Nairobi National Park Safaris

Your Guide to a Safari on the Edge of Kenya’s Capital

Lions, rhinos and giraffes roam the open plains of Nairobi National Park, just 7 km from the city centre, with skyscrapers on the horizon. It’s the easiest Big Game safari in Kenya, ideal for families, couples, business travellers and anyone on a layover.

The park is also home to over 400 bird species, with migrant birds arriving from about November to April. When will you take your first Nairobi National Park game drive? Call or WhatsApp +254 754 004 003.

Nairobi National Park Safari Packages

About Nairobi National Park

Kenya’s first national park, on the doorstep of the city

Nairobi National Park was established in 1946 as Kenya’s first national park. It lies about 7 km south of the city centre, covers roughly 117 square kilometres and sits between about 1,500 and 1,800 metres above sea level. Open grassland plains, acacia woodland, rocky valleys and riverine forest along the Mbagathi River give the park a surprising variety of landscapes.

The park is one of Kenya’s most successful black rhino sanctuaries. Lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos and many antelope species live here, and the open southern boundary lets animals move freely to and from the Kitengela and Athi-Kapiti plains.

The Nairobi Animal Orphanage, the Nairobi Safari Walk and the Ivory Burning Site Monument are all inside the park, and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery is on its western edge.

Did You Know?

Nairobi is often called the world’s wildlife capital, with lions and rhinos living just 7 km from the city centre.

Park Location

Nairobi National Park is about 7 km south of Nairobi’s city centre. The Main Gate and KWS headquarters are on Lang’ata Road, with other gates including East Gate near JKIA and Banda Gate off Magadi Road.

Getting There by Road

From the CBD, drive south on Uhuru Highway and turn onto Lang’ata Road to reach the Main Gate, usually 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are easy to find, and matatus run along Lang’ata Road. For a hassle-free trip, book a guided game drive with pickup from your hotel.

Getting There by Air

Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), about 20 to 30 minutes from East Gate, or Wilson Airport, just a few minutes from the Main Gate. We can pick you up at either airport and head straight into the park.

The Best Nairobi National Park Safari Tours - Bamm Safaris Adventures Kenya

Nairobi National Park Fees

What does a Nairobi National Park safari cost?

Nairobi National Park Entry Fees

Non-residents: About $80 per adult and $40 per child per day.
Kenyan citizens: About KES 1,000 per adult and KES 500 per child per day.
Note: Fees are set by the Kenya Wildlife Service and can change. Extra charges apply for vehicles, camping and ranger escorts.
All park fees are paid cashless through eCitizen by M-Pesa or card.

Accommodation Costs

There is a small number of camps inside and on the edge of the park, and hundreds of hotels across Nairobi, so you can visit from wherever you stay.
Budget: From about $50 per night.
Mid-range: About $100 to $250 per night.
Luxury: From about $300 per night, rising to several thousand dollars for exclusive stays.

Activities and Extras

Game Drives: Look for lions, rhinos, buffaloes and giraffes, with the Nairobi skyline as your backdrop. Early morning and late afternoon are best.
Sheldrick Elephant Nursery: Watch orphaned baby elephants at their daily feeding hour. Visits must be booked in advance.
Nairobi Animal Orphanage and Safari Walk: Meet rescued animals and walk the raised boardwalk at the Main Gate.
Ivory Burning Site and Picnics: Visit the monument and enjoy lunch at one of the park’s picnic sites.
Ask us for a quote that bundles your park fees, transport and activities.

Perfect for Business Trips and Layovers

In Nairobi for business? You can fit a game drive into a free morning or afternoon. Within minutes of leaving the city, you’re on the open savannah, where lions, rhinos and giraffes roam.

On a long layover at JKIA, the park is about 20 to 30 minutes away. A half-day game drive is enough to look for lions, rhinos, buffaloes and giraffes and to photograph wildlife against the city skyline. It’s a great way to turn waiting time into a real African safari.

Things to Do in Nairobi National Park

The most popular activities in and around the park

Guided Game Drives

Look for lions, rhinos, giraffes and zebras just minutes from the city centre. Our guides plan each drive to give you the best sightings and the stories behind them, with Nairobi’s skyline as a backdrop.

