Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, & Kazuri Beads Tour

This full-day tour in Nairobi offers a compelling mix of wildlife encounters, conservation insights, and local artisan craftsmanship. It’s a fantastic way to get a well-rounded glimpse of Kenya’s rich biodiversity and vibrant cultural scene in a single morning or afternoon.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes and learn about their conservation is truly special. Second, witnessing orphaned baby elephants being cared for at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage provides both a touching and educational moment. Lastly, exploring the Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative introduces you to local artisans and their beautifully crafted jewelry, supporting community development.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the need for advance reservations for the orphanage, along with the extra park entry fee for Nairobi National Park. This might be a slight inconvenience for spontaneous travelers, but it ensures a smooth experience without missing out.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a meaningful day mixing wildlife, conservation, and cultural experiences—ideal for first-time visitors to Nairobi or those with limited time but a desire for authentic encounters.

Key Points

• Wildlife and culture combined: Visit giraffes, elephants, and artisans in one tour
• Educational experience: Learn about conservation efforts firsthand
• Supporting local artisans: Purchase handcrafted jewelry that benefits women’s cooperatives
• Advance planning required: Reserve tickets 24 hours ahead for the elephant orphanage
• Extra costs: Nairobi National Park entry fee applies
• Private, flexible tour: Includes hotel pickup/drop-off and personalized attention
• Time-efficient: Around 6 hours, making it a great morning or afternoon activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Excellent Introduction to Kenya’s Wildlife and Craftsmanship

We loved the way this tour balances wildlife encounters with cultural insights—offering a well-rounded experience that doesn’t leave you feeling rushed or overwhelmed. For first-timers, it’s a fantastic way to get a snapshot of what Nairobi and Kenya more broadly have to offer, especially for those short on time.

The Giraffe Centre is a highlight. You get to stand eye-to-eye with the gentle Rothschild giraffes, and feeding them from an elevated platform makes for an unforgettable photo op. Visitors frequently mention how “educational and heartwarming” this part of the tour is, especially if you’re interested in conservation. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to share details about efforts to protect these endangered animals, which adds depth to the experience.

Next, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is an emotional and inspiring part of the day. Watching baby elephants during their feeding time—usually around 11:00 AM—is a gentle reminder of the importance of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Reviewers say the reservation process is straightforward if booked 24 hours in advance, and the adoptive stories of each elephant are often described as touching and insightful. The additional park fee for Nairobi National Park means you’re contributing directly to conservation efforts, which many travelers find worthwhile.

Finally, the visit to the Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative offers a compelling look at local craftsmanship. Tourists enjoy seeing the handmade ceramic jewelry being created and appreciate the opportunity to buy quality souvenirs that support local women. The factory’s reputation for producing distinctive, high-quality products makes it a win-win: you leave with a beautiful keepsake, and the community benefits.

What to Expect Throughout the Day

Giraffe Center

Starting your day at the Giraffe Centre means enjoying the gentle world of Rothschild giraffes. Located in a lush environment outside central Nairobi, it’s a sanctuary dedicated to conserving these majestic creatures. The platform feeding experience is both fun and informative—expect to get quite close, and don’t forget to bring your camera. Feeding these tall animals is surprisingly intimate, and many visitors comment on how “they’re so calm and gentle, it’s almost like being around giant pets.”

The centre also offers educational displays on giraffe conservation. For those interested in wildlife preservation, this provides a great foundation for understanding Kenya’s broader biodiversity efforts.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

Next, you’ll head to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust within Nairobi National Park. Remember, you must reserve at least 24 hours in advance via their website—no walk-ins are allowed. This part of the tour involves observing the elephants during their feeding time at 11:00 AM, which is a tender and lively scene as adorable baby elephants eagerly feed on milk bottles.

