Welcome to Nairobi, a city unlike any other! 1 Wild Springs Adventures is your local expert, ready to guide you through incredible wildlife experiences right here in Kenya’s vibrant capital. Discover the unique Nairobi Animal Orphanage, a haven for rescued animals. 4 But your adventure doesn’t end there. Nairobi National Park borders the city, offering a true African safari experience. 7 Wild Springs Adventures offers a range of tours. Explore historical sites, cultural gems, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Let us be your strategic safari organizer in Nairobi!
Nairobi Animal Orphanage: Meet Kenya’s Amazing Animals
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage, established in 1964, is a special place for wildlife. 4 It’s a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned, injured, or abandoned animals from across Kenya. 4 The dedicated Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) manages the orphanage. 4 Their goal is to nurse these animals back to health. They provide food, shelter, and medical care. 6 When possible, the animals are released back into the wild. 6 Some animals stay permanently, becoming conservation ambassadors. 6 Wild Springs Adventures can take you to this heartwarming place.
Located within Nairobi National Park, the orphanage is easy to visit. 4 It’s a short drive from Nairobi’s center. 1 See lions, cheetahs, monkeys, and various bird species up close. 4 Knowledgeable KWS staff offer guided tours. 4 Learn about the animals’ stories and rehabilitation. 4 The orphanage is open daily. 4 It’s an affordable and accessible wildlife experience. 22
Discover the Colorful World of Birdwatching in Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is not just for big mammals. It’s a fantastic destination for birdwatchers too! Over 500 bird species have been recorded here. 23 This makes Nairobi a top city for bird diversity. 24 You can see both resident and migratory birds. 25 Many European migrants visit between November and April. 24 April and November are especially good for birding. 30
Look for families like Anatidae (ducks), Accipitridae (eagles), and Ploceidae (weavers). 26 Spot the Jackson’s Widowbird in its breeding plumage. 32 The Secretarybird is also a common sight. 32 Visit the Athi Basin for raptors and Hyena Dam for waterbirds. 36 Wild Springs Adventures offers guided birdwatching tours. Our expert guides know the best spots to see these amazing birds. 32
| Bird Species | Best Locations |
| Jackson’s Widowbird | Grasslands |
| African Fish Eagle | Hyena Dam, Athi River |
| Secretarybird | Grasslands, near Nairobi Tented Camp |
| Grey Crowned Crane | Wetlands, Hyena Dam |
| European Bee-eater | Athi Basin, Ivory Burning Site |
Capture the Wild: Wildlife Photography in Nairobi National Park
Nairobi National Park is a photographer’s dream. It’s affordable and easily accessible for amazing wildlife photography. Capture stunning images with Nairobi’s skyline in the background. 10 The contrast of urban and wild is truly unique. 57
Visit the Ivory Burning Site for panoramic views. 62 Hyena Dam offers beautiful reflections, especially in the morning. 62 Leopard Gorge is great for predator photos in the late afternoon. 62 The Kitengela Glass Fence area provides skyline shots in the late afternoon light. 62 The golden hours (6-8 AM and 4-6 PM) offer the best light. 55 The dry seasons (June-October and January-March) are ideal. 55
Bring a telephoto lens (300-600mm) for close-ups. 55 A wide-angle lens (18-55mm) is good for landscapes with the city. 55 Use a bean bag or tripod for stability. 55 Remember ethical photography: keep a safe distance and no flash. 55 Wild Springs Adventures offers specialized photography safaris. Our guides know the best spots and times for incredible shots.
Experience the Thrill: Nairobi National Park Evening Game Drives
See Nairobi National Park in a new light! Evening game drives offer a thrilling experience. They usually run from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. 37 Some operators offer later night drives too. 71 This is your chance to see nocturnal animals. 76 Travel in open-roof safari vans or 4x4s. 74
Lions are often more active in the evening. 25 You might spot leopards emerging to hunt. 24 Hyenas are also commonly seen. 8 Keep an eye out for jackals and serval cats. 8 Safety is crucial: stay in your vehicle and follow your guide’s instructions. 69 Wild Springs Adventures can arrange exciting evening game drives for you.
