Nairobi National Park

Just 7 kilometers south of Kenya's capital, Nairobi National Park lets you watch lions hunt on the savanna while the city's skyscrapers rise in the background. You might spot a black rhino moving through yellow-barked acacia trees, or see one of 500 bird species soaring overhead. Walk the hippo pools trail to watch these massive animals splash in the mud, or drive past herds of zebras grazing beneath the morning sun.

Wildlife Viewing in Nairobi National Park

Lions, leopards, black rhinos, and buffalo - four of Africa's "Big Five" animals - roam freely through the park's 117 square kilometers. Drive across the plains to see zebras, giraffes, and several antelope species in their natural habitat. The park's rhino population has grown significantly, making this one of the most reliable places to observe black rhinos in the wild. During July and August, thousands of wildebeest and zebras migrate through the park.

Natural Landscapes and Habitats

The landscape changes from wide grass plains to highland dry forest and deep rocky valleys. Several rivers create wooded areas throughout the park, while man-made dams attract elephants, hippos, and other water-dependent animals during dry seasons. You'll find thorny acacias, muhuhu trees, Cape chestnut, and Kenya olive trees creating distinct environments across the park. The ground rises from 1,500 to 1,800 meters above sea level.

Best Times to Visit

Plan your visit between July and October for clear views of animals, with July having the lowest rainfall. January and February also work well for wildlife watching. Temperatures remain steady year-round, with cool nights throughout the seasons. Expect rain from November to May, with two main rainy periods.

Getting to the Park

Enter through one of four gates: Maasai, Mbagathi, Banda, or Lang'ata. The park sits approximately 10 kilometers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. From central Nairobi, you can drive to the park in about 28 minutes via the A104 road.

Bird Watching Opportunities

Watch for 500 bird species, including 20 seasonal European migrants. You might spot a Secretary bird stalking through the grass, a Martial eagle perched in a tree, or Grey crowned cranes dancing in their mating ritual. White-bellied bustards often appear in the open plains. Start your bird watching early in the morning for the best sightings.

Walking Trails and Activities

Take the Nairobi Safari Walk to explore the park on foot with a guide. Follow the hippo pools trail to watch hippos congregating in the rivers. Visit the Ivory Burning Site Monument, where Kenya destroyed its ivory stockpile to fight elephant poaching. Stop at designated picnic areas throughout the park to rest and eat while watching wildlife.