Nairobi National Park: Wildlife Safari Just Minutes from the City
- BeyondForest
- Oct 2, 2024
- 14 min read
Updated: Sep 22
1.)FAQ About Nairobi National Park
2.1)Nairobi Safari Walk Vs Nairobi Safari Park
Nairobi National park is unique for its proximity to a major urban center, offering a distinctive blend of natural beauty and urban life.
Image of zebra at Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park was established in the year 1946 ,It was one of the first national parks in the world created specifically to protect wildlife in an area influenced by human development. Nairobi National Park is a remarkable wildlife sanctuary located just a short distance from the bustling capital of Kenya, Nairobi. Nairobi National park covers an area of 117 square kilometers, (28911.3 Acres)
Driving off road in any national park/reserve can lead to a ban of upto 1 year or more of getting inside any KWS managed protected areas.
Image of Giraffes at Nairobi National Park
No elephants live in Nairobi National Park due to its size and fencing.
Nairobi National Park serves as a crucial habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, making it an essential conservation area and a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Nairobi National Park is situated about 7 kilometers south of Nairobi’s central business district. The park features a variety of landscapes, including open savannah, rocky ridges, and scattered acacia woodlands. The park's elevation ranges from 1,500 to 1,800 meters above sea level, providing a cooler climate than other parts of Kenya.
The Big Five are a group of five iconic African animals originally named by big-game hunters for being the most difficult and dangerous to hunt on foot. In modern safari tourism, the Big Five are celebrated as must-see wildlife.
Image of Villa Rosa Staff enjoying a Game Drive at Nairobi National Park
the names “black rhino” and “white rhino” have nothing to do with the rhino’s actual color. Both species are usually grayish in appearance. The difference lies in their shape, behavior, and feeding habits
At Nairobi National Park, the Big Five are present apart from elephants which are absent due to space and fencing limitations. However, visitors can still see Lions You may spot them lounging in the grasslands or hunting early in the morning or late evening. Leopards occasionally seen near forested or rocky areas, especially around the river.
White Rhino scientifically known as Ceratotherium simum has a Mouth Shape that is wide and flat mouth — perfect for grazing on grass ,they are larger weighing up to 2,300 kg and are generally calm and socialas they lives in groups
Rhinos Both black and white rhinos are found in the park, with Nairobi being one of the best places in Kenya to see critically endangered black rhinos in the wild and Buffalos spotted mostly in the savannah areas and around waterholes
White Rhino name Comes from a mistranslation of the Dutch word “wijde” meaning “wide” (referring to the mouth) — not the color!
Image of a Big 5 animal at the Nairobi National Park
How much is the entry fee to Nairobi National Park?
What is the cheapest way to visit Nairobi National Park?
he cheapest way to visit Nairobi National Park is by organizing a self-drive day trip using your own car and paying entry via eCitizen. This approach eliminates the cost of tour operators, guides, and transport rental, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers especially Kenyan citizens.
Is it worth going to Nairobi National Park?
Having a Day spent at Nairobi National Park would not only be Worth it but informative and Life Changing by having to experience how environment has more to offer for us all, animals co-existing with Human beings
Do I need a passport to enter Nairobi National Park?
For Non-citizens having a passport will be an added advantage as it will be able to distinguish on pricing between Non-residents and Tourists when paying for the park conservation fees
Can I drive myself in Nairobi National Park?
Yes, you can drive yourself in Nairobi National Park, and it’s one of the most popular and affordable ways to enjoy the park. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) allows self-drive visits for both citizens and tourists, making it convenient for people with private vehicles or rental cars.
What is the Best time of the day to visit Nairobi National Park
The two famous leopards are Koko the female and Nguruman, a large male named by the Friends of Nairobi National Park, thought to be from Nguruman escarpment, 100 km away.
Image of a Leopard at Nairobi National Park by Mwangi Kirubi on Twitter
The Best time to be at Nairobi National Park and even view a major of the Big 5 animal is as 6:30 am in the early morning
Activities around Nairobi National Park
Which Matatus go to Nairobi National Park
While no matatu goes directly into Nairobi National Park (since private vehicles are required inside), several matatus can take you close to the main gate, especially if you're heading to the KWS Main Gate in Lang’ata the most commonly used entry point for both the park and Nairobi Safari Walk. Matatus That Get You Close to Nairobi National Park Matatu Route 125/126 (Lang’ata/Rongai Route) you can board at Railways Bus Station or Moi Avenue in Nairobi CBD Fare being around KES 50–100, depending on time and traffic
How Much is a Tour Guide in Nairobi National Park
You get expert animal tracking and interpretation , Navigation assistance around the park’s best viewing routes , Better chances of spotting elusive animals like leopards or rhinos .The guides join you in your personal or hired vehicle
The cost of hiring a tour guide in Nairobi National Park depends on how long you need their services. Guides are usually provided through the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) or affiliated licensed professionals at the park gate. Official Tour Guide Charges cost 1720Ksh Up to 4 hours and 3015Ksh Over 4 hours. These rates are per group, not per person, making them affordable when shared among friends or family.
