Nairobi National Park

Hifadhi ya Taifa ya Nairobi

Kenya's first national park, offering safari experiences with lions, giraffes, zebras and rhinos against the backdrop of Nairobi's skyline. It's a rare opportunity to experience African wildlife within minutes of a major city.

Things to do

• Game Drive Safari — Guided or self-drive tours through the park to spot lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and rhinos across the savanna landscape.
• Nairobi National Park Museum — Learn about Kenya's wildlife conservation efforts, geology, and natural history through exhibits and interactive displays near the main gate.
• Giraffe Centre Visit — Located adjacent to the park, this sanctuary allows close encounters with endangered Rothschild giraffes and offers feeding experiences.
• Picnic at Hippo Pool — Pack a lunch and relax at designated picnic areas overlooking watering holes where hippos, warthogs, and birds congregate.
• Photography Tours — Join specialized wildlife photography excursions with expert guides positioned for optimal shots of lions, cheetahs, and birds at sunrise or sunset.
• Walking Trails — Guided nature walks through the park's ecosystems to observe smaller mammals, reptiles, and over 400 bird species up close.

Food to try

• Nyama Choma — Grilled meat—typically beef, goat, or chicken—served with ugali and sukuma wiki at park lodges and nearby Nairobi restaurants.
• Samosas — Crispy pastry parcels filled with spiced meat or vegetables, widely available as snacks at park gates and visitor centers.
• Ugali with Sukuma Wiki — Cornmeal staple served alongside collard greens sautéed in tomatoes and onions, a traditional Kenyan comfort food available at most lodges.
• Githeri — Boiled maize and beans cooked together with tomatoes and spices, commonly served as a lunch option at park restaurants.
• Kenyan Chai and Mandazi — Strong black tea served with fried dough pastries, available as a quick breakfast or snack throughout the park visitor areas.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Wildlife Distance — Maintain at least 20 meters from animals and follow guide instructions strictly; approaching too closely disturbs wildlife and violates park regulations.
• Early Morning Game Drives — Animals are most active at dawn and dusk; plan drives for these times to maximize sightings and respect the park's thermal rhythms.
• Dress Appropriately — Wear neutral-colored clothing and closed-toe shoes for safari drives; avoid bright colors and perfumes that may disturb animals or attract insects.
• Support Local Guides — Employ local Kenyan guides and drivers whose knowledge and livelihood depend on tourism; their expertise enhances the experience while benefiting communities.

Nearby

• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust — 2 km
• National Museum of Kenya — 4 km
• The Nanotech Centre — 4 km
• Giraffe Centre — 4 km