Sheldrick Wildlife Trust&Giraffe Center GuidedTour with FEES

When it comes to discovering Kenya’s vibrant wildlife scene, few experiences rival the chance to get close to iconic animals like elephants and giraffes. This guided tour, offered by Kana Tours & Safaris, combines visits to two of Nairobi’s top conservation sites—the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Centre—giving travelers a meaningful glimpse into Kenya’s ongoing efforts to protect endangered species. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and descriptions make it clear that it’s packed with authentic encounters and educational moments.

What makes this experience appealing? First, you get to see baby elephants being fed and playing, which is both adorable and eye-opening. Second, feeding giraffes from hand offers a unique, almost surreal photo opportunity—think “kissing a giraffe.” Third, the inclusion of a visit to a local bead factory adds a cultural touch that many wouldn’t expect. On the flip side, some may find the busy nature of the giraffe feeding a bit overwhelming, especially during peak times. This tour seems perfect for animal lovers, families, or anyone eager to see Kenya’s wildlife conservation work firsthand while enjoying a manageable half-day trip from Nairobi.

Key Points

• Authentic animal encounters with baby elephants and giraffes
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and flexibility
• Affordable price point offers great value considering the included entries and activities
• Visiting two renowned sites in one tour saves time and maximizes sightseeing
• Cultural experience at the Kobe bead factory adds local flavor
• Group size and timing are optimized for an engaging yet relaxed outing

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust & Giraffe Center Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

This guided day trip is an excellent way to witness Kenya’s ongoing wildlife conservation efforts. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who want to combine animal encounters with cultural exposure—all while maintaining a reasonable schedule and budget. The tour offers a good mix of education, fun, and insight into Kenya’s efforts to save some of Africa’s most beloved animals.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup within Nairobi, making it a seamless start. This collected approach is advantageous, especially if you’re staying in the city and prefer not to navigate public transport or taxis. The first stop is the Giraffe Centre, located about 12.5 miles (roughly 20 km) from Nairobi’s city center. This sanctuary specifically rescues and conserves the endangered Rothschild giraffe, one of Africa’s tallest and most delicate species.

The giraffe feeding experience is a highlight. You are handed pellets to feed the giraffes directly from your hand—an experience described as “priceless,” and photo-worthy, especially when it looks like you’re sharing a gentle kiss with these gentle giants. The center is more than just a feeding site; it’s an educational hub that promotes awareness about giraffe conservation.

Following this, the tour moves to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, located within Nairobi National Park. This is perhaps the most emotionally compelling part of the day. Here, you’ll witness orphaned baby elephants being fed, playing, and receiving care from dedicated keepers. The trust is a pioneer in hand-rearing orphaned elephants, a process developed over decades by Dame Daphne Sheldrick. Visitors are often touched by the personal stories shared by the keepers about each baby’s background and how they were rescued.

What to Expect at the Elephant Orphanage

The elephant sanctuary offers a relaxed, informal viewing experience, with elephants coming up close to the rope barrier. You’ll see adorable moments like calves taking milk bottles or splashing mud during their casual mud baths. The keepers provide informative commentary about each elephant, detailing how they were orphaned, their names, and their personalities.

One reviewer noted that “the elephant experience is amazing,” and appreciated the guides’ knowledge, which added a personal touch to the visit. The fact that some calves are assigned a keeper for 24 hours highlights the level of care involved. The orphanage also promotes the importance of reintroducing these animals into the wild once they’re strong enough, emphasizing the conservation mission.

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Additional Experiences

Apart from the main attractions, the tour includes a visit to the Kobe bead factory, where you can watch local artisans craft beautiful jewelry and learn about traditional bead-making techniques. This stop is a delightful cultural addition that allows travelers to support local craftsmanship and bring home authentic souvenirs.

Logistics and Pricing

For $78 per person, this tour offers impressive value. It includes all entrance fees ($20 for the elephant orphanage, $15 for the Giraffe Centre), plus a free bottle of water—a small but thoughtful touch. The entry fees alone amount to $55, which underscores how much of the cost goes directly toward conservation efforts and site maintenance.

The package also covers free pick-up and drop-off within Nairobi, removing the hassle of arranging transport. Optional extras like lunch are available for purchase, and there’s the possibility to reserve and pay later, adding flexibility for your planning.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with children, animal enthusiasts, or anyone interested in Kenya’s conservation stories. It’s an ideal half-day activity—allowing you to enjoy wildlife without a long drive or complex schedule. Those who appreciate guides that are friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible—based on reviews—will find themselves well looked after.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While generally praised, some might find the busy nature at the Giraffe Centre slightly overwhelming during peak hours. Also, the chaotic entry process at the elephant orphanage was mentioned by a reviewer, suggesting that arriving early or being patient can make the experience smoother. The tour does not include lunch or the additional KWS conservation fee, which travelers should budget for separately if they wish to support further conservation efforts.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The tour’s price of $78 per person covers significant ground—visiting two major wildlife sites, witnessing heartwarming animal care stories, and supporting local crafts. Compared to standalone visits, it offers a well-rounded overview of Kenya’s wildlife preservation in a compact format. Plus, with the guides’ attentiveness and flexibility, you’re more likely to have a personalized encounter rather than a rushed, cookie-cutter experience.

Authentic Encounters and Educational Value

What sets this tour apart is the personal stories shared by guides like Faith, who received praise for her friendliness and sense of humor. Such guides help turn a sightseeing trip into a meaningful learning experience. Seeing orphaned elephants being cared for, and giraffes being fed by hand, turns abstract conservation into tangible moments you’ll cherish.

Cultural and Conservation Impact

Visiting the Kobe bead factory adds a layer of cultural appreciation, supporting local artisans. Meanwhile, your participation indirectly contributes to Kenya’s wildlife conservation. The fees paid to the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage go directly toward ongoing care and breeding programs—an aspect many travelers find meaningful.

Convenience and Flexibility

The hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Nairobi. Being able to reserve and pay later offers peace of mind, and the short duration makes it an easy addition to a busy itinerary or a first day activity to ease into Kenyan safari life.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour balances education, entertainment, and conservation seamlessly. It delivers authentic, up-close animal encounters with the comfort of a well-organized package. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach can elevate what might otherwise be a typical sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Ideal for those seeking a half-day adventure that highlights Kenya’s dedication to protecting endangered species, this tour offers a genuine connection with animals that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or with friends, it’s a solid choice for a meaningful, fun, and well-priced outing.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes free pick-up and drop-off within Nairobi, making it hassle-free for travelers staying in the city.

What are the entrance fees included?
The price covers the elephant orphanage entry fee ($20), the Giraffe Centre entry fee ($15), and the optional bead factory visit.

Can I support conservation efforts during this tour?
While the fees pay for site maintenance and animal care, you may choose to support further by purchasing souvenirs or supporting additional activities like the KWS conservation feed, which is payable separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The close-up encounters with baby elephants and giraffes are especially popular with kids, and the relaxed pace suits families well.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without upfront payment, providing flexibility. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are there any restrictions during the tour?
Drones are not allowed, and it’s advisable to arrive early to avoid the busiest times and a potentially chaotic entry at the elephant orphanage.

To sum it up, this guided tour offers a genuine glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts in a friendly, manageable format. It’s particularly suited for animal lovers, families, and travelers wanting a meaningful experience that’s both fun and educational. With knowledgeable guides, authentic animal interactions, and cultural touches, it promises a memorable day out that supports vital conservation work.

You can check availability for your dates here: