National Park · Nairobi
Nairobi National Park
A genuine wildlife park with lions, rhino and giraffe, inside the boundary of a capital city — the skyline is visible from the game drive.
How to get there
Within Nairobi, a short drive from the city centre.
What to find
Black rhino sanctuary, big cats, and the closest possible safari to an international airport.
Overview
Nairobi National Park, established in 1946, is Kenya's first national park, and one of the only wildlife parks in the world within sight of a capital city. Its roughly 117 km² of grassland and acacia bush are fenced on the city sides and open to the south.
The park is one of the best places in Kenya to see black rhino, and also holds lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffe, cheetah and more than 400 bird species. It's also home to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's elephant orphanage, and the site of the 1989 ivory-burning monument.
Highlights
- Rhinos and lions with the Nairobi skyline behind
- The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery
- The Ivory Burning Site monument
- A half-day safari close to the airport
Things to do
Game drives
Half-day or full-day drives, and perfect on arrival or before a flight.
Elephant orphanage
Visit the rescued baby elephants (advance booking needed).
Walking trails
The Safari Walk near the main gate.
Best time to visit
All year. The dry seasons are best for game viewing.
Getting there
Within Nairobi, about 20 to 40 minutes from the city centre and close to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Where to stay
Stay in Nairobi, particularly Karen or Langata, or at a camp inside the park.
Nairobi
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Kenya →
Good to know
- A great use of a spare morning or afternoon between flights.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.