Nairobi National Park

Possible Animal Sightings: Black and white rhinos (some of the best rhino sightings in Kenya) Lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas Giraffes, zebras, elands, and hartebeests Buffalo, warthogs, baboons, and impalas Crocodiles and hippos (occasionally in rivers and dams) 400+ bird species including crowned cranes, secretary birds, and ostriches

June to October (Dry Season): Ideal for game viewing as vegetation is sparse and animals are easier to spot. January to February: Warm and dry, with excellent visibility. March to May (Long Rains): Fewer crowds and lush scenery, but roads may be muddy. November (Short Rains): Green landscapes and good birdwatching, though some tracks can be slick.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage): A heartwarming stop to see rescued baby elephants and learn about conservation efforts. Giraffe Centre: Feed endangered Rothschild giraffes by hand and learn about their protection. Nairobi Safari Walk: A raised boardwalk through forest, savannah, and wetland habitats with up-close wildlife encounters. Karen Blixen Museum: The former home of the Out of Africa author, located in the leafy suburb of Karen. Bomas of Kenya: A cultural center offering traditional dances, crafts, and homestead replicas from Kenya’s major tribes.

Just 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Nairobi lies a wildlife sanctuary like no other—Nairobi National Park. Here, lions prowl golden grasslands with skyscrapers on the horizon, and endangered rhinos graze quietly as planes descend into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It’s a surreal, powerful blend of raw nature and urban proximity—and the only place in the world where you can go on a full safari without ever leaving the capital.

Despite its compact size, Nairobi National Park punches far above its weight in terms of wildlife density. Open savannah, acacia thickets, and riverine forests support a wide range of species—from big cats and black rhinos to giraffes and hundreds of bird species. It’s also a vital refuge for conservation, home to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Kenya Wildlife Service’s Animal Orphanage.

Whether you have a long layover or a free day in Nairobi, this park offers a chance to experience Africa’s iconic wildlife up close, without the long drives or charter flights.