Giraffe, Elephant Orphanage

Planning a trip to Kenya and interested in combining wildlife encounters with cultural insights? This tour offers a well-rounded look at Nairobi’s most iconic animals and traditional traditions. Although we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a highly engaging, value-packed day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience promises memorable moments without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get up close with the giraffes and elephants—two of Kenya’s most beloved species. Second, the inclusion of cultural entertainment from the Bomas of Kenya adds a vibrant, local flavor to your day. And third, with a knowledgeable guide and private transport, everything feels smooth and personalized.
One possible drawback? The tour’s focus is predominantly on the animals and culture, so if you’re craving a more adventurous or nature-heavy safari, you might find this experience a bit more relaxed and less rugged.
This tour suits travelers looking for an enriching introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and culture in a comfortable, trusted setting.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines animal conservation sites with Kenyan cultural shows.
All-Inclusive Value: Includes entrance fees, private transport, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides make each stop informative and engaging.
Authentic Encounters: Hand-feed giraffes and learn about orphaned elephants firsthand.
Flexible & Convenient: Reserve and pay later, with a guaranteed daily departure.
Additional Costs: Lunch, drinks, and optional Nairobi National Park entry are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Nairobi’s Wildlife and Culture in One Day

This tour packs a lot into roughly a full day, making it perfect for those who want to maximize their time and experiences. Starting at 9:30 a.m., the day kicks off with a hotel pickup, which means you won’t waste time navigating on your own — a real plus if you prefer a hassle-free trip. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable ride and personalized attention, which reviewers say makes a difference, especially with friendly guides like Meshack, who was singled out for his attentiveness and great English.

Looking for more options in Nairobi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Giraffe Center: Feeding and Kissing Giraffes

Your first stop is the Giraffe Center, adjacent to the famous Giraffe Manor. Here, you’ll get a chance to learn about the Rothschild giraffe, an endangered species that is thriving thanks to conservation efforts. What’s especially delightful about this experience is the opportunity to feed the giraffes directly from your hand—and if you’re lucky, you might even get a big smooch from these gentle giants. One reviewer fondly recalled being kissed by a giraffe, describing it as a surprisingly soft and endearing moment.

The guides are excellent at setting up optimal photo opportunities, and you’ll find yourself marveling at how tall and elegant these animals are up close. The experience isn’t just fun; it’s educational, with guides explaining how conservation programs are working to protect these iconic creatures.

The Elephant Orphanage: Touching Stories and Conservation Insights

Next, you’ll visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage, home to rescued elephants. Reviewers highlight how well-organized and touching this visit is, especially as you watch the orphaned elephants being fed and hear their stories. The guides do a good job of sharing background details about each elephant, often with a personal touch that makes the experience more meaningful.

One reviewer, Louise, noted how touching it was to see the elephants being fed and to hear about the work the center does “to support orphaned elephants.” Touching some of the elephants and hearing their stories added an emotional layer that many found unforgettable. It’s a reminder of the ongoing conservation efforts in Kenya, which add purpose to this visit.

Cultural Experience at Bomas of Kenya (Note: Currently Closed)

The tour usually includes a visit to Bomas of Kenya, where traditional music and dance performances showcase Kenya’s diverse cultures. Although some recent reviews mention it was closed during their visit, the experience typically features lively performances and colorful costumes, providing a deeper appreciation of Kenyan heritage. If open, it’s a lively, engaging way to connect with local traditions.

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Optional: Nairobi National Park

For those wanting a broader wildlife experience, you can add Nairobi National Park for about $45 extra per person. This is a separate KWS-managed park, and it’s worth noting that it requires separate entry fees. Since it’s outside the core tour, some travelers choose to extend their day here for a more traditional safari experience.

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What You Should Know Before Booking

Transport & Guides: The tour is operated with well-maintained vehicles and professional, friendly guides. As one reviewer pointed out, Meshack’s local knowledge and responsiveness made the day extra special.
Timing: Starting early at 9:30 a.m., you’ll comfortably visit all sites before returning in the late afternoon.
Inclusions & Extras: Entrance fees are covered, but lunch, drinks, and optional park entry are extra costs. With a total price of $155, the tour offers excellent value considering the comprehensive itinerary.
What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes for walking around the centers and a sun hat for protection against the sun.
Flexibility: Booking is flexible with a “reserve and pay later” option, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praised the guides and the quality of the encounters. Chloe appreciated Meshack’s attentiveness, saying, “He knew the best spots to stand and get photos,” and described the entire day as “lovely.” Another traveler noted how they “managed to do four activities in one day,” highlighting the efficiency and richness of the experience.

Louise found the conservation stories at the elephant orphanage moving, especially as they could touch the elephants. The fact that some sites, like the Bomas, were closed unexpectedly didn’t dampen the overall experience, with reviews stating they still had “a fantastic day.”

How This Tour Fits Different Travelers

This experience suits first-time visitors eager to get a well-rounded view of Kenya’s wildlife and culture without the need for a full safari. It’s also great for families or couples seeking a meaningful day with memorable photo moments. If you want a relaxed, informative tour that balances animal encounters with cultural appreciation, this one checks all boxes.

However, if your idea of a safari involves a rugged, vehicle-based game drive in a large park, you might find this tour a bit more subdued. It’s designed more for close-up animal interactions and culture rather than big-game viewing.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, conservation education, and cultural entertainment, making it ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Kenya’s most famous icons without the commitment of a multi-day safari. The inclusion of personal guide service and private transport adds comfort and a personal touch, elevating the overall value.

At $155, the price reflects the quality of experiences, from feeding giraffes to touching orphaned elephants and enjoying Kenyan music and dance. The tour’s flexibility, friendly guides, and well-maintained vehicles make it a trustworthy choice for those looking to enrich their Nairobi visit with meaningful encounters.

While it’s not designed for hardcore safari enthusiasts, it delivers genuine, heartfelt moments that many travelers will cherish long after their trip ends.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel within Nairobi, making it very convenient and hassle-free.

What is the tour starting time?
The tour begins at 9:30 a.m., so plan to be ready for pickup around that time.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees to the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas of Kenya are covered in the price.

Can I visit Nairobi National Park?
You can choose to add a visit to Nairobi National Park for an extra $45 per person, but it is not included in the standard tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a sun hat are recommended, especially for walking and outdoor exposure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experiences are family-friendly, especially for children who enjoy animals and cultural shows.

What if I want to cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.

Is the tour available daily?
Yes, it’s the only company with a guaranteed daily departure, ensuring consistent availability.

Are guides English-speaking?
Yes, the guides speak English and are experienced and friendly, making explanations clear and engaging.

This Giraffe and Elephant Orphanage tour in Nairobi offers a meaningful, accessible way to connect with Kenya’s wildlife and cultural heritage. Whether you’re here for a brief visit or a day to remember, it provides a well-rounded snapshot of what makes Kenya special.