Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park stands as one of Kenya's most unique and accessible wildlife destinations, offering an extraordinary blend of pristine African wilderness and urban landscape. Located just minutes from Nairobi's city center, the park encompasses 117 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems ranging from dry woodland to open savannah grasslands, riverine woodlands, and rolling plains. The park's most distinctive feature is its dramatic backdrop of Nairobi's skyscrapers, creating unusual and compelling photography opportunities as wildlife roams freely against the urban horizon. Despite its proximity to the city, Nairobi National Park maintains genuine wilderness appeal with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and a high density of both black and white rhinos, making it among the best places in Kenya to see these endangered species. The park's elevation ranges from 1,511 to 1,754 meters, with the Athi River Track shadowing the river in the park's southern section, providing scenic drives and water-dependent wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is home to four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino), though notably absent are elephants. Visitors can expect to encounter lions regularly, various antelope species, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 bird species, making it an exceptional destination for both general wildlife viewing and specialized birding. The park offers multiple activity options including guided game drives, self-guided drives for those with vehicles, night drives with dinner, and the guided Hippo Pool Trail, along with nearby attractions such as the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage and the Giraffe Center featuring endangered Rothschild giraffes.

Diverse landscapes including dry woodland, open savannah grasslands, riverine woodlands, rolling grasslands, waterholes, and the Athi River valley. Unique urban backdrop with city skyscrapers visible from park vantage points.

Park operates near Nairobi with local Maasai communities in surrounding areas. Community engagement and wildlife education programs active.

Capture unique shots of wildlife against Nairobi's skyline backdrop. Early morning and late afternoon light optimal. Bring telephoto lenses for distant subjects. Night drives offer special photography opportunities. Dust-free skies during wet season ideal for clear images.