Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas of Kenya Day Tour from Nairobi

Traveling to Nairobi offers a fantastic chance to experience Kenya’s incredible wildlife and vibrant culture. This well-rounded day tour, hosted by Gracepatt Ecotours, combines visits to iconic conservation sites with cultural insights, all wrapped up in around 10 hours of adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to get close to Rothschild giraffes and baby elephants—a true highlight for animal lovers. Second, the inclusion of a traditional bead-making workshop and lively cultural dance shows provides a glimpse into authentic Kenyan artistry and traditions. Third, the small group size and professional guides foster a friendly, informative atmosphere.

A potential downside? The extra $45 fee for Nairobi National Park—if you’re eager to see more wildlife, be prepared for that additional cost, as it’s not included in the base price.

This tour appeals most to those wanting a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and cultural experiences—perfect if your time in Nairobi is limited but you still want to tick multiple boxes.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Close-up views of Rothschild giraffes and baby elephants in their conservation centers.
• Cultural Insight: Participation in bead-making and traditional dance performances.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup, private transport, and a professional guide make for a smooth day.
• Value: For $115, you get entry to three major attractions, plus cultural activities, all within a manageable length.
• Optional Extras: Nairobi National Park visit available for an additional $45.
• Authentic Experiences: Reviewers frequently mention guides like Stephen and Kelvin, who go above and beyond.

A Day Packed with Kenyan Wildlife and Culture

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of what Nairobi and Kenya have to offer. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of planning each stop separately.

The Giraffe Centre: A Gentle Giant Close-up

Your day begins with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel, typically around 8:00 am. First stop: the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Here, the focus is on conservation, but the real thrill is being able to feed these towering, gentle animals from a raised observation platform. The design of the platform ensures you’re eye-to-eye with giraffes—an experience many mention as unforgettable.

One reviewer, Ashanti_W, called feeding the giraffes “fun”, and loved the chance to touch and interact with them. Their long, flicking tongues and curious eyes make for a memorable wildlife encounter. The tour includes an educational talk about giraffe conservation, which adds depth for those interested in wildlife protection efforts.

The Elephant Orphanage: Heartwarming Care for Baby Elephants

Next is the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Established as one of the most successful rescue centers in the world, it rehabilitates elephants that have lost their mothers—often due to poaching or accidents.

Reviewers like Cherise_C emphasize how touching and close you can get to the baby elephants. Watching them play and learn to be wild again is both adorable and inspiring. Guide Kelvin and others are praised for their informative commentary, which helps visitors understand the importance of conservation.

Keep in mind that tickets are limited and most reviews mention booking well in advance, as the experience is popular and sells out quickly.

Bead-Making at Kobe Beads Factory: A Creative and Cultural Break

From animals to arts, your next stop is the Kobe Beads factory, where you’ll witness how these beautiful beads are made—from raw materials to finished jewelry. This is not just a quick visit; it’s an educational look at Kenyan craftsmanship.

One reviewer highlighted the factory’s all-day process, which provides insight into local artisanal skills. It’s a great chance to pick up unique souvenirs and learn about Kenyan bead traditions. The stop also offers a chance to support local artisans directly.

Bomas of Kenya: The Heartbeat of Kenyan Culture

The final major stop is the Bomas of Kenya, a lively venue showcasing traditional music, dance, and cultural talent from various Kenyan tribes. The daily performances from 2:30 pm to 4 pm feature energetic drumming, colorful costumes, and captivating dance routines that vividly illustrate Kenya’s diverse cultural landscape.

Reviewers like Luke_D suggest that the Bomas show is especially entertaining and not to be missed if you’re interested in Kenyan culture. The 3-hour visit allows ample time to enjoy the performances, explore craft stalls, and perhaps even dance along.

Practical Details and What You Can Expect

The tour, priced at $115 per person, offers a solid value considering the combined entrance fees, cultural activities, and transportation. The small group format (capped at 100 travelers, but usually smaller) ensures a more personal experience.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, which is comfortable given Nairobi’s often warm weather. The guided aspect is highly praised, with guides like Stephen and Kelvin receiving warm reviews for their knowledge, punctuality, and friendliness.

Timing is well-organized, with each stop lasting about an hour, except for Bomas, which is around three hours. The day kicks off early (around 8 am), allowing for maximum sightseeing before late afternoon.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, removing the hassle of navigating Nairobi’s traffic and logistics. Entry fees for Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas are included, but food and drinks are not, so plan to bring snacks or plan for lunch at your own expense.

Optional Add-On: Nairobi National Park

For those craving more wildlife, an additional $45 per person covers a visit to Nairobi National Park, managed by Kenya Wildlife Service. This is a popular but optional extension, offering more chances to see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Highlights from Reviewers

Consistently, guests remark on their guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude. Cherise_C raved about Stephen, noting him as “very punctual, knowledgeable, patient, and communicated great.” Many mention being able to touch and feed animals—a rare opportunity that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Considerations

• The extra fee for Nairobi National Park is worth considering if you’re an avid wildlife fan; otherwise, you’ll still get a fantastic day without it.
• Book tickets early for the Elephant Orphanage, as they tend to sell out quickly.
• Reviewers advise requesting guides like Stephen if you want a smooth, enjoyable experience—some guides have been more appreciated than others.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children should be supervised, especially during animal interactions.

The Sum Up

This tour from Nairobi offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, culture, and artisan craftsmanship. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of varied experiences without the hassle of organizing multiple visits.

The guided approach and small group size ensure a comfortable, educational, and fun day. The price provides access to some of Kenya’s most beloved attractions, making it a good value—especially when considering the emotional impact of seeing elephants and giraffes up close.

While the additional fee for Nairobi National Park might be a consideration, it’s an optional add-on that can complete your wildlife experience. For those interested in learning about Kenya’s traditions, this tour’s cultural element is a definite bonus.

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Kenyan wildlife and culture, this tour hits the right notes—and the reviews confirm it’s a favorite among past travelers.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $115 fee covers guidance, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance tickets to Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas of Kenya.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting around 8:00 am and ending mid to late afternoon.

Can I visit Nairobi National Park?
Yes, for an extra $45 per person, you can add a trip to Nairobi National Park, which is under Kenya Wildlife Service management and is a popular optional extension.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You may want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch at Bomas of Kenya.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but should be supervised during animal interactions and cultural activities.

How many people usually book this tour?
Most travelers book about 45 days in advance, and the group size is kept small for a more personal experience.

What makes the guides stand out?
Reviewers frequently mention guides like Stephen and Kelvin for their knowledge, punctuality, and friendly demeanor.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, because the Elephant Orphanage tickets sell out quickly, and booking in advance secures your spot.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for comfort, as well as a camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments.

This tour from Nairobi is a smart choice for anyone wanting a balanced day of wildlife, culture, and hands-on experiences. It’s a solid, value-packed option that introduces you to some of Kenya’s most beloved treasures—all in one well-organized outing.