About Nairobi

Nairobi: The Ultimate Safari Starting Point | Kenya Safari Guide

Nairobi: The Ultimate Safari Starting Point in Kenya

Welcome to Nairobi — The Safari Capital of the World

When you think of African safaris, images of roaming lions, herds of elephants, and vast golden plains instantly come to mind. But few travelers realize that these adventures begin in a bustling modern city: Nairobi, Kenya.

Strategically located in East Africa, Nairobi is not just the country’s capital — it’s the beating heart of Kenya’s world-renowned safari circuit. Whether you’re heading to the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, or Tsavo, every great Kenyan safari usually starts in Nairobi

Why Nairobi is the Best Safari Starting Point

Unmatched Proximity to Wildlife

Unlike most cities, Nairobi offers instant access to a world-class national park, just minutes from downtown.

Nairobi National Park is a short 15-minute drive from the city center.
The park is home to over 100 species of mammals, including lions, black rhinos, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, cheetahs, and more.
You can spot wild animals against the dramatic backdrop of Nairobi’s modern skyline — a rare and surreal sight.

This makes Nairobi the only capital city in the world where your safari can truly begin the moment you arrive.

Gateway to Kenya’s Top Safari Destinations

Nairobi is the main hub for both road safaris and domestic flights to Kenya’s most iconic game reserves and national parks, including:

Destination	Distance from Nairobi	Travel Time	Highlights
Masai Mara National Reserve	~270 km	4-5 hours (road) / 45 mins (flight)	Big Five, Great Migration
Amboseli National Park	~240 km	4 hours (road) / 40 mins (flight)	Elephants, Mt. Kilimanjaro views
Lake Nakuru National Park	~160 km	3 hours (road)	Flamingos, rhinos
Samburu National Reserve	~310 km	5-6 hours (road) / 1 hour (flight)	Unique wildlife, river safaris
Tsavo East & West	~325 km	5-6 hours (road) / 1 hour (flight)	Red elephants, landscapes

No matter where you plan to explore, Nairobi offers the best starting point for short or long safaris.

Pre-Safari Wildlife Experiences Within the City

Before even heading out to the wild, Nairobi offers wildlife lovers some unforgettable, ethical and educational experiences:

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust:
A world-renowned elephant orphanage where you can witness rescued baby elephants being fed and bathed.
Giraffe Centre:
An up-close encounter with endangered Rothschild giraffes — feed them by hand and learn about conservation efforts.
Nairobi Safari Walk:
A raised boardwalk experience that offers a preview of Kenya’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems, all in one place.

These attractions are perfect for families, wildlife photographers, and anyone wanting to ease into the safari spirit.

Safari Logistics Made Easy

Starting your safari in Nairobi means smooth travel planning:

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO):
Kenya’s largest airport — connects Nairobi with Europe, Asia, and the U.S.
Wilson Airport:
Handles most domestic flights for safari destinations — quick transfers to Masai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, and others.
Safari Tour Operators:
Hundreds of experienced and trusted operators based in Nairobi offer flexible safari packages for every budget and schedule.

This makes Nairobi the most convenient and efficient place to begin your African wildlife adventure.

Accommodation Options for Every Safari Traveler

Whether you’re after luxury or budget-friendly stays, Nairobi has it all:

Luxury Hotels:
Giraffe Manor, Hemingways Nairobi, The Emakoko, and Fairmont The Norfolk.
Mid-Range Options:
Eka Hotel, The Boma Nairobi, Nairobi Serena Hotel.
Budget-Friendly Choices:
Hotel Central Park, Kenya Comfort Hotel, and a range of hostels and guesthouses.

Many hotels also offer pre-safari amenities like luggage storage, airport transfers, and packed meals for day trips.

Why Nairobi Should Be Your Safari Launchpad

Close to world-class national parks
Seamless airport-to-wildlife experiences
Ethical wildlife encounters before your main safari
Access to experienced guides and operators
Accommodation options for all budgets

Starting your journey from Nairobi guarantees you the best mix of city comfort, wildlife wonder, and safari convenience.

Starting your African safari in Nairobi is more than a convenient choice — it’s an experience in itself. Few cities offer the chance to sip morning coffee in a modern hotel and spend the afternoon tracking lions in the wild. Nairobi makes this possible.

If you’re ready to plan your unforgettable Kenyan safari, start your adventure right here in Nairobi — the perfect gateway to the wild.