Nairobi National Park, Sheldrick Elephant, Giraffe Centre Tour

This full-day experience promises an efficient way to see some of Nairobi’s best attractions, especially if you’re short on time but craving an authentic, wildlife-rich adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed itineraries highlight what makes it a popular choice for travelers eager to get close to Kenya’s famous animals and cultural landmarks.

What we love about this tour is the seamless organization, the chance to see big game like lions and rhinos in their natural habitat, and the opportunity to interact intimately with giraffes and elephants. The all-in-one nature of the trip means you get a well-rounded glimpse into Nairobi’s wildlife and heritage, without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

One thing to keep in mind is the admission fees—they aren’t included in the base price and can add up, which might catch some guests off guard. This tour tends to suit those who appreciate guided convenience, value a knowledgeable guide, and want to maximize their time in Nairobi. Perfect for animal lovers, families, or anyone wanting a rundown of the city’s top sights without the stress of logistics.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines wildlife safaris with cultural and conservation sites in one day.
• Hassle-Free Travel: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring comfort and convenience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Douglas and Watson receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and efficiency.
• Wildlife Encounters: Safaris that often maximize spotting opportunities, including the Big Five.
• Authentic Close-Ups: Interactions with giraffes and elephants offer memorable, personal experiences.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees and optional visits (like museums) are extra and should be budgeted.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers transportation in an open-top safari van, which means you’ll have unobstructed views of wild animals. Bottled water is provided, and the driver/guide is a key element—many reviewers rave about how guides like Douglas and Watson elevate the experience with their passion and local knowledge.

However, admission fees such as $43 for Nairobi National Park, $15 for the Giraffe Centre, and $20 for the Elephant Orphanage are paid separately. Some reviews mention that these costs, along with optional activities like the Karen Blixen Museum or Boma of Kenya, aren’t included in the initial price, so plan your budget accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pickup and Nairobi National Park Safari

Starting as early as 5:30 am, your day kicks off with the thrill of catching wildlife in the early hours when animals are most active. Expect about 4 hours in the park, where seasoned guides like Watson and Douglas excel at positioning vehicles to maximize sightings. Guests typically report seeing lions, rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest, often within close range—some lucky travelers have even seen three of the Big Five.

The safari vehicles are open-roof, providing panoramic views that make for fantastic photos. Reviewers mention that guides are proactive about getting you close to animals, sometimes even bypassing queues at popular spots like the Giraffe Centre.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

After the park, the tour heads to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where you can see rescued baby elephants being cared for. Many reviewers highlight the emotional experience of witnessing these young animals and learning about Kenya’s conservation efforts. Entry is paid separately, but visitors often comment on how touching and well-run the sanctuary is.

Giraffe Centre Experience

Next, you’ll visit the Giraffe Centre, where feeding the graceful Rothschild giraffes becomes a highlight. Reviews frequently mention how close guests can get to these gentle giants—some even being able to feed them directly, creating unforgettable photo moments. The entry fee is paid separately, but the interaction is highly valued, especially by families.

Optional Cultural and Craft Stops

Some versions of the tour include a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum or the Kobe Beads Factory. While these add cultural depth, some travelers have expressed disappointment when these stops aren’t included or are less emphasized. The tour also offers a chance to explore local markets or craft centers, adding an authentic cultural touch to the wildlife focus.

Highlights and Why They Matter

Wildlife Spotting and Photography

Guests consistently praise the expert navigation of guides like Douglas and Watson. Their knack for spotting animals quickly and positioning the vehicle for optimal views leads to memorable sightings. One reviewer shared that Watson managed to get them into the giraffe sanctuary without queuing, which saved valuable time and added to the experience.

Close Encounters with Giraffes and Elephants

Many describe feeding giraffes or observing elephants in a setting that feels personal. These interactions turn wildlife viewing into tactile, memorable moments, rather than just photos from a distance.

Early Start and Flexible Scheduling

Starting early allows you to beat the crowds and catch animals at their most active. According to reviews, guides are flexible and know how to adapt the schedule based on animal movements or traffic conditions, making for a more efficient day.

Expert Guides and Friendly Service

Guides like Douglas and Watson receive glowing feedback for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. Guests often mention how their guides go beyond just driving—they share insights, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

Value for Money

At $50 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day out—especially considering the included transportation and guiding. Entry fees are additional, but reviews suggest that the quality of sightings and interactions justifies the cost. Several travelers expressed that the trip was “worth every penny” for the wildlife experiences alone.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

From the moment you’re picked up, expect a well-organized, energetic start—many reviews mention guides arriving early and being ready to go. The open-top safari vehicle is ideal for unobstructed wildlife viewing, and the pace of the day is flexible enough to allow for spontaneous animal sightings or photo stops.

During the safari, you’ll likely see a variety of animals, including lions, rhinoceroses, giraffes, and zebras. Reviewers have been especially impressed with how close they’ve gotten to lions and elephants, often within a few meters. The guides’ ability to position the vehicle for optimal viewing is a recurring theme in positive reviews.

At the elephant orphanage, expect a moving experience and a chance to learn about Kenya’s conservation efforts. The giraffe centre offers a hands-on opportunity to feed giraffes, which many travelers find delightful and engaging.

Optional cultural visits, such as the Karen Blixen Museum, provide a window into Kenya’s colonial history, although some reviews note these are not always included or might require an extra fee or separate planning.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Budget for entrance fees: They’re not included in the base price, so plan accordingly.
• Bring cash or online payment options: Some visitors mention the need to prepay or pay extra for park entries.
• Dress comfortably for early mornings and outdoor activities: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials.
• Prepare for a full day: The tour lasts around 8 hours, so bring snacks or extra water if needed.
• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 26 days ahead, so secure your spot early.

Final Thoughts

This Nairobi tour offers a practical, well-rounded safari experience, perfect for visitors wanting a mix of wildlife, conservation, and cultural highlights. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, open-roof vehicles, and close animal encounters make it standout value, especially given the positive reviews praising the guides’ expertise and friendliness.

While additional costs for admissions and optional stops can add up, many guests feel that the quality of sightings and interactions more than justifies the price. The early start and flexible scheduling mean you’ll have a full, rewarding day with plenty of opportunities to see Kenya’s iconic wildlife up close.

Ideal for families, first-time safari-goers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive taste of Nairobi’s highlights, this tour delivers a memorable adventure packed into just one day.

FAQs

• What time does the tour start?

Pickup begins from 5:20 am to 6:00 am, depending on your hotel location, ensuring an early start for prime wildlife viewing.

• Are hotel pickups included?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.

• How long does the tour last?

The entire day runs for approximately 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

• Are admission fees included?

No, entry fees for Nairobi National Park ($43), Giraffe Centre ($15), Elephant Orphanage ($20), and others are paid separately.

• Is the transportation comfortable?

Yes, the safari van with an open roof offers excellent visibility, and many reviews mention guides being attentive and professional.

• Can I see the Big Five?

While sightings depend on luck and animal activity, guides are skilled at locating lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and leopards.

• What should I bring?

Bring cash or online payment methods for entrance fees, plus sun protection, water, and a camera.

• Is this suitable for children?

Yes, many reviews mention family-friendly guides and interactions, especially feeding giraffes and visiting the elephant orphanage.

• Are there optional stops?

Yes, some versions include cultural sites like the Karen Blixen Museum or bead factories, but confirm with your booking.

• What if I need to cancel?

Free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility for your plans.

This tour offers a rich, hassle-free way to experience Nairobi’s wildlife and culture. Whether you’re a first-time safari traveler or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, it promises memorable moments—especially when guided by experts who truly love what they do.