Nairobi National Park Safari Tours: A Wild Escape in the City

Imagine spotting lions, rhinos, and giraffes just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of a capital city. Welcome to Nairobi National Park safari tours—one of Africa’s most unique wildlife experiences, where urban meets wild in dramatic fashion. Located only 7 kilometers from downtown Nairobi, this park offers a rare chance to enjoy an authentic safari without leaving the city.

In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about Nairobi National Park safari tours—what to expect, what animals you’ll see, types of tours available, and why this park is an essential stop for any traveler to Kenya.

About Nairobi National Park

Established in 1946, Nairobi National Park is Kenya’s oldest national park and the only one in the world located within a capital city. Covering 117 square kilometers, it’s small compared to the Serengeti or Masai Mara, but incredibly rich in biodiversity.

What makes it extraordinary is the surreal contrast: skyscrapers and highways in the distance, while lions lounge in the grasslands and zebras graze by the road.

Why Choose Nairobi National Park Safari Tours?

1. Close to the City

You can land at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and be on a game drive in under an hour. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time.

2. Diverse Wildlife

Despite its size, the park hosts:

• Lions, leopards, cheetahs

• Black and white rhinos

• Buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest

• Over 400 bird species

3. Budget-Friendly

Nairobi National Park offers an affordable alternative to longer, more remote safaris.

4. Year-Round Access

The park is open all year and does not require long travel times or internal flights, making it ideal for quick getaways or layovers.

Animals You Might See

Nairobi National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife:

The park is also one of the best places to see black rhinos in the wild, thanks to its well-managed rhino sanctuary.

Types of Nairobi National Park Safari Tours

There are several tour options available depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style:

1. Half-Day Game Drives

Perfect for travelers with limited time. These tours last around 4–5 hours and are usually conducted early in the morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife viewing.

2. Full-Day Safari Tours

Includes multiple game drives, picnic lunch inside the park, and sometimes additional visits to nearby attractions like the Giraffe Centre or David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.

3. Private Guided Tours

For a personalized experience, private safaris offer flexibility in schedule and a more tailored route through the park.

4. Group Safaris

Join a small group of fellow travelers for a more affordable option. These are typically shared in open-roof vans or 4x4 Land Cruisers.

5. Photography Safaris

Specially designed tours for wildlife photographers, often led by guides with experience in positioning for the best shots.

What’s Included in a Typical Tour?

Most Nairobi National Park safari tours include:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Nairobi

• Professional safari guide/driver

• Park entrance fees

• Bottled water

• Binoculars and camera support (in photography tours)

Some full-day tours also include meals, snacks, and stops at nearby attractions.

Best Time to Visit Nairobi National Park

The park is open all year, but some seasons offer better game viewing:

Early morning (6:30 AM–10:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:00 PM–6:00 PM) are the best times for game drives.

Tour Cost Guide (As of 2025)

Prices can vary depending on operator, group size, and tour duration:

• Half-Day Group Tour: $50–$80 per person

• Private Half-Day Tour: $120–$200 per person

• Full-Day Tour with Add-ons: $150–$250 per person

• Luxury Safari Tours: $300+ with gourmet meals and premium vehicles

Always confirm whether park entrance fees ($43 for non-residents as of 2025) are included.

Top Tour Operators for Nairobi National Park

Some of the most trusted names offering Nairobi National Park safari tours:

1. Perfect Wilderness Tours – Highly rated on TripAdvisor

2. Bonfire Adventures – Great for group and family tours

3. Expeditions Maasai Safaris – Local experts with custom tour options

4. Kilanguni Adventures – Affordable rates and excellent guides

5. Kenya Tru Nomads – Known for day tours and airport layover packages

Make sure the company is registered with the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO).

Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Safari

If you have extra time, consider pairing your game drive with:

• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Visit rescued baby elephants

• Giraffe Centre – Feed endangered Rothschild giraffes

• Bomas of Kenya – Learn about Kenya’s traditional cultures

• Karen Blixen Museum – Former home of the "Out of Africa" author

Most full-day safari tours can include 1–2 of these stops.

Safari Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Bring a camera with zoom lens for wildlife shots

• Wear neutral colors and comfortable clothing

• Bring sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent

• Carry your passport—you may need it at park gates

• Book in advance, especially during weekends and holidays

Final Thoughts

Nairobi National Park safari tours offer one of the most accessible and unforgettable wildlife experiences in the world. Whether you have a full day or just a few hours, you can witness lions, rhinos, and giraffes against the stunning backdrop of Nairobi’s skyline.

This rare blend of nature and city life makes the park an essential stop for anyone visiting Kenya. With the right tour guide and timing, your urban safari will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.