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Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is not only known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks but also for its wildlife-filled national park. The Nairobi National Park is located just 10km away from the bustling city centre. As a result, the Nairobi National Park safari is the perfect weekend destination.
Nairobi National Park came into existence in 1946, and it’s the only park in the country’s capital city in the world. As a result, thousands of tourists come to the city just to witness this unique phenomenon.
This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure during their business trips. In addition, the easy accessibility makes it possible for anyone to visit the park while staying anywhere in the city.
In this blog post, we will take you on a four-hour journey into the Nairobi National Park safari and guide you through the must-see places and things to do on your visit. I’m sure you will like every bit and purpose to explore.
A Four-Hour Drive into Nairobi National Park Safari
The Nairobi National Park has a unique landscape with open grass plains, riverine forests, and scattered acacia bushes. The park is home to over 100 mammal species, including the endangered black rhino, lion, leopard, cheetah, and hyena.
One of the best ways to explore the park is through a game drive with an experienced guide. Some hotels in Nairobi have exclusive Nairobi National Park safari packages where you can explore with guides from the hotel.
For instance, the Nyatti Hill Cottages have guided safaris to the Nairobi National Park. In addition, the cottages are in a prime location where you can watch the park from your room.
While at the park, do not hesitate to view the amazing skyscrapers of Nairobi City, adding an allure to your Nairobi National Park tour.
The Nairobi National Park Safari: Things to Do in 4-hour Drive
1. Birdwatching
If you are a birdwatching enthusiast, then Nairobi National Park is your perfect destination within the city. You can get off your daily activities and embark on a bird-watching adventure in the park.
This park has over 520 bird species, of which 20 are seasonal migrants from Europe. For example, there are the secretary birds, grey crowned crane, African crowned eagle, African skimmer, etc. During a birdwatching safari tour in Nairobi National Park safari, you can sport over 150 bird species.
To enjoy your birdwatching safari in this park, you can carry your camera and ensure you board a 4 by 4 land cruiser that can pass through rough terranes in the park. In addition, you can also carry your binoculars for clear viewing.
Furthermore, if you want to enjoy a closer look at the birds in the park, you can go for a guided safari walk into the park. However, you should go as a group with experienced bird enthusiasts as guides.
See Also: Best birdwatching spots.
2. Wildlife Viewing
Another fascinating thing to do in a Nairobi National Park safari is watching the diverse wildlife in the park. The best way to view wildlife is through a game drive with experienced guides and secure 4 by 4 landcruises.
Nairobi is the home of the most famous wildlife in Kenya, such as zebras, lions, giraffes, baboons, black rhinos, cheaters, leopards, hippos, etc. You will spot most of these animals during the dry season, from June to October each year.
You can view wildlife in the Nairobi National Park at any time of the day, including guided night game drives. To make your trip a fascinating one, don’t forget your cameras and binoculars for a memorial tour of Nairobi National Park.
3. A Visit to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust operates an Elephant orphanage in Nairobi National Park. The trust has been in existence for more than 45 years, rescuing orphaned elephants in the country. Most of the elephants in this orphanage have been drought victims over the past years. However, after they grow, the trust sends them back to the wilderness.
Enjoy more elephant watching in Amboseli National Park.
During your Nairobi National Park safari tour, you can visit this orphanage and watch as elephants are being fed or treated. Since the elephants in the orphanage are closer to human beings, it will be a nice experience being close to them. You can take closer pictures with them too, making your safari an enjoyable one.
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust has an antipoaching staff who prevent poaching in conjunction with the KWS officers across the national parks in Kenya.
You can also be part of Sheldrick’s amazing journey by donating your contributions to aid the health of orphaned elephants.
4. A Visit to the Ivory Burning Monument
Your 4-hour drive in the Nairobi National Park Safari shouldn’t end before passing by the Ivory-burning Monument within the park.
In 1989, President Daniel Arap Moi’s regime intercepted 12 tonnes of ivory before they entered the market. They were all burned at this historic site to assure Kenyans that there was no tolerance for ivory trading in the country. In addition, in 2016, President Kenyatta’s regime burned 105 tonnes of ivory and 1.5 tonnes of rhino hones.
This historic monument is a picnic site with benches and toilets where you can unwind after watching wildlife on the Nairobi National Park tour. Furthermore, the monument contains the Ivory ashes that serve as a remembrance of the elephants and the rhinos poached.
Read Also: Where to stay during your Kenyan safari.
5. Nairobi Safari Walk During the Nairobi National Park Safari Tour
In the Nairobi National Park, there is a safari walk made of wood. The area has walking paths raised high above the ground with woods. This broad wooden path allows you to have an excellent view of the animals in the park. In addition, the path passes over the river, giving you more opportunities to view hippos and crocodiles.
The paths are well-guarded with wooded rails such that you can not slip and fall during your adventure. You can carry your camera because you will have a great view of wildlife without having to board a game drive vehicle.
The Nairobi National Park Safari: Conclusion
Nairobi National Park safari will be one of your unforgettable adventures in the wild within the capital city of Kenya. A four-hour safari in the park will give you a glimpse of what Kenya’s natural world has to offer while still enjoying the comfort of modern amenities.
For example, you can have luxurious accommodation at one of the most famous hotels in Kenya, such as the Sarova Stanely, which is also the oldest hotel in Nairobi.
Among the things to do on your trip include a game drive, birdwatching, a visit to the ivory burning site monument, Shedrick Wildlife Trust, and a walk along the raised Safari boardwalk to see animals up close.
The Nairobi National Park Safari: Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Nairobi National Park?
Nairobi National Park is a unique wildlife reserve located just a few kilometres from the bustling city centre of Nairobi, Kenya. It’s one of the few parks in the world located within a capital city’s boundaries.
- What animals can I see in Nairobi National Park?
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, and over 500 bird species.
- How do I get to Nairobi National Park?
The park is easily accessible from the Nairobi city centre by road. Visitors can drive to the park or arrange for transportation through tour companies and hotels in Nairobi. The main entrance to the park is off Langata Road at the KWS office headquarters.
- Do I need a guide for the safari?
While it’s not mandatory to have a guide, it’s highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors. Experienced guides can provide valuable insights into the park’s wildlife and ecosystems.
- What should I bring on the safari?
Essential items to bring include a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, a camera, binoculars, and plenty of water. It’s also advisable to bring snacks and meals if you plan to spend the whole day in the park.
- Are there any accommodation options within the park?
Nairobi National Park doesn’t have accommodation facilities within its boundaries. However, there are numerous accommodation options available in Nairobi city centre and its surrounding areas.
- Can I do a day trip to Nairobi National Park?
Yes, many visitors opt for day trips to the park, as it’s conveniently located near Nairobi. Safari tours typically last for a few hours, allowing visitors to see the park’s highlights within a single day.
- Is it safe to visit Nairobi National Park?
Yes, Nairobi National Park is generally considered safe for visitors. However, it’s important to follow park rules and guidelines, such as staying inside your vehicle at all times during the safari and not feeding or disturbing the wildlife.
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