Mokoiyet Picnic Site is an exceptional destination within Nairobi National Park, perched atop an open cliff that offers sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding savannah and the distant Mbagathi River Gorge. This tranquil site, with its combination of open vistas and serene seclusion, is perfect for visitors seeking a peaceful stop during their game drive or a scenic spot to enjoy a meal amidst Kenya’s wildlife.
A Cliff-Top Location with Stunning Views
Positioned on an elevated plateau, Mokoiyet Picnic Site provides visitors with a breathtaking vantage point. From the cliff’s edge, you can gaze out across the vast golden plains of Nairobi National Park, where herds of zebras, giraffes, and buffalos graze, seemingly stretching into infinity. The view is particularly dramatic during the early morning or late afternoon, when the light transforms the landscape into a palette of rich hues, with the shadows of the animals extending across the ground. On clear days, the backdrop of the distant Ngong Hills adds an extra layer of majesty to the already awe-inspiring scenery.
To the south, the picnic site is close to the famous Leopard Cliff Observation Point, which provides an exceptional view down into the Mbagathi River Gorge. From this lookout, you can see the deep, winding river cutting through the rocky landscape below, surrounded by lush vegetation and tall, rugged cliffs. The river serves as a natural water source for many species, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot hippos wallowing in the river or a leopard stalking prey along the tree line. The serene flow of the river contrasts beautifully with the expansive, open plains seen from the cliff, making this an ideal spot for reflection and photography.
Location and Accessibility
The Mokoiyet Picnic Site is located in the central-southern part of Nairobi National Park, not far from key wildlife viewing areas like the Leopard Cliff and the Hyena Dam. It’s easily accessible by vehicle, following the main park roads from the Langata Road Main Gate.
The picnic site is approximately 19 kilometers from the gate and takes about 47 mins driving as per Google Maps, making it a convenient stop during a half-day or full-day safari. If you enter through the other gate via Southern Bypass, it is further about 23km but since the road is paved, it takes less than 40 mins to get here. It helps if using a 4WD safari car.
Scenic Beauty and Tranquility
Mokoiyet Picnic Site is surrounded by open grasslands, scattered acacia trees, and gently rolling hills, creating a perfect blend of serenity and natural beauty. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the savannah and observe grazing herbivores such as zebras, impalas, and giraffes nearby. The location is quiet and relatively free from the hustle of busier areas in the park, providing a peaceful environment to relax and enjoy a picnic.
The site’s name, Mokoiyet, which derives from the local Maasai language, reflects its connection to the traditional landscapes and culture of the Maasai people who live in the surrounding areas.
Facilities
While Mokoiyet Picnic Site is a natural, minimally developed area, it does offer basic amenities to enhance the visitor experience:
- Picnic Tables and Seating Areas: Simple wooden tables and benches are available for guests to use, making it easy to sit down and enjoy a meal or snack while surrounded by nature.
- Shaded Areas: The acacia trees provide natural shade, offering shelter from the sun, especially during the hotter parts of the day.
- Waste Bins: To maintain the cleanliness of the park, waste bins are provided, encouraging visitors to keep the area litter-free and contribute to the park’s conservation efforts.
- Extensive Parking: The site provides ample parking space, making it accessible for both small and large groups arriving in multiple vehicles or safari trucks.
2. Mokoiyet Picnic Site: An open cliff top site with shaded tables, latrines and extensive parking. Close to this site is the Leopard Cliff Observation Point which looks down into the Mbagathi River gorge #DiscoverNairobiNationalPark
— Kenya Wildlife Service (@KWSKenya) March 22, 2019
📸 by Elijah Tenai pic.twitter.com/QIm2Gosyvh
Wildlife and Birdwatching
Mokoiyet is located in a wildlife-rich part of the park, making it an excellent spot for observing both large mammals and birdlife. Visitors can often spot giraffes, buffalos, and antelope species grazing in the distance, while lions and other predators may occasionally be seen in the surrounding plains. For birdwatchers, the picnic site is an excellent place to spot raptors, including vultures and eagles, soaring overhead or perched in nearby trees.
The proximity to nearby water sources, such as Hyena Dam, means that many species are likely to pass through the area, providing excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Mokoiyet Picnic Site are during the early morning and late afternoon, when the weather is cooler and wildlife activity is at its peak. These periods offer the chance to enjoy a peaceful picnic while observing wildlife movements in the area, particularly as animals head toward water sources or return from grazing.
Conservation and Visitor Etiquette
As with all areas of Nairobi National Park, visitors are encouraged to follow park guidelines while at Mokoiyet Picnic Site to help preserve the natural environment. This includes:
- Avoiding littering: Use the waste bins provided and take care to leave the site as you found it.
- Respecting wildlife: While the site offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, it’s important to maintain a safe and respectful distance from the animals to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
- Keeping noise to a minimum: The peaceful atmosphere of Mokoiyet is part of its charm. Visitors are encouraged to keep noise levels low to fully enjoy the tranquility and to avoid scaring away wildlife.
Visitor Experience
Whether you’re looking for a scenic spot to rest during a safari or a quiet place to enjoy a meal in the heart of the park, Mokoiyet Picnic Site offers a relaxing and immersive nature experience. The combination of open landscapes, nearby wildlife, and serene surroundings makes it a perfect retreat for visitors to Nairobi National Park. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Mokoiyet provides a wonderful opportunity to unwind and reflect on the beauty of Kenya’s natural heritage.
In conclusion, Mokoiyet Picnic Site is a must-visit for anyone looking to enhance their Nairobi National Park adventure with a touch of peaceful solitude amidst the park’s stunning natural backdrop.