7 Picnic Sites at Nairobi National Park

Within Nairobi National Park, picnic sites and designated stop points are strategically distributed across ecological zones — from riverine forest to open plains and rocky escarpments. Understanding their location, ecology, safety context, and safari flow is essential for planning.

Nairobi National Park offers a range of facilities to enhance your visit, providing everything from picnic areas and rest stops to public toilets and gift shops.

Whether you’re planning a leisurely picnic, a braai (BBQ), or simply need a place to rest after a safari, the park’s facilities cater to all your needs. This expert guide highlights the best facilities available at Nairobi National Park, helping you make the most of your visit.

7 Best Picnic Sites in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park has 7 designated picnic sites that allow you to relax and enjoy a meal amidst the natural beauty of the park. These spots are perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers looking to take a break during their safari.

Top Picnic Sites:

Kingfisher Picnic Site: One of the most popular spots, offering shaded areas and excellent views of the park’s plains. It’s also close to wildlife viewing areas.
Leopard Gorge: A scenic spot that provides a quieter, more secluded picnic experience with rocky outcrops and occasional wildlife sightings.
Hippo Pools: Located near the Mbagathi River, this picnic spot offers the chance to view hippos and crocodiles while enjoying your meal.

These areas provide picnic benches and basic facilities, making them ideal for a break between game drives.

Within Nairobi National Park, visitors can stop at designated picnic sites and scenic landmarks during a game drive. These locations vary in accessibility, shade, wildlife proximity, historical value, and suitability for short vs extended stops.

Below is a complete expert comparison including: Impala, Kingfisher, Mokoyiet, Hippo Pools, Ivory Burning Site, Athi Dam, and Leopard Gorge.

Below is a comprehensive guide covering all 7 key picnic and stop locations: Impala, Kingfisher, Mokoyiet, Hippo Pools, Ivory Burning Site, Athi Dam, and Leopard Gorge.

1️⃣ Impala Picnic Site

📍 Location & Access

Located near the central safari circuits.
Close to the Main Gate (Langata side).
Easily accessible for both guided tours and self-drive.

🌍 Ecological Setting

Open savannah grassland with scattered acacia trees.
Typical habitat for impala, zebra, gazelle, and occasional buffalo.

🏗 Facilities

Designated picnic tables.
Permanent toilets.
Frequently patrolled by rangers.
Suitable for tour vans and larger groups.

🦓 Wildlife Viewing Potential

Plains game often visible nearby.
Not a predator hotspot but lions occasionally pass through central circuits.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best For

Families.
Half-day safaris.
Visitors seeking structured, safe facilities.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Most popular site — busiest on weekends.
Arrive before 11:30 AM for quieter experience.
Remain vigilant; the site is unfenced.

2️⃣ Kingfisher Picnic Site

📍 Location

Central-western section of the park.
Near seasonal watercourses.

🌿 Ecological Setting

Riverine vegetation.
Woodland edge habitat.
Bird-rich environment, especially during rainy seasons.

🏗 Facilities

Picnic tables.
Basic toilets.
Moderate shade from trees.

🐦 Wildlife & Birding

Kingfishers (seasonal), weavers, rollers.
Occasional herbivore movement near water.

🎯 Best For

Birdwatchers.
Mid-morning coffee stop.
Visitors seeking balance between accessibility and seclusion.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Slightly less crowded than Impala.
Can be warmer in dry season.

3️⃣ Mokoyiet Picnic Site

📍 Location

Western plains of Nairobi National Park.

🌾 Ecological Setting

Wide-open savannah.
Expansive visibility.

🏗 Facilities

Basic picnic tables.
Minimal infrastructure.

🦓 Wildlife

Strong plains game presence.
Good scanning visibility for predators.
Occasional cheetah sightings in surrounding plains.

🎯 Best For

Experienced safari-goers.
Visitors prioritizing solitude.
Landscape photography.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Limited shade — bring hats and water.
Further drive from Main Gate.

4️⃣ Hippo Pools Picnic Site

📍 Location

Southern boundary near Athi River.

🌊 Ecological Setting

Riverine forest.
Water pools and riparian habitat.
Cooler microclimate.

🏗 Facilities

Picnic tables.
Permanent toilets.
Shaded areas.

🦛 Wildlife

Hippos (seasonally visible in pools).
Crocodiles in river.
Diverse birdlife including herons and storks.

🎯 Best For

Full-day safari lunch stop.
Wildlife photographers.
Visitors wanting river scenery.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Furthest formal picnic site.
Requires time allocation in itinerary.

5️⃣ Ivory Burning Site Monument

📍 Location

Near Main Gate.

