Nairobi National Park is one of Africa’s most unique safari destinations—a wildlife sanctuary located just 7 km from Nairobi’s city center. This 117-square-kilometer park is home to diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and some of the most accessible game drives in Kenya. Whether you’re looking to spot lions on the hunt, track rhinos, or marvel at the rich birdlife, this guide will help you explore the best wildlife and attractions inside the park.
🦁 Wildlife in Nairobi National Park
Despite being a small park compared to other Kenyan reserves, Nairobi National Park boasts an incredible variety of wildlife, making it a must-visit for safari lovers.
1. The Big Five Presence
While Nairobi National Park does not have elephants, you can still see four of the Big Five:
✔ Lions – Best spotted early in the morning or late afternoon.
✔ Leopards – Elusive but sometimes seen in the park’s forested areas.
✔ Buffaloes – Common near wetlands and grazing plains.
✔ Rhinos – Both black and white rhinos are found here, making it one of the best parks for rhino sightings.
2. Other Major Mammals in the Park
Beyond the Big Five, the park is home to over 100 mammal species, including:
✔ Cheetahs – Often spotted along open plains.
✔ Giraffes – The endangered Rothschild’s giraffe is commonly seen.
✔ Zebras & Wildebeests – Large herds roam freely across the savannah.
✔ Hippopotamuses & Crocodiles – Found in the Mbagathi River and Hippo Pools.
✔ Hyenas & Jackals – Frequently seen scavenging near lion kill sites.
🦜 Birdwatching at Nairobi National Park
With over 500 bird species, Nairobi National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park is home to both migratory and resident species, making it an excellent location for birding.
Top Birds to Spot in Nairobi National Park
✔ Martial Eagle – One of Africa’s largest birds of prey.
✔ Secretary Bird – A striking raptor often seen hunting snakes.
✔ African Fish Eagle – Frequently found near water sources.
✔ Abyssinian Ground Hornbill – A large, distinctive bird seen foraging on the ground.
✔ Yellow-throated Sandgrouse – Found in dry, open areas of the park.
📸 Best Birdwatching Spots: Mbagathi River, wetlands, and forested sections near the park’s entrance.
📍 Must-Visit Attractions Inside Nairobi National Park
Beyond wildlife, Nairobi National Park has several key attractions that offer visitors a deeper safari experience.
1. Ivory Burning Site Monument
🔥 Historic Site for Conservation – This is where Kenya’s first public ivory burning took place in 1989, a symbolic act against elephant poaching. All of Kenya’s presidents, except the current President William Ruto, have publicly burned confiscated ivory at the Ivory Burning Monument in Nairobi National Park. Learn more here about this monument here.
📍 Why Visit? A great stop to learn about Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
2. Hippo Pools & Mbagathi River
🌊 See Hippos & Crocodiles – This scenic section of the park allows visitors to see hippos basking in the sun and crocodiles lurking beneath the water.
📍 Why Visit? A perfect picnic spot with a designated walking trail for guided nature walks.
3. Mokoiyet picnic Site – Best Viewpoint in the Park
🌄 Panoramic Views – This elevated hill provides stunning aerial views of the park and Nairobi’s skyline in the distance.
📍 Why Visit? A top location for photography and a great place to stop for sunrise or sunset views. Read more on this picnic site at NNP.
4. Nairobi Safari Walk & Animal Orphanage (Near the Park Entrance)
🐾 Close-Up Wildlife Encounters – If you prefer walking over a game drive, the Nairobi Safari Walk is a great way to see lions, cheetahs, rhinos, and rare species like the bongo antelope up close.
📍 Why Visit? A budget-friendly and child-friendly alternative to the full safari experience.
🚙 Best Way to Explore Nairobi National Park
1. Self-Drive Safari
✔ Perfect for independent travelers
✔ Requires a 4×4 vehicle (especially during the rainy season)
✔ Entry Fee: $43 per non-resident adult
🚗 Vehicle Rental Cost:
- Small SUV / 4×4 Car: $100–$150 per day
- Safari Land Cruiser (Ideal for photographers): $150–$250 per day
2. Guided Game Drive with Driver-Guide
✔ Best option for first-time visitors
✔ Includes an expert guide who knows the best wildlife viewing spots
✔ Can be arranged as a half-day or full-day safari
💰 Cost Estimate (Per Person, Shared Vehicle):
- Half-Day Game Drive: $60–$120
- Full-Day Game Drive: $100–$180
🚀 Best Time to Go?
- Early Morning Game Drive (6:30 AM – 10:30 AM): Best for spotting lions, rhinos, and cheetahs.
- Evening Game Drive (3:30 PM – 6:30 PM): Best for golden-hour photography.
🎟 Nairobi National Park Entry Fees (2024)
| Visitor Type | Entry Fee (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| Non-Resident Adult | $43 |
| Non-Resident Child | $22 |
| Kenyan Citizen (Adult) | KES 1,500 |
| Kenyan Citizen (Child) | KES 500 |
| Safari Vehicle Entry Fee | KES 400 – 1,200 (based on vehicle size) |
💡 Tip: If you’re doing a self-drive, make sure to have a park map or GPS to navigate the best wildlife viewing routes.
🦓 Conclusion: Why Visit Nairobi National Park?
🌍 Nairobi National Park offers one of the best wildlife experiences within a capital city. Whether you’re on a short layover, a budget safari, or looking for a quick game drive near Nairobi, this park delivers diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. With free-roaming lions, rhinos, and cheetahs, plus iconic attractions like the Ivory Burning Site and Hippo Pools, it’s the perfect urban safari destination.
📅 Plan your Nairobi National Park safari today and experience the wild side of Kenya’s capital!
