Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is a remarkable place, often called the world's only national park within a capital city, where lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras and buffalo roam open savanna against the surreal backdrop of Nairobi's skyscrapers. A vital black-rhino sanctuary just minutes from the city centre, it offers an easy and unusual safari, and lies near the famous elephant orphanage and giraffe centre that draw many visitors.

History

British settlers arrived in the late 19th century, when the Athi plains were full of game, Maasai herded cattle among the wildlife and Kikuyu farmed the highlands. As Nairobi grew, to 14,000 people by 1910, conflicts between people and animals increased, and in 1932 the conservationist Mervyn Cowie, back after nine years away, was alarmed to find how far the game had dwindled (Wikipedia, Nairobi National Park).

What you'll find

• The wildlife and skyline - lions and rhinos against the city skyline.
• The black rhinos - the important rhino sanctuary.
• The elephant orphanage - the nearby Sheldrick elephant orphanage.
• The giraffe centre - the nearby centre to feed endangered giraffes.

When to go

The dry seasons, June to October and January to February, are best for wildlife viewing; the park is an easy half-day trip and a great introduction or finale to a Kenya visit, or a taste of safari for those short on time.

What to expect

It is not a wilderness experience, with the city skyline, planes overhead and, in places, fences part of the scene, and it lacks elephants; but for accessibility and the surreal city-and-wildlife contrast it is unique. It can be busy at weekends. The nearby elephant orphanage has very limited daily visiting hours, so plan ahead.

Nearby

The Sheldrick elephant orphanage, the giraffe centre and the city of Nairobi are alongside.

Key facts