Nairobi National Park – A Safari Animals Adventure
Being the oldest park in Kenya, Nairobi National Park is also a favorite tourist destination because of its proximity to the capital city of Nairobi. Nestled along the Embakasi River, the Nairobi National Park features authentic Kenyan luscious landscape filled with gorges, forests and open plains. Just about 7 kilometers from the city center, it is an ideal spot for those who don’t want to travel long and far to experience the safari environment that Kenya is known for.
Visitors are treated to several exciting activities while in the park. Touring the Safari Walk is one of the fun things that you can do while in the Nairobi National Park. Located at park’s entrance, the Safari Walk is a modern facility, which fuses Kenya’s conservation efforts with eco-tourism. Here, you will marvel at simulated forests, Savannahs and wetlands, which dominate Kenya’s surroundings. You will get acquainted with the distinct flora and fauna of Kenya, most of which are in danger of becoming extinct. As guests, you have the option of participating in tree identification activities and entertaining talks and lectures about the parks and reserves in the country.
Meet the Safari Animals
The Rhino Sanctuary is one of the highlights of your visit to Nairobi National Park. This is one the rare places where you will come face to face with the Black Rhinoceros, one of the most endangered species in African safari. About 400 bird species have been recorded dwelling within the park’s vicinity, which makes the Nairobi National Park an incredible location for bird watching. In addition, there are numerous scenic walking trails for visitors to follow, as well as picnic sites where families and friends can relax to share a meal together.
If you are hoping for a more thrilling adventure, go for a guided game drive around the park to marvel up close at the fiercest African animals, called the “Big Four” which include leopards, rhinoceros, buffalos and lions. Other wild creatures you can catch a glimpse of are ostriches, giraffes, elands, hippopotamus and crocodiles. Definitely bring your camera!
Animal Orphanage
Just beside the Nairobi National Park; the Animal Orphanage is another attraction very much worth a visit. This facility shelters wild animals like antelopes, baboons, cranes, leopards and cheetahs that were found injured or abandoned in various regions of Kenya. During the period of July to October, the National park is also a great place to witness the wildebeest and zebra migration. This spectacle highlights the journey of more than a million animals to look for water and grazing land.
You can conveniently arrange a guided park adventure with most tour operators and agencies in the city, which include hotel pick-up and return. Alternatively, you can rent a vehicle and drive to the park on your own, as the it is easily accessible via the Langata Road. The Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) regularly operates a bus service that take tourists from the city center for a tour around the park every weekend and public holiday.
Piece of Advice
The most ideal time to visit the park is in between the months of March and July. During this time, the climate is generally dry and sunny, which makes it easier to spot the animals in the wild. Essentials for your safari exploration to the Nairobi National Park, include a comprehensive guidebook, sun protection items and plenty of water.