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Nairobi Game Drive Safaris

A majestic giraffe standing in the savannah bushes during a Nairobi game drive.
Spotting a beautiful giraffe up close during an evening Nairobi game drive.

“Just last December, I visited Nairobi for business but had one free day. I contacted the team from Nairobinationalparksafari.com looking to book a day tour. I know it’s hard to believe. But the following day at 6 am,, they had me sipping coffee as the sun peeked over the Nairobi skyline. But this time not from a high-rise hotel. I was in an open-sided safari jeep, the cool morning air full with anticipation, inside Nairobi National Park.

My Nairobi game drive completely reshaped my idea of a city adventure. On the same day, Nicholas had me explore the Nairobi National Park, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and the nearby Giraffe Center. I saw all members of the big 5 just a short drive from the city center. Spotting a black rhino, its silhouette stark against the rising sun, with the city skyscrapers as the backdrop,, is a memory I’ll carry forever.” Said one of my clients on our TripAdvisor.com profile. 

I am Nicholas or Nico, a travel writer and tour consultant for Nairobinationalparksafari.com. And if you’re wondering whether a safari in Nairobi is worth your time, or trying to plan the perfect day trip from Nairobi, this guide is for you.I will share all the information you need to plan an authentic African safari adventure right within Nairobi city. 

What to Expect on a Nairobi National Park Game Drive

 

Why a Nairobi National Park Safari Should Be on Your List

Many people ask, “Is Nairobi National Park really worth it?” My answer is a resounding YES. As the only protected wildlife reserve bordered by a capital city, it offers something truly unique.

  • Quick Access from JKIA or Nairobi CBD: Unlike other Kenya safari destinations such as Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli National Park, it offers tourists the perfect way to experience Kenya’s incredible nature without a long journey.The Park is located just 16km from JKIA and 7km from Nairobi CBD. You can actually book a morning game drive in Nairobi, spot big cats and 4 members of the big 5, and be back in your hotel for lunch.
  • High Wildlife Density and Variety: Right within Nairobi, you have a great chance to see four of the “Big Five.” The park is a sanctuary for lions, leopards, buffalos, and especially rhinos. Due to the habitat, elephants aren’t here, but you can see them at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which is housed within the park itself. 
  • Nairobi is a Conservation Hub: The park is home to a critical rhino sanctuary, making your visit a contribution to protecting these magnificent animals. It’s a fantastic introduction to conservation in Kenya.

Hint: Nairobi national park is located within the Nairobi city, making it a great choice for guests looking for a safari near Nairobi airport or Nairobi city safari options. Although it’s possible to book a last minute booking to the park, we recommend booking in advance as sometimes ECitizen, the government platform where tickets are purchased, sometimes goes down. Also, a booking to visit the Elephant Orphanage is best made way in advance to guarantee availability. 

Animals You Are Likely to See in Nairobi National Park?

During our game drives in Nairobi National Park, some of the common sightings include: 

  • A cheetah sprinting across the savannah grasslands  – common during early morning and late afternoon game drives. 
  • Giraffes towering gracefully from the acacia trees.
  • Zebras grazing alongside impalas, wildebeests, heartbeasts and other animals. 
  • Dozens of bird species—bring binoculars if you’re into birding!

Pro Tip: The best chance time to see animals is between 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM. Late afternoon, 3:00 PM to 6:00 pm is also a fantastic window for wildlife spotting.  You can opt for either a self-drive Nairobi National Park tour or a guided game drive, but as much as possible, opt for guided tours. Having an experienced guide on your trips marks the difference between a successful game drive and an empty run though the park.

A cheetah carrying its prey through the dry grass during a Nairobi game drive.
Witnessing a wild cheetah with its successful kill on a Nairobi game drive safari.

How to Plan The Best Safari in Nairobi – Expert Tips 

Next, I will share some tips to help you organize or plan the best Nairobi Safari holidays. 

