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The Nairobi National Park, the world’s only wildlife capital, is a host to a wide variety of wildlife including lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, buffaloes, black rhinos,s and a haven of birding to over 400 species recorded. Despite its relatively small size, the park boasts a large and varied wildlife population. The park was the first to be established in Kenya and was gazetted on 16th December 1946. It has an area of 117 square kilometers.
The minimum time you will spend in the park is 4 hours, the more time you spend the more animals you will see. Early morning is a good time to catch predators in action as they go about looking for breakfast. the park is easily accessible on tarmac roads and has five gates. The main gate at KWS headquarters, East gate, Lang’ata gate, Maasai gate, and Banda Gate. The Nairobi national park is under the administration of Kenya Wildlife Authority which is responsible for drafting conservation and Kenya park fees while on different Kenya Safaris.
The Nairobi National Park Entrance fee
Kenyan citizens pay Ksh 400 for adults and Ksh 215 for children during the low season while in the high season, they pay Ksh 500 and Ksh 215 respectively. Non-residents pay 35 USD for adults on a low season and 60 USD for children. Each ticket is valid for 24 hours allowing both local and international tourists access the park for 24 hours.
Attractions in Nairobi National Park.
a. Wildlife and bird species
The different variety of bird species and animals in the park, especially the big five are what mostly attracts both local and international tourists. The predators are mostly seen in the morning hours.
b. Nairobi Animal Orphanage.
The orphanage is located in the park, it provides refuge to a variety of wildlife eg monkeys, leopards, buffalos, lions, serval cats, and black rhinos. It serves as a nursing and healing center for wild animals. It, therefore, offers an opportunity to learn about the rescued animals. There are also a variety of bird species in the orphanage.
c. The picnic area(the ivory burning site monument)
The site bears ashes of ivory that were burnt by President Daniel Arap Moi in July 1989 the year after being confiscated from poachers. It was a significant time in the Kenyan history. Over 12 tons stockpile of ivory was set on fire to prove that Kenya does not support wildlife poaching and will fight it at all costs. Today the area is installed with benches and a lavatory that serve as a picnic site.
d. Impala observation point
This is one of the highest points in the park enabling the view of the impalas in the open plains. It is also a picnic site with a place to dine as tourists watch the beauty of the park.
e. David and Daphine Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.
This is a rescue center for elephants and other wildlife. The elephants are taken to Tsavo National Park after being treated. The Daphine and Sheldrick orphanage offers an opportunity to learn about elephants in depth.
Activities in Nairobi National Park
1. Game drives.
Over 100 mammal species are said to be found in the park. the park has many different habitats as well like savannah grasslands, open woodland, dry wetland forest, rocky gorges, rivers, and streams. A game drive will enable you to see the many different species and habitats in the park.
2. Picnic
There are several picnic sites in the park including the Mokoyeti picnic site and the Kingfisher picnic site. Here the tourist can sit and enjoy their packed lunch without disturbance as they enjoy the view and the tranquil nature.
3. Bird watching
The Nairobi national park is well known as one of the top birding destinations in Africa and the world. The park has over 520 species of bird of which 20 species are seasonal European migrants. On a normal birding day more than 100 bird species could be seen depending on how you navigate the park. Examples of birds in the park are Martial Eagle, Fox Kestrel, Grey-crowned Crane and African Eagle.
4. Safari walk
There are different animals including warthog, wildebeest, rhino on display. The charges are ksh250 for adults and ksh125 for children. The walk lasts about 35min to 45min depending on an individual’s pace. Water and snacks are also allowed in the orphanage.
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5. Camping
The camping sites in the park offer hot water showers, electricity, and kitchens. One can come with their tent or rent a tent at the gate. There is also the Nairobi Tented Camp which is a permanent camping site, more glamorous, and food is served.
Nairobi national park is a unique and glamorous place to be. Being located in the capital city, it offers a great experience full of good memories. If you are in Nairobi there is the renowned Giraffe Center, the enchanting Karen Blixen Museum, and the beautiful Oloolua and Karura forest among others. Nairobi is home to many tranquil and serene environments.
You cannot lack something to do in the great city. Visit The Nairobi National Park today.
[…] Read: THE NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK; Amazing Wildlife Within A City […]