🏛 Conservation Significance

Commemorates Kenya’s 1989 ivory burn led by President Daniel arap Moi.
Additional ivory burn in 2016.
Symbol of Kenya’s anti-poaching stance.

🌍 Environment

Open monument grounds.
Not a traditional picnic setup.

🎯 Best For

Educational visits.
Conservation-focused safaris.
Short stop before entering or exiting park.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Limited shade.
Best used as historical stop rather than meal location.

6️⃣ Athi Dam

📍 Location

Southern sector of the park.

🌊 Ecological Setting

Open dam area connected to Athi River system.
Surrounding grassland plains.

🦓 Wildlife

Buffalo and antelope frequent nearby plains.
Excellent large-mammal viewing potential.
Water attracts animals in dry season.

🏗 Facilities

No formal picnic infrastructure.
Scenic stop only.

🎯 Best For

Landscape photography.
Panoramic views.
Quiet reflection stop.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Minimal shade.
Not ideal for long meal stops.

7️⃣ Leopard Gorge

📍 Location

Western sector.

🏞 Geological Setting

Rocky gorge formation.
Escarpment terrain.
Distinct from open savannah.

🐆 Wildlife

Historically associated with leopard sightings.
Also habitat for baboons and small mammals.

🏗 Facilities

No formal picnic tables.
Scenic viewpoint only.

🎯 Best For

Dramatic photography.
Geological interest.
Visitors wanting terrain diversity.

⚠️ Expert Notes

Limited infrastructure.
Exercise caution near rocky edges.

📊 Side-by-Side Comparison of NNP Picnic Sites

Site	Proximity to Main Gate	Shade	Facilities	Wildlife Viewing	Best For
Impala	Close	Moderate	Full	Moderate	Families & short safaris
Kingfisher	Moderate	Moderate	Basic	Moderate	Birdwatchers
Mokoyiet	Further west	Limited	Basic	Moderate–High	Quiet stops
Hippo Pools	Furthest south	Good	Full	High (hippos)	Full-day safaris
Ivory Burning Site	Very close	Minimal	Viewing area	Low	Conservation stop
Athi Dam	Far south	Minimal	None	Moderate	Scenic photography
Leopard Gorge	Western	Minimal	None	Occasional	Landscape & geology

🦓 Expert Safari Strategy

Half-Day Safari (From 6 AM)

Picnic: Impala
Quick conservation stop: Ivory Burning Site

Full-Day Safari

Scenic lunch: Hippo Pools
Photography detour: Athi Dam
Geological stop: Leopard Gorge

Photography-Focused Visitors

Combine Leopard Gorge + Athi Dam + Hippo Pools for varied landscapes.

🎯 Final Expert Assessment

Most practical picnic: Impala
Most scenic picnic: Hippo Pools
Most secluded picnic: Mokoyiet
Most historically significant stop: Ivory Burning Site
Best panoramic viewpoint: Athi Dam
Most dramatic landscape feature: Leopard Gorge

Together, these sites allow visitors to shape their Nairobi National Park experience around convenience, scenery, conservation history, or wilderness immersion.

⚠️ Safety Considerations for All NNP Picnic Sites

All areas are unfenced.
Wildlife moves freely.
Stay within designated areas.
Do not leave food unattended.
Follow ranger guidance.

Other NNP Facilities:

Where to Find Public Toilets in Nairobi National Park

Public toilets are available at several key locations throughout Nairobi National Park, ensuring that visitors can plan their trip comfortably.

Public Toilet Locations:

Main Entrance: Facilities are available at the Main Gate visitor area where you’ll also find information kiosks.
Kingfisher Picnic Site: Toilets are available near this popular picnic spot, making it a convenient stop during game drives.
Hippo Pools: Restrooms are also located near this well-known waterhole, a major attraction for visitors.

All public toilets are clean and regularly maintained, ensuring a hygienic experience for visitors.

Nairobi National Park Visitor Center: What You Need to Know

The Nairobi National Park Visitor Center is located near the main entrance and serves as the information hub for park visitors.

Services Available:

Park Maps & Information: Get detailed maps of the park and advice from rangers about the best wildlife viewing areas and current conditions.
Educational Displays: The visitor center offers exhibits and information on the park’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Guided Tour Bookings: You can book guided game drives, photo safaris, and birdwatching tours directly at the visitor center.

The visitor center is a great first stop when entering the park, offering everything you need to plan your visit.

Nairobi National Park Parking Fees: A Complete Guide

Parking is available at key locations within Nairobi National Park, including the main entrance, picnic areas, and key wildlife viewing points.