Visit the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

Meet rescued baby elephants at feeding time and learn how the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust raises them for life back in the wild. It’s a moving, educational stop.

Feed and Kiss Giraffes at the Giraffe Centre

Hand-feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes from a raised platform at the nearby Giraffe Centre in Lang’ata. Hold a pellet between your lips and you might get a giraffe kiss.

Safari Walk & Animal Orphanage

Walk the raised boardwalk of the Nairobi Safari Walk and meet rescued animals at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, both at the park’s Main Gate.

A Bird Watcher’s Paradise

With over 400 bird species, the park is a top birding spot. Join our guided bird watching safaris, perfect for solo travellers, photographers and nature lovers.

Picnic at Scenic Spots

Enjoy a packed lunch or a sundowner at picnic sites like Impala Point, Kingfisher or the Ivory Burning Site, each with wide views and a peaceful break from the drive.

Perfect for Day Trips and Short Stays

Nairobi National Park is ideal for day trips and picnics, offering the perfect blend of city convenience and untamed wilderness.

It’s a great choice for business travellers, visitors on a layover and anyone short on time. Just a short drive from both JKIA and the CBD, the park lets you enjoy Kenya’s wildlife with the city skyline in view.

Ideal for:

The Best Time to Visit Nairobi National Park

The park is open all year. For the best wildlife viewing, visit in the dry seasons, from late June to October and January to February, when the grass is short and animals gather near water.

For bird watching, the wetter months from November to April bring migrant birds and lush green scenery, although thicker grass can make some animals harder to spot.

The long rains, from March to May, can make some roads muddy, but the park is quieter and greener.

What to Carry

Bring binoculars, a camera, a hat, sunscreen and comfortable clothing in neutral colours, plus a light jacket for early mornings.

Carry water, snacks and insect repellent. Leave plastic bags behind (they are banned in Kenya), and keep noise down to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Drones are not allowed without special permits, and pets must stay at home.

Reach out:

For enquiries or bookings, write to [email protected]. We’ll revert within 20 minutes during business hours.

What You Can See

Big game, rare rhinos, hundreds of bird species and a skyline like no other

Lions: The park’s resident prides are often seen resting or hunting on the open plains.

Black and White Rhinos: A key sanctuary for the endangered black rhino, with white rhinos too.

Giraffes and Zebras: Maasai giraffes and plains zebras graze with the city skyline behind them.

Buffaloes and Antelopes: Herds of Cape buffalo, plus elands, hartebeests, impalas and gazelles.

Cheetahs and Leopards: Cheetahs are sometimes seen on the plains, while leopards are shy and rarely spotted.

Hyenas and Jackals: Most active early in the morning and late in the evening.

Over 400 Bird Species: From ostriches and secretary birds to vultures and crowned cranes.

Hippos and Crocodiles: Look for them at the Hippo Pools along the Mbagathi River.

Nairobi Safari Walk: A raised boardwalk with close-up views of wildlife and educational exhibits.

Nairobi Animal Orphanage: Home to rescued and rehabilitated animals, from big cats to rare birds.

Ivory Burning Site Monument: Where Kenya burned 12 tonnes of ivory in 1989, a landmark moment in the fight against poaching.

Sunrises and Sunsets: Golden-hour light over the plains, perfect for photography.

Nairobi Skyline Views: Capture wildlife with the city in the background, a photo you can’t take anywhere else.

“In Nairobi National Park, the city’s pulse meets the wild heart of Africa. At dawn, lions stalk the plains, giraffes browse among the acacias and a black rhino watches quietly, while the skyline glows in the distance.”

Luxury Private Hotels & Lodges - Emakoko Lodge - Nairobi

Where to Stay Near Nairobi National Park

From tented camps inside the park to city hotels for every budget

Inside and on the edge of the park: Nairobi Tented Camp, The Emakoko and Ololo Safari Lodge let you wake up close to the wildlife.

Overlooking the park: Ole Sereni on Mombasa Road has rooms and a terrace with views over the plains.

Karen and Lang’ata: Leafy suburbs close to the Main Gate, the Giraffe Centre and the Sheldrick nursery, with options from boutique hotels to budget eco-camps.