Visitors often say this experience offers a meaningful connection to conservation efforts. You get to learn about each rescued elephant, their individual stories, and how the orphanage plays a vital role in their rehabilitation. The $45 park entry fee for non-residents is an added cost but directly supports the park’s ongoing work. It’s worth noting that the orphanage is inside Nairobi National Park, so you get a little safari element included.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kazuri Beads Women’s Cooperative

The final stop is the Kazuri Beads Factory, a self-sustaining women’s cooperative that produces handcrafted ceramic jewelry and pottery. Here, you can watch artisans at work, learn about their techniques, and appreciate the cultural significance of their art. Many reviews highlight how supporting local craftsmanship leaves a positive impression, with visitors often purchasing multiple pieces as souvenirs.

The factory also emphasizes empowerment, providing employment and skills training to local women. You might find the jewelry to be quite distinctive compared to mass-produced souvenirs—each piece tells a story of skill and community effort. It’s a perfect way to end the day on a positive note, knowing your purchases contribute to local development.

Additional Details That Matter

Transportation and Group Size

This is a private tour, meaning you’ll enjoy personalized attention and flexibility. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Nairobi, making logistics hassle-free. The intimate setting is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a tailored experience.

Duration and Timing

The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, typically fitting within a morning or early afternoon. It’s an efficient way to see key highlights without feeling rushed. Visiting hours for the elephant orphanage are from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, so timing your visit is crucial.

Cost Analysis and Value

At $152 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded combination of wildlife, conservation, and local arts. While there’s an additional fee for Nairobi National Park ($45), many guests find the price reasonable considering the private guide, transportation, and the depth of the experiences. The fact that you can reserve and pay later adds flexibility, especially helpful if your plans are still taking shape.

Reviews and Tips

Reviewers appreciate the ease of booking and the knowledgeable guides who explain both the wildlife and local culture. Some mention that the reserve stories help you connect emotionally with the animals, making the visit more meaningful. For those who love capturing wildlife moments, the giraffe feeding and baby elephant scenes promise plenty of photo opportunities.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a short yet impactful glimpse into Kenya’s conservation efforts and local craftsmanship. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate interactive, educational, and supportive tourism. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this tour offers meaningful encounters in a manageable timeframe.

It’s a solid choice for those interested in wildlife, community development, and authentic cultural experiences. If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized day that balances fun with learning, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Yes, for the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, reservations must be made at least 24 hours ahead via their website. No walk-ins are allowed, so planning ahead is essential to secure your spot.

Are there additional costs during the tour?
Yes, besides the tour price, you’ll need to pay the $45 Nairobi National Park entry fee if you choose to include the park. The orphanage entrance fee is included in the tour, but it’s paid cash ($20 per adult as of 2025).

How long does each stop last?
The tour is designed to last about 6 hours, with each location offering a meaningful and manageable experience that allows for photos and learning. The elephant orphanage visit is scheduled specifically at 11:00 AM.

What’s the transportation like?
The tour is private, so transportation is provided in a comfortable vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. This removes the hassle of navigating Nairobi’s traffic and ensures you stick to the schedule.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss your preferences with the guide to some extent, whether that’s spending more time at a particular location or adjusting the itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids often love seeing the giraffes and elephants, and learning about conservation can be quite engaging for them. Just ensure they’re comfortable with short car rides and walking.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended. Since you’ll be feeding giraffes and possibly walking around the workshop, comfortable shoes are advisable.

Final Thoughts

This Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, & Kazuri Beads Tour offers an authentic look at Kenya’s wildlife conservation and community efforts. It balances fun interactions with meaningful learning and supports local artisans, making it a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking a deeper connection to Nairobi.

The private nature of the tour means you can enjoy it at your own pace, with the added bonus of flexible planning. While there are some costs outside the tour fee, most guests agree the experience is valuable and worthwhile. It’s best suited for those who want a mix of wildlife, culture, and responsible tourism in a compact, thoughtfully curated package.

If you’re looking for a day that’s both inspiring and entertaining, this tour is an excellent option—offering plenty of heartwarming moments and memorable sights. Be sure to book early, plan for the park fee, and prepare for a fulfilling journey into Kenya’s conservation stories and artisan traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: