The Oldest National Park in Kenya?

Nairobi National Park holds the title of being the oldest national park in Kenya. Established in 1946, it is uniquely located just a short drive from Nairobi, the bustling capital city. This makes it one of the only national parks in the world situated so close to a major urban center. The park spans approximately 117 square kilometers, forming the only protected section of the larger Athi-Kapiti Ecosystem, which it represents less than 10% .

A Unique Ecosystem Rich in Wildlife

Nairobi National Park is a stunning blend of open grass plains dotted with acacia bushes. This vibrant ecosystem supports a large and diverse range of wildlife. Some of the animals frequently spotted include lion, leopard, African buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, zebra, impala, warthog, blue wildebeest, and Nile crocodile, among many others.

With over 520 recorded bird species, the park is also a paradise for birdwatchers. It serves as an important sanctuary not only for resident species but also for migratory birds from Europe and other parts of Africa.

Climate and the Best Time to Visit

Nairobi National Park enjoys a cool and temperate climate, with relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The Dry season runs from June to October, and it’s the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around waterholes. The Wet season, from November to May, consists of two rainy periods – short rains in November and long rains peaking in April.

Top Things to Do in Nairobi National Park

1. Game Drives

Game drives are one of the park’s most popular attractions. With experienced guides, visitors can explore the park’s stunning landscapes and encounter a wide variety of wildlife. Common sightings include lions, buffalos, hippos, cheetahs, Thomson’s gazelles, eland, baboons, hartebeest, black-backed jackals, common ostrich, and more.

The Dry season offers the best conditions for game drives, as the thinning vegetation and scarce water sources make animals easier to spot.

2. Birdwatching Tours

Birdwatching is another major highlight, thanks to the park’s vast array of bird habitats. From grasslands to wetlands, Nairobi National Park hosts over 510 species of birds, including seasonal migrants and rare sightings.

Notable species include:

• Secretary birds
• Martial eagles
• Lilac-breasted rollers
• Grey crowned cranes
• Ostriches
• Rosy-breasted longclaws
• African quail-finches
• Violet wood-hoopoes
• Basra reed warblers
• Red-throated tits

The best birdwatching period is November to April, when migratory birds are present and many local species are in their breeding plumage.

3. Black Rhino Tracking

Nairobi National Park is one of the best places in Africa to observe black rhinos in their natural habitat. The park is home to around 50 critically endangered black rhinos, making it a stronghold for conservation efforts.

Visitors can go on guided tracking tours to observe the elusive Eastern Black Rhino (Diceros bicornis michaeli) and gain insights into their behaviors, feeding habits, and the challenges they face due to poaching.

4. Guided Nature Walks

For a more immersive experience, guided nature walks offer an opportunity to connect more intimately with the park’s flora and fauna. These walks take you off the traditional game drive trails and reveal lesser-known aspects of the park’s ecosystems, including medicinal plants, tracks, and signs of wildlife activity.

In some itineraries, nature walks may also include cultural encounters in nearby communities where visitors can learn about traditional Kenyan lifestyles, local cuisines, and indigenous customs.

5. Visit the Nairobi Animal Orphanage

Located within the park’s boundaries, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage is a rehabilitation center for injured or orphaned animals. Visitors have the unique opportunity to see animals such as cheetahs, lions, and monkeys up close while learning about their rescue stories and conservation efforts.

Once rehabilitated, many animals are released back into the wild, making the orphanage an important part of wildlife conservation and education.

Accommodation Options Near Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park caters to a wide range of travelers with accommodation options that suit various budgets and preferences. These include luxury lodges, midrange hotels, and budget-friendly camps. Some of the top choices include:

• Nairobi Tented Camp
• The Emakoko
• Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm
• Eka Hotel Nairobi
• The Panari Hotel
• Leleshwa Gateway
• Red Buffalo House Hotel

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious retreat or a simple tented experience close to nature, there’s something for everyone.

Getting There

Accessing Nairobi National Park is incredibly easy. The park lies just a few kilometers from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport, making it an ideal first or last stop on a Kenyan safari itinerary.

Its unique location means you can enjoy sweeping views of the Nairobi skyline while watching wild animals roam in the foreground an experience that’s truly one of a kind.

Final Thoughts

Nairobi National Park is a unique blend of untamed wilderness and urban convenience. As the oldest national park in Kenya, it remains a symbol of the country’s commitment to conservation and wildlife protection. From exciting game drives to rare rhino encounters and vibrant birdlife, the park promises unforgettable adventures for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Whether you’re passing through Nairobi or planning a dedicated safari, Nairobi National Park is a must-visit destination that combines heritage, biodiversity, and accessibility like no other.