According to KWS, urban-based wildlife experiences dominated visitation numbers in 2025, showing the rising appeal of accessible nature experiences for both local and international travelers.
🥇 1. Nairobi Animal Orphanage – 455,550 visitors
Located inside Nairobi National Park, this mini sanctuary rehabilitates injured and orphaned wildlife. It’s especially popular with school groups and local families looking for an up-close introduction to Kenya’s iconic animals.
🥈 2. Nairobi National Park – 431,165 visitors
The only national park on earth bordering a capital city, it offers dramatic game viewing just minutes from downtown Nairobi. Home to lions, rhinos, giraffes, and over 400 bird species.
🥉 3. Kisumu Impala Sanctuary – 309,728 visitors
A compact and serene park on the shores of Lake Victoria. Ideal for birding, hippo and impala sightings, and walking safaris. Highly popular with Western Kenya residents.
4. Lake Nakuru National Park – 293,107 visitors
Known for its flamingo-lined lake and resident white and black rhinos, Lake Nakuru is a classic big game and birdwatching destination just a few hours from Nairobi.
5. Nairobi Safari Walk – 286,165 visitors
An elevated boardwalk through recreated Kenyan habitats. Visitors can spot wildlife in a controlled setting with educational signage—perfect for a quick yet immersive experience.
6. Amboseli National Park – 266,102 visitors
Famous for its herds of elephants and sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli remains a top draw for international photographers and safari-goers.
7. Tsavo East National Park – 238,545 visitors
One of Kenya’s largest parks, known for its “red elephants,” Yatta Plateau, and raw wilderness. Ideal for longer road safaris.
8. Hell’s Gate National Park – 230,314 visitors
Popular for hiking, rock climbing, and cycling through dramatic gorges and volcanic formations. One of the few parks where you can walk or bike among wildlife.
9. Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park – 96,634 visitors
A coral-rich marine park near Wasini Island on Kenya’s south coast. Offers some of the best snorkeling and dolphin-spotting in East Africa.
10. Tsavo West National Park – 89,594 visitors
Renowned for its rugged beauty, Mzima Springs, lava flows, and diverse terrain. Offers a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience.
🧭 Expert Comparison Chart – Kenya’s Top National Parks & Attractions (2025)
(Source: Kenya Wildlife Service. Chart prepared by NairobiPark.org)
| Park/Attraction | Visitors (2025) | Location | Main Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi Animal Orphanage | 455,550 | Nairobi City | Orphaned wildlife, educational programs | Families, school trips |
| Nairobi National Park | 431,165 | Nairobi City | Lions, rhinos, giraffes, near city center | Quick safaris, short stay visitors |
| Kisumu Impala Sanctuary | 309,728 | Kisumu, Western Kenya | Lakeside walks, hippos, impalas, birding | Local tourism, nature walks |
| Lake Nakuru National Park | 293,107 | Rift Valley | Flamingos, rhinos, scenic lake | Birding, big game, weekend safaris |
| Nairobi Safari Walk | 286,165 | Nairobi City | Elevated boardwalk, interpretive wildlife education | Day trips, families, school groups |
| Amboseli National Park | 266,102 | Kajiado (Southern Kenya) | Elephants, Mt. Kilimanjaro views | Photographers, classic safari |
| Tsavo East National Park | 238,545 | Southeastern Kenya | Vast landscapes, red elephants, wilderness feel | Road trips, multi-day safaris |
| Hell’s Gate National Park | 230,314 | Naivasha | Hiking, cycling, rock towers, geothermal sites | Adventure seekers, climbers |
| Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park | 96,634 | Coast (Wasini Island) | Coral reefs, dolphins, snorkeling | Marine lovers, beach extensions |
| Tsavo West National Park | 89,594 | Southeastern Kenya | Mzima Springs, lava fields, rugged beauty | Remote wilderness, scenic views |