City hotels: Stay anywhere in Nairobi and we’ll pick you up for an early game drive.

Not sure where to stay? Call or WhatsApp +254 754 004 003 and we’ll match you with the right place.

Popular Nairobi Safari Packages

The Best Tsavo Safari Packages
Full-Day Safari Experience
Full Day
Wildlife, Culture & City

Start with a morning game drive, then visit the elephant orphanage and the Giraffe Centre, enjoy lunch and spend the afternoon at the Safari Walk or the Karen Blixen Museum.

Nairobi National Park Night Safari
Night Safari & City Lights Experience
Night
Nairobi Park

See Nairobi’s wild side after dark, looking for hyenas, bush babies and other night animals, with the city lights glowing in the distance.

Bird Watching Safaris - Nairobi National Park - Day Tours
Bird Watching Safari
4 Hours
Nairobi Park

With over 400 bird species, this tour is ideal for keen birders and nature lovers, especially from November to April when migrant birds arrive.

Nairobi Tent Camping Tours - Nairobi National Park, Nairobi
Tent Camping Safari
Overnight
Nairobi Park

Spend a night under canvas for a rustic overnight adventure, with a campfire, stories and an early game drive at sunrise.

Kenya Family Safaris - Bamm Safaris Adventures
Family Safari & Wildlife Education Tour
Day Tour
Nairobi Park

Made for families with kids, with fun wildlife talks, the Safari Walk and Animal Orphanage, and safe, engaging game drives.

Mt-Longonot hiking safaris
Wellness & Mindfulness Safari
Day Trip
Arboretum, Oloolua, Karura Forest

Unwind with guided nature walks, yoga and quiet reflection in Nairobi’s green forests, ideal for couples, creatives and solo travellers.

Nairobi National Park Tours safaris with Bamm Safaris Adventures Kenya
Nairobi Photography Safari
Day Trip
Nairobi Park

Capture wildlife with Nairobi’s skyline behind it, guided by experts who know the best angles, light and animal hotspots.

Golf Tours at Kiambu Golf Club
Golf & Safari Combo Experience
Day Tour
Nairobi Park

Pair a morning game drive with an afternoon round at one of Nairobi’s scenic golf courses for the perfect mix of sport and safari.

Bamm Safaris Sport Adventures
Sports Adventure Package
Full Day Tour
NNP, Lang’ata, Kereita, Ruiru

Start with a morning game drive, then switch to adrenaline mode with paintballing, zip lining, go-karting or jet skiing in the afternoon.

Why Book a Nairobi National Park Safari with Us?

The perfect blend of wild adventure and city convenience

Add-On Experiences

Add the elephant orphanage, the Giraffe Centre or the Ivory Burning Site to your game drive. We bundle wildlife, culture and conservation into one smooth itinerary.

Perfect for Day Trips and Quick Escapes

Short on time? Choose a 4-hour game drive, a bird watching tour or an overnight camping trip and enjoy a real safari without leaving the city.

Unmatched Photo Opportunities

Picture a lion resting in the grass or a giraffe feeding with Nairobi’s skyline behind it. It’s perfect for travel blogs, reels and lasting memories.

Wildlife Safari Just Minutes from the City

Just 7 km from downtown Nairobi, you can look for lions, giraffes, rhinos and zebras against a backdrop of skyscrapers. It’s nature and city life in one frame.

Safe, Comfortable and Expertly Guided

Safe transport, experienced guides and responsible practices mean that whether you travel solo or in a group, you’ll feel cared for and informed every step of the way.

Over 400 Bird Species

The park is a haven for bird lovers, especially during the migrant season. Our guides help you spot rare species on calm, rewarding bird watching drives.

What People Are Saying About Us

Redefining Kenyan tourism with exceptional service delivery

Expert Guides

Our knowledgeable guides provide insightful and engaging tours, ensuring an enriching and unforgettable experience for every adventurer.

Custom Tours

Tailor-made tours and safaris crafted to match your interests, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable Kenyan adventure.

Wide Range

Choose from numerous tours and safaris, from exhilarating sports like cycling and skydiving to rich cultural expeditions like bullfighting.