Can I walk around Nairobi National Park?
Image post of Nairobi National Park Offenders
No, you cannot walk freely around Nairobi National Park, as it is a wildlife-protected area with dangerous animals such as lions, rhinos, and buffaloes. For safety and conservation reasons, walking inside the main park is strictly prohibited unless under special conditions with a licensed guide or ranger.
Are Snacks Allowed In Nairobi National Park?
Yes, snacks are allowed in Nairobi National Park, but they must be consumed responsibly and only in designated areas like picnic sites. Bringing your own food is especially helpful during long game drives or when traveling with children.
Do You Need a 4X4 when visiting Nairobi National Park
You don’t strictly need a 4x4 to visit Nairobi National Park, but having one is highly recommended especially during the rainy seasons. The park has an extensive network of dirt and gravel roads, which can become slippery or muddy after rain. While small cars (saloon vehicles) can manage in dry conditions, they often struggle in wet areas or uneven terrain.
Image of an emaciated rhino at Nairobi National Park
Can You Stay Overnight in Nairobi National Park
Yes, you can stay overnight in Nairobi National Park, although it is primarily a day-visit destination. The park offers a few select overnight accommodation options .Overnight Accommodation Options include Nairobi Tented Camp (inside the park) KWS Public Campsites, The Emakoko, Osoita Lodge, or Ole-Sereni Hotel
Aerial View of theemakoko A Boutique Safari Lodge in Nairobi National Park
while Nairobi National Park isn’t known for typical overnight safaris, it does allow overnight stays through unique eco-lodges and campsites—perfect for anyone seeking a wild escape within the city.
Are personal cars allowed in Nairobi National Park
Yes, personal cars are allowed in Nairobi National Park, and many visitors prefer to use their own vehicles for game drives. The park is designed with a network of drivable tracks that are suitable for 4x4 vehicles, and in dry seasons, even small cars (saloon vehicles) can navigate most of the roads.
How Much is the Entrance at Nairobi Safari Walk ?
The entrance fee to the Nairobi Safari Walk is affordable and varies depending on your nationality, age, or student status. This popular attraction is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and is located next to Nairobi National Park’s main gate in Lang’ata. Kenyan Citizens Adults cost 215Ksh Children/Students cost 125Ksh Kenya Residents (with valid permits) Adults cost 300Ksh Children/Students cost 170Ksh while Non-Residents (Tourists) Adults cost 22USD and Children/Students cost 13USD
What is Special About Nairobi National Park ?
Nairobi National Park is special because it’s the only wildlife park in the world located within a capital city. Just a few kilometers from Nairobi’s bustling CBD
How Long Is Nairobi National Park Game Drive?
A typical game drive in Nairobi National Park lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the route, time of day, and what you want to experience.2 hours is ideal for quick wildlife sightings, especially early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. 3 to 4 hours allows for deeper exploration into different ecosystems like savannah grasslands, riverine forests, and dry plains. While 6 hours Nairobi game drive includes visits to the Ivory Burning Site, Hippo Pools, and a picnic stop; best for photographers and bird watchers. Longer loops toward the Embakasi River or Lang’ata gate take more time.
Guided tours may spend more time tracking animals or offering educational insights.
Nairobi National Park can be accessed through three gates mainly the Main gate along Langata Road. Mbagathi Gate and Nairobi East gate
Nairobi National Park attracts a massive annual audience, making it Kenya’s second most visited wildlife site. In the latest data (year ending April 2025), it welcomed approximately 431,165 visitors
Why is Nairobi National Park a Tourist Attraction
Nairobi National Park is a top tourist attraction because it uniquely combines world-class wildlife experiences with the convenience of being just 7 km from Nairobi’s city center. It’s the only national park in the world located within a capital city, offering a rare chance to view iconic African wildlife against a backdrop of urban skyscrapers.
Wildlife Diversity- Home to lions, rhinos (black and white), giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and over 400 bird species.
City Skyline View- Incredible photo opportunities of wild animals with Nairobi’s skyline in the background.
Conservation Legacy- Hosts the iconic ivory burning site and supports active anti-poaching programs
Day Trips & Affordability- A full safari experience without needing to travel far or spend heavily.