Meet the Gentle Giants: Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Conservation Area
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a must-visit. 8 Located in Nairobi National Park, it rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants and rhinos. 8 Witness the heartwarming feeding and mud baths from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM daily (except December 25th). 102 Book your visit online in advance. 127
Learn about each elephant’s rescue story. 99 Consider adopting an elephant to support their care. 10 The orphanage is near the park’s main entrance. 96 Wild Springs Adventures includes visits to this ethical sanctuary in our Nairobi tours.
Extend Your Adventure: Visit the Giraffe Centre
After your Nairobi National Park experience, visit the Giraffe Centre. 96 Located in the Lang’ata suburb, it helps conserve the endangered Rothschild giraffe. 96 Hand-feed these gentle giants from an elevated platform. 96 Learn about giraffe conservation. 132
The Giraffe Centre is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 132 It’s about a 30-45 minute drive from Nairobi National Park. 96 Combine your visit with the Elephant Orphanage and Karen Blixen Museum. 96 Enjoy nature walks and visit the information center. 132 Wild Springs Adventures can seamlessly integrate a visit to the Giraffe Centre into your Nairobi itinerary.
Discover Artistic Wonders at Kitengela Hot Glass
Visit Kitengela Hot Glass for a unique experience. 54 Located near Nairobi National Park, it’s about an hour’s drive from Nairobi. 54 See stunning handmade glass creations from recycled glass. 164 Watch glass blowing demonstrations. 159 You can even participate in glass making workshops. 159
Walk across the iconic swaying bridge for great views. 161 The road to Kitengela can be bumpy, a 4WD is advisable. 170 Visit the on-site shop for unique glass art. 164 Wild Springs Adventures offers tours to this creative destination.
| Experience | Price (KES) |
| Glass Blowing Demo | 300 |
| Blowing Bubbles | 500 |
| Touching Fire | 2,500 |
| Blown to Life | 5,000 |
| Scary Bridge Crossing | 300 |
Comparing and Contrasting: Nairobi National Park vs. Nairobi Animal Orphanage
| Feature | Nairobi National Park | Nairobi Animal Orphanage |
| Purpose | Conserve diverse ecosystem, free-ranging wildlife | Rescue & rehabilitate animals, conservation education |
| Visitor Experience | Immersive safari, game drives, bird watching, more | Controlled encounters, up-close viewing, educational focus |
| Animal Observation | Spotting in the wild, sightings may vary | Viewing in enclosures, guaranteed sightings |
| Accessibility | Requires vehicle, higher potential costs | Walkable, lower entrance fees |
| Cost | Generally higher | Generally lower |
Plan Your Nairobi Wildlife Adventure with Wild Springs Adventures
Combine visits to Nairobi National Park and the Animal Orphanage for a complete experience. Start with an early morning game drive in the park. 8 Then, visit the orphanage in the afternoon. Consider adding a birdwatching tour or a photography safari for a deeper exploration of the park’s wonders. An evening game drive offers a different perspective. Don’t miss the chance to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Conservation Area and the Giraffe Centre for unique animal encounters. Explore the artistic side of Nairobi at Kitengela Hot Glass.
The best time for wildlife viewing in Nairobi National Park is during the dry seasons (January-March and July-October). 4 The Animal Orphanage and Giraffe Centre are open year-round. 4 Kitengela Hot Glass is open most days, check their schedule. 108
When visiting Nairobi National Park, bring water, a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and insect repellent. 4Hiring a Wild Springs Adventures guide enhances your experience. 8 At the orphanage and Giraffe Centre, take your time to learn about the animals. 4
Conclusion: Your Nairobi Adventure Awaits with Wild Springs Adventures
Nairobi offers an extraordinary blend of city life and wildlife wonders. Nairobi National Park and the Animal Orphanage showcase Kenya’s commitment to conservation. Whether you seek a classic safari or close encounters with rescued animals, Nairobi has it all.
Let Wild Springs Adventures craft your perfect Nairobi experience. We offer unforgettable and responsible tours. Contact us today to plan your visit to the Nairobi Animal Orphanage, Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre, Kitengela Hot Glass, and more! Explore the wild side of Nairobi with us!