Parking Fee Structure:

General Parking: Parking at the Main Gate and most picnic areas is free of charge with your park entry fee.
Braai (BBQ) Areas: If you’re planning to use the braai facilities, ensure you park in designated areas near these spots.
Oversized Vehicles: Large vehicles, such as buses, may have a small additional fee for parking.

Parking spots are well-marked and conveniently located near key facilities like picnic areas and public toilets.

Enjoy a BBQ at Nairobi National Park with These Braai Facilities

For visitors who want to enjoy a braai (BBQ), Nairobi National Park offers designated braai areas where you can cook your own meals while taking in the surrounding wildlife.

Top Braai Locations:

Kingfisher Picnic Site: Equipped with braai facilities, this site is perfect for a relaxed BBQ with the family while enjoying the scenic views.
Leopard Gorge: A quieter braai area for those looking for a more secluded experience.
Hippo Pools: This area also has braai facilities, offering the unique experience of grilling while observing wildlife like hippos and crocodiles.

Make sure to bring your own charcoal and utensils, as the park provides only the braai stands.

Best Rest Areas in Nairobi National Park: Where to Relax

Nairobi National Park has several designated rest areas where visitors can take a break during their safari. These areas are perfect for relaxing, stretching your legs, and enjoying the tranquility of the park.

Rest Area Highlights:

Kingfisher Picnic Site: This shaded area offers picnic benches and restrooms, making it ideal for a break during your game drive.
Leopard Gorge: A quieter spot with scenic views, perfect for relaxing after a long drive.
Main Gate Rest Area: Located at the entrance, this rest area is great for a quick stop before heading deeper into the park.

These rest areas are well-maintained and provide basic amenities for visitors.

Picnic Areas with Scenic Views in Nairobi National Park

If you’re looking for picnic areas with stunning views, Nairobi National Park does not disappoint. These spots offer breathtaking landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Best Picnic Spots with Views:

Ivory Burning Site: Offers panoramic views of the park and Nairobi’s skyline, perfect for a peaceful picnic with a dramatic backdrop.
Athi Dam: Overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife, this is a great spot for viewing animals while enjoying your meal.
Leopard Gorge: A quiet, scenic spot with rocky outcrops and a chance to see lions and other wildlife in the distance.

These picnic areas provide not just a place to eat, but also a unique way to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.

Where to Eat in Nairobi National Park: Top Restaurant Options

While Nairobi National Park is known for its wildlife, there are also a few dining options inside or near the park where you can grab a bite.

Top Restaurant Options:

The Rangers Restaurant: Located near the main gate, this restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes, perfect for a meal before or after your safari. Rangers Restaurant was closed in 2013 and is no longer operational.
Picnic Meals: If you prefer a more personal experience, many tour operators offer picnic hampers that you can enjoy at one of the designated picnic spots inside the park.

Make sure to plan your meals around your game drive so you have enough time to enjoy both the safari and dining experience.

If you want to learn about our top recommendations of best places to eat near Nairobi National Park, check out our Food and Dinning around Nairobi NP Guide

Drinking Water Stations in Nairobi National Park: Stay Hydrated

To ensure you stay hydrated during your safari, Nairobi National Park has drinking water stations located at key spots throughout the park.

Where to Find Drinking Water:

Main Gate: Drinking water is available near the visitor center at the entrance.
Kingfisher Picnic Site: Water stations are available here, making it convenient for those enjoying a long day in the park.

Visitors are also encouraged to bring their own refillable water bottles to reduce plastic waste and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Nairobi National Park Gift Shops: What to Buy

Before leaving Nairobi National Park, be sure to stop by the gift shops to pick up souvenirs that will remind you of your visit.

What to Expect:

Wildlife-Themed Souvenirs: From t-shirts and hats to hand-carved wooden animals, you’ll find plenty of items that celebrate Kenya’s wildlife.
Books and Guides: You can also purchase field guides, maps, and books on Kenyan wildlife, perfect for enhancing your knowledge of the animals and ecosystems you’ve seen.
Locally Made Crafts: Many of the items available are made by local artisans, supporting community development projects and conservation efforts.

The gift shops are located near the main entrance and at select picnic sites.

Conclusion

Nairobi National Park offers a wide range of facilities to make your visit comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a scenic picnic spot, a place to relax, or basic amenities like restrooms and water stations, the park has everything you need. Make sure to take advantage of the park’s well-maintained facilities and plan your trip to include a stop at the visitor center for the latest information on wildlife sightings and conservation efforts.

FAQs on NNP Picnic Sites:

❓ What is the best picnic site at NNP?

