Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Centre Tour

Want to see Kenya’s iconic animals up close while supporting conservation efforts? This tour to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Centre offers a well-rounded experience that combines wildlife education with authentic animal encounters—all wrapped up in a convenient, hassle-free package. With a solid 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews, it’s a popular choice for travelers eager to connect with Kenya’s endangered species in a responsible way.

What we love most about this experience is how personal and educational it feels—especially with small group sizes and knowledgeable guides. The included private transport means no fuss, and the opportunity to see baby elephants and Rothschild giraffes in action is genuinely memorable. On the flip side, one thing to be aware of is the additional fees for the Nairobi National Park, which can add to the overall cost if you choose to include the park visit.

This tour suits travelers who want an intimate, meaningful wildlife experience, particularly families, animal lovers, or those with limited time in Nairobi. If you’re after a balanced mix of conservation, fun, and cultural insights, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (limited to 15 people) enhances interaction and comfort.
• Educational Focus: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Animal Encounters: Opportunities to feed and observe baby elephants and Rothschild giraffes.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fees are included, but note extra costs for Nairobi National Park.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the day stress-free.
• Support for Conservation: Visits benefit ongoing wildlife rescue and rehabilitation projects.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day with Comfort and Ease

The tour kicks off bright and early at around 8:00 am with hotel pickup in Nairobi. This flexible arrangement means whether you’re staying in a hotel, Airbnb, or private residence, you’re covered. The private vehicle takes you directly to the first stop, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start—no crowded buses or confusing transfers here.

Visiting the Giraffe Centre

Your first stop is at the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Since opening in 1979, this conservation-focused facility has successfully rescued and re-released around 500 giraffes into the wild. Here, you’ll get to feed these gentle giants by hand—a highlight that many reviews describe as both fun and educational.

Expect to spend roughly an hour at the centre, learning about giraffe physiology, behaviors, and habitat needs from the keepers. Reviewers frequently mention how friendly and approachable the staff are, making it easy for visitors to ask questions and get close to the animals. One reviewer called it “so much fun to feed the giraffes and learn about them,” emphasizing how engaging the experience is.

The Elephant Orphanage Experience

Next is a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, renowned for its work rescuing orphaned elephants. Arriving between 11 am and 12 pm, you’ll get to see the youngest elephants being bottle-fed—a heartwarming sight that feels almost surreal. The elephants come trotting out from the bush, eager for their milk bottles, which are handed to them by staff.

You’ll witness the playful antics of these tiny pachyderms, some just days old, as they guzzle their milk and play around in the enclosure. The guides are praised for their detailed stories about each elephant’s history—how they were rescued from poaching, wells, or human-wildlife conflict—and their ongoing rehabilitation.

Reviewers like Daniela praised the guide’s attention to detail, calling him “funny, friendly and gave us suggestions and ideas where to go.” Others, like Stephanie, highlighted how well-organized and informative the guide was, making the visit both fun and educational. The only caveat is the additional conservation fee required to visit the orphanage, which is payable on-site.

Supporting Local Artisans at Kazuri Beads Factory

A lesser-known but charming part of this tour is the stop at the Kazuri Beads Factory. This visit isn’t just about shopping; it’s about supporting local livelihoods. The factory employs single mothers from nearby neighborhoods, providing them with sustainable income.

Here, you can see how the beads and pottery are made, from raw clay to finished product. Reviewers often mention how interesting it is to watch the artisans at work and to buy handcrafted souvenirs directly supporting Kenyan families. The gift shop stocks a variety of items, many reviewers say, making it a good place to pick up authentic, meaningful souvenirs.

The Extra Costs and Logistics

While the tour’s price of $95 covers entrance fees and private transport, it’s important to note the $45 per person fee for Nairobi National Park if you decide to add an extension to visit the park or the elephant sanctuary within it. Some reviewers expressed frustration over the additional costs and complicated ticketing process—having to download an app and register adds a layer of hassle. Several reviews suggested that including the park fee in the overall price might be a better deal.

Transportation & Group Size

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the private vehicle and the small group size—typically limited to 15 travelers. This means more personalized attention, better chances for photos, and less time wasted waiting or navigating crowds. Reviewers consistently mention how helpful and friendly their guides are, particularly highlighting Stephen Mutuku for his attention to detail and friendly demeanor.

Additional Experiences & Flexibility

The tour lasts about six hours, making it a perfect day trip. Besides the main stops, some guides are flexible about adding extra visits or adjusting the schedule. For example, some reviews mention the option to visit a bead factory or enjoy local food afterward. The tour concludes with hotel drop-off, adding to the convenience.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authentic Animal Encounters: Unlike big, impersonal safaris, you get close-up views of baby elephants and Rothschild giraffes in controlled, conservation-focused environments. Many reviewers say watching the elephants being bottle-fed and feeding giraffes by hand is a highlight they won’t forget.

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Stephen and Joe for their friendliness, humor, and depth of knowledge. They often share personal stories and background info that adds meaning to the experience.

Supporting Conservation Efforts: The tour directly benefits wildlife rescue and rehabilitation initiatives. Hearing about the elephants’ rescue stories and how the giraffes are being reintroduced into the wild adds an inspiring dimension to the visit.

All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance fees are covered, and hotel pickup and drop-off make the day seamless. The private vehicle means you won’t be stuck with strangers and can enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Potential Drawbacks

Additional Fees: The extra $45 fee for Nairobi National Park can catch travelers off guard, especially if they don’t plan ahead. The process of buying tickets—especially if you need to download an app—is sometimes described as cumbersome.

Limited Park Access: If you’re expecting a safari-style experience or wildlife viewing on open plains, this tour might feel tame. Some reviews mention that without adding the park extension, it’s more about education and animal interactions than traditional game drives.

Time Management: For those who want to see more, such as the bead factory or local markets, the schedule can feel a bit tight, especially if waiting in lines or dealing with ticketing issues.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for animal lovers who want an educational, heartfelt connection with Kenya’s wildlife. It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone seeking a meaningful conservation experience without venturing into remote parks. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for travelers who appreciate personalized attention.

It’s also suitable if you’re short on time but still want to see and support Kenya’s endangered species. The tour’s flexible, all-inclusive nature means you get the highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Nairobi hotel or accommodation is included, making the day stress-free and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately six hours, with the main activities scheduled smoothly to maximize your experience.

Do I need to pay extra to visit the elephant orphanage?
Entrance fees are included in the $95 price, but visiting the Nairobi National Park or the elephant sanctuary inside it costs an additional $45 per person.

What’s the group size like?
It’s a small group experience, limited to 15 travelers, which promotes a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Stephen and Joe, who are friendly, informative, and passionate about wildlife.

What if I want to buy souvenirs?
The Kazuri Beads Factory shop offers handcrafted gifts supporting local women. You might find unique, meaningful souvenirs here.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the schedule is fairly fixed, some guides may be flexible about additional stops or activities if arranged in advance or upon request.

This Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Centre Tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife education, authentic animal encounters, and support for conservation efforts. It’s best suited for those who want a guided, intimate experience rather than a large, impersonal safari. The inclusion of private transport, small group size, and knowledgeable guides makes it a safe, comfortable choice for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

While the extra costs for park access may be a consideration, many travelers find the experience well worth it—especially when you get to hand-feed giraffes and watch adorable baby elephants at close range. If you’re looking for an authentic, meaningful way to connect with Kenya’s wildlife and support its conservation, this tour is a solid pick.

References

Source: Viator.com