When visiting Nairobi National Park (NNP), there are several access gates that cater to different types of visitors, offering varied experiences based on your point of entry. Each gate has its unique advantages, depending on your location, mode of transport, and specific areas of the park you want to explore. Here’s an overview of the access gates and tips for accessing the park:
1. Main Gate (Langata Road)
- Location: This is the most popular and frequently used gate, situated along Langata Road near the Nairobi Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage.
- Tips: It is the best gate if you’re coming from the city center or if you want easy access to key areas in the park. The gate offers the most developed facilities, including parking and ticket offices, and is ideal for both self-drive visitors and guided tours. It’s also perfect if you want to combine your game drive with a visit to nearby attractions like the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
- Recommendation: Arrive early (6:00 AM) for the best wildlife sightings when animals are most active.
2. Magadi Road (Cheetah Gate)
- Location: This gate is located to the southwest of the park along Magadi Road, providing access to the southern part of the park.
- Tips: Cheetah Gate is less busy compared to the Main Gate, making it ideal for those seeking a quieter entry and more exclusive wildlife experiences in the southern areas of the park. However, facilities are limited, so plan ahead. The road leading to this gate can be rough, especially during the rainy season, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
- Recommendation: This is the best gate for those wanting to explore the less crowded southern areas, known for higher chances of spotting cheetahs.
3. Old East Gate and New East Gate
- Location: Both gates are on the northeastern side of the park, near the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). These gates provide access to the eastern and southeastern parts of the park.
- Tips: These gates are convenient for travelers coming from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) or the eastern suburbs of Nairobi. They also offer quicker access to the Hippo Pool and Mokoiyet Picnic Site. However, facilities are more basic than at the Main Gate.
- Recommendation: Use these gates if you’re entering from the airport or if you want to explore quieter regions of the park with fewer tourists.
4. Wilson Airport Gate
- Location: Located near Wilson Airport, this gate is useful for visitors coming directly from flights or those staying near the western part of the park.
- Tips: It’s a great option for time-sensitive visitors who want quick access to the park after landing at Wilson Airport. This gate provides easy access to the western regions of the park, including areas like Kingfisher Picnic Site.
- Recommendation: Use this gate if you’re pressed for time but still want a comprehensive safari experience.
5. JKIA Emergency Gate
- Location: Near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Tips: This gate is primarily for emergencies but can be used as a quick access point for those with a limited time window, such as during a layover at the airport. The gate leads to the southeastern section of the park.
- Recommendation: Only use this gate if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling via JKIA.
6. New East Gate
- Location: Situated close to the SGR service area and near the eastern section of the park.
- Overview: This gate offers direct access to the eastern and southeastern parts of the park, with proximity to attractions like the Hippo Pool and Mokoiyet Picnic Site. It also provides good access for visitors coming from the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the eastern suburbs of Nairobi.
- Suitable For: Travelers coming from JKIA, and visitors looking to access less crowded parts of the park.
Additional Tips for Accessing NNP Gates:
- Electronic Payments: Nairobi National Park being managed by KWS has moved to facilitate all payments through E-citizen and you’ll need to purchase a ticket on ecitzen before you get to its gates. The Safari Cards are being phased out.
- Plan Your Gate Based on Wildlife: Some gates give better access to particular species. For example, Cheetah Gate is well-known for cheetah sightings, while the Main Gate gives quicker access to high-traffic areas where lions, giraffes, and rhinos are commonly spotted.
- Accessibility: Most of these gates provide direct access to well-maintained roads within the park. The gates are strategically located to offer easy access to various regions of Nairobi National Park, depending on where visitors are coming from.
- Usage: Gates like the Main Gate and Langata Road Gate are heavily used due to their proximity to central Nairobi and key tourist attractions, while gates such as Old East Gate and New East Gate serve as entry points for visitors looking for quieter and less-traveled routes within the park.
- Self-Drive vs. Guided Tours: While all gates support both self-drive and guided tours, self-drivers should be aware of the conditions at certain gates like Magadi Road, where rougher terrains might require a 4×4 vehicle. For first-time visitors or those unfamiliar with the park, hiring a guide is recommended to maximize your experience.