Inside Nairobi National Park: A Half-Day Safari on the Edge of the City
Explore Nairobi National Park’s wildlife just minutes from downtown Nairobi. This half-day safari offers a unique blend of urban backdrop and thriving savannah life, where lions, giraffes, and rhinos roam freely against city skylines.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for predator sightings
Start your morning game drive before sunrise to catch lions and other predators active during cooler hours.
Bring sun protection
Kenya’s equatorial sun can be intense; pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay comfortable during open-vehicle drives.
Stay hydrated
Carry adequate water to keep refreshed during the 4 to 6-hour safari in the dry savannah environment.
Wear comfortable footwear
Closed-toe shoes with good grip are best for short guided walks along the Mbagathi River and uneven terrain.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hippo pools along the Mbagathi River offer quieter spots for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
- •Look for baboon troops that provide unexpected lively moments beyond the open plains.
Wildlife
- •Black and white rhinos found here are a rare conservation success story.
- •Bird species such as the Lilac-breasted Roller add vivid splashes of color to the landscape.
Conservation Note
The park supports endangered species conservation, including rhinos, through strict anti-poaching measures and community engagement programs.
Established in 1946, Nairobi National Park was Kenya’s first national park and remains unique as a protected area so close to a capital city.
Photographer's Notes
- • Open savannah plains near the entrance gate
- • Rocky cliffs overlooking the grasslands
- • Banks of the Mbagathi River
What to Bring
SunscreenEssential
Protects skin from strong equatorial sunlight during open safari drives.
Wide-brim hatEssential
Shields face and neck from the sun’s rays.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing at a distance across the open plains.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Necessary for short guided strolls near the hippo pools and bush areas.
Common Questions
How far is Nairobi National Park from the city center?
The park is approximately 10 kilometers from Nairobi’s city center, about an 8-minute drive under normal traffic conditions.
What wildlife can I expect to see on this game drive?
You can expect to see herbivores like giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and gazelles, alongside predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, as well as a variety of bird species and rhinos.
Is Nairobi National Park suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the park is accessible and suitable for all ages, but infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the safari, and individuals with spinal or heart conditions should exercise caution.
Are guided walks included in the tour?
A short guided safari walk along the Mbagathi River near the hippo pools is included, providing close encounters with birdlife and baboons.
What is the best time of day for wildlife viewing?
Early mornings just after sunrise are best, when predators are most active and temperatures are cooler.
Is pickup included in the safari tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop off in Nairobi are included as part of this half-day game drive package.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–6 hours
Location
Nairobi, Nairobi County
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion involved aside from short walks
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