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How to get to Nairobi animal orphanage

Nairobi Animal Orphanage is situated in Nairobi National Park which is about 7–8 kilometres (4–5 miles) from Nairobi city centre. It is an animal rehabilitation facility where visitors can interact with some of Africa’s favourite creatures including lion, cheetah, hyena and an endless variety of bird life. These are some of the best ways to get there

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps

  • Taxi/Ride Apps: The simplest, easiest method to go to the Nairobi Animal Orphanage is via taxi – which can be booked through apps such as Uber, Bolt and Little Cab. It is about a 15-25 minutes drive from Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) depending on traffic.
  • The Nairobi Animal Orphanage is located adjacent to the Nairobi National Park Main Gate on Langata Road. Entry to the orphanage is separate, and you don’t need to pay for full park access if you're only visiting the orphanage.
  • The route is simple: you’ll drive out of the city into the park, on Langata Road. The entrance to the animal orphanage is located next to the Main gate Nairobi national park. Using a ride-hailing app helps you avoid the hassle of fare negotiations and ensures a safer, more comfortable ride.

By Private Car

If you have a private car, driving yourself is also a good option. From the city centre, head along on Kenyatta Avenue or Haile Selassie Avenue towards Uhuru Highway until it branches off to Langata Road. Follow signs for Nairobi National Park.

As you approach the main gate, you’ll find dedicated parking space for orphanage visitors.
If visiting during rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM and 4:30–7:00 PM), allow extra time for travel as traffic congestion along Langata Road and Uhuru Highway can be significant.

The drive typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on time of day and traffic, which tends to get backed up at peak times.

By Matatu (Public Minibus)

Public transport, for the cash-strapped adventurers, is a very affordable way to travel. From the city centre, you can take a matatu (Kenyan public minibus) heading to Langata. The main terminals in Nairobi CBD for Lang’ata matatus are at bus stages near Kencom House and at the Railway Station.

Look for matatus bound for Langata (they’re often labeled 34, 125, or 126), or ask the conductors for a ride to the entrance of Nairobi National Park. Prices are also cheap. They range from 50 to 100 KES, depending on the time of day. However, note that matatus may not drop you at the orphanage gate, so be prepared to walk the last bit or ride a motorcycle taxi, known locally as a boda boda, for the final part of the trip.

Tours and Organized Visits

The other hassle-free way of visiting the Nairobi Animal Orphanage is to go via a tour company. Check with operators for half and full day Nairobi city tours that also visit the Animal Orphanage, Nairobi National Park, the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Great option if you prefer everything to be taken care of or just don’t want to worry about how to get there.

Entry Fees (as of 2025)

Entrance fees vary depending on residency status. Be sure to bring valid identification or your passport to qualify for citizen or resident rates. Entry fees are payable at the gate via Mpesa (mobile money), debit/credit card, or Kenya Wildlife Service eCitizen system. Cash is not accepted.

  • Non-Resident Adult: ~USD $25
  • Resident Adult (East African Citizen): ~KES 250–300
  • Children (all categories): ~KES 100–150

Tips for your visit the Nairobi Animal Orphanage

  • When to Go: Dry season months (January-March, July-October) have ideal weather.
  • What to Take: Bring along water, sunscreen and a camera. Take home some memories!
  • Educational Experience: Each animal habitat has some information explaining the animal which makes it an educational stop without the tour guide.
  • Opening Hours: Nairobi Animal Orphanage is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including weekends and public holidays.

Regardless of how you travel there, you are bound to have a fun and educational time at the Nairobi Animal Orphanage. 

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