National Park
Nairobi National Park
Kenya 117 km² (45 mi²) Est. 1946
About Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is the only national park in the world situated within a capital city's limits. Just 7 kilometres from Nairobi's city centre, the park offers the surreal experience of watching lions, rhinos, and giraffes with the city skyline shimmering in the background. It is the birthplace of Kenya Wildlife Service and holds deep conservation significance.
Covering 117 square kilometres, this open savannah ecosystem on Nairobi's southern edge is unfenced on the south, allowing seasonal wildlife migration to and from the Kitengela plains. The park is one of East Africa's most successful black rhino sanctuaries and hosts over 400 bird species. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage, adjacent to the park, is a beloved visitor attraction.
0
Safari Tours
3.7
Avg Rating
4/5
Big Five
80
Years Protected
Highlights
- Only national park in the world within a capital city
- Excellent black rhino sighting opportunities
- Perfect for short safaris or layover game drives
- No malaria risk — safe for families with children
- David Sheldrick elephant orphanage and Giraffe Centre nearby
Considerations
- City skyline backdrop diminishes wilderness feel
- Relatively small with limited habitat diversity
- No elephants or buffalo (not a full Big Five park)
- Urban encroachment threatens wildlife corridors
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
common
🐆
Leopard
occasional
🐘
Elephant
Not present
🦬
Buffalo
common
🦏
Rhino
common
Notable Species
Lion
Common
Leopard
Occasional
Cape Buffalo
Common
Black Rhino
Common
Cheetah
Occasional
Giraffe
Common
Zebra
Common
Wildebeest
Common
Hippo
Occasional
Hyena
Common
Kori Bustard
Occasional
Lilac-breasted Roller
Common
Aardvark
Rare
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Nairobi National Park is just 7 km from Nairobi's city centre, accessible via the main gate on Langata Road. A 20-minute drive from most Nairobi hotels. Ideal for early morning game drives before or after safari flights.
Nearest Airport
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Nearest City
Nairobi
Drive Time
0.5 hours