Nairobi's National Park, Giraffe Sanctuary and Hippo Bay Resort

Nairobi's National Park is a unique ecosystem near the city of Nairobi, 10 km south of Nairobi's center. It's the only environment this close to a city that's fully protected. When driving from the city into this vast natural landscape it was almost like I was transported into another world. I was immediately greeted by the most gentle-nature Giraffe that seemed to say, "Come on in!" The Giraffe peeked into my window, and then proceeded to walk in front of our car guiding us into the park. Once you enter this park you are advised to keep your windows up, and stay in your car. Beauties in the world of the wild, do not come without it's dangers and cautions. Plus Monkey's, are the most seasoned thieves I've ever seen.

Major wildlife attractions in this park are:

• THE BLACK RHINO - which is an endangered species.
• THE LION - if you are up early enough to catch him feeding or sun bathing.
• THE LEOPARD
• THE CHEETAH
• THE HYENA
• THE BUFFALO
• MY FAVORITE - THE GIRAFFE
• TONS OF ZEBRAS!
• THE WILDEBEEST
• HIPPOS! - You must sit for an extended (quiet) period of time, if you wish to see these animals during the day. Do not cause a fuss, they are the most dangerous animals out there. They are a must see as they are absolutely fascinating creatures.
• OVER 400 SPECIES OF BIRD'S

Of the top ten tourist attractions in Kenya, Nairobi's National Park ranks Number 10. Millions of visitors go there every year.

The price to enter this park is:

• Adults - $40 US
• Children & Students - $20 US
• 1 dollar in US = approximately 12 Shillings, which is the currency accepted in Kenya.

If you decide to hire a driver, instead of using your own car, you may contact your travel ad-visor and he/she will set this up. Generally you will pay for the drivers entrance fee as well, but it's well worth it as they know all the best spots and are the most kind people you will ever meet! Kenyan locals will receive a discount as it is their land. The Kenyan people make a living doing this for tourists, so it's a great help to them, and they love to ensure that you have accomplished all you set out to do on your visit. I was fully pleased with my visit.

The Giraffe Center is located 20 minutes outside the city in Langata. I was advised by my driver to go here, as I absolutely love giraffes, and it was a great suggestion. It's home to the Rothschilde Giraffe, and it's also a breeding center and educational center. I had the pleasure of visiting this center on my way home from Nairobi ending a mission trip to Kisumu in October of 2013 to assist orphaned children and widows. These giraffes are like friendly giants, and so magnificent in their stature. You can climb a staircase and stand on a tower where you can feed the giraffes, food supplied by the workers. They know all the giraffes by name. You are almost viewing them in their natural habitat as it's kept as such. Quite an adventure for the giraffe lover to be able to come up close and personal, with a wild yet sweet animal. You will also get to see different animals in this sanctuary such as the Warthog.

Kiboko, is Hippo in Swahili. During my travels, I absolutely wanted to see a Hippo. It wasn't until I went to Nairobi's National Park that I was able to do this, as they are very difficult to see otherwise; however, they are spotted at this location if you are fervent enough. I will include a picture; however, it's very hard to see as I kept my distance! Hippo Bay; however, is one of the most beautiful places to visit. You can sit by the water and have dinner, peering out to see if any hippos surface. Go for a walk along the trail, watch and listen for the different species of birds that reside here. There is a five star Kenyan designed hut/hotel that you may stay in. It really is like a little paradise, with a pool included should you desire a swim. The food is wonderful, full of Kenyan favorites such as Ugali, Chipote, Catfish etc. Some of the seafood, will be caught right on site and cooked for you. You will see a man go right into the water with a net and catch it which is absolutely neat to watch. This wonderful resort is on Lake Victoria. As the sun sets the sky turns all different colors, so beautiful.