lionne avec son petit

Established in 1946, Nairobi National Park is Kenya’s oldest national park and holds the rare distinction of being the only national park in the world located within a capital city. Just minutes from Nairobi’s vibrant city centre, the park offers a truly unique safari experience where iconic African wildlife roams freely against a dramatic backdrop of modern skyscrapers—creating some of the most striking wildlife photography opportunities in Africa.

Covering approximately 117 square kilometres, Nairobi National Park may be one of Africa’s smaller game parks, but it more than compensates with its remarkable diversity of landscapes and wildlife. The park’s ecosystem is predominantly made up of open savannah plains dotted with acacia bushes, interspersed with marshy wetlands, riverine forests, rugged valleys, lush woodland areas, and expansive grasslands ideal for grazing herbivores.

A permanent river flows through the park, lined with rich riverine vegetation that supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. Along the southern boundary lie the Athi–Kapiti Plains and the Kitengela migration corridor, a vital dispersal area that allows wildlife movement during the rainy seasons when animals migrate in search of water and fresh pasture. This corridor is crucial to the long-term survival of the park’s wildlife populations.

Weather and Climate

Nairobi National Park enjoys a pleasant, mild climate throughout most of the year, making it an excellent safari destination at any time. Temperatures are generally moderate, with an average high of about 26.8°C (80.2°F) and an average low of around 12.1°C (53.8°F).

The park experiences two rainy seasons:

  • Long rains: March to May

  • Short rains: November to December

These seasonal changes influence vegetation growth and animal movement, offering varied wildlife viewing experiences across the year.

Se rendre au parc national de Nairobi

Nairobi National Park is extremely accessible, thanks to its proximity to the city and major airports:

  • From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA):

    • Main Gate: Approximately 23 km, taking up to 50 minutes, depending on traffic

    • East Gate: Approximately 11 km, taking around 20 minutes

The East Gate is particularly convenient for travellers with onward flights, as it provides quick access in and out of the park.

  • From Nairobi City Centre: About 13 km, roughly 30 minutes via the East Gate

  • From Wilson Airport: Only 5 km, making it ideal for visitors connecting to domestic flights or flying safaris

Roads within the park are generally well maintained and passable by two-wheel drive vehicles during the dry season. However, during the rainy months, some sections can become muddy or flooded, and four-wheel drive vehicles are highly recommended for a safer and more comfortable experience.

Best Time and Hours to Visit

The best times to visit Nairobi National Park are:

  • Early morning: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM

  • Late afternoon: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

During these cooler hours, wildlife is most active, and the soft golden light is perfect for photography. Arriving at the gate right when it opens at 6:00 AM increases your chances of spotting predators on the move and enjoying game drives with fewer vehicles.

What to See in Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is renowned for its exceptional concentration of wildlife, making it one of Kenya’s most rewarding parks for game viewing. The park is home to over 100 species of mammals and reptiles and more than 400 species of birds, highlighting its immense ecological importance.

Wildlife Highlights

The park hosts four of Africa’s Big Five:

  • Lion

  • Léopard

  • Rhinocéros (notably a strong population of both black and white rhinos)

  • Buffle d'Afrique

Les elephant is the only Big Five species not found in the park.

Other commonly sighted wildlife includes:

  • Masai giraffes

  • Plains zebras (Grant’s zebra)

  • Cheetahs

  • Impalas

  • Common elands

  • Coke’s hartebeests

  • Gazelles

  • Hippopotamuses

  • Baboons and monkeys

  • Warthogs

Reptiles such as crocodiles, pythons, and other snake species are also present, particularly near riverine areas.

Birdlife

Birdwatchers are especially rewarded, with species such as:

  • Maasai ostriches

  • African darters (snakebirds)

  • African finfoots

  • Dwarf bitterns

  • Goliath herons

  • Saddle-billed storks

  • Spur-winged geese

  • African crowned eagles

The diversity of habitats within the park supports both resident and migratory bird species year-round.

Orphelinat animalier de Nairobi

Located within Nairobi National Park, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage is a key conservation and education centre. It serves as a rehabilitation facility for orphaned, injured, and rescued wild animals, offering visitors a chance to learn about wildlife conservation up close.

Animals housed here include:

  • Lions, cheetahs, leopards

  • Hyenas and jackals

  • Serval cats and rare Sokoke cats

  • Buffalo, warthogs, baboons, and monkeys

  • A variety of birds such as parrots, guinea fowls, crowned cranes, and ostriches

The orphanage plays a vital role in conservation awareness and wildlife protection in Kenya.

Safari Walk

The Safari Walk offers a unique, guided wildlife experience on a raised wooden boardwalk that winds through natural habitats. It provides visitors with close-range views of wildlife and indigenous plant species in a safe, controlled environment.

This attraction is both educational and scenic, making it ideal for families, first-time visitors, and anyone interested in learning more about Kenya’s ecosystems beyond traditional game drives.

Nairobi National Park Rules & Code of Conduct

To ensure safety and conservation, visitors are required to observe the following rules:

  • Respect wildlife—this is their natural habitat

  • Animals are wild and unpredictable; observe from a safe distance

  • Do not crowd animals or make sudden movements or loud noises

  • Never feed animals

  • Remain quiet to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors

  • Stay inside your vehicle at all times except in designated picnic or walking areas

  • Observe the speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph)

  • Do not drive off-road, as this damages the ecosystem

  • Maintain a minimum viewing distance of 20 metres from wildlife

  • Pull to the side of the road to allow others to pass

  • Do not litter or leave fires unattended

  • Respect local cultures; always ask permission before photographing people

  • Dress respectfully and appropriately

Park Hours:
Visitors must leave the park between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM, unless camping or staying inside the park. Night game drives are not permitted.