Nairobi.

Nairobi is Kenya's vibrant capital and the gateway to nearly every safari in the country, yet it holds its own remarkable wildlife secret: Nairobi National Park, the only game reserve bordering a major city skyline, where lion, giraffe, and even black rhino roam within sight of downtown skyscrapers. The city is also home to the Giraffe Centre, where visitors can hand-feed endangered Rothschild's giraffe, and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, famous for its orphaned elephant nursery. Add in excellent museums, restaurants, and markets, and Nairobi rewards a day or two before or after heading into the bush.