Day-Trip at The Nairobi National Park – What to Expect

The Nairobi National Park is located in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. It is a unique wildlife reserve situated just 7 kilometers (about 4 miles) south of the city center. This park is home to various species of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and antelopes.

Despite the proximity to the urban environment, Nairobi National Park offers a distinct experience like no other. You can observe and appreciate wildlife against the backdrop of city skyscrapers. If you prefer this safari, I’ll take you through what to expect when you visit this amazing place.

Nairobi National Park Overview

The Nairobi National Park is Kenya’s smallest but most significant park because of its location. Boasting more than 80 species of mammals, hundreds of species of birds, and numerous reptiles, it’s a place that can make you easily forget that you are in one of the busiest cities in Africa. 

This National Park was established in 1946 making it the oldest in East Africa. It has an area of 45 square miles (117 square km) and lies about 5,000–6,000 feet above sea level. The park is fenced on three sides, with one side open to allow herbivores to migrate to the neighboring Kitengela plains.

The park’s vegetation is of the dry transitional savanna type. In the wide open grass plains, acacias and other thorny shrubs play host to a wide variety of wildlife. Other parts of the park include a riverine forest along the Athi River which forms part of the southern boundary.

On the far south of the park, there is the Athi-Kapiti and Kitengela Plains. These are important areas for zebra and wildebeest migration in search of greener pastures during dry dry seasons in the park. The herbivores’ dispersal attracts various predators, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.

What to expect at the Nairobi National Park

The sighting of giraffes and herds of zebras is regular on your way from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. On your morning drive you can spot more animals including lions, giraffes, black rhinos, buffalos, wildebeest, leopards, primates, and hundreds of birds, not to mention ostrich and vultures.

Visitors can explore the park through guided game drives, either in their private vehicles or by hiring a safari vehicle and guide. The park’s accessibility allows for half-day or full-day safaris. This makes Nairobi National Park an excellent choice for those with limited time.

Nairobi National Park offers designated picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. There are also walking trails for those who prefer hiking. They bring you a closer encounter with the park’s flora and fauna. 

On a drive through the lush riverine forest, you can see monkeys cheeky swinging through leafy branches. Over 400 bird species have also been recorded in the park. This makes it a haven for birdwatchers. To explore more, hikers hardly leave the park without touring the famous Nairobi Safari Walk.

Nairobi Safari Walk Experience

The Safari Walk is conveniently located near the entrance to Nairobi National Park. Visitors can access this facility before or after their game drives. The 2.5 km raised wooden boardwalk allows for uninterrupted views of sampled animals. 

The walk showcases the country’s vast natural diversity and ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and savannas. In this discovery adventure, you’ll also witness all the landscapes existing in the park, amazing vegetation, and unique mammals and reptiles such as monitor lizards and crocodiles.

The facility also engages with local communities, schools, and various organizations to promote awareness of wildlife conservation. The path meanders through different sections with signboards along the way giving information about various species of plants and animals.

This designated place is home to various endangered animals including the white rhino, the rare bongo, and the albino zebra. It is also home to some 150 species of local trees. Visitors can learn about indigenous plant species and their importance in various ecosystems.

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Adjacent to the Nairobi National Park is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. This is an elephant orphanage center known for its rescue and rehabilitation programs. Many visitors who come to the Nairobi National Park combine their trip to this orphanage for a more comprehensive wildlife experience.

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is open to the public from 11 am to 12 pm every day except the 25th of December. In this place, visitors get a chance to observe orphaned elephants hippos, rhinos, and giraffes. You will be thrilled interacting with these animals during their feeding and playful time. 

The facility provides proper care until the animals are old enough to be reintegrated into the wild. SWT runs a foster parent program where individuals can contribute to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned animals. They lost their parents due to poaching, human-wildlife conflict, or natural causes.

Best time for Nairobi National Park safari

Kenya lies on the equator and this makes it a great holiday destination year-round. The climate is mild and you can schedule your trip any time of the year. The best time to visit Nairobi National Park is during the dry season, in January and February or July to October.

Coincidentally, this is also the best time to visit the Masai Mara National Reserve. This is the highest peak in the African continent, located in Tanzania, a neighboring country to Kenya. Nairobi to Kilimanjaro is about 208 Km and you can connect through a flight or by road.

Being close to the city, there are many high-end accommodation facilities around. Upon leaving the terminus, you can head to the Olesereni Hotel, which has stunning views of the Nairobi National Park, or the Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm located on the southern border of the park.

What to take with you to Nairobi National Park

When planning a Nairobi National Park safari, it’s important to prepare adequately to have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s a list of items you might want to consider taking with you.

1. Carry a form of identification, such as a passport or ID card, and ensure you have the required entry fees for both the park and any additional activities you plan to undertake. Non-resident adults currently adults pay $43 and children under the age of 18 pay $22.
2. Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and your camera to capture the incredible scenery and wildlife.
3. Wear a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun and apply sunscreen with a high SPF. You may also bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays.
4. Wear comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for the weather. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for cooler temperatures during the morning games.
5. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, especially if you plan to explore walking trails.
6. Carry an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated, especially if you plan a longer visit. Don’t forget to pack some snacks for energy during your safari.
7. If you plan to visit during the evening, carry insect repellents to keep away mosquitoes.
8. Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
9. Consider carrying a power bank to recharge your devices or extra batteries for your camera.
10. Respect the park’s rules and regulations and dispose of your litter responsibly and help maintain the park’s cleanliness.

Nairobi National Park is an amazing safari destination in Africa where you get to experience nature in its purest form regardless of its proximity to the city. In this park, you can deepen your understanding of various ecosystems and conservation challenges facing wildlife across the world.

Don’t forget to witness the Great Migration in Maasai Mara when you visit Kenya. If you have any requests or feedback, kindly contact us or leave a comment.