  • Nairobi National Park Entrance Fee: Email us via Bookings@nairobinationalparksafari.com to get an all inclusive package including park fees. Alternatively, check the official Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) website for up to date entrance fees. Fees are typically different for non-residents, residents, and citizens.
  • At the moment, the Nairobi National Park entrance fees are USD 80 for non-resident adults and USD 40 for non-resident children. Citizen adults pay KSH 1000 and KSH 500 for children. Residents KES 1350. All other visitors, including East Africa residents, pay the same rate as non-residents. 
  • Nairobi National Park Opening Hours: The park is generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
  • How to Get There: You can book a tour that includes pickup, take a taxi, or drive your own vehicle. A 4×4 safari vehicle is highly recommended for navigating the park’s dirt roads.
  • What to Wear for a Nairobi Game Drive: Think layers and comfort. Wear neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, green, brown) to blend in. Pack a jacket for the cool mornings and wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.
  • Best Time to Visit Nairobi National Park: The dry seasons (June–October and January–February) are ideal. The grass is shorter, making wildlife easier to spot as they gather around water sources.
  • My Personal Tip: Bring your own camera and binoculars! Rentals aren’t really a thing in Nairobi. A zoom lens is your best friend for getting those incredible close-up shots without disturbing the animals.

Which Type of Nairobi Safari Tour is Right for You?

There’s a huge selection of Nairobi safari tours to fit any schedule or budget.

  • Half-Day Game Drive: Perfect if you’re short on time. These usually start early in the morning or in the afternoon for about 4-5 hours.
  • Full-Day Game Drive: This allows you to explore the park’s diverse sections, from open plains to riverine forests, without feeling rushed.The safari often starts around 6:00 AM and ends at 6:00 PM. 
  • Sunrise & Evening Drives: A sunrise game drive offers the best chance to see predators on the move. An evening game drive provides that spectacular “golden hour” light for photography.
  • Private vs. Group Tours: A private game drive in Nairobi National Park gives you a personalized experience and flexibility. A group game drive is more budget-friendly and a great way to share the excitement with fellow travelers..

Full Day Nairobi Safari Itinerary

Day 1 – Game Drives, Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center 

  • 6 AM: Sunrise game drive in an open-sided jeep.
  • 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
  • 2:00 PM: Lunch at the Giraffe Centre and Giraffe Center visit.

Half-Day Nairobi Safari Itinerary

Day 2 – Game Drives, Scenery & History

  • 6:00 AM: Half-day Nairobi game drive focusing on lion sightings, Big 5 and Big Nine safari animals. .
  • 11:00 AM: Elephant Orphanage. 
  • 12:30 PM: Return toHotel/Airport. 

Full-Day Nairobi National Park Safari Itinerary

  • 6:00 AM: guided game drive in Nairobi to the hippo pools. 
  • 1:00 PM: Picnic at Mokoiyet Picnic Site.
  • 2:00 PM – 6:00 pm – Afternoon game drive.

This Nairobi safari itinerary ensures you hit all highlights without rushing. Upon request, we can tailor-make a Nairobi city tour that covers all the important points within just a day. 

Logistics: What to Keep in Mind

  • Safari vehicle choice: Tour vans are cheaper – USD 200 per day, but jeeps are more comfortable and go deeper into rougher terrain. The cost of a 4×4 safari jeep is USD 300 per day. 
  • Compare prices: Safari rates vary a lot. Don’t book the first one you see. At Nairobinationalparksafari.com, we give our clients the best rates possible upfront, reducing the time wasted negotiating. You can reach us through our email or contact form to inquiry or book your safari with us.
  • Accommodation: If you’re staying nearby, book early—there are both tented camps and eco-lodges around the park. A good choice right at the airport is Four Point by Sheraton. 
  • Self-drivers: Download a Nairobi National Park map. There are marked trails.
  • Transport: Book a shuttle or arrange private pickup if coming from the airport. We do pick our guests from Airport/Hotel and return them to their hotel or airport.
A spotted hyena standing on the savannah ground during a Nairobi game drive.
A spotted hyena pauses and looks back during a Nairobi game drive safari.

More Things to Do In And Around Nairobi

Other Great Destinations to add to your Nairobi Tour include: 

  • Nairobi Safari Walk – great for kids.
  • Bomas of Kenya for cultural dance.
  • Karen Blixen Museum for a bit of colonial history.

Other Nairobi National Park Safari Planning Guides