Overview
Nairobi National Park is one of the popular parks in Kenya. It covers about 177 sq. km. It is the only park located very close to the city. It is just 7 km from Nairobi city. While on a Nairobi National Park safari, expect activities such as game drives, birding, and picnics. If you plan to camp, the park has three public campsites. Accommodation is also not an issue in the park. Visitors choose from the budget, mid-range, and luxury safari lodges. Here are some of the reasons you should go on a Nairobi National Park safari.
Wildlife
Nairobi National Park is home to over 100 species of mammals. You can spot 4 of the Big 5; leopards, lions, buffaloes, and rhinos. Other common Nairobi National Park animals are giraffes, antelopes, zebras, cheetahs, and elands.
The park is home to more than 500 species of birds. It is one of the parks with a longer list of birds close to the city. This is probably because of its undisturbed grassland. Some of the common birds are ostrich, common moorhen, black-headed heron, and parrots. About 20 species are seasonal migrants from Europe.
Climate
The park has a favorable climate for safaris. Temperatures don’t change much across the year. The dry season is between June and October. Between June and September, daytimes are usually sunny. Afternoon temperatures are around 24°C. Early mornings and evenings are cold. Temperatures are around 12°C. You need light clothes for afternoon game drives. For early morning drives, carry some warm clothes.
The wet season is between November and May. Short rains are experienced between November and December. Long rains are reported between March and May. January and February separate these rainy seasons.
Geography
Nairobi National Park is one of the parks in Africa located close to a city. It is just 10 km south of Nairobi. Nairobi is the largest capital city of Kenya. It has several attractions such as the Giraffe Centre, and the National Museums of Kenya. But Nairobi National Park is the main attraction. Being so close to the city, you can easily get there by road. But you can also choose air travel. Probably, you won’t find another park so close to a city in the world.
Scenery
Nairobi National Park has lovely scenery. The high-rise buildings in the city are visible from the park. You get to see the city from a wilderness viewpoint. The open grassland with acacia bush creates an amazing view. The safari walk in the park also creates perfect scenery.
FAQs About Nairobi National Park
- Where is Nairobi National Park located?
Nairobi National Park is located in Nairobi city in Kenya. It is located about 7 km south of the city. Its GPS coordinates are 1.3730° S and 36.8529° E. You can get there by road. You can also fly to the park from the international airport or with domestic charted flights.
- What activities should I expect in Nairobi National Park?
The park is good for viewing wildlife. So, game drives are the most common activity. Other activities include bird watching, picnics, and nature walks. You can also enjoy camping in the park.
- Which is the best time to visit Nairobi National Park?
You can visit this protected area all year round. The dry season is the best for spotting wildlife. If you are interested in Nairobi National Park animals, visit between June and October. The wet season is the best for spotting young ones and migratory birds. It is also a great time to visit for colorful photography.
- How do I get to Nairobi National Park?
The park is easily accessible. You can get there by road. It is about 7 km from the city center. From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, it is about 10 km. You can also fly to the park. Your tour operator will ensure that you get to the park safely and fast.