Nairobi National Park Opening and Closing Hours

Below is a summary of the opening and closing times for Nairobi National Park and its key attractions, with times provided in both East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3) and Greenwich Mean Time (GMT, UTC+0).

Nairobi National Park Hours

Nairobi National Park opens at 6:00 AM and close at 6:00 PM East Africa Time (EAT), which translates to 3:00 AM to 3:00 PM Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). The park operates daily, welcoming visitors from the early morning hours until the evening.

These extended hours provide ample opportunity for visitors to experience the rich wildlife and stunning landscapes during the most active times for many species.

Best Times for Wildlife Viewing

The best wildlife viewing times are often between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM or between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

During these hours, animals are most active, making it an ideal time for photography and wildlife observation. The cooler temperatures of the morning and late afternoon are not only comfortable for visitors but also for the animals, which tend to be more visible.

Planning Your Day

To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early. This not only maximizes your time in the park but also increases your chances of witnessing the magical sunrise over the savannah, which can be a highlight of the visit.

Equally, staying till the evening might reward you with equally spectacular sunset views, rounding off a perfect day with the dramatic African skies.

Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) Nursery

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT) Nursery is located within Nairobi National Park and it offers a unique opportunity to witness the care and rehabilitation of orphaned elephant calves.

The nursery operates under a strict schedule to ensure the well-being of the elephants, open to the public for only one hour a day.

Visiting Hours

The SWT Nursery is open to the public from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM East Africa Time (EAT), equivalent to 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

This one-hour window is a special opportunity for visitors to learn about the efforts in wildlife conservation and see the young elephants up close.

What to Expect During Your Visit

During the visit, guests can watch as the elephant calves are fed and play under the careful supervision of their keepers.

This interaction not only supports the elephants' rehabilitation but also raises awareness and funds for their ongoing care.

The experience is both educational and heartwarming, highlighting the critical conservation work being done by the Trust.

Tips for Visitors when Visiting SWT

To ensure you don't miss this exclusive viewing, it's recommended to arrive at the park well before the opening time of the nursery. This is particularly important as visitor slots are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis. The early arrival also allows for a leisurely start to your day in the park before the nursery visit.

Nairobi Safari Walk

The Nairobi Safari Walk is a premier attraction within Nairobi National Park. The safari walk is designed to offer visitors a glimpse of Kenya's rich biodiversity.

This facility provides a unique walking trail through a safe, enclosed area where you can view a variety of wildlife at close range.

Operating Hours of Nairobi Safari Walk

The Nairobi Safari Walk is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM East Africa Time (EAT), which corresponds to 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

These hours allow visitors ample time to explore the walk and enjoy the exhibits at a leisurely pace.

Highlights of the Safari Walk

The walk features a raised wooden boardwalk that meanders through typical Kenyan landscapes, including wetlands, savannahs, and forests.

Along the way, you willl encounter displays of animals such as cheetahs, leopards, albino zebras, and a variety of bird species. The walk is both an educational journey and a chance to take in the natural beauty of these ecosystems up close.

Best Time to Visit

For the best experience, visiting between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM EAT (7:00 AM to 1:00 PM GMT) is recommended. During these hours, you're likely to enjoy cooler weather and active wildlife, making your walk both comfortable and rewarding.

Planning Your Visit

To maximize your time at the Nairobi Safari Walk, consider planning your visit after an early morning tour of other areas of Nairobi National Park. This allows you to enjoy the diverse experiences the park offers without feeling rushed.