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Adventure Collective Journal

Explore Nairobi National Park: A Wild Safari Just Outside Kenya’s Capital

Explore Nairobi National Park: A Wild Safari Just Outside Kenya’s Capital

Nairobi National Park offers a thrilling safari experience just minutes from Kenya's bustling capital. Discover lions, rhinos, leopards, and more on a convenient 5-hour guided game drive with hotel pickup and expert guides.

Nairobi, Nairobi County
5 hours total
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Start Early for Best Wildlife Viewing

Departing around 6 AM helps avoid the midday heat and increases chances of spotting active animals.

Wear Comfortable, Dust-Resistant Footwear

The safari tracks can be dusty and uneven, so sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable during game drives and short walks.

Bring Binoculars and a Good Camera

Enhance your sightings and capture wildlife moments with optics and photography gear ready for long distances.

Stay Hydrated with Bottled Water

Carry water provided on tour to stay refreshed in the warm savannah climate.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Hippo pools with walking trails offering close encounters with semi-aquatic wildlife
  • Ivory burning site monument, a significant landmark for wildlife conservation history

Wildlife

  • Black rhinoceros
  • African lion

Conservation Note

The park maintains open borders on its southeast perimeter to support natural game migration, reflecting ongoing efforts to protect endangered species and habitats within an urbanizing environment.

Established in 1946, Nairobi National Park is Kenya's first national park and uniquely borders a capital city, balancing urban expansion with wildlife preservation.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Early morning (golden hour), Late morning before midday heat
Key viewpoints:
  • Open plains near hippo pools
  • Acacia-dotted savannah
  • Viewpoints overlooking the migratory corridors
Subjects to capture:Big cats in natural habitat, Herds of wildebeest and zebras, Close-up shots of black rhinos

What to Bring

Lightweight Long-Sleeve ShirtEssential

Protects from sun exposure and insect bites while keeping you cool.

Binoculars

Helps spot animals at a distance in the expansive park.

SunscreenEssential

Essential for sun protection during open roof game drives.

Camera with Zoom Lens

Ideal for capturing detailed photos of wildlife from afar.

Common Questions

How far is Nairobi National Park from the city center?

Nairobi National Park is approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) south of Nairobi’s central business district, making it one of the closest urban national parks worldwide.

What animals can I expect to see on this tour?

Expect to see black rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a wide variety of wild birds.

Is this tour suitable for children and all fitness levels?

Yes, the tour is suitable for all fitness levels including children, as it primarily involves vehicle-based game viewing with short walking segments.

What time does the tour start and end?

The tour typically starts with a hotel pickup around 6 AM and returns approximately by 11 AM, lasting about 5 hours in total.

Are meals included in the tour?

The tour includes bottled water but meals are not provided. It’s best to have breakfast before pickup or bring snacks if needed.

What kind of vehicle will be used for the safari?

A customized tour van with an open roof is used, allowing unobstructed wildlife viewing and photography opportunities during the game drive.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

5 hours total

Location

Nairobi, Nairobi County

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers of all physical fitness levels due to vehicle-based game drive and minimal walking

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Nairobi?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now