Exploring Nairobi National Park: A 3-Days Safari
Exploring Nairobi National Park: A 3-Days Safari
This journey offers a unique opportunity to delve into the wilderness right in the heart of Nairobi city. Over three days, you’ll immerse yourself in some of Nairobi’s most remarkable wildlife spots, enjoy game viewing in the park, indulge in bird watching in its bird paradises, and experience walk safaris in Karura Forest. The trip kicks off and concludes in Nairobi, ensuring easy accessibility and convenience.
Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park nestles in the southern part of Kenya’s bustling capital city. Spanning approximately 117 square kilometers, it holds the distinction of being the country’s first national park. Despite its modest size compared to other parks in Kenya, Nairobi National Park boasts an authentic Kenyan landscape. Its terrain encompasses high-altitude savannah adorned with acacia trees, vegetation flanking the banks of River Embakasi, plains, steep gorges, and forests. Initially established to safeguard wildlife, birds, and vegetation from relentless hunting, the park has evolved into a haven for various species, including the endangered black rhinos, lions, leopards, giraffes, and bushbucks.
Trip Summary
Day 1: Transfer to Nairobi National Park
Day 2: Full Day in the Park
Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Transfer to Nairobi National Park
Your journey commences with our guide warmly welcoming you either from your accommodation after breakfast or directly from Jomo Kenyatta Airport. After a brief introduction and overview of your itinerary, we’ll head to Nairobi National Park, with stops at some notable attractions along the way.
Our first stop is the Giraffe Centre, situated along Langata Road. This center serves as a sanctuary for the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Here, you’ll have the thrilling opportunity to feed these majestic creatures while capturing memorable moments through photographs. As you interact closely with the giraffes, you’ll gain insights into their habitat and conservation efforts.
Next, we’ll visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a sanctuary for orphaned elephants and rhinos. Established in 1977 to address the challenges posed by poaching and habitat loss, this sanctuary offers a nurturing environment for baby elephants and rhinos until they can be reintegrated into the wild. Witnessing these adorable animals being bottle-fed is sure to leave a lasting impression.
After a satisfying lunch and some relaxation, we’ll explore the Nairobi National Museum, providing a glimpse into Kenya’s rich history and diverse cultures. Here, you’ll encounter artifacts, fossils, and exhibits detailing the colonial era and the country’s indigenous tribes. If time permits, you may opt to visit the adjacent Snake Park for a closer look at East Africa’s reptilian inhabitants.
For those interested, a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum offers a step back in time to colonial Africa. Set against the scenic backdrop of Ngong Hills, this museum was once the home of the famous author and features prominently in the movie “Out of Africa.” Wander through the colonial-era house and gardens, soaking in the ambiance of bygone days.
As the day draws to a close, we’ll make our way to Nairobi National Park, just 7 kilometers from the city center. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your chosen accommodation, where you can unwind, savor dinner, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.
Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Midrange: Hotel Emerald
Budget: Nairobi Tented Camp
Day 2 Full Day in the Park (Game Drives, Bird Watching, and Guided Safari)
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a guided game drive within Nairobi National Park, armed with our packed lunches. The park’s diverse landscape and abundant wildlife make for an unforgettable safari experience. Keep your camera ready as we search for iconic African species such as lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants, and rhinos. With luck, you may also encounter herds of wildebeests, antelopes, baboons, and zebras roaming freely across the plains.
As we traverse the park, keep an eye out for its avian residents, with over 400 bird species calling Nairobi National Park home. From graceful eagles and vultures to colorful sunbirds and ostriches, there’s no shortage of feathered wonders to behold. Our knowledgeable guides will point out the best spots for birdwatching, ensuring you don’t miss any of these winged marvels.
During a leisurely nature walk along the banks of River Embakasi, you’ll have the chance to observe wildlife up close and admire the park’s scenic beauty. As the day winds down, we’ll return to our accommodation for relaxation and dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Nairobi Serena Hotel
Midrange: Hotel Emerald
Budget: Nairobi Tented Camp
Day 3 Morning Game Drive and Departure
On our final day, we’ll savor a delicious breakfast before embarking on a morning game drive for one last glimpse of Nairobi National Park’s inhabitants. With the sun rising over the savannah, we’ll seek out elusive predators and grazing herbivores, soaking in the tranquility of the African bush.
After bidding farewell to the park, we’ll check out of our accommodation and, depending on your itinerary, transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta Airport or your preferred destination in Nairobi. Before concluding our safari, we’ll make a stop at Karura Forest for a guided nature walk amidst its lush foliage and cascading waterfalls. This urban oasis teems with diverse flora and fauna, offering a serene setting for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst nature’s splendor.
As your three-day Nairobi National Park Safari draws to a close, take with you cherished memories of wildlife encounters, cultural discoveries, and the untamed beauty of Kenya’s wilderness.