Established
1946
Size
117 km²
Elevation
1,533–1,760 m
Ecosystem
Open Grassland, Riverine Forest
Best Time
Year-round
Entry Fee
$43 per adult/day
About Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is the world's only wildlife sanctuary within sight of a capital city's skyscrapers — a surreal juxtaposition where lions, rhinos, and giraffes roam with Nairobi's modern skyline as backdrop. This 117 km² park, established in 1946 as East Africa's first national park, is an essential conservation success story. It hosts one of the densest black rhino populations in Kenya and is an important calving ground for wildebeest and zebra. The park is also home to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (now Sheldrick Wildlife Trust), where orphaned baby elephants are hand-raised before being reintroduced into the wild.
What Makes It Special
World's only urban safari
City skyline backdrop
Dense black rhino population
Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage nearby
East Africa's first national park
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
JunJulAugSepOct
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
JanFebNovDec
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
MarAprMay
Where to Stay
Emakoko
LuxuryIntimate boutique lodge on the park boundary where river and forest meet, just 20 minutes from city center.
From $450/night / night
Nairobi Tented Camp
Mid-RangeGlamping experience within the park with wildlife wandering past your tent.
From $200/night / night
Ole Sereni Hotel
Mid-RangeThe only hotel directly overlooking the park, with game viewing from your room balcony.
From $150/night / night