NNP #2: Impala Observation Point
Enter the Park via the Main Entrance off Langata Road at S 01 20.048 E 036 46.774 (entrance fees for adults/children are KES 500/300 for citizens, KES 1,200/600 for Kenya residents and USD 50/25 for visitors). Parks maps are available if required.
Nairobi National Park is a unique ecosystem by being the only protected area in the world close to a capital city. The park is located only 7 km from Nairobi city centre. The savannah ecosystem is comprised of different vegetation types. Open grass plains with scattered acacia bush are predominant. The western side has a highland dry forest and a permanent river with a riverine forest. To the south are the Athi-Kapiti Plains and Kitengela migration corridor which are important wildlife dispersal areas during the rain season. Man-made dams within the park have added a further habitat, favourable to certain species of birds and other aquatic biome.
Major wildlife attractions are the Black rhino, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, buffaloes, Giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, elands and diverse birdlife with over 400 species recorded. Other attractions include the Ivory burning site Monument, Nairobi Safari Walk, the Orphanage, various viewpoints and picnic sites and the walking trails along the river at the hippo pools.
Located in the highlands a short drive from the entrance, the Impala Observation Point is one of the the best places in the park to picnic or take a break. After a short steepish hill you reach a plateau with beautiful views over the savannah (open plains) parts of the Park. A fresh grassy-area surrounded by acacia trees, the picnic site is well maintained and there is a large shelter where you can rest while admiring the view. Usually you do not see too many animals close by, but it is a great spot to pick out animals on the plains below.
The cache, a customised micro, is hidden (tucked well) behind/under a rock to the right of the observation area as one faces the panoramic view.