Thing to do
Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nairobi Nursery Visit
A one-hour daily visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's elephant nursery, where orphaned calves come in for their midday milk feed and mud bath.
Nairobi Safari Walk
A Kenya Wildlife Service boardwalk on Lang'ata Road that leads through wetland, savannah and forest habitats past rhino, big cats, pygmy hippo and other Kenyan wildlife.
At a glance
- Type
- Wildlife boardwalk
- Area
- Lang'ata, Nairobi, Kenya
- Opening
- Open daily · 06:00–18:00
- Official site
- kws.go.ke
Good to know
- Raised boardwalk
- Wildlife enclosures
- Indigenous trees
- Suitable for children
Why we recommend it
The Nairobi Safari Walk is Kenya Wildlife Service's introduction to the country's wildlife and habitats, set on the edge of Nairobi National Park off Lang'ata Road. Rather than a game drive, it is a walking route along a raised wooden boardwalk that passes through three recreated environments, wetland, savannah and forest, with animals living in large enclosures alongside the path. KWS describes it as the closest you can get to the wild, and for visitors short on time it is a gentle way to see species that can be hard to find on safari.
The animal list is long. You can expect to see white rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hyena, crocodile and several antelopes, as well as primates and the rare pygmy hippo. More than 150 indigenous tree species grow along the route, and the boardwalk gives views over the Mokoyet River and the thickets of the national park beyond. The variety packed into a short distance makes it useful for children and school groups.
It works particularly well for families with young children, travellers who are not doing a full safari, and anyone who wants an easy, level walk rather than hours in a vehicle. Photographers will find the raised boardwalk helpful for clear views into the enclosures. It also suits a first morning in Nairobi before a longer safari, as a way to learn to recognise the animals you will be looking for later.
The gates open at 06:00 and close at 18:00. Animals are usually more active earlier in the day and late in the afternoon, when it is cooler. Allow about one and a half to two hours to walk the route without rushing, longer if you like to linger at each enclosure. Wear a hat and sunscreen, as parts of the walk are exposed. Fees are set by Kenya Wildlife Service, with different rates for citizens, residents and non-residents and reduced prices for children.
The walk is about 8 km from the central business district on Lang'ata Road, beyond Nyayo National Stadium and Lang'ata Barracks. It shares the area with the main entrance to Nairobi National Park, so you can easily combine the boardwalk with a game drive. The Giraffe Centre and the Bomas area are also on this side of the city.
Nairobi Safari Walk FAQs
What are the opening hours?
The gates open at 06:00 and close at 18:00.
Which animals can I see?
White rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hyena, crocodile, antelopes, primates and pygmy hippo.
Is it a game drive?
No. It is a walking route along a raised wooden boardwalk past large wildlife enclosures.
How long should I allow?
About one and a half to two hours.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The boardwalk and the close views of the animals make it a good choice for families and school groups.
How far is it from the city centre?
About 8 km, on Lang'ata Road beyond Nyayo National Stadium and Lang'ata Barracks.
Can I combine it with Nairobi National Park?
Yes. It is beside the park's main entrance area on Lang'ata Road.
How can I contact KWS?
Kenya Wildlife Service lists a hotline, a toll-free number and a customer service email on its website.