Nairobi: David Sheldrick, Giraffe Centre, and Blixen Tour

Travelers looking for a half-day adventure in Nairobi that combines wildlife conservation and cultural history will find this tour from United Safari Tours both engaging and rewarding. With a modest price of just $50 per person, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kenya’s efforts to protect its iconic animals and a peek into the life of one of Africa’s most famous writers.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the chance to get up close with baby elephants and hand-feed Rothschild giraffes, the opportunity to walk through Karen Blixen’s beautifully preserved house, and the smooth, organized transport that makes the whole morning hassle-free. The one potential drawback? The additional site entry fees—which are not included in the base price—can add up if you’re not prepared.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and cultural insights without committing a whole day. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples looking to experience Nairobi’s best in a relaxed, guided setting.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $50, including transportation and guided visits, it offers great value for a half-day experience.
• Conservation-Focused: Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where orphaned elephants are rescued and rehabilitated.
• Interactive Encounters: Feed Rothschild giraffes by hand and observe playful baby elephants in a caring environment.
• Cultural Insights: Explore Karen Blixen’s historic house and gardens to understand her life in Kenya.
• Well-Organized Tour: Transport is included, and the schedule is designed for ease, making it accessible and stress-free.
• Additional Fees: Keep in mind, entry fees are extra—budget around $80 in total for all sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Transport & Group Dynamics

The tour begins with comfortable transportation, usually in a minibus, picking you up from a central location in Nairobi. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and share the experience with fellow travelers. The timing is structured to maximize your time at each site without feeling rushed.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust: A Heartwarming Elephant Sanctuary

The first stop is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, renowned for its work in rescuing orphaned elephants. Here, you’ll see tiny, playful baby elephants, often engaging in adorable antics that melt hearts. Guides, often experienced conservationists, explain the ongoing efforts to rehabilitate these animals and release them back into the wild.

Guests report that the experience of seeing elephants in such a close, natural-like environment is unforgettable. One reviewer mentioned, “Watching the calves play and interact was genuinely touching. The staff’s dedication to conservation is evident.” Since the entry fee isn’t included, expect to pay around $20, but many agree it’s worth every cent, given the chance to witness rescued elephants up close.

Giraffe Centre: Getting Hands-On with Endangered Giraffes

Next is the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Here, visitors get the opportunity to feed these tall, graceful animals by hand, which is an experience that sticks with many travelers. The giraffes often approach politely, sticking their long, curious heads into your hand for treats.

The tour guides provide insights into why the Rothschild giraffe is endangered and what conservation efforts are ongoing. Several guests have commented on how “feeding the giraffes was a surreal, almost magical moment”, and how it offered a tangible connection to wildlife preservation.

The entry fee for the Giraffe Centre is around $15, which guests often consider a worthwhile investment for the memorable encounter.

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Karen Blixen Museum: Walk Through Literary and Colonial History

Finally, the tour concludes at the Karen Blixen Museum, housed in the original home of the author of Out of Africa. The house is beautifully preserved, with lush gardens and carefully maintained interiors that transport visitors back in time.

Walking through the rooms, you can imagine Blixen’s life in colonial Kenya, her stories, and her relationship with the land and people. Many visitors appreciate the chance to see the personal artifacts and photographs that tell her story, making history feel very real. The museum’s entry fee is about $12, adding to the overall cost, but most find it a worthwhile addition.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

The entire half-day experience is designed to be relaxed and informative, with guides sharing interesting facts about each site. The transport ensures you avoid unnecessary hassle—especially valuable if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with Nairobi.

The tour’s popularity partly stems from how well it balances wildlife encounters with cultural exploration. It’s an excellent choice if you’re after meaningful experiences without the long hours or higher costs of private safaris. Plus, the chance to see animals in conservation settings rather than just in zoos makes it a more genuine encounter.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This trip is perfect for wildlife lovers, especially those who enjoy seeing animals in a caring environment. It’s also suited for history aficionados interested in Kenya’s colonial past and literary heritage. The tour offers good value for those who want a diverse, enriching morning rather than a full-day commitment.

It’s also a great option for families or solo travelers who prefer a guided, organized outing with small group numbers, minimizing stress and maximizing interaction. However, it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, as some walking is involved.

Final Summary

This Nairobi tour from United Safari Tours provides a balanced mix of conservation, wildlife interaction, and cultural history. At just $50, it offers excellent value—especially considering the inclusion of transport and guided insights at each stop. The chance to hand-feed giraffes and see orphaned elephants up close creates memorable moments that resonate long after the tour ends.

The focus on conservation and authentic experiences makes it stand out from more generic sightseeing options. While additional fees apply at each site, most travelers agree that the access and guidance enrich the experience far beyond simply visiting the sites independently.

For travelers wanting a meaningful, manageable half-day in Nairobi—with opportunities to connect with Kenya’s iconic animals and cultural landmarks—this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for those with a keen interest in wildlife and history, and for anyone seeking a gentle yet insightful introduction to Kenya’s heart and soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Transport, guided visits to David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Giraffe Centre, and Karen Blixen Museum are included. Entry fees are additional.

How much do the site entries cost?
Expect to pay approximately $20 for the elephant orphanage, $15 for the Giraffe Centre, and $12 for the Karen Blixen Museum, totaling around $47 in addition to the base price.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially children who enjoy animals and storytelling, but keep in mind there will be walking involved and some sites may not