Things to Do at Nairobi National Park

Complete Guide to Nairobi National Park in Nairobi

About Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park holds the unique distinction of being the world's only wildlife park located within a capital city. Established in 1946, this remarkable 117-square-kilometer park sits just 7 kilometers south of Nairobi's city center, offering visitors the extraordinary experience of observing African wildlife against the backdrop of a modern metropolis. The park serves as a crucial sanctuary for over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species, making it an essential conservation area and Kenya's most accessible wildlife destination. Despite its proximity to urban development, Nairobi National Park provides an authentic safari experience with its diverse ecosystems including open grass plains, scattered acacia bush, and seasonal rivers. The park is particularly famous for its role in black rhino conservation and serves as a successful breeding ground for this endangered species. Visitors can witness the incredible sight of giraffes, lions, zebras, and buffalo roaming freely with Nairobi's skyline visible in the distance, creating one of Africa's most iconic and surreal wildlife viewing experiences.

What to See & Do

Black Rhino Sanctuary

Home to one of Kenya's most successful black rhino breeding programs, offering rare opportunities to observe these critically endangered animals in their natural habitat

Big Four Wildlife Viewing

Spot four of the Big Five animals including lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos, along with cheetahs, hyenas, and over 80 other mammal species

Ivory Burning Site Monument

Visit the historic site where Kenya burned 12 tons of ivory in 1989, now marked by a monument symbolizing the country's commitment to wildlife conservation

Hippo Pools

Observe hippos and crocodiles along the Athi River, particularly active during early morning and late afternoon hours

Nairobi Safari Walk

Experience an elevated boardwalk that provides close encounters with wildlife and educational information about Kenya's diverse ecosystems

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (gates close at 5:30 PM)

Tickets & Pricing

Adults: $40 USD, Children (3-17): $25 USD, East African residents receive discounted rates. Tickets can be purchased at park gates or online through KWS website

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:00-6:00 PM) for optimal wildlife viewing. Dry season (June-October and January-March) offers better game viewing

Suggested Duration

4-6 hours for a comprehensive game drive, full day recommended for photography enthusiasts

Getting There

Nairobi National Park is easily accessible from Nairobi city center, located just 7 kilometers south via Langata Road. The main gate is approximately 20 minutes by car from downtown Nairobi. Visitors can reach the park by taxi, private vehicle, or organized tour. The park has four gates: Main Gate (Langata Gate), Cheetah Gate, Banda Gate, and Maasai Gate. Most visitors enter through the Main Gate, which provides direct access from Langata Road. Public transportation options include matatus (shared minibuses) to Langata, followed by a short taxi ride to the park entrance.

Things to Do Nearby

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Famous elephant orphanage offering daily public viewing sessions and elephant adoption programs, located adjacent to the national park
Giraffe Centre
Conservation center dedicated to the endangered Rothschild giraffe, where visitors can hand-feed giraffes from an elevated platform
Karen Blixen Museum
Former home of the 'Out of Africa' author, now a museum showcasing colonial-era artifacts and beautiful gardens in the Karen suburb
Bomas of Kenya
Cultural center featuring traditional homesteads from Kenya's various tribes and daily cultural performances showcasing local music and dance
Kazuri Beads Centre
Women's cooperative producing handmade ceramic beads and pottery, offering factory tours and shopping opportunities for authentic Kenyan crafts

Tips & Advice

Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens for optimal wildlife photography and viewing
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour for better wildlife spotting and educational insights about animal behavior
Pack sun protection including hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses as the park has limited shade during game drives
Carry sufficient water and snacks as there are limited facilities within the park for refreshments

Tours & Activities at Nairobi National Park