Nairobi National Park offers a surreal safari experience where lions roar against a backdrop of skyscrapers, making it the world’s only national park within a capital city. Established in 1946, this 117 km² sanctuary blends untamed wilderness with urban accessibility, hosting over 500 bird species, 100+ mammals, and Africa’s densest black rhino population. The park introduced enhanced conservation experiences and eco-friendly tours, including sunrise game drives and rhino tracking with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) experts. Its proximity to Nairobi’s city center—just a 15-minute drive—allows visitors to escape into the wild without leaving the city, offering unparalleled convenience for international tourists and locals alike.
Nairobi National Park is home to four of the Big Five (missing elephants due to historical human-wildlife conflicts), including lion prides, leopard, buffalo, and both black rhino and white rhino populations. The park’s rhino sanctuary, dubbed “Kifaru Ark” (“Rhino Ark”), protects 76 endangered black rhinos—Kenya’s highest density—offering near-guaranteed sightings during guided game drives. Unique predator encounters include cheetah hunts on open plains and spotted hyenas scavenging near the Ivory Burning Site.
Massive herds of Burchell’s zebra, wildebeest, and impala migrate seasonally across the Athi-Kapiti plains, while giraffe species like the Rothschild’s graze near acacia woodlands. The park’s wetlands host hippopotamus pods and Nile crocodiles at Hippo Pools, alongside 400+ bird species like the martial eagle and grey-crowned crane. November–April attracts European migrants, transforming the park into a twitcher’s paradise.
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage rehabilitates rescued calves, allowing public visits during mud-bathing sessions (11 AM–12 PM daily). KWS anti-poaching units have reduced rhino poaching by 90% since 2020, with community-funded ranger patrols ensuring species recovery.
This historic landmark commemorates Kenya’s 1989 stand against poaching when 12 tons of confiscated ivory were torched. Visitors explore interpretive displays detailing Kenya’s conservation milestones.
A raised boardwalk meanders through natural enclosures showcasing rare species like bongo antelopes. The adjacent orphanage rescues injured wild animals, including lions and cheetahs.
Guided walks along the Athi River reveal basking crocodiles, waterbirds, and hippos. Armed KWS rangers ensure safety during these 2-hour immersive experiences.
Early Morning (6–9 AM): Optimal for spotting lions hunting.
Afternoon Game (3–6 PM): Golden-hour photography of giraffes silhouetted against Nairobi’s skyline.
Night Safaris: Special permits for aardwolf and porcupine sightings (rarely offered; book via KWS).
Rhino Tracking: Join KWS rangers to monitor tagged rhinos ($80/person; funds conservation).
Photography Safaris: Customized 4×4 vehicles with roof hatches for capturing elusive rhinos.
The fenced rhino sanctuary uses GPS tracking and armed patrols to protect 89 rhinos—a model for East Africa. Successful births increased the herd by 12% in 2024.
20% of park entry fees fund local schools and clinics through the Kitengela Landowners Association, reducing human-wildlife conflicts.
Replanting native acacia trees and removing invasive lantana have restored 30% of degraded grasslands since 2023.
Best time to visit: Animals congregate at waterholes; skies are dust-free for photography. Average temperature: 22°C (72°F) 1114.
Lush landscapes attract migratory birds. April’s long rains offer 50% discounted entrance fee promotions 811.
Road: 7 km via Langata Road (15 mins). Use tour van services from hotels.
Air: Charter flights from Wilson Airport land at the park’s Mbagathi Airstrip.
Main Gate (KWS HQ), Langata Gate, and Cheetah Gate offer the easiest access to prime game viewing zones.
Emakoko Lodge: Cliff-top villas overlooking the park.
Ole Sereni: Infinity pool facing animal watering holes.
Nairobi Tented Camp: Only in-park accommodation.
KWS Bandas: Self-catering cottages near Hippo Pools.
Giraffe Centre: Hand-feed Rothschild’s giraffes (10 mins from Langata Gate).
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: Foster orphaned elephants (pre-book 3 PM visits).
Karen Blixen Museum: Explore the “Out of Africa” homestead.
Kazuri Beads: Support women artisans crafting ceramic jewelry.
Book game drive guides via KWS ($30/4 hours) for lion tracking.
Secure rhino sanctuary permits 3 months ahead.
Gear: Binoculars, neutral-toned clothing, and a telephoto lens.
Health: Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
Ready to witness rhinos against a city skyline or pet giraffes at dawn? Pristine Tours Ltd. crafts seamless safari tours to Nairobi National Park, combining luxury stays, KWS-certified guides, and conservation experiences. Our 3-Day Urban Wilderness Safari includes park entry fees, Sheldrick Wildlife Trust visits, and a sunset bush dinner at Ivory Burning Site—all carbon neutral!
🔹 Why Choose Us?
Rhino Tracking Permits & Exclusive Park Access
15% Revenue Donated to KWS Anti-Poaching Units
Custom 4×4 Vehicles with Photography Roof Hatches
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +256 753 538 933
🌐 Secure Your Safari: www.pristinetoursuganda.com/nairobi-park-2025
Where City Meets Wild—Book Before Sept 2025 for Exclusive KWS Partner Rates! 🦏🌆