Nairobi National Park is a unique and remarkable wildlife sanctuary located just 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from the center of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. Established in 1946, it holds the distinction of being Kenya’s first national park and the world’s only protected area in a capital city. Despite its proximity to urban development, Nairobi National Park hosts an impressive array of wildlife
Key Facts
- **Established**: 1946
- **Size**: 117 square kilometers (45 square miles)
- **Location**: Nairobi, Kenya
- **Elevation**: 1,533-1,760 meters (5,030-5,774 feet) above sea level
- **Ecosystem**: Savanna grasslands with scattered acacia bushes
1. **Mammals**:
– Black rhinos (one of Kenya’s most successful sanctuaries)
– Lions
– Leopards
– Cheetahs
– Hyenas
– Buffaloes
– Giraffes
– Zebras
– Wildebeest
– Various antelope species
2. **Birds**:
– Over 400 species recorded
– Ostriches
– Secretary birds
– Crowned cranes
– Various birds of prey
3. **Reptiles**:
– Crocodiles
– Various snake species
Unique Features
1. **Urban Backdrop**: The park offers the surreal sight of wild animals roaming with Nairobi’s skyline in the background.
2. **Ivory Burning Site**: Monument marking where Kenyan authorities burned confiscated ivory to combat poaching.
3. **Diverse Habitats**: Despite its small size, the park contains a variety of ecosystems including open grass plains, riverine woodland, and highland dry forest.
4. **David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust**: Located near the park, it’s famous for its orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program.
Activities
1. Game drives
2. Hiking trails
3. Picnic sites
4. Camping (outside the park boundaries)
5. Photography
Conservation Challenges
1. **Urban Encroachment**: The park faces pressure from Nairobi’s expanding population and infrastructure.
2. **Limited Space**: As a small, fenced park, it faces challenges in maintaining genetic diversity and natural migration patterns.
3. **Human-Wildlife Conflict**: Occasional incidents of animals straying into nearby urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
– June to October (dry season) for best wildlife viewing
– Year-round pleasant climate due to high altitude
Access
– Main entrance is 10 km (6.2 miles) from Nairobi city center
– Easily accessible by car or organized tour
– Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Nairobi National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience African wildlife against the backdrop of a modern cityscape, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and tourists in Kenya.
