Discover the Best Wildlife Attractions in Nairobi
Nairobi is known as the green city in the sun for good reason. Despite its rapid development, it still boasts areas of serene forest and sprawling savannah where visitors can get close to some of Kenya’s famed safari species. Here are the top five places to spot wildlife in Nairobi.
Nairobi National Park
Nairobi is quite literally the world’s wildlife capital. It is the only capital city with a national park, which is home to an array of wildlife. Imagine seeing wild lions lazing and giraffes grazing against a backdrop of distant skyscrapers. Spanning 117 square kilometers, this park sustains antelopes, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes, and noisy troops of baboons. The acacia bush shelters lions, leopards, and endangered black rhinos. Moreover, over 400 migratory and endemic bird species have been recorded here.
Visitors can choose between an early morning or late afternoon wildlife drive when the animals are most active. There are several picnic sites throughout the park for a relaxing break while enjoying sweeping views. Additionally, the historic Ivory-burning Site, where tonnes of elephant tusks were incinerated, is worth a visit. For those wishing to stay longer, the park features three campsites and the luxurious Nairobi Tented Camp. The park also offers scenic hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nairobi Safari Walk
This delightful extension to your Nairobi National Park experience is managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service. The Nairobi Safari Walk provides insight into the incredible biodiversity of Kenya’s protected areas from its raised wooden platform. Visitors traverse through three major ecosystems: wetlands, savannah, and forests, encountering diverse wildlife including white rhinos, pygmy hippos, and rare bongo antelopes. It’s a favorite spot for families, especially children, who love getting close to the animals. A Children’s Museum is available to enhance the experience.
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
If you have just one day in Nairobi, dedicate a morning to visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT). This elephant rescue and rehabilitation center is among the city’s top wildlife attractions. Arrive by 10:30 am to secure a spot in the viewing area surrounding the watering hole. At 11 am, a dozen baby elephants, accompanied by their handlers, come to the watering area. Knowledgeable keepers introduce each orphaned elephant and share their stories while visitors observe as they play and discover their environment.
Visitors are invited to adopt a baby elephant for $50 per year, allowing them to arrange visits before the elephants head to bed. DSWT has an impressive success rate in reintroducing elephants back into the wild and also cares for orphaned rhinos and resident warthogs. A gift shop filled with colorful souvenirs enhances the experience.
Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre is conveniently located near the DSWT and is a perfect follow-up visit. It is the only sanctuary within a capital city where visitors can interact up close with the world’s tallest animal. From a raised feeding platform, guests can feed the giraffes food pellets by hand or nose-to-nose if they dare. The sanctuary includes an educational center focused on the highly endangered Rothschild giraffe, a species that this center has significantly helped repopulate in the wild.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy the company of other animals, such as warthogs, tortoises, and numerous bird species. A delightful café is available for refreshments before continuing your wildlife exploration. Bird watchers may choose to embark on a self-guided forest walk through the adjacent Gogo River Bird Sanctuary.
Karura Forest
Next, head north to Karura Forest, a beloved spot for locals who enjoy walking, cycling, running, and horseback riding beneath its shady green canopy. The late Professor Wangari Maathai, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, fought to preserve the forest, which has become a symbol of the fight against land grabbing in Kenya. Today, diverse wildlife, including small antelopes, bush pigs, genets, and monkeys, call it home. Joggers may unexpectedly cross paths with a startled duiker!
Karura Forest is also known for housing one of Nairobi’s most popular cafes, the River Cafe, where you can sip coffee while enjoying views of vibrant birdlife. The café is particularly popular on weekends, so reservations are recommended.
