Nairobi National Park Day Trip from Nairobi

Overview

Nairobi National Park is the only national park in the world set inside a capital city, with the Nairobi skyline visible behind grazing zebra and giraffe. Despite its small size, the park holds a strong population of black rhino, healthy lion and leopard numbers, and over 400 recorded bird species, making it an ideal option for travellers with only a few hours between flights or a single free day in the city.

For a full Kenya safari beyond Nairobi, see our 2-Day Maasai Mara Express Safari or 3-Day Maasai Mara Safari.

Tour Highlights

A national park inside a capital city, with the Nairobi skyline visible across the plains
Strong black rhino population alongside lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra and buffalo
Over 400 recorded bird species
Optional add-on visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery
Ideal for travellers with a layover or a single free day in Nairobi

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Group price (per person)

The price of this tour is on Request

For a more accurate estimate, contact us with your specific requirements and budget. We'll send a detailed quote based on your itinerary, group size, and preferred level of comfort.

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Places you'll visit

Nairobi

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Nairobi National Park

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Nairobi National Park Game Drive

After a morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or the airport, head into Nairobi National Park for a game drive across its open plains and riverine forest. Despite covering only 117 square kilometres, the park holds a notable density of wildlife, including one of Kenya's most successful black rhino sanctuaries, healthy lion and leopard populations, giraffe, zebra, buffalo, and over 400 recorded bird species. Travellers with extra time can add an afternoon stop at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery before returning to Nairobi.

Distance: Game drive within Nairobi National Park, approximately 30 minutes from the city centre

Activity: Half-day or full-day game drive, optional David Sheldrick elephant nursery visit

Accommodation: N/A, day trip

Meals: None included (lunch box available on request)

Extend your trip

Want a full safari beyond Nairobi? See our 2-Day Maasai Mara Express Safari.

What's included

Private safari vehicle with pop-up roof and English-speaking driver-guide
All park entry fees (non-resident rates)
Roundtrip transfer between your Nairobi hotel or the airport and the park
Drinking water during the safari
All government taxes and VAT

Not included

International flights to and from Kenya
Kenya eTA visa fees
Travel and medical evacuation insurance
Tips for your driver-guide and camp staff (suggested guideline: USD 10-15 per person, per day)
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, phone calls and laundry
Meals
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust entry fee (optional add-on)

Frequently asked questions

Is Nairobi National Park worth visiting given how close it is to the city?

Yes. Despite its small size and proximity to the city, the park holds a genuinely strong population of black rhino, healthy lion and leopard numbers, and excellent birdlife, making it a worthwhile half or full day even for travellers who will visit larger parks later in their trip.

Is this suitable for a layover between flights?

Yes, this is one of the most common uses for this day trip. The park is approximately 30 minutes from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, making a half-day game drive realistic for travellers with a long layover or a free morning or afternoon before an evening flight.

What is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery?

A well-known orphan elephant and rhino rescue and rehabilitation centre adjoining Nairobi National Park. Public visiting hours are limited to a short daily window, so this add-on works best when timed in advance; let us know if you would like it included.

What wildlife is realistic to see in a single visit?

Black rhino, lion, giraffe, zebra, buffalo, and a wide range of antelope species are all realistic sightings on a single game drive, alongside strong birdlife. Leopard and cheetah are present but less frequently seen.

What does the price include?

A private safari vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide, all park entry fees, and roundtrip transfer between your Nairobi hotel or the airport and the park. Meals are not included on this day trip.

Can this be combined with a longer Kenya safari?

Yes. This works well as a bookend on either side of a longer Kenya itinerary, or as a standalone half or full day for travellers with limited time. See our 2-Day Maasai Mara Express Safari for a short full safari option.