drives, scenic picnic spots like Impala Viewpoint, and a chance to visit the nearby David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (baby elephant orphanage) and Giraffe Centre.
Highlights at a Glance
-
Top Wildlife Encounters: Rhinos, Lions, Giraffes, Buffalo, Zebras
-
Best Scenic View: Savannah plains with Nairobi skyline in the background
-
Top Activities: Game drives, Birdwatching, Photography safaris, Day tours from Nairobi
-
Ideal Travel Season: July–October, January–February
Getting to Nairobi National Park
The park is located just 7 km from Nairobi city center, making it extremely accessible:
-
By Road: Easily reachable by car, taxi, or tour van within 15–30 minutes
-
By Air: For international travelers, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is only 30 minutes away
Travel Tip: Early morning or late afternoon game drives offer the best wildlife viewing and photo opportunities with soft light.
Where to Stay Near the Park
While there are no lodges inside the park, Nairobi offers a range of nearby acco
mmodation:
-
Luxury Hotels & Boutique Lodges – High-end stays with easy park access
-
Mid-range Hotels – Comfortable and affordable options in Nairobi suburbs
-
Budget Guesthouses & Hostels – Great for travelers on a tighter budget
We’ll guide you to the best Nairobi stay that pairs well with your park adventure.
Begin Your Urban Safari Experience
Nowhere else in the world blends city life and wildlife like Nairobi National Park. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this park offers an unmatched safari experience at the edge of the city. Let’s plan your wild escape — right in the heart of Nairobi.
