What is now a densely forested area, the Nairobi Arboretum, took root in 1907 when Batiscombe, who then was the Deputy Conservator of Forests, decided to try out new tree species for a forest. Paying the Nairobi Arboretum entrance fee opens the sprawling 30.4 hectares of forested terrain in the heart of the cosmopolitan bustle of Nairobi.
Once there, it becomes clear that the Arboretum’s shaded paths and picnic spots are much more than forestland.
The reason for the Nairobi Arboretumretaining its pristine condition as one of the few green locations in the city could be its gazettement as a national reserve in 1932.
The Commissioner of Land issued a title deed 1996 defining the Arboretum as a public-owned reserve.
Mr. Batiscombe was trying out new trees to grow to meet the rising demand for fuel for the Kenya-Uganda railway line.
The demand threatened Kenya’s indigenous trees, which Batiscombe sought to protect with alternative tree species.
Where is Nairobi Arboretum Located in Nairobi?
Nairobi Arboretum is in Kilimani, three kilometres from the city centre. The most clear of the arboretum directions is that it is adjacent to the State House.
The Nairobi Arboretum Entrance Fee
If you are considering visiting and are wondering about the arboretum entry fee, you’ll be surprised to know that it is affordable.
Here is a breakdown of Nairobi arboretum entrance fee for different types of visitors.
Park Entrance Fees
- Ksh 65 per adult and Ksh 27 per child
Car Parking charges
- Ksh 65
Filming
- Ksh 46,400 per camera
Photography
- Ksh 1,322 per camera
Photography for advertisement
- Ksh 5000 per camera
How to Get to Nairobi Arboretum by Matatu
Even without public transportation, one can access the Nairobi Arboretum on foot from the City center.
Matatu number 48 from Odeon will take you to Shell, 100 metres from the Arboretum. The fare is about Kshs 100 for adults.
VISIT ALSO: Paradise Lost Kiambu Entrance Fee And Activities
Nairobi Arboretum Layout
The forest rests like an oasis hedged by Arboretum Drive, the Kirichwa Kubwa River, and the Kenya Girl Guide Headquarters.
It is the home of tens of exotic species of plants, birds, reptiles, and insects.
Of the labeled ones, the Arboretum boasts over 100 species of birds and more than 350 types of exotic and indigenous plants.
The more famous inhabitants of the Arboretum are the Vervet and Sykes monkeys, and visitors can catch glimpses of all these while on the nature walk.
There is an expansive central lawn for various activities, such as games and team-building feats.
The forest trails indulge joggers and those who like long walks. There are two entrances, the main one being South East of the Arboretum.
This entrance has a car park, stalls where vendors sell refreshments and snacks, a restaurant, and washrooms.
The other entrance is next to the intersection of Ring Road and the Arboretum Drive. There is a ticketing office here.
List of Fun Activities at Nairobi Arboretum
The popular park hosts individual, corporate, and group events and activities.
My favorite Arboretum activities include photoshoots, jogging, picnics, yoga, exercise boot camps, concerts, religious activities, and games.
Nairobi Arboretum Park charges the same fee for all visitors regardless of their status as residents, non-residents, and citizens making them one of a kind among the other recreational attractions in the country.
VISIT ALSO: Karura Forest Charges: Entrance Fees And Opening Hours
Nairobi Arboretum Contacts
Some contacts for the Nairobi Arboretum include:
- Phone number +25472730093
- The Forest Service Number: +254733823045.
- Their emails: fona@naturekenya.org and education@nairobiarboretum.org
- Check out their website.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nairobi Arboretum
Who owns the Nairobi Arboretum?
The Nairobi Arboretum is a publicly owned property, and the Friends of the Nairobi Arboretum and the Kenya Forest Service manage it.
When does the park open?
The offices at Tree Centre operate from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm from Monday to Friday. The park remains open throughout from 6.00 am to 6.15 pm, as it has been since 1907.
Does the Nairobi Arboretum have any rules?
Yes, there are rules to guide visitors. Visitors should avoid littering and should not feed the animals. To ensure the safety of people, vegetation, and wildlife, the management discourages fires and unnecessary noise and encourages visitors to keep to the designated areas and pathways.
They should protect the integrity of the Arboretum by not defacing any features, plants, and stones in the park. One should not leave the park with wildlife trophies such as parts of animals or plants.
Is food allowed in Nairobi Arboretum?
Park regulations do not allow alcoholic beverages; one can bring soft drinks and food to the park.
Conclusion
Though a tranquil and beautiful forest, the Nairobi Arboretum is ever a bee-hive of activities. The lush park attracts many visitors, from nature enthusiasts to botanists, zoologists, and aspiring professionals. The park hosts national and international events, such as World Environment Day, graced by officials from across the globe.
With the reasonable Nairobi Arboretum entrance fee, the popular park is accessible to visitors from all walks of life. All who come to reconnect with nature, wind down, and bond with colleagues, friends, and family over the many activities in Nairobi Arboretum hardly wait for a repeat tour of the spellbinding forest in the city.
