Elephant Orphanage, Giraffee Center, Karen Blixxen Meseum

Travelers heading to Nairobi often look for meaningful ways to connect with Kenya’s iconic wildlife and culture without breaking the bank. This tour, rated 4.6 out of 5 from five reviews, offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kenya’s conservation efforts and history—all for only $27 per person. It’s a fantastic option for those who love animals, cultural stories, and a bit of adventure, with guaranteed entry tickets that help streamline the experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to get up close with adorable baby elephants at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Second, feeding friendly Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Center is both fun and educational. Third, a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum provides a charming peek into the life of the legendary author of Out of Africa. That said, one consideration is the additional fees for conservation and entry, which you’ll need to budget for separately.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic interactions with animals, enjoy cultural stories, and prefer well-organized tours that include transportation and guided commentary. It’s ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see some of Kenya’s most beloved wildlife and historic sites without spending a fortune.

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Key Points

Affordable Price: At $27, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of guaranteed tickets.
Close Animal Encounters: Feed and learn about baby elephants and Rothschild giraffes for a memorable hands-on experience.
Cultural & Historic Insight: Visit the famous Karen Blixen Museum, perfect for literature and history lovers.
Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Kazungu, make the journey informative and engaging.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel with ease—perfect for flexible travel plans.
Additional Fees: Budget for conservation, entry, and optional extras like feeding elephants or giraffes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

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

Starting with Nairobi: Comfort and Convenience

After being picked up from your Nairobi hotel, the tour begins with a comfortable ride in a safari minivan equipped with an open roof—ideal for spotting wildlife and capturing photos. Expect the overall experience to last around a full day, making it manageable even for travelers with tight schedules.

First Stop: Giraffe Center

The Giraffe Center is often the first destination, where Rothschild giraffes roam freely in a semi-wild environment. These tall, gentle creatures are surprisingly approachable, and you’ll have the chance to feed them directly from your hand. According to reviews, guides like Kazungu add a lot of value by sharing interesting facts about giraffe traits and conservation efforts. For many visitors, feeding the giraffes is a highlight—not just for the fun of it, but also for understanding their plight.

What you can expect: The giraffes may approach quite close, giving you perfect photo opportunities. The center charges an entrance fee of about $15 (not included in the tour price), which is a small price for such an up-close encounter. Reviewers mention the process of feeding is straightforward, and the giraffes often hold their milk bottles with their trunks, making for amusing photos.

Important tip: Some visitors found the process slightly ambiguous at first, so paying close attention to guides’ instructions enhances the experience.

Next Stop: David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

The highlight for many is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, known for its dedicated care of orphaned elephants. The tour includes a walk through the sanctuary, where baby elephants eagerly wait to be fed. You’ll get to see them play, splash in water, and even discover their personal stories—each elephant has a unique background of loss and rescue.

What to expect: As one reviewer described, the chance to see elephants “gargling milk and holding bottles in their trunks” makes for a truly heartwarming sight. The youngest elephants are fed first, followed by the 2-3-year-olds, some of whom are old enough to feed themselves yet still enjoy the milk bottles.

Practical note: The $20 feeding fee for the baby elephants is an additional expense, but many find it well worth the memory. Guides like Kazungu are praised for their knowledge, making the visit both educational and touching.

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Final Stop: Karen Blixen Museum

Before heading back to Nairobi, the tour visits the famous Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the Out of Africa author. Set in a charming colonial house surrounded by lush gardens, this stop offers insights into the life of one of Kenya’s most renowned expatriates.

What you’ll see: Original furniture, photographs, and personal items create a vivid picture of Blixen’s life here. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it a relaxing way to conclude the day.

Additional info: The museum charges an entry fee of about $12 and is a favorite for literature fans or those interested in Kenya’s colonial history.

There's plenty more to explore in Nairobi

What We Loved About This Tour

Knowledgeable guides: Several reviews highlighted guides like Kazungu for their friendly, informative approach. They often went beyond the basics—sharing intriguing facts, stories, and even taking guests to extra spots like local bead factories.

Value for money: For just $27, including transportation, guaranteed entry, and guided commentary, this tour offers a comprehensive Kenyan experience that many travelers consider a bargain.

Authentic animal interactions: From feeding giraffes to watching elephants play, the hands-on nature of the activities makes this tour more memorable than a simple zoo visit.

Convenient logistics: Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, plus a safari mini-van with an open roof, make for a comfortable, immersive experience with excellent photo opportunities.

What to Keep in Mind

Additional costs: The tour price doesn’t include conservation fees ($43 USD), entry fees ($12–$20), or optional feeding fees for animals. Budgeting around $70 total is wise if you want to cover all expenses.

Timing and length: Expect the full tour to last approximately a day, with some reviews mentioning that the duration allows for a relaxed but comprehensive visit.

Longer stays in souvenir areas: Some reviewers noted the optional stops for souvenirs can take up extra time and may feel a bit commercial, so plan your day accordingly.

Weather considerations: Bring sun protection and comfortable shoes, as you’ll be outdoors for most of the day and walking around.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for animal lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a meaningful introduction to Nairobi’s conservation efforts. It suits travelers who value guided insights and want to meet iconic Kenyan animals up close, all without spending a fortune. The mix of wildlife and culture also makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to experience Kenya’s heart in a manageable day trip.

It’s less suitable for pregnant women or travelers with mobility issues, given the outdoor walking involved. But overall, it’s a well-rounded tour that balances fun, education, and cultural discovery.

Final Thoughts

This Nairobi tour offers a genuine and affordable way to connect with Kenya’s wildlife and history, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The combination of baby elephants, Rothschild giraffes, and the Karen Blixen Museum creates a well-balanced day that feeds the soul and the mind.

You’ll appreciate the friendly guides, the hands-on encounters, and the chance to get meaningful insights into Kenya’s conservation success stories. For just $27, it’s a smart choice to experience some of Kenya’s most beloved icons in one trip, with the added convenience of guaranteed tickets and easy logistics.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, this tour provides a memorable, authentic taste of Nairobi’s wild side—without the hefty price tag. Highly recommended for those seeking fun, education, and a little adventure all rolled into one.

FAQ

Are transportation and guides included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel, as well as transportation in a safari mini-van with an open roof. The driver-guide is part of the package, providing insights throughout the day.

How much do additional fees cost?
Conservation fees are $43 USD, payable by card. Entrance fees for the Giraffe Center and Karen Blixen Museum are approximately $15 and $12 USD respectively. Feeding the baby elephants costs $20 USD.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the hands-on animal activities are generally family-friendly. However, check with the provider about age restrictions for certain activities.

Can I book in advance?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot and choose to pay later, which offers flexible planning. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a sun hat are recommended. Since most activities are outdoors, dressing appropriately for the weather is wise.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience typically lasts around a day, making it manageable even for travelers with limited time.

Are there any hidden costs?
Be aware of optional extras like souvenirs or specific feeding fees, which are not included in the base price.

Is the experience authentic?
Yes, guided by knowledgeable staff, you’ll get genuine interactions with animals and insights into Kenya’s conservation projects and colonial history.

In summary, this tour offers a well-priced, enriching day exploring Nairobi’s wildlife and cultural icons. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who value authentic moments and expert guidance, all wrapped into a convenient package.