• Settings:
Nairobi National Park Scroll

Nairobi National Park

Lion In Tree

Highlights of Nairobi National Park Kenya

where to go in kenya

Established in 1946, Nairobi National Park was the first national park in Kenya and offers a remarkable juxtaposition of wildlife against a backdrop of urban skyscrapers. One of the smallest national parks in Africa, measuring just 117km squared.

Nairobi National Park Location

Approximately 7 kilometers (4 miles) south of Nairobi’s city center; it is easily assessable and the closest area of protected land to a city in the world.

Best Time to Go to Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park can be visited year-round, but wildlife viewing is best during the dry months of June to October, and January to February.

Bb Emakoko Low

Nairobi National Park climate guide

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
temperature AVG. TEMP26°C27°C27°C25°C24°C23°C22°C23°C25°C26°C24°C25°C
rainfall RAINFALL48mm49mm95mm200mm151mm37mm15mm21mm22mm52mm132mm83mm

Nairobi National Park Safari Wildlife

Home to big cats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs and herds of zebra, giraffe, buffaloes, elands and impalas. Both black and white rhinos are found here, with the park being a significant rhino sanctuary. Over 400 migratory and endemic species of bird have been found here such as the African Fish Eagle and the Lilac-breasted Roller.

Nairobi National Park Accommodation

Ololo Safari Lodge

Located on a working farm on the picturesque banks of the Mbagathi River, Ololo Safari Lodge was once a traditional Kenyan homestead and has been thoughtfully transformed into a charming, family-run lodge. Despite being a mere 45-minute drive through Nairobi National Park, and equidistant from both major airports, the lodge's secluded location feels like a world away from the bustling city.

The Emakoko

Situated alongside the Mbagathi River within Nairobi National Park, The Emakoko stands as a prime example of an owner-managed lodge. Often overlooked, Nairobi offers a remarkable wildlife viewing experience, making it an ideal starting or finishing point for any Kenyan safari adventure.

Kenya Elephant Front View Lara Zanarini

No, there are no elephants in Nairobi National Park. This is because of its small size and potential for human-wildlife conflicts, elephants may wander into the urban areas, causing damage and posing risks. If you are interested in seeing elephants, the Laikipa Plateau, Amboseli National Park or the Maasai Mara, would be more suitable.