City Park Forest Nairobi – Nature Trails, Monkeys & Heritage Walks in Parklands

Explore City Park Forest (Parklands)

Located in the heart of Nairobi’s Parklands area, City Park Forest Nairobi is one of the capital’s oldest and most vibrant green spaces. With its rich history, thriving biodiversity, and scenic nature trails, the forest offers an urban escape just minutes from the city centre. Originally gazetted in the 1920s, City Park has grown into a beloved sanctuary for families, joggers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

A Lush Urban Sanctuary

Spanning over 60 hectares, City Park Forest is a biodiverse paradise of indigenous trees, open lawns, and shaded paths. As visitors enter, they’re welcomed by towering canopies, chirping birds, and playful Sykes monkeys leaping between branches. The park serves as a home to nearly 1,000 plant and animal species, making it one of Nairobi’s richest urban ecosystems.

Whether you’re strolling through the trails, observing butterflies, or simply sitting under a tree with a book, the forest’s calmness is unmatched.

Nature Trails and Gardens

City Park Forest offers a network of walking and jogging paths that loop through tranquil groves, flower gardens, and grassy clearings. It’s the perfect space for early morning runs, quiet weekend walks, or group nature therapy. Joggers appreciate the cool, shaded paths, while families and photographers enjoy exploring the more open areas dotted with flowering plants.

A small sculpture garden and historical memorials are scattered throughout the park, adding charm and educational interest to the journey.

Cultural Heritage and Memorials

Beyond its natural beauty, the forest is steeped in history. It’s home to the graves of notable Kenyan figures, including political activist Pio Gama Pinto and former vice president Joseph Murumbi. Visitors can also enjoy the Murumbi Memorial Garden and historic sculptures that celebrate Kenya’s journey through independence and cultural identity.

The old bandstand, forest maze, and former bowling green speak to the park’s colonial-era design and provide layers of cultural depth for visitors to explore.

A Peaceful Family Retreat

City Park Forest is especially popular among families seeking an affordable and engaging day out. Children enjoy spotting monkeys, rolling on the open lawns, or wandering the gentle trails. Picnics are common under the large trees, with weekend gatherings creating a friendly and communal atmosphere.

While monkeys may try to grab snacks, they’re generally playful and well-observed by park rangers. Weekends often see families setting up mats, bringing food, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings together.

Conservation and Community Impact

The forest is now under the care of the Kenya Forest Service, supported by conservation volunteers and local community organisations. Thanks to restoration efforts and increased security, City Park Forest is once again thriving. Litter reduction, river clean-ups, and environmental education programmes are bringing new life to the space while encouraging public involvement.

This makes City Park not just a park, but a symbol of successful urban conservation and civic pride.

Why Visit City Park Forest?

City Park Forest is more than just a place to relax—it’s a space where nature, culture, and community meet. Whether you’re a visitor, a blogger, a nature lover, or simply looking for a break from Nairobi’s traffic and noise, this park offers something refreshing and meaningful. It’s easy to access, free to enter, and rich in experiences that blend the old and the new in a truly Kenyan way.