Nairobi National Park is popular for its strategic location in the city located approximately 7 kilometres to the southern outskirts of the city, it offers a matched mix of modernity and wildlife imagine a backdrop of Skyscrapers and animal species at the same time! , it is the country’s first national park to be gazette in 1946 and is fenced with an electric fence to protect mammal and bird species that call this home. Nairobi National Park is the smallest park among other conservation areas covering an area space of 117 square kilometers and is being managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service.
Nairobi National Park boasts an open grassland, acacia bushes, marshy swampy areas, rocky valleys and gorges, and a riverine forest to the southern part of the park overlooking the many colourful buildings of the city. Wildlife in Nairobi National Park is found within the different biodiverse environments of the national park Examples of species include African elephants, café buffaloes, coke’s hartebeests, hippos, cheetahs, lions, leopards, hyenas, zebras, elands, waterbucks, bush bucks, leopards and black Rhinos among others, over 500 species of birds have been recorded in the national park including resident species and migratory bird types for example sunbirds, pelicans, ground hornbills, martial eagles, African harrier hawks to mention a few.
Wildlife in Nairobi National Park is seen while conducting tourism activities in the national park the primary thing to do in search of mammal species is game drives, these are done in sessions, in the early morning, afternoon and evening times with a lead guide who is knowledgeable about the national park. The morning time is the most recommendable for viewing wildlife species animals tend to be more active during the morning hours when herbivores are out to graze while predators are always out to hunt.
Birding in Nairobi national park is a rewarding experience, the conservation area is a haven of birds several birds, and present species include vultures, ostrich, crowned cranes, kori bustard, ground hornbills, Egyptian goose, black-necked herons among others, birds are best seen during the green season when it is fruiting time and the park receiving a couple of migratory species. To have the best views in the park it is advisable to bring good cameras and binoculars.
Wildlife in Nairobi National Park more so mammal species are best seen during the dry season between the months of December-February and June-September, it is generally a dry season with perfect weather conditions for animals, the trails of the park are much drier and easier to access, during the dry season grasses thin out and animals are gathered around water sources, despite the dry season being the best time to view wildlife in the national park, the wet season comes with its compliments as well, it is a lush green and beautiful within the park.
In conclusion, while considering wildlife in the Nairobi National Park, it is important to find accommodation or a place to stay during your adventures. There is available accommodation ranging from the best budget to luxury.