About the Park

Located just 7 km from Nairobi’s city center, Nairobi National Park is one of the world’s only wildlife reserves bordering a capital city. Covering around 117 sq km, the park offers a surreal contrast wild lions and giraffes roaming freely against the backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline.

Established in 1946, it was Kenya’s first national park and remains a vital refuge for wildlife displaced by urban expansion. Despite its proximity to the city, the park is home to a thriving population of iconic African species and serves as an essential breeding ground for endangered black rhinos.

Wildlife & Habitat

Nairobi National Park’s open grass plains, scattered acacia bushes, and seasonal wetlands support a rich variety of wildlife.

Key Species: Lion, leopard, cheetah, black rhino, giraffe, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, eland, and hippopotamus.

Notable Sightings: The park is famous for its black rhino population, one of the largest in Kenya. Visitors also enjoy regular sightings of lions and cheetahs hunting on the plains.

Birdlife: Over 400 bird species, including ostrich, crowned crane, secretary bird, and migratory species during the rainy season.

Habitat: A mix of open savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests along the Mbagathi River.

Experiences & Activities

Nairobi National Park offers the perfect wildlife escape within easy reach of the city.

Game Drives:
Morning and evening game drives offer great opportunities to spot big cats, rhinos, and plains game.

Top Attractions:

  • Ivory Burning Site Monument: Marks Kenya’s historic stand against poaching where elephant tusks were burned in 1989.
  • Nairobi Animal Orphanage: Adjacent to the park, it rehabilitates injured and orphaned animals.
  • Nairobi Safari Walk: A raised boardwalk showcasing Kenya’s wildlife and ecosystems in a safe, educational setting.
  • Hippo Pools Nature Trail: A scenic walk along the Mbagathi River.

Other Activities: Birdwatching, photography safaris, and educational tours for families and students.

Best Time to Visit

Open Year-Round

Best Months: June to September and January to March, dry seasons with easier animal sightings.

Rainy Seasons: April – May and October – December bring lush landscapes and migratory birds but slightly more challenging road conditions.

How to Reach & Park Entry

Location: 7 km south of Nairobi city center.

Nearest Airport: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (20 minutes by road).

By Road: Accessible via Langata Road, the main gate is near the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) headquarters.

Entry Gates:

  • Main Gate (Langata Road)
  • East Gate (near Athi River)
  • Cheetah Gate
  • Maasai Gate

Park Fees: Managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), fees payable via eCitizen or at park gates.

Where to Stay / Lodges & Camps

Most visitors stay in Nairobi city, with easy day trips to the park. However, several accommodations lie near the gates.

Nearby Stays:

  • Ololo Safari Lodge: A luxury lodge within the park offering city views and intimate game drives.
  • Emakoko Lodge: Boutique lodge located along the Mbagathi River with private park access.
  • Nairobi Tented Camp: The only camp inside the park offers a true bush experience just minutes from the city.
  • Karen Blixen Cottages / House: Upscale stay nearby with easy access to Langata attractions.

Travel Tips / Safety Notes

  • Early morning safaris (6:00 – 9:00 AM) offer the best wildlife sightings.
  • Always carry a valid ID or passport for park entry.
  • Remain in vehicles during drives predators roam freely.
  • Wear light, neutral-colored clothing.
  • Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, the park can get hot by mid-morning.
  • Avoid visiting during rush hours Langata Road can get congested.
  • Respect all KWS rules and wildlife viewing distances.

Packing List

  • Light clothing and a jacket for early mornings
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
  • Binoculars and camera
  • Water bottle and snacks
  • Insect repellent
  • ID/passport and eCitizen entry receipt
  • Comfortable shoes for short walks

Visitor Statistics

Nairobi National Park receives over 300,000 visitors annually, making it one of Kenya’s most accessible and visited parks. It’s especially popular among locals, school groups, and first-time travelers who want a taste of safari life without leaving the city.

Conservation & Responsible Tourism

Nairobi National Park plays a critical role in protecting Kenya’s black rhino population and serves as a corridor for wildlife movement between the Athi-Kapiti plains and nearby reserves.

The park also faces urban pressures, and ongoing conservation efforts focus on wildlife corridors, fencing management, and community awareness.

Travel Responsibly

  • Support conservation initiatives like the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust nearby.
  • Avoid littering and plastic waste.
  • Choose eco-conscious lodges and tour operators.
  • Respect park boundaries and never feed or approach wildlife.