Nairobi National Park is a very special place in Kenya. It is the only national park in the world that is so close to a capital city. Just a short drive from the center of Nairobi, you will find wild animals like lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and more. It is a place where people can enjoy nature and see animals in the wild without going far from the city.
In this blog, we will talk about the park entry fees, the different rules you should follow when visiting, and the types of vehicles and aircraft that can enter. We will also share useful tips so that you can enjoy your visit to Nairobi National Park.
Entry Fees to Nairobi National Park
The entry fees for Nairobi National Park depend on who you are and when you visit. There are three main groups of people who visit the park:
- East Africa Citizens
- Residents
- Non-Residents (Foreign Tourists)
Who Are East Africa Citizens?
East Africa Citizens are people who are from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan. These people must have a valid passport or national ID to prove where they are from. If they do, they pay a lower entry fee.
Who Are Residents?
Residents are people from any country who live in Kenya. They must show a permit or other document to prove they live in Kenya. This group also gets a cheaper rate compared to non-residents.
Who Are Non-Residents?
Non-residents are foreign visitors who do not live in Kenya. These visitors pay the highest fees to enter Nairobi National Park. The fees change depending on the time of year.
Entry Fees for Non-Residents
- Low Season (March to June):
- Adults: USD 40 per day
- Children (3–11 years old): USD 20 per day
- High Season (July to February):
- Adults: USD 60 per day
- Children: USD 20 per day
Children under 3 years old can enter for free.
Entry Fees for East Africa Citizens
- Low Season:
- Adults: Ksh 400
- Children: Ksh 215
- Students: Ksh 215
- High Season:
- Adults: Ksh 500
- Children: Ksh 215
- Students: Ksh 215
Who Can Use Student Rates?
Student rates are only for people aged 23 and below. These students must be part of a school group or research trip. They must have a school ID and get permission from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) before the visit. The request should be made at least two weeks in advance.
How to Pay the Entry Fees
You cannot use cash to pay at Nairobi National Park. You must use one of the following payment methods:
- Visa card
- Mastercard
- Mpesa (a mobile phone payment method used in Kenya)
Citizens and residents must carry their ID or documents to get the cheaper prices. If you do not have these documents, you will pay the non-resident fee.
Vehicle Entry Fees
If you are coming to Nairobi National Park in a car, you must pay a fee depending on the size of your vehicle.
Safari Vehicle Fees
- Less than 6 seats: Ksh 300
- 6 to 12 seats: Ksh 1,030
- 13 to 24 seats: Ksh 2,585
- 25 to 44 seats: Ksh 4,050
- 45 seats and above: Ksh 5,000
Truck Fees
- 1 to 3 tons: Ksh 515
- 4 to 7 tons: Ksh 2,155
- 8 tons and above: Ksh 3,015
Aircraft Landing Fees
If you are flying into Nairobi National Park, you will pay a landing fee based on the size of the aircraft.
Aircraft Fees
- Up to 3 seats: Ksh 300
- 3 to 6 seats: Ksh 500
- 7 to 14 seats: Ksh 1,000
- 15 to 20 seats: Ksh 2,155
- 21 seats and above: Ksh 3,015
Rules at Nairobi National Park
It is important to follow the rules while you are inside Nairobi National Park. These rules keep both people and animals safe.
Time Rules
- The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm only.
- No one is allowed to drive in the park outside these hours.
Driving Rules
- The speed limit in the park is 50 km/h.
- In some parts like Nyerere Park, the speed limit is 25 km/h.
- Animals always have the right of way.
- Stay on marked roads and tracks.
- Do not drive off the track.
Respect the Animals
- Never feed the animals. This can harm them.
- Do not throw anything at the animals.
- Do not make loud sounds to get their attention.
- Radios and music players are not allowed.
- Do not try to call or scare animals by clapping, hooting, or pounding on the vehicle.
Stay in Your Vehicle
- You must stay in your car if animals are within 200 meters.
- Only get out at marked areas.
- Your driver must not go too close to animals. For example, do not go closer than 25 meters to lions, leopards, or cheetahs. These animals can get scared and run away or stop hunting.
Environment Rules
- Do not litter. Keep your trash inside the vehicle until you can throw it away properly.
- Do not pick or break any plants.
- Do not remove eggs, bones, or any other natural object.
- Fires are not allowed unless you are at a camping site. Always put out the fire carefully.
- Do not smoke during game drives. A small fire can burn the forest or grassland.
- Pets are not allowed inside the park.
About Drones
Using or flying drones inside Nairobi National Park is not allowed.
Camping and Picnicking
You can camp or have a picnic inside the park, but only in the areas marked for these activities. Do not camp or eat food outside these places. This is for your own safety and for the safety of the animals.
Wildlife You Can See
Nairobi National Park is home to many animals. You can see lions, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, buffalos, gazelles, and many birds. Sometimes, you can even spot crocodiles and hippos near the rivers. If you are lucky, you may also see a leopard or cheetah hunting in the grasslands.
There are also baby animals in the park. Some were born there, while others were rescued and taken care of. These include baby elephants and rhinos, often helped by groups like the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Why Visit Nairobi National Park?
- It is very close to the city.
- You can see many wild animals in just a few hours.
- It is a good place for a family trip.
- It helps people learn about wildlife and why it is important to protect it.
- You can enjoy nature, take photos, and relax in a safe place.
Tips for Visiting
- Wear comfortable clothes and carry a hat or cap.
- Bring enough water to stay hydrated.
- Use sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Bring a pair of binoculars to see animals that are far.
- Carry your camera to take great pictures.
- Follow all park rules and respect the rangers.
School Trips and Learning
Many schools in Kenya and even from outside the country visit Nairobi National Park. Students learn about animals, conservation, and how people can protect the environment. It is a great way to learn outside the classroom.
Final Thoughts
Nairobi National Park is one of the best places to see wildlife close to the city. Whether you live in Nairobi or are visiting Kenya, this park is a must-visit spot. It teaches us how to care for nature while giving us a chance to see animals up close.
The Kenya Wildlife Service does a great job of keeping the park safe and clean. When you visit, remember to respect the park, follow the rules, and enjoy the experience.
If you want to learn more about parks and travel in Kenya, follow Travel With Bony for more helpful guides and updates.
