Nairobi is not just the capital city of Kenya but also one of the few cities around the world that allows you to step out of a busy urban center and, in a short drive, find yourself surrounded by wildlife. For those who want an experience of safari without long distances into remoteness, you have access to some of the many stunning parks that the country has to offer.
Three great options near Nairobi are Nairobi National Park, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Nakuru National Park. Each place offers its own unique attributes, be it wildlife, beautiful scenery, etc. Combined, they will give you a taste of the beauty that is representative of Kenya.
This guide will highlight the highlights of what makes each national park unique, the best things to do, and tips for planning your visit.
- Nairobi National Park: Wildlife at the City’s Doorstep
Nairobi National Park is the city’s treasure. Located just 7 kilometers from downtown Nairobi, it is the only national park in the entire world to border a capital city. Here, you can see lions, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural environment, all while walking in the shadow of skyscrapers as a backdrop.
What Makes It Special
This park spans roughly 117 square kilometers and contains over 100 different species of mammals and more than 400 species of birds. It is best known for its population of endangered black rhinos, making this one of the top places in Kenya to see these rare animals.
Wildlife Experience
During a game drive, you may see lions reclining in the grass, buffalo nibbling on grass, and giraffes moving elegantly along the plains. Zebras and wildebeest are often present too. Cheetahs, while much more difficult to see, can also sometimes be found.
If you are a bird enthusiast, there is something for you too. This is especially true during the migratory time of the year when hundreds of species arrive from Europe and Asia to join the local species.
Activities to Enjoy
- Game Drives: The most common way to explore the park. The best chances of seeing predators are in the morning and late afternoon game drives, with the most popular starter being in the morning.
- Walking Trails: In some areas of the park, there are guided walking trails that allow you to stretch your legs and experience the park from a different perspective while learning a bit more about the ecology.
- Nairobi Animal Orphanage: Located at the entrance of the park, this organization rehabilitates orphaned animals or animals that have been injured and provides educational tours for a fee.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round; however, wildlife is easier to see during the dry seasons from June to September and January to February.
- Lake Naivasha: A Freshwater Paradise
Located just 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi is Lake Naivasha, a stunning freshwater lake within the Great Rift Valley, which, unlike conventional savanna parks, provides a nest for birdlife and a calm environment of water and wildlife.
What Makes It Special
The lush vegetation surrounding the lake features papyrus swamps and acacia woodlands. Lake Naivasha is known for its abundant hippo population and a great avian experience, boasting more than 350 species, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans.
Wildlife Experience
While motoring across the lake, there is an excellent chance you will see several pods of hippos peeking out of the water, while many types of water birds inhabit the area. The nearby grasslands attract giraffes, zebras, and other antelopes, which like to graze along the shores of the lake.
But there is more to the experience. The nearby Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is a great place to walk among wildlife. Crescent Island, a privately owned game sanctuary, can be reached by boat and offers walking safaris among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and other antelopes, and since there are no predators on the island, it is one of the few places one can walk in Kenya freely among wild animals.
Activities to Enjoy
- Boat Safaris: Enjoy a boat ride on the lake while watching hippos and birds from the water’s edge.
- Walking Safari at Crescent Island: A rare opportunity to walk among wildlife.
- Hiking at Hell’s Gate National Park: A short drive away, Hell’s Gate has stunning landscapes, tall cliffs, and geothermal hot springs. It is one of the only parks in Kenya where you can bike and walk among wildlife.
Best Time to Visit
Lake Naivasha is beautiful any time of year, but the best time for clear visibility and easy access to hiking is during the dry season. If you are a birdwatcher, you might prefer the wet months for migratory birds.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: The Land of Flamingos and Rhinos
Another treasure of the Rift Valley Lake Nakuru National Park is approximately 2.5 hours from Nairobi. This park is known for its pink flamingos that used to cover the lake in their hundreds of thousands, but it is also known for being one of the best rhino sanctuaries in Kenya.
What Makes It Special
Lake Nakuru is a shallow alkaline lake surrounded by grassland, acacia forests, and rocky cliffs. The number of flamingos has declined in recent years due to water level changes, but the park is still a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 450 species.
Wildlife Experience
Lake Nakuru is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos. It is also home to lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, and zebras. The Rothschild’s giraffe, an endangered subspecies, is also found here, making the park even more unique.
The combination of birdlife and big game makes Lake Nakuru an excellent all-round safari destination. The views from Baboon Cliff are unbeatable, and you will have a moment to take your camera out and get a spectacular view over the lake and surroundings.
Activities to Enjoy
- Game Drives: Take a drive through the park and explore the variety of habitats, while enjoying spotting impressive wildlife
- Birdwatching: With hundreds of species every day, this is a birdwatcher’s dream for birders
- Scenic Viewpoints: Baboon Cliff provides a spectacular panoramic view of the lake ( pay attention to capuccian monkeys), and Lion Hill in the eastern part of the park can give you tremendous panoramic views of the lake too
- Makalia falls: a small waterfall, but still a lovely sight, located inside the park.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but the ideal period to visit for game viewing is during the dry season from June to September. The wet season provides vibrant vegetation and abundant birdlife, making it a fantastic opportunity for photography and birding.
Comparing the Three Destinations
Every park surrounding Nairobi has its own character, allowing planning excursions based on your inclinations.
- For a quick getaway: Nairobi National Park is unbeatable, being so close to the city.
- For birding and relaxation: Lake Naivasha is a tranquil getaway, with hippos and waterbirds.
- For rhinos and great landscape: Lake Nakuru National Park combines impressive animals with impressive views.
They all contribute to a diverse safari experience in only a few hours outside of Nairobi.
Travel Tips for Visiting These Parks
- Begin Early: Animals are placidly present in the early morning; it is the best time for game drives.
- Get a Guide: A local knowledge guide can add depth to your experience by assisting you in seeing animals and providing insights.
- Bring Binoculars: Especially helpful at Naivasha and Nakuru for birdwatching.
- Travel Light, but Thoughtful: Sunscreen, hats, and water are necessary.
- Respect Animals: Always maintain distance and do not feed animals.
- Confirm Park Fees: Each park has its own entry fees, and you’ll typically pay via mobile or card.
Conclusion
Visiting national parks close to Nairobi is one of the best ways to see Kenya’s magnificent wildlife without getting too far from the capital. Nairobi National Park, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Nakuru all have different adventures to offer, be it viewing lions against a city skyline, paddling past hippos in a boat, or seeing rhinos in a scenic valley.
Whether you are visiting Kenya for the first time or are a return visitor, these parks are unforgettable experiences just outside the city. They show you don’t have to leave the Nairobi area to enjoy the magical experience of a safari.
