DayTour David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Trust And Giraffe

If you’re planning a trip to Nairobi and want a meaningful experience that combines wildlife, conservation, and local craftsmanship, this day tour offers a well-rounded introduction. It’s a popular choice for those eager to connect with Kenya’s iconic animals while also learning about the efforts to protect endangered species and support local communities.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the chance to get up close with rescued orphaned elephants at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll learn about their stories and ongoing conservation efforts. Second, you’ll have the opportunity to feed and take selfies with the Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Center, an experience that’s both fun and educational. Third, the visit to the Kazuri Beads factory adds a cultural touch, supporting local women and showcasing Kenyan craftsmanship.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is the limited time at the Elephant Orphanage, which is only open for just one hour between 11 am and 12 noon. This might feel rushed for some visitors wanting a more in-depth experience. Still, for those with a day in Nairobi and a love for wildlife, this tour strikes a good balance of education, interaction, and cultural insight.

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone interested in Kenyan conservation efforts, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s efforts to protect and celebrate its animals.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Meet rescued elephants and feed Rothschild giraffes—close-up experiences you’ll treasure.
Educational Focus: Learn about conservation efforts directly from guides and at the Kazuri Beads factory.
Cultural Insights: Support local women artisans and explore Kenyan craftsmanship.
Flexible Planning: Optional visits like the Karen Blixen Museum can be added at no extra transport cost.
Value for Money: For $174, including entrance fees and private transportation, it offers good value for a full day’s experience.
Time Management: The limited open hours at the Elephant Orphanage mean punctuality is important to maximize your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

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Hotel Pickup and Welcome

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup within Nairobi, making it convenient and easy to start your day. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable ride while maintaining flexibility around timing, allowing you to relax without the hassle of navigating public transport.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

The highlight for many visitors, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, is a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants. The tour schedule confines your visit to a one-hour window between 11 am and 12 noon, which is strictly maintained. During this time, you’ll be able to mingle with baby and teenage elephants, observing their playful antics and learning their stories from knowledgeable guides.

Guests often mention the emotional impact of these stories—elephants arrive after losing their families to poaching or human-wildlife conflict, and the staff’s dedication to their care is evident. One reviewer pointed out, “The guides are very informative, making sure you understand each elephant’s background and the conservation message behind their rescue.”

However, the time constraint means you’ll need to arrive promptly to fully enjoy this segment. The fees for entrance are included in the tour, but it’s worth noting that it costs around $23 USD if booked individually, so doing this guided tour offers convenience and value.

Giraffe Centre

Next, you’re taken to the Giraffe Center, home of the Rothschild giraffe, one of the most endangered giraffe subspecies. Here, you’ll have the chance to feed the giraffes directly from a raised platform, which provides a fun, up-close interaction. Many visitors appreciate the selfie opportunities, as these gentle giants are surprisingly tolerant of human presence.

Guides usually take time to explain the giraffes’ unique biology and the conservation efforts to save this subspecies. This place is perfect for snapping photos and gaining insights into giraffe behavior and challenges facing their survival. The center is a long-standing conservation project, so your visit also supports their ongoing work.

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Kazuri Beads Factory and Cultural Insights

After the giraffe encounter, the tour includes a visit to the Kazuri Beads factory, a social enterprise that produces beautiful handmade beads and pottery. What makes this stop special is the story of empowerment behind it—it’s a business that employs single mothers from impoverished neighborhoods, giving them a chance at financial independence.

Visitors get to see the entire production process, from raw clay to finished jewelry, gaining appreciation for Kenyan craftsmanship. Several reviews highlight the authenticity and local flavor of this stop, with one guest noting, “I loved seeing how each bead is made by hand and hearing the stories of the women who craft them.”

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Optional Extension to Karen Blixen Museum

At this point, the tour is flexible. You can choose to head to a lunch break or, at no extra transport cost, visit the Karen Blixen Museum, famous for its portrayal in “Out of Africa.” This optional stop adds historical depth, giving you a glimpse into colonial Kenya and one woman’s impact on the region.

Return and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, making it a hassle-free experience. If you opt for lunch, you’ll have time to relax before heading back.

What to Know About the Pricing and Value

The $174 per person price covers entrance fees to the Giraffe Center, professional guiding, hotel pickup and drop-off, and private transport. You’ll appreciate the seamless logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Nairobi’s traffic or short on time.

Additional costs include food and drinks, which are not included, and optional entrance fees to the Elephant Orphanage, costing about $23 USD if visited separately. The Nairobi National Park fee of $45 USD applies only if you extend your day with a game drive, which some travelers might choose for extra wildlife viewing.

Considering the inclusion of transport, guided explanations, and visits, this tour offers good value for wildlife lovers and cultural explorers wanting a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

The Experience Provider: Black Santa Safaris

Black Santa Safaris has a reputation for well-organized, personal tours. The guides are known for being knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience engaging and informative. They also accommodate flexible scheduling, such as visiting the Karen Blixen Museum at no extra transport cost.

The Sum Up

This tour is a solid choice for those wanting a balanced mix of animal encounters, conservation education, and cultural insight within a single day. The opportunity to get close to rescued elephants and giraffes is unforgettable, especially with guides who are eager to share their expertise.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value authentic interactions over rushed visits, and for families or groups seeking a meaningful, educational experience. The inclusion of a visit to Kazuri Beads adds a local flavor that enriches the overall day, supporting community-based projects.

While the limited hours at the Elephant Orphanage mean punctuality is important, the overall itinerary is well-paced, providing a comprehensive snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts and cultural richness. For a reasonable price and seamless logistics, this tour offers a memorable, family-friendly adventure.

FAQ

What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour centers on wildlife conservation and cultural experiences, including visits to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Center.

How long is the time at the elephant orphanage?
You have a strict one-hour window between 11 am and 12 noon to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour fee covers entry to the Giraffe Center and the Elephant Orphanage, along with guiding and transportation.

Can I visit other sites like the Karen Blixen Museum?
Yes, the tour offers the option to visit the museum at no extra transport cost, depending on your schedule.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring your camera for photo opportunities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The close-up interactions with elephants and giraffes are especially popular with families.

Do I need to pay extra for the national park?
The Nairobi National Park fee is $45 USD if you choose to extend your day with a game drive, but it’s not included in the base tour price.

This full-day tour blends wildlife, culture, and community support, making it a well-rounded experience for those seeking to connect with Kenya’s essence without overloading their schedule.