Rhino Sanctuary- One of the best places in Kenya to see endangered black rhinos in their natural habitat.
Is Nairobi National Park Free ?
No, Nairobi National Park is not free. Visitors must pay an entry fee to access the park, and the amount varies based on residency, age, and type of visit The reason why Nairobi National Park is not free is because it is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and requires entry fees to help fund Wildlife conservation programs, Park maintenance and security and Anti-poaching efforts
Which Month is best for Visiting Nairobi National Park ?
The best months to visit Nairobi National Park are during the dry seasons, which fall between July to October and January to March. These months offer the best game-viewing conditions because vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around water sources making them easier to spot.
Nairobi Safari Walk Entrance Fee
Adult
Citizen Adults | 215Ksh |
Resident Adults | 215Ksh |
Non-Resident Adults | 22USD |
Child
Citizen Child | 125Ksh |
Resident Child | 125Ksh |
Non-Resident Child | 13USD |
Nairobi National Park Entrance Fee
Visitors to Nairobi National Park must pay entry fees through the eCitizen platform(https://kws.ecitizen.go.ke) Accepted payment methods include M-Pesa, Visa Card, RTGS, and Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). This cashless system ensures convenience, transparency, and faster processing at the park’s entry gate. Register online before visiting.
Adults
Citizen Adult | 430Ksh |
Adult Resident | 430Ksh |
Adult Non Resident | 43USD |
Guided Tour Fees at Nairobi National Park cost 1,720Ksh for tours lasting up to 4 hours and 3,015Ksh for tours lasting over 4 hours. These charges are per guide and ensure safety and expert interpretation during your visit
Children
Citizen Child | 215Ksh |
Resident Child | 215Ksh |
Non Resident Child | 22USD |
Vehicle Park Fees
Small vehicles (up to 6 seats) | 300Ksh |
Tour vans/minibuses | 1000Ksh-3000Ksh |
Nairobi Safari Walk Vs Nairobi Safari Park
Nairobi Safari Walk
A raised wooden boardwalk that takes you through simulated Kenyan habitats like wetlands, savannah, and forest.
what you see at Nairobi Safari Walk is close-up views of caged or semi-captive animals such as lions, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, monkeys, and rare antelope.
Sole purpose is Educational, family-friendly, and ideal for people who want a safe and short wildlife experience without going deep into the wild.
Located right next to the main entrance of Nairobi National Park in Lang’ata and Cheaper than a full game drive in the park
A full wildlife park—the only one in the world inside a capital city you get to see Wild animals like lions, rhinos, giraffes, buffaloes, leopards, zebras, and over 400 bird species in a natural, open environment. You can explore by vehicle game drive, either self-drive or guided.Costs more but offers a true safari experience.
Nairobi National Park is easily accessible, making it a popular destination for both tourists and local residents. The park is located just a short drive from the city center, and visitors can enter through several gates. This proximity allows for convenient day trips for those looking to escape the urban hustle and experience wildlife up close.
Big Mammals (Safari Favorites)
Lions |
Leopards (Rare seen mostly on River banks and Forested areas) |
Black rhinos |
White rhinos (occasionally from the ivory burning site area) |
African buffalo |
Giraffes (Masai giraffe) |
Zebras (plains/Burchell’s zebra) |
Elands (largest antelope) |
Wildebeests (seasonal migrations) |
Hartebeests |
Impala |
Thomson’s gazelles |
Grant’s gazelle |
At Nairobi National Park, you can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, despite its close proximity to the city. Nairobi National Park is home to over 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, and a variety of reptiles and plants. The park's diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife.
Image of a Giraffe colony by Visha Patel
The park is one of the few places where visitors can see lions, leopards, (no elephants), buffalo, and rhinoceroses in their natural environment while being surrounded by the urban skyline. In addition to the Big Five, the park is home to giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, cheetahs, and various antelope species. Primates include baboons and vervet monkeys . Reptiles include Nile Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards and snakes
Nairobi National Park Carnivores & Predators
Cheetahs |
Hyenas (spotted) |
Jackals (black-backed and side-striped) |
Serval cats |
Efforts to protect the wildlife within the park include anti-poaching initiatives and habitat preservation. The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) plays a vital role in these efforts, working to monitor wildlife populations and combat illegal poaching.
Birds (Over 400 Species!)
Secretary bird |
Martial eagle |
Kori bustard |
Ostriches |
Herons |
Storks |
Kingfishers |
Bee-eaters |
vultures |
hornbills |
weavers |
Image of a Grey Heron at Nairobi National Park by Dr Festus Musili
The park’s avifauna includes both migratory and resident birds, such as the African Fish Eagle, the Kori Bustard, and the Lilac-breasted Roller, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
Nairobi National Park Entry fee for non Residents
For non-residents (international tourists), the entry fee to Nairobi National Park is 43 USD per adult and 20 USD per child or student, as per the latest rates set by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). These rates grant access to the park for a single day and cover self-drive game viewing from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.Non-resident visitors must book and pay through the eCitizen platform at https://kws.ecitizen.go.ke. Payments are accepted via Visa/MasterCard, Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), RTGS, and M-Pesa (for users with local SIM cards).
While the entry fee covers admission only, extras such as vehicle hire, guides, or tours are charged separately. All non-residents must carry a valid passport for identification and verification at the gate.
Nairobi National Park Tour van Charges
Tour van charges at Nairobi National Park vary depending on the size and seating capacity of the vehicle. For a Kenyan-registered tour van with up to 6 seats, the vehicle entry fee is KES 300. For vans with 7 to 12 seats, the charge increases to around KES 1,000–3,000, depending on the vehicle's classification.If you're hiring a guided tour van, expect to pay KES 6,000 to 12,000 for a half-day game drive, inclusive of the driver, fuel, and sometimes a guide. These vans are usually customized with pop-up roofs for better wildlife viewing.
List of Lodges and Camps around Nairobi National Park
Kampi Ya Karin is an exclusive villa nestled on the edge of Nairobi National Park in Lang’ata. Boasting two bedrooms and two bathrooms, it features a fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, balcony, and stunning park views . Ideal for couples or solo adventurers seeking peaceful safari-style accommodation near the city.
Emakoko Lodge
Emakoko Lodge is a luxury safari lodge uniquely set on the edge of Nairobi National Park. It offers elegant rooms built into a cliffside, panoramic wildlife views, gourmet dining, and private access to the park. Ideal for discerning travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and a seamless urban-to-wilderness experience.
Ololo Lodge
Ololo Lodge is a charming boutique lodge located at the southern edge of Nairobi National Park. Blending safari luxury with farm-style comfort, it offers stylish rooms, a working organic farm, and direct access to the park via a private footbridge
Osoita Lodge
Osoita Lodge is a peaceful, family-friendly retreat located near Nairobi National Park in Ongata Rongai. It offers cozy, thatched-roof cottages surrounded by lush gardens, a swimming pool, a well-rated restaurant, and close proximity to wildlife attractions.
Ole-Sereni Hotel
Giraffe Centre and 🐘 David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage) are not the same as Nairobi National Park, and each has its own entrance fee and operates independently
Nairobi National Park Rules leaflet
One of the main attractions of Nairobi National Park is the opportunity to go on a safari. Visitors can explore the park by vehicle, with guided tours available to enhance the experience. The chance to see animals in their natural habitat, particularly within such a unique setting, is a highlight for many.
Nairobi National Park -The Giraffe Centre
Image of Giraffe Centre Sign post at Nairobi National Park
Nearby the park is the Giraffe Centre, a conservation center dedicated to the endangered Rothschild's giraffe. Visitors can learn about giraffe conservation efforts and even feed the giraffes, providing an interactive experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Nairobi National Park -The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located near the park, focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants. Visitors can attend a daily feeding session and learn about the organization’s conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of protecting Kenya's wildlife.
Educational Programs at Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is not only a place for recreation but also serves as an educational platform. Various programs for school groups and tourists emphasize the importance of wildlife conservation and the challenges faced by species in the park. These initiatives aim to foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
For photography enthusiasts, Nairobi National Park offers a plethora of opportunities to capture stunning images of wildlife against the backdrop of the city skyline. The contrast of wild animals roaming freely against the modern urban environment creates a unique visual narrative.
Nairobi National Park serves as a hub for wildlife research and education. Various organizations, including the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, work within the park to rehabilitate orphaned elephants and rhinos, providing educational programs for visitors. The park also serves as a training ground for wildlife professionals and conservationists from around the world.
One of the most significant challenges facing Nairobi National Park is urban encroachment. As Nairobi continues to grow, the park's boundaries are increasingly threatened by development projects. This expansion can lead to habitat fragmentation, posing risks to the wildlife that relies on the park for survival.
Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade
Despite ongoing conservation efforts, poaching remains a critical issue. The illegal wildlife trade, particularly involving elephants and rhinos for their ivory and horn, poses a serious threat to these species. Continuous efforts are required to combat this problem and ensure the safety of the park’s inhabitants.
As the city expands, encounters between humans and wildlife are becoming more frequent. This can result in conflicts, particularly with livestock owners who may see their animals as prey. Educating communities about coexistence and implementing measures to mitigate conflicts are vital steps in addressing this issue.
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