Nairobi National Park is located on the southern outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, just 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the city’s central business district. This proximity makes it one of the most accessible national parks in the world, offering a wildlife experience only minutes away from a major urban center.
The park provides a stunning contrast between its natural landscapes and Nairobi’s skyline, allowing visitors to enjoy safari adventures without leaving the city limits. In this guide, you’ll find detailed information about the park’s exact location, directions, maps, parking, and its closeness to the city.
1. Where is Nairobi National Park?
Nairobi National Park is located about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) south of Nairobi’s central business district (CBD). This urban proximity makes it one of the most accessible national parks in the world, allowing visitors to enjoy a safari experience without leaving the city limits.
- Address: Nairobi National Park, Lang’ata Road, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Coordinates: Latitude: -1.3611, Longitude: 36.8586
The park’s location on the southern outskirts of Nairobi provides an easily reachable wildlife sanctuary that’s only a short drive from key urban landmarks such as Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
2. How to Get to Nairobi National Park: A Visitor’s Guide
Getting to Nairobi National Park is easy, whether you’re a local resident or an international tourist. The park’s main gate is accessible via Lang’ata Road, a major route that connects the park to different parts of the city. Here’s how you can reach it:
By Car (Self-Drive):
- From Nairobi CBD: Take Lang’ata Road and drive south for about 20 minutes (traffic depending). The main gate is well-signposted, and you will pass landmarks like Wilson Airport on your way.
- From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA): The park is about 30 minutes (16 km) away via Mombasa Road and Lang’ata Road. This route makes Nairobi National Park a convenient stop for travelers with layovers or short stays in Nairobi.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps:
- Services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Nairobi. A ride from the CBD will cost around Kshs 500 to 700 depending on traffic, while rides from JKIA may range between Kshs 1,000 to 1,500.
By Public Transport:
- Public transport options such as matatus (minibuses) are available from downtown Nairobi. Take a matatu heading towards Lang’ata and ask to be dropped off near the main gate of the park. However, this method can be more time-consuming and less reliable.
3. Nairobi National Park Map: Plan Your Safari Route
Before heading out on a game drive, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Nairobi National Park map. The park covers approximately 117 square kilometers and offers multiple routes and key areas that visitors can explore.
Key Areas on the Map:
- Main Gate: Located on Lang’ata Road, this is the primary entrance point for most visitors.
- Hippo Pools and Mbagathi River: Located in the southern section, this is a prime spot for viewing hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.
- Ivory Burning Site: This landmark is a significant historical and conservation symbol within the park.
- Athi Dam: Known for attracting large animals like buffalo, zebras, and giraffes, Athi Dam is located towards the southern boundary.
Tips for Using the Map:
- Download the official Nairobi National Park map from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) website to help you plot your game drive route and identify key wildlife hotspots.
- Many guided tours also provide maps and will take you along well-known routes that maximize wildlife sightings.
4. Easy Directions to Nairobi National Park
For those unfamiliar with Nairobi or visiting from abroad, here’s how to get to the park with ease:
From Nairobi Central Business District:
- Route: Head south on Uhuru Highway, then take a right onto Lang’ata Road. Continue straight until you see signage for Nairobi National Park on your left.
- Estimated Drive Time: 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA):
- Route: From Mombasa Road, take the Southern Bypass until you reach the Lang’ata Road exit. Turn right onto Lang’ata Road, and follow the signs to the park.
- Estimated Drive Time: 30-40 minutes, with light traffic.
If using Google Maps or any other GPS system, simply input “Nairobi National Park Main Gate” for precise directions.
5. Nairobi National Park Parking: What You Need to Know
Nairobi National Park has ample parking facilities at the Main Gate and several other key areas within the park, including picnic spots. Here’s what you need to know about parking:
- Main Gate Parking: Conveniently located at the entrance, this is where most visitors park before embarking on a guided safari or self-drive.
- Picnic Areas: Designated areas like Kingfisher Picnic Site and Leopard Gorge have parking spaces where you can stop for a meal or rest during your game drive.
- Hippo Pools Parking: Visitors can park near the Hippo Pools area to walk down to the riverbanks and watch the hippos.
Parking fees are typically included in your entry fee, so there’s no additional cost. Ensure your vehicle is a 4×4, especially during the rainy season, as some routes can become muddy and difficult to navigate.
6. How Close is Nairobi National Park to the City?
One of the most fascinating aspects of Nairobi National Park is its proximity to Nairobi’s bustling urban environment. The park is only 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Nairobi’s CBD, making it incredibly convenient for both residents and tourists.
- City Proximity: Visitors can easily embark on a half-day safari and be back in the city for lunch or meetings. This proximity also allows you to enjoy both a wildlife adventure and city life without needing to travel far.
- Urban Views: One of the park’s unique features is that, in some areas, you can see Nairobi’s skyline in the distance while observing wildlife such as lions or rhinos. This contrast of urban and natural environments adds to the park’s charm.
- Accessibility: Nairobi National Park is also very close to other attractions such as the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre, and Karen Blixen Museum, making it easy to combine your park visit with other nearby experiences.
7. What Visitors Are Saying About Nairobi National Park
Visitors consistently praise Nairobi National Park for its unique combination of wildlife and urban convenience. Common highlights from reviews include:
- “The park is a hidden gem right on the city’s doorstep. We saw lions, rhinos, and giraffes, all while knowing we were so close to Nairobi!”
- “A perfect half-day safari. The ease of access from Nairobi makes it ideal for travelers with limited time.”
- “The contrast between the wildlife and the city skyline makes this park an incredible experience. A must-visit!”
Many reviews highlight the convenience of the park’s location and the opportunity to see big game so close to a major city. Visitors also recommend early morning drives for the best wildlife sightings and advise bringing binoculars and a good camera to capture the memorable scenery.
Conclusion
Nairobi National Park is a rare gem, combining wildlife safaris with easy access from the city. Whether you’re visiting from the central business district, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, or elsewhere in Nairobi, the park is well-connected and easy to navigate. With comprehensive routes, accessible parking, and unique urban proximity, planning your visit to Nairobi National Park has never been easier. Use the park’s official map, follow key directions, and ensure you’re prepared for an unforgettable safari experience in this remarkable urban wilderness.