The best picnic site at Nairobi National Park is generally considered to be Hippo Pools Picnic Site, especially for visitors on a full-day safari. Located along the Athi River in the park’s southern sector, it offers the most scenic setting, with riverine forest shade, cooler microclimate conditions, and the possibility of viewing hippos and crocodiles in the pools below.

Unlike the more centrally located Impala Picnic Site, Hippo Pools provides a stronger sense of immersion in nature, fewer crowds, and richer birdlife due to its riparian habitat. While it requires a longer drive from the Main Gate, the combination of landscape diversity, wildlife proximity, and shaded facilities makes Hippo Pools the most rewarding and atmospheric picnic stop within Nairobi National Park for those with sufficient time in their itinerary.

❓ Do you need to pay extra to use picnic sites in Nairobi National Park?

No. Access to designated picnic sites (Impala, Kingfisher, Mokoyiet, Hippo Pools) is included in your standard park entry fee. There is no separate picnic charge.

❓ Are picnic sites fenced or protected from wildlife?

No. All picnic sites are unfenced, and wildlife moves freely throughout the park. While ranger patrols occur, visitors must remain vigilant and avoid leaving food unattended.

❓ Are there designated braai or BBQ facilities?

No. Open fires, grilling, and barbecues are not permitted at Nairobi National Park picnic sites. Visitors must bring pre-prepared food.

❓ Can you bring alcohol to picnic sites?

Alcohol is generally discouraged inside national parks. While small personal quantities may not always be strictly enforced, public intoxication and glass breakage are prohibited. Always follow Kenya Wildlife Service regulations.

❓ Are picnic sites suitable for children?

Yes, particularly Impala Picnic Site, which is closest to the Main Gate and frequently patrolled. However, children must be supervised at all times due to wildlife presence.

❓ Is it safe to picnic during predator sightings nearby?

If predators are observed in the vicinity, rangers may temporarily restrict movement. Never approach wildlife for photographs, and return to your vehicle immediately if instructed.

❓ Do picnic sites have running water?

No. Toilets are available at formal sites, but running water is not guaranteed. Bring your own drinking water.

❓ Is there mobile network coverage at picnic sites?

Mobile coverage is generally available in most areas of Nairobi National Park, but signal strength may fluctuate in southern sectors such as Hippo Pools.

❓ What is the best time of day to use picnic sites?

Mid-morning (9:30–11:30 AM) is ideal for half-day safaris.
Early afternoon (1:00–2:00 PM) works best during full-day safaris.
Avoid peak noon heat during dry season.

❓ Can self-drive visitors use picnic sites?

Yes. Picnic sites are accessible to both guided tours and self-drive visitors. Ensure your vehicle meets park requirements (4WD recommended during rainy season).

❓ Are there shaded picnic tables?

Shade varies:

Hippo Pools and Kingfisher offer better natural shade.
Mokoyiet and Athi Dam have limited shade.
Impala offers moderate tree cover.

❓ Can you book picnic sites in advance?

No. Picnic sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no reservation system.

❓ Are there waste disposal bins?

Yes, but visitors are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles. Carry all non-biodegradable waste out if bins are full.

❓ How long can you stay at a picnic site?

There is no strict time limit, but most safari itineraries allocate 30–60 minutes. Avoid extended stays if wildlife movement increases.

❓ Which picnic site is least crowded?

Mokoyiet and Hippo Pools tend to be quieter compared to Impala, especially on weekdays.

❓ Can large tour groups use picnic sites?

Yes, but larger groups should aim for Impala Picnic Site due to space and accessibility.

❓ Are drones allowed at picnic sites?

No. Drone use inside Nairobi National Park is strictly regulated and requires special authorization from Kenya Wildlife Service.

❓ Is there security at picnic sites?

Rangers patrol regularly, especially near Impala and Main Gate areas. However, visitors remain responsible for personal safety.

❓ Can you leave your vehicle unattended while picnicking?

Yes, but do not leave valuables visible. Lock vehicles and remain within designated picnic areas.

❓ Are picnic sites accessible during rainy season?

Yes, but:

Roads to Hippo Pools and Mokoyiet may become muddy.
4WD vehicles are strongly recommended during heavy rains.

❓ What should you pack for a picnic in Nairobi National Park?

Pre-prepared food
Drinking water
Sunscreen and hat
Wet wipes / sanitizer
Trash bags
Binoculars (wildlife may pass nearby)

🎯 Final Advice

Picnic sites in Nairobi National Park are designed as simple, functional rest stops within a wild ecosystem, not commercial rest areas. Visitors should approach them with safari awareness — planning for safety, timing, and minimal environmental impact.