Add-on Services

Enhance your adventure with our add-on services, including a translator, professional photographer, and convenient vehicle hire options.

Best-Rated Safari Experience Tours Company

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Best Rated Tours & Safaris Company in Kenya in 2024. Winner of the Travelers Choice Award - Trip Advisor
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Winner Travel Choice Awards 2024, 2025 & 2026

Bamm Tours proudly clinched the prestigious Travel Choice Award three years in a row, 2024, 2025 & 2026, solidifying our position as Kenya’s leading car hire, tours, and travel company.

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29 FAQs About Nairobi National Park

Everything you need to know before your game drive

It’s about 7 km south of Nairobi’s city centre. The Main Gate is on Lang’ata Road, and East Gate is close to JKIA.

Drive south on Uhuru Highway and turn onto Lang’ata Road to the Main Gate. You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing app, or book a guided safari with hotel pickup.

About 20 to 30 minutes by road to East Gate, depending on traffic, which makes it ideal for a layover game drive.

The dry seasons, from late June to October and January to February, are best for wildlife. November to April is great for bird watching. The park is open all year.

The park is open daily from 6 am to 7 pm. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for game viewing.

Non-resident adults pay about $80 and children about $40 per day. Kenyan citizens pay about KES 1,000 per adult. Fees are set by the Kenya Wildlife Service, so check the latest rates before you travel.

Payments are cashless through eCitizen, by M-Pesa or card. If you book with us, we handle park fees for you.

Lions, black and white rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas and many antelope species, plus over 400 bird species.

Not all of them. You can see lions, rhinos and buffaloes, and leopards are present but rarely seen. There are no wild elephants in the park. For the full Big Five, try the Maasai Mara.

No wild elephants live in the park, but you can see orphaned baby elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust nursery on the park’s western edge.

Game drives, bird watching, picnics, the Nairobi Safari Walk, the Animal Orphanage, the Ivory Burning Site and, with a ranger, short guided walks in designated areas.

Yes. Night game drives are available on request and offer a chance to see hyenas, bush babies and other nocturnal animals. Ask us about our Nairobi night safari.

A half-day game drive of about 4 hours is enough for most visitors. A full day lets you add the elephant orphanage, the Giraffe Centre and lunch.

Yes. It’s close to the city, easy to reach and full of wildlife, which makes it a great introduction to safari.

Yes. It’s perfect for kids, with short drives, the Safari Walk and the Animal Orphanage. See our family safaris.

Yes. It’s generally safe for visitors. Stay in your vehicle except at designated picnic sites and walking areas, and follow the rangers’ and your guide’s instructions.

Yes. Self-driving is allowed, but a 4×4 is best in the rainy season. You can hire a vehicle from our sister company, Bamm Tours.

Nairobi Tented Camp, The Emakoko and Ololo Safari Lodge are inside or on the edge of the park. You can also stay in Karen, Lang’ata or anywhere in the city.

Yes. Lang’ata and Karen have affordable guesthouses and eco-camps, and the city has plenty of budget hotels from about $50 per night.

Binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks and a light jacket for early mornings.

Comfortable, loose clothing in neutral colours like khaki, beige or olive, and closed shoes. Avoid bright colours.

Days are usually mild to warm, often 20 to 28°C, and mornings can be cool. The long rains fall from March to May and the short rains in November and December.

Yes, in most parts of the park, thanks to its closeness to the city, though the signal can be weak in some valleys.

Most visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), applied for online before travel. Check the official Kenya eTA website for your nationality.

Yes. Popular combinations include the elephant orphanage, the Giraffe Centre, the Karen Blixen Museum and adventure activities like zip lining, go-karting and jet skiing.

Our packages usually include park fees, a guided game drive, transport and bottled water, with optional extras like a bush breakfast or conservation visits. We share a clear quote with no hidden costs.

No. Balloon flights are not offered here. For a balloon safari, head to the Maasai Mara or Amboseli.

It was Kenya’s first national park, is one of the country’s key black rhino sanctuaries and lets millions of people see wildlife right next to a major city.

Choose a package above, fill in our custom tour form, or call or WhatsApp +254 754 004 003.