Just 7 km from Nairobi's city centre, Nairobi National Park is the perfect half-day or full-day excursion: black rhinos, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, over 400 bird species, and a cityscape backdrop you won't see anywhere else in Africa.
A safari next to a skyline
Nairobi National Park is a unique ecosystem, the only protected area in the world located close to a capital city. Just 7 km from Nairobi's city centre, it's a perfect place for a half-day or full-day excursion from the Kenyan capital.
One of the only places on earth where you can be on safari with skyscrapers as part of your backdrop, it's an ideal layover escape or add-on to your existing safari.
History and size
Kenya's first-ever national park (established 1946), it is unspoilt wildlife habitat within sight of the city's skyline. Rhino, buffalo, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, lion, and plenty of antelopes and gazelles roam its open plains, highland forest, and rocky valleys along the Embakasi River.
The park covers just 117 km² (44 sq mi) — tiny compared with most Kenyan parks — which helps visitors see a lot in a short window. It is best known for its significant black rhino sanctuary.
Wildlife and birding highlights
Four of the 'Big Five' occur here (lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos — no elephants). Giraffes, elands, zebras, and wildebeest are commonly seen. Hippos and crocodiles can often be spotted along the Embakasi River.
Over 400 endemic and migratory bird species, including Secretary birds, crowned cranes, vultures, and more. Turtle and tortoise watching can also be enjoyed on slower drives.
Half-day itinerary options
Morning option: pick-up at 07:00, arrive at the park for 07:45 for game drive and park formalities; spend time at the Safari Walk after the drive; drop-off by noon at a location of your choice in the city (optional lunch at Carnivore restaurant for USD 40 per person).
Afternoon option: pick-up at 14:00, arrive at 14:45 for game drive and park formalities; Safari Walk post-drive; drop-off at 18:00.
When to visit and how to get there
Best season: July through March when the climate is mainly dry and sunny. The rainy season is April-June (transport becomes difficult and viewing is impaired), with some rain possible October-December.
By road: 7 km from the city centre via Langata Road, accessible by private vehicle. By air: arrive via Jomo Kenyatta International or Wilson Airport. Van charges from USD 160 (tour van) up to USD 300 (4x4 Land Cruiser, private).
Key facts
Location: around 7 km from Nairobi's central business district. Size: roughly 117 km², among Africa's smallest national parks, which makes for efficient sightings.
Wildlife: buffalo, black rhinos, antelopes, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and over 100 mammal species. Birdlife: around 400 endemic and migratory species.
Need help turning this guide into a real itinerary?
Tell us your travel window, pace, and priorities. We will build the route around your style and timing.
Hear what our clients have to say
Genuine stories from travelers who experienced East Africa with Simba Paka Safaris.
Our Affiliations
