A Guide to Enjoying a Nairobi National Park Full or Half-Day Tour with Guide
Are you in Nairobi? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In the post below, we’ll present a complete guide to enjoying a full or half-day tour of the Nairobi National Park with a tour guide.
Introduction to the Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is the first and only national park established in Kenya. Located only 7 km from the city center, it is also one of the world’s only urban national parks, providing a haven for over 500 different species of animals, including lions, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, zebras and antelopes. It is the perfect blend of natural African bush and thriving city landscape. With a wide variety of activities and attractions, visitors can enjoy from bird watching and game drives to city exercises.
Why Go on a Nairobi National Park Tour?
The Nairobi National Park is an amazing destination for a full-day or half-day tour with a guide. Here are the four key benefits to going on a guided tour:
- You can experience African wildlife in the safest possible environment, with qualified tour guides keeping you safe.
- You can learn more about Kenyan wildlife and culture from your experienced tour guide, who can answer all your questions.
- You will have access to additional amenities like meals and drinks that you wouldn’t find in the park otherwise.
- You can be sure that you are getting the most out of your time in the park, since you will be touring the most memorable spots.
What Should I Expect on a Nairobi National Park Tour?
Each tour is different and tailored to meet each visitor’s needs. However, most tours will include:
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel (including transfers in an air-conditioned van).
- Experienced guide with specialist knowledge of wildlife.
- Game drive around the park.
- Sunrise/sunset viewing over wildlife.
- Picnic lunch or breakfast (depending on when you go).
- Refreshments served during the game drive.
- Professional photo opportunities.
- Airport transfers.
Tips for Choosing a Nairobi National Park Tour
When choosing a tour agency, make sure to do your research. The follow tips will help:
- Check reviews – read reviews from past customers to see what they have to say about their experience.
<
Insider’s Guide to Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is Kenya’s vibrant capital city and serves as the perfect gateway to East Africa. The city is buzzing with life, diverse cultures, and numerous attractions that attract visitors from all over the world. Known as the safari capital of Africa, Nairobi provides the ultimate travel experience for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who crave urban adventures. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best things to do, places to see, and food to eat in Nairobi.
Local Attractions
Nairobi National Park – Embark on a full or half-day tour of the Nairobi National Park for an up-close encounter with Kenya’s abundant wildlife. The park is only 7 kilometers from the city center and has over 80 species of mammals, including lions, rhinos, leopards, cheetahs, and more. The park also houses over 500 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Experience incredible moments with the orphaned elephants at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. The trust operates an adoption program that provides funds for the elephants’ upkeep and veterinary care.
Karura Forest Reserve – For a nature walk and hike, head to the Karura Forest Reserve, a 1,000-hectare lush forest located on the outskirts of Nairobi. The forest is home to diverse flora and fauna and features the beautiful caves, waterfalls, and rivers to explore.
Dining Spots
J’s Fresh Bar and Kitchen – Enjoy fusion cuisine with a Kenyan touch at J’s Fresh Bar and Kitchen. The restaurant is popular for its scrumptious burgers, Mediterranean platters, and cocktails. The tropical ambiance and outdoor seating make it an excellent spot for a lazy Sunday brunch.
Carnivore – For an unforgettable dining experience, head down to Carnivore. This place is an African meat-lover’s paradise, offering a range of exotic meats such as crocodile, ostrich, and camel meat. Guests can watch as their meat is roasted on traditional Masai swords and served as it gets carved from the skewer.
Chinese Kitchen – Nairobi has a big Chinese community, and you can find authentic Chinese food in many places, such as the Chinese Kitchen. The Garlic Prawn and Kung Pao Chicken are a must-try, and you can round it off with a few shots of Baijiu, China’s national alcoholic drink.
Cultural Experiences
Bomas of Kenya – Bomas of Kenya is a must-visit cultural center that provides an excellent representation of Kenya’s diverse ethnic groups. You can witness traditional dances, songs, crafts, and more from various Kenyan communities. The facility also offers a museum, exhibition halls, and lectures on different aspects of Kenyan culture.
Nairobi National Museum – For a glimpse into the country’s history and art, visit the Nairobi National Museum. It features several galleries that showcase Kenyan history, geology, ethnography, and art. The museum also houses the remains of the world’s most complete Homo erectus skeleton, discovered in Lake Turkana.
Local History
Karen Blixen Museum – Karen Blixen is famous for her memoir, Out Of Africa, which immortalized her time on a coffee farm in Nairobi in the early 1900s. The Karen Blixen Museum is her former home, which has been preserved as a museum honoring her time in Kenya.
Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park – Uhuru Gardens Memorial Park is a monument to Kenya’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1963. The park features a 24-meter high freedom monument and a eternal flame to commemorate the many people who fought and died for Kenya’s Independence.
Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions
Ngong Hills Viewpoint – For a picturesque hike and a great view of the city, make your way to Ngong Hills Viewpoint. The stunning green landscape and cool breeze will transport you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Maasai Market – You must visit the famous Maasai market, where you can bargain your way through the Kenyan art and craft scene. The market is open several days a week and offers a myriad of handmade goods such as jewelry, textiles, masks, woodwork, and more.
Giraffe Manor – For a unique stay with wildlife, you can book a night or two at the Giraffe Manor. Located in the Karen neighborhood, the manor has a herd of resident endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, who visit for breakfast and tea times with guests.
In conclusion, Nairobi offers excellent experiences for anyone looking for a safari adventure or an urban expedition. The city is rich in culture and history, has plenty of nature reserves, scenic viewpoints and culinary delights that will leave your taste buds craving for more.
Table of Contents
