Nairobi National Park
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