Situated only a few miles from the city centre, the Nairobi National Park is one unique wildlife reserve in the East African city of Kenya. The distinctive contrast between the urban skyline and the untamed grassland is one of its many striking features that attract tourists on a large scale all year. Thus, This location is an ideal destination for all nature and adventure enthusiasts. Tourists can engage in a plethora of activities offered by various tour guides. The most popular one is a jungle safari. The park further provides a unique chance to all its visitors to experience the wildlife up close, thus making this trip memorable.
The Location And Accessibility Of The Nairobi National Park
The Nairobi National Park is only a short drive from the capital city of Nairobi in Kenya, an East African country. Because of its strategic location, in terms of accessibility, it is the most convenient for people travelling by road as this park is located along the urban cityscape of Nairobi. The National Park houses a wide range of birds, making it a hotspot for bird watching and wildlife photography. This is why it is also a big draw for tourists. Nairobi National Park is known to have a biodiverse ecosystem of its own, and to protect it, the locals and the authorities employ various eco-friendly practices that are to be followed by everyone who visits. The park’s proximity to the centre’s urban space makes it easily navigable and conveniently accessible to the larger population. Known as one of the major wildlife sanctuaries and for being a significant biodiversity hotspot with excellent connectivity to the other parts of the state, this destination is a perfect site to engage people in conservation and preservation practices and spread awareness about the same.
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Ecotourism At The Nairobi National Park
This wildlife sanctuary is a renowned biodiverse haven on Earth and one prime example of ecotourism that offers tourists a chance to appreciate the natural environment while preserving and encouraging sustainable tourism practices. Many practices that the sanctuary and the region’s surrounding authorities encourage the tourists to engage in include minimal human-impacting activities such as wildlife spotting, bird watching, etc. Awareness programs are provided for tourists to know more about the ecosystem surrounding them and help preserve it for future generations.
Several educational workshops and guided tours are also conducted by the authorities, highlighting the need for such a conservation and preservation drive and its effects on the environment and the ecosystem nestled within it. The locals, along with the tourists, take an active part in maintaining the region’s natural environment and indeed do a commendable job.
Popular Activities To Engage Oneself In At The Nairobi National Park
You can indulge in many activities and spend some beautiful time at the national park.
1. Guided Safaris
‘A National Park amidst urban setting’ is one of the many reasons why the Nairobi National Park is so popular across the globe. The park is spread across 117 sq. kilometres of lush green land and houses many animals and birds. Being one of the most easily accessible parks in the world, and for its unusual urban charm, the Nairobi National Park is visited by people of all stripes all year long. Tourists can engage in a plethora of activities provided by the park. Safaris are the most popular here and going on one will make this visit an unforgettable one. Tourists can engage in game drives and explore the wildlife this park houses.
These species include lions, giraffes, leopards, rhinos, etc. This park further houses over 400 species of birds making it an ideal spot for people wanting to engage in birdwatching. Along with the traditional safaris, this park also offers guided safari walks for a more intimate wildlife experience.
Prices: Ksh 3500 for residents and USD 90 for non-residents.
Duration: 5 hours a day.
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2. Visit The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DWST) is an organisation dedicated to the conservation of wildlife in Kenya, with a primary focus on elephants and rhinos. Located at a close proximity to the Nairobi National Park in Kenya, the DWST’s Elephant Orphanage is the most visited. This place is a popular attraction where visitors can witness the care and rehabilitation of rescued and orphaned elephants. Incidents like poaching, natural calamities, etc are reasons behind rescuing these elephants. Nursing the elephants back to health and reintegrating them into the wild is the primary goal of this orphanage.
Visitors to the orphanage are welcomed with wholesome views of the baby elephants during their feeding time. Each elephant at this faculty has a story of its own and the visitors can know about them by interacting with the keepers. Moreover, this organisation collaborates with locals and the government authorities to further strengthen the conservation and preservation practices of the wildlife in Kenya. This orphanage is a must visit location for all nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Location: The orphanage’s main entrance is off Magadi Road in Nairobi, Kenya.
Distance from the Nairobi National Park: The elephant orphanage is located at the entrance gate within the Nairobi National Park itself.
Explore Accommodation Options Near The Nairobi National Park
Due to its strategic location, Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya serves as a hotspot for authentic experiences amidst nature while being surrounded by concrete structures. Options like The Emakoko Lodge are ideal for people wanting a view of the stunning park and great amenities. The Nairobi Tented Camp offers a more intimate wildlife experience to its guests as it is located within the park itself. Other hotels and resorts, just a short distance from the Nairobi National Park, are available in plenty. Available modern amenities here include flat screen TVs, Wifi, on-site restaurants, swimming pool, luxurious spa, fitness centre, etc.
Moreover, the resort’s staff sees to all of the guest’s needs and requirements and is one of the best which in turn makes one’s stay here a carefree and relaxing one. The hotel’s lush green garden houses many plant species and is a perfect spot for guests wanting to take walks. Moreover, these guesthouses and hotels are located at a proximity to the region’s other major tourist attractions making it a perfect spot for your much-needed breaks.
Price Range: Accommodations can range from 10$ onwards.
Check-in: 11:00 am
Further Read: Hotels In Kenya
Visit the Nairobi National Park on your next trip to Kenya and witness the wildlife in its natural habitat. A distinct example of a biodiverse haven, this wildlife sanctuary is a must-see destination. It encourages and employs eco-friendly tourism and offers activities with minimal human interference with nature. Whether you enjoy wildlife spotting and photography or are an adventure enthusiast and a bird lover, this park, with its up-close interactions with wildlife, will provide you with the best experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Nairobi National Park
What are the opening and closing hours of the Nairobi National Park?
The Nairobi National Park opens at 6:00 am and closes around 6:00 pm East African Time
What are the commonly sighted animals at the Nairobi National Park?
Wildlife spotting is one very popular activity at the Nairobi National Park. One can spot wildlife species like lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, giraffes, etc.
Are there guided tours available at the Nairobi National Park?
Yes, the park offers guided tours and safaris to all its visitors. You need to pay some extra amount or charges to get the guided tours.
Are there accommodation facilities offered by the Nairobi National Park?
Yes. The Nairobi National Park features a tented campsite offering accommodations within the park itself for a more intimate experience.
What are the nearby tourist sites and attractions?
The Nairobi National Park is located at a close proximity to the region’s other major tourist attractions. These include The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), Giraffe Centre, Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi National Museum, Ngong Hills, etc.
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