Discovering Nairobi National Park

April 2021

Just 4 miles from the heart of Nairobi’s CBD is the most unique Nairobi National Park. Though one of Kenya’s smaller National Parks, it is without a doubt one of the most intriguing. Nairobi National Park is the only ecosystem protected area in the world situated so close to a capital city! Incredible and easily accessible, the park is home to 4 of the ‘Big 5’. It’s one of the best parks in East Africa to see both black and white rhinos. Wide open grass plains, acacia bush and the backdrop of the city scrapers – this unique park plays host to an incredible variety of wildlife and birdlife. I love to drive out to the park early Saturday or Sunday morning with my coffee and snacks. On every visit, I always come across rhinos – both black and white. I’ve been lucky to see lions, great sightings of Serval cats, hyena, silver-back jackals, plenty of giraffes and so much more. During my last visit over the Easter weekend, I stayed at The Emakoko for 2 nights, and when out on a game drive, I was lucky to spot some cheetah cubs. The only one that has eluded me is the leopard (but that’s just my bad luck! I know many people who’ve had some great sightings of leopards). Visitors on game drives around the park are sure to come across an abundance of plains game. Lots of zebras, herds of buffalos, hartebeest, eland and impalas. Besides all the wonderful wildlife, the reason I love to visit this park is its birdlife. With 400 species of birds recorded, this park is a bird lovers paradise! Nairobi National Park is such a convenient and unique safari experience.

The perfect way to ease yourself into the safari experience is to visit Nairobi’s wildlife gem in the city – Nairobi National Park and stay for a night or two. Most guests fly into Nairobi, spend a night at a hotel and then continue on their safari circuit. They may visit the park for a quick game-drive and then proceed onwards, but did you know that within half hour of leaving the airport, you can be in the park, experience the wildlife and spend a night or two in the wild. Immerse yourself immediately into the ‘wild experience’. Relax at your lodge, unwind by the pool after your long flight, sip cocktails and maybe the giraffes, zebras or even a lion may pass by in the bush. Dine under the stars, fall asleep to the roar of the lions and the laugh of the hyena. What a great way to start your safari!

The Emakoko

One of my favorite places to stay at in Nairobi National Park, The Emakoko (@theemakoko) is a boutique owner-run lodge. Uniquely located on the edge of the Nairobi National Park, an easy 45 minute drive from Nairobi’s international and domestic airports. The owners, Anthony & Emma Childs are your hosts during your stay. They live on site with their small family and their dedicated team of staff. They love welcoming visitors to their beautiful lodge, making the stay as comfortable as possible. The Emakoko has 10 cottages and a 2 bedroom private house. Both the cottages and the private house are tastefully decorated and very comfortable and inviting. The accommodation with their black-out curtains provide guests with the perfect night’s sleep, especially if you’re recovering from jet lag.
Rihaz (@rihazsidi), The Emakoko’s resident guide and photographer is extremely knowledgable and passionate about his work, Rihaz is also an incredibly talented photographer – check his IG profile to see his beautiful photographs. The drive through the park itself, with its beautiful scenery and abundance of wildlife is a superb way to start any East African safari.

Nairobi Tented Camp

Nairobi Tented Camp is a wilderness escape where you can savour the thrill of camping in the heart of thick bushland right on the doorstep of Nairobi. Located deep within a riverine forest, close to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Wilson Airport as well as Nairobi City, the camp is a true wilderness experience. Nairobi Tented Camp was the first accommodation allowed in this unique safari destination.

Discovering Nairobi National Park