Beside the main gate of Nairobi National Park, the Kenya Wildlife Service runs two connected visitor sites that make an easy, guaranteed introduction to Kenya’s animals. The Safari Walk is a raised wooden boardwalk that winds through landscaped enclosures, each recreating a different Kenyan habitat, from open savannah to forest and wetland. Because you walk above the animals, you can look down on lions, leopards and cheetahs, watch hippos in their pool and see other species that are hard to find on a game drive, including some that live only in particular regions of the country. Next to it, the Animal Orphanage is a rescue and rehabilitation centre for animals that have been orphaned, injured or taken from illegal captivity. Many of the residents are cats such as cheetahs and leopards, alongside hyenas, primates and birds. Animals that cannot be returned to the wild live out their lives here, and the centre also serves an education role, with school groups visiting throughout the week. It is a different experience from a wild game drive, because the animals are in enclosures, but the setting is attractive, the viewing is close and the guides explain the conservation stories behind each resident.
How it works
The tour we link, Animal Orphanage Half Day Tour in Nairobi, collects you from your hotel and takes you to the orphanage and the neighbouring Safari Walk with a guide. Check the tour details for transport, what is included and whether park or site fees are part of the price, since arrangements differ between operators. You can also go independently by taxi or ride-hail, since the entrance is on the Lang’ata side of the city, close to the Giraffe Centre and Bomas of Kenya.
How long it takes
Allow about two hours for the walk and the orphanage together, or a half day including transfers. The boardwalk is flat and easy, which suits visitors who cannot manage long walks, and there are places to sit along the way. Shaded spots are limited in the middle of the day, so bring a hat and water.
An honest note
This is not a wild safari. The animals live in managed enclosures, and some are there because they cannot survive in the wild. If you want a true game-viewing experience, combine this stop with a drive in Nairobi National Park next door. If you want a guaranteed view of cheetahs and other species at close range, particularly with children, this is a reliable choice.
Making the most of it
Go in the morning, when the cats and other animals are more active, and ask your guide about the history of individual residents. Pair it with the Sheldrick elephant nursery, the Giraffe Centre and Bomas of Kenya, since all are within a short drive, and you can build a full day of Lang’ata sights around it. Photography is welcome, but flash is discouraged, and keep a respectful distance from the fences.
Who it suits
Families with young children, travellers with limited mobility or limited time, and anyone who wants an easy first look at Kenya’s wildlife before heading out on safari. It is also a useful wet-weather option, since the distances are short and the walk is easy to pause or cut short if showers pass through.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk along a raised boardwalk through recreated habitats, plus a visit to a rescue centre for orphaned and injured animals.
Best time
Mornings, when the animals are most active and the sun is gentler.
How long
About two hours on site, or a half day with transfers.
Tips
Bring a hat and water, skip the flash and ask your guide about the history of individual animals.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and anyone who wants a guaranteed close look at big cats and other species.
- Families
- An easy, flat walk with close views of the animals, ideal for young children.
- Couples
- A relaxed, interesting morning, best combined with the national park next door.
- Pair with
- The national park game drive, the Sheldrick nursery or the Giraffe Centre.
- Time needed
- Two hours on site, or a half day with transfers.
Good questions
What is the Nairobi Animal Orphanage?+
It is a Kenya Wildlife Service rescue and rehabilitation centre beside the national park’s main gate that cares for orphaned, injured and confiscated animals.
What is the Safari Walk?+
It is a raised boardwalk through recreated Kenyan habitats where you can look down on animals such as lions, leopards, cheetahs and hippos.
Are the animals wild?+
They live in enclosures, and many cannot be released because of injury or a lifetime in captivity. For wild animals, combine the visit with a drive in the national park.
How long does the visit take?+
Allow about two hours for the Safari Walk and the orphanage, or a half day if you include transfers from your hotel.
Is it suitable for children and people with limited mobility?+
Yes, the boardwalk is flat and easy to walk, and the close views suit children. Bring a hat and water, since shade is limited at midday.
