Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage and Bomas of Kenya Tour

A Practical Look at the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas of Kenya Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Nairobi and want a well-rounded taste of Kenya’s wildlife and cultural heritage, this tour offers a nicely balanced day out. While it may not be perfect, it delivers memorable moments and some unique insights into conservation efforts and traditional arts.

What we particularly like about this experience are the close encounters with Rothschild’s giraffes, the chance to meet rescued elephants, and the vibrant cultural performances at Bomas of Kenya. The opportunity to learn about conservation firsthand and watch traditional dances is genuinely enriching.

However, a couple of points for consideration are the potential for short visits at key stops—some travelers mention feeling rushed and waiting longer than expected for pickups and drop-offs. Also, the optional extra for Nairobi National Park can add significant costs if you want the full experience.

This tour suits travelers interested in wildlife, culture, and local craftsmanship who want a straightforward, guided day without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you’re okay with a busy schedule and want a snapshot of what Kenya has to offer in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with Rothschild giraffes and rescued elephants.
• Cultural Experiences: Enjoy traditional dances and performances at Bomas of Kenya.
• Authentic Insights: Learn about conservation efforts directly from guides and at the centers.
• Value for Money: At $115, it covers a lot—entrance fees, transport, and entertainment—but some visits can be brief.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Small group tours offer a more personal experience, with flexible booking options.
• Additional Costs: Optional park entry fees are extra; lunch is at your own expense.

What the Tour Entails and Why It Matters

Starting at 8 AM, the tour kicks off with a pick-up from your Nairobi accommodation. From there, the journey to the Giraffe Centre is a smooth drive, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about the day ahead. This center is dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, which is critically threatened in the wild.

What makes the Giraffe Centre special is the opportunity to feed these graceful creatures from an observation platform. Imagine standing eye-to-eye with a giraffe, its gentle eyes and long tongue making for a memorable photo op. The center not only offers a chance for fun but also educates visitors about ongoing efforts to protect and breed these animals, which is vital given their declining numbers.

A common highlight, based on reviews, is the guide’s knowledge. For example, Tristan praised their guide as “excellent, speaking softly and being very friendly,” which enhances the experience and makes learning about conservation feel more personal. Some travelers, however, felt their time was hurried, with only brief moments allocated to each activity, which can leave you wishing for more.

Next is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a well-known center for rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants. Here, you’ll see adorable baby elephants and learn their stories—how they came to be at the orphanage after losing their mothers to poaching or accidents. The visit is scheduled strictly between 11 am and 12 noon, so timing matters. Visitors have noted the emotional impact of seeing these tiny elephants and hearing their stories, which adds depth to the day.

A notable point from reviews is the extra cost involved—USD43 per person for the Nairobi National Park entrance fee if you want to extend your wildlife viewing beyond the orphanage. Some travelers found this worth it, others felt it was an additional expense to consider.

The third stop is a visit to the Kobe/Kazuri Beads Factory, where you can watch artisans craft beautiful beads and pottery. This nod to Kenya’s rich craftsmanship offers a chance to buy locally made souvenirs directly from the source. It’s a great way to support small-scale artisans and pick up authentic Kenyan crafts.

Lunch is typically at a local restaurant such as Bomas of Kenya or Tamambo. While the meal itself is not included in the price, the venues offer a chance to enjoy Kenyan cuisine while soaking in a relaxed atmosphere before the cultural show begins. The Bomas of Kenya stage is the highlight here, showcasing vibrant traditional dances, poetry, music, and even fashion shows.

Performances run daily from 2:30 pm to 4 pm, and reviewers have enjoyed this lively display of tribal talent. The shows are lively, colorful, and full of energy—perfect for anyone interested in Kenyan culture or seeking a lively afternoon escape.

The Realities: What to Expect and Potential Shortcomings

While the itinerary is packed with meaningful activities, some travelers feel the visit at each stop is a bit rushed. Reviews indicate that the Giraffe Centre might feel quick, with only a short window to interact with the giraffes—some say the time was “very short and rushed.” The Elephant Orphanage similarly offers a brief but impactful visit, though some found it “amazing yet short.”

The Bomas of Kenya show is also somewhat like a cultural sampler—packed into about an hour and a half, but some visitors mention it feels like an “afterthought,” overshadowed by the other activities. However, the dance performances themselves are praised as “great entertainment.”

Transportation seems generally smooth, with the tour operator providing a small group setting, which helps keep things intimate. One review pointed out an issue where passengers had to wait an hour for the return ride due to added stops—highlighting the importance of being flexible and prepared for minor delays.

Regarding food, some travelers opted out of the restaurant lunch out of concern for safety, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat elsewhere if you’re wary of roadside eateries.

The Cost and What You’re Getting

At $115 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines wildlife, craftsmanship, and culture. The price covers entrance fees to the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage, the bead factory visit, and the cultural show at Bomas of Kenya.

However, note that Nairobi National Park is an optional extension costing an extra USD43, which some travelers may find worthwhile if wildlife viewing is a priority. The tour does not include lunch, so budgeting for a meal during the day is advisable.

Given the included activities, the overall value is decent, especially considering the chance to see three key attractions in one day with a guide who can enrich your understanding of each location. Still, keep expectations realistic—some visits may feel brief, and the experience is best suited for those who want a broad overview rather than an in-depth exploration.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife and culture without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. It’s well-suited for first-timers to Kenya, families, or anyone wanting a quick but meaningful introduction to Nairobi’s highlights.

Those interested in conservation efforts will appreciate the educational component at the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage. Culture buffs will enjoy the energetic performances at Bomas of Kenya, which showcase authentic Kenyan traditions.

However, if you prefer unhurried visits or longer interaction times, this might not be the ideal choice. Also, if wildlife viewing is a priority, consider whether the additional fee for Nairobi National Park fits your budget and interests.

Final Thoughts

This tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of Kenya’s iconic wildlife and vibrant culture, all wrapped into one day. You’ll come away with memorable moments—feeding giraffes, meeting playful elephants, and watching captivating tribal dances.

The guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, help bring these attractions to life. The experiences are authentic and meaningful, especially if you’re curious about conservation and local traditions.

That said, the packed schedule and brief visits mean it’s best suited for travelers who want a taste rather than a deep dive. It’s a good value for the price, provided you’re comfortable with a full day of activity and some minor logistical hiccups.

If you’re after a straightforward, fun-filled day that combines wildlife, craftsmanship, and culture, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off within Nairobi, with transport arranged by the tour operator.

What is the cost of the park entrance fee? The entrance fee to Nairobi National Park is USD43 per person and is paid directly at the park gate, if you opt for the extension.

Are meals included? No, lunch is at your own expense. The tour visits a local restaurant where you can buy food.

Can I customize the trip? The tour is set as a small group experience; modifications are limited, but you can keep your options flexible by booking the “pay later” option.

How long is each stop? Expect brief visits—some travelers mention feeling rushed, especially at the giraffe and elephant centers.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children who enjoy wildlife and cultural performances should find it engaging, but keep in mind the schedule is busy.

What if I want to see more animals? The tour offers the option to add a visit to Nairobi National Park for an additional fee, which is recommended if wildlife viewing is a priority.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and maybe some snacks—especially if you’re wary of roadside eateries during lunch.

In sum, this tour offers a practical, engaging, and culturally rich day out that balances wildlife with traditional Kenyan performances. It’s perfect for those wanting an introduction to Kenya’s natural beauty and cultural vibrancy without overextending their schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here: