Nairobi National Park: The World’s Only Wildlife Capital
Nairobi National Park is arguably the most unique safari destination on the planet. Established in 1946 as Kenya’s first national park, it offers the surreal experience of watching wild animals graze against a backdrop of city skyscrapers.
Whether you are a business traveler with a few hours to spare or a dedicated safari enthusiast, this park is a vital stop for any 2026 Kenya itinerary.
Key Wildlife & Highlights
Despite its relatively small size (117 sq. km), the park packs a massive punch when it comes to biodiversity.
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The Big Four: You can spot Lions, Leopards, Buffalos, and Rhinos. Note that while elephants are the only member of the “Big Five” missing from the park itself, you can visit their orphaned relatives at the adjacent Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
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Rhino Sanctuary: This is one of Kenya’s most successful sanctuaries for the endangered Black Rhino. Sightings here are among the most reliable in the country.
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The “Skyline Safari”: The iconic photo of a giraffe or rhino with the Nairobi CBD skyline in the distance is only possible here.
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Ivory Burning Site Monument: A historic landmark where 12 tons of ivory were burned in 1989, marking a turning point in global conservation.
Visitor Essentials for 2026
| Category | 2026 Entry Fee (Adult) | 2026 Entry Fee (Child) |
| Kenyan/EA Citizen | KES 1,000 | KES 500 |
| Kenya Resident | KES 1,350 | KES 675 |
| African Citizen | USD 40 | USD 20 |
| Non-Resident (Intl) | USD 80 | USD 40 |
Pro-Tip: Payments are strictly cashless. Ensure you have funded your M-Pesa or have a valid Credit/Debit card ready for the KWS eCitizen portal.
Best Time to Visit
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Early Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM): This is the best window to see predators like lions and leopards while they are still active before the midday heat.
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Dry Season (June to October): Vegetation is sparse and animals congregate around water dams, making them much easier to spot.
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Green Season (November to May): Ideal for birdwatchers, with over 500 species recorded, including European migrants.
Getting There
Located just 7km from the City Center, the park is easily accessible via the Main Gate (Lang’ata Road) or the East Gate (Mombasa Road), which is particularly convenient if you have a layover at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
