Safari Camp in the City

Indulge in an authentic, wild, tented camping experience in the only city safari park in the world!

Located just a short distance from Jomo Kenyatta Airport, Wilson Airport and the City, Nairobi National Park is often overlooked by international travellers, who tend to use Kenya’s capital as a touchpad for other destinations across the country. Perhaps the idea of spotting wildlife just 7 kilometres from a major African city doesn’t seem adventurous enough… Yet this is a very special place, as many Nairobians already know. 

Set within 45 square miles (117 square km) and approximately 1,500–1,800 metres above sea level, this is a stunning wildlife haven, hosting four of the big five (no elephants) and a wide variety of animals and birdlife. Not only is it the world’s only national park that borders a major city, it is also the oldest park in the country, having been established in 1946. 

The Tented Camp

Nestled deep within the forest riverine, on the west side of the park, close to the banks of the Kisembe River, lies the only tented camp inside Nairobi National Park. Permissions for this camp to be developed took years to be granted and no other camps have been allowed inside the park since, making this place very special indeed.

The camp is eco-friendly, designed to have a minimum impact on the environment and wildlife. It’s a small set-up, boasting nine spacious tents, a central mess area and campfire, making it a perfect place for a quiet retreat. The proximity to the city makes it a great option for a first or last night in Kenya, as well as a short weekend break if you happen to be staying in Nairobi on business and don’t have the time to venture further afield.

Packages would typically include game drives in the park and can be tailored to suit your needs – either standalone or as part of a more extensive Kenya itinerary. Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (home to rescued baby elephants) is close by, along with the famous Giraffe Manor and Giraffe Centre.

By night, the whole dynamic and ambience of the park changes. All day visitors have to leave the park at dusk, so the only way to really experience the nocturnal tranquillity of this urban wilderness is to stay the night. You can enjoy a delicious, freshly prepared meal before relaxing around the campfire and listening to the sounds of nature.

The camp is unfenced, so you never know what you may discover wandering around! For safety and security, guests are escorted to and from their tents and advised not to walk around without a guard.

One thing is for sure, once the sun goes down, it doesn’t matter that you’re not much more than a stone’s throw from Nairobi, you will feel like you’re a million miles away from any civilisation!

Accommodation and Amenities

The en-suite tents have valley and forest views, feature basic amenities and safari-style furnishings. This is not a luxury camp though – it’s all about the experience! Water is heated over a fire and brought to you when you need it.

The meals at Nairobi Tented Camp are delicious and served on a set-menu basis. The Chef prepares stunning fresh food and with prior notice, will do his best to ensure special requests or dietary needs are catered for.

The camp is off-grid, relying on solar power, rechargeable batteries and low-wattage lighting. Candles and lanterns are also around the dining and central areas to create a beautiful, romantic ambience.

Each of the guest tents feature the following:

• Twin or double bed
• Bedside tables
• Wardrobe for clothes
• En-suite toilet with bucket shower and basin
• Writing desk with lamp
• LED lighting
• Torch
• Chairs and table on veranda for relaxing
• Luggage rack
• View into the valley and forest

Our Personal Experience

We personally enjoyed every moment of our stay here and from the moment we arrived, we were given a homely welcome and looked after by the most attentive and friendly staff.

For me, ‘the back to basics’ feel adds to the charm of being in the wild. The team are on hand to heat water for you and provide whatever you need to ensure you enjoy the whole experience. The real magic of this camp is without doubt its setting – nestled deep within the wilds of Nairobi National Park. If you are seeking a wild, authentic bush experience, without having to travel far from Nairobi, this camp will not disappoint.

Want to have your own Magical Kenya Experience?

If you’re thinking of organising a trip, we would be delighted to put together an amazing, unique Kenya travel experience for you. Each itinerary we create is based on our expert knowledge and our guests’ personal requirements. We work with well-established, hand-picked partners and operators in Kenya. In addition our own team has deep experience of the Kenya travel industry, spanning well over 30 years.

Why not get in touch with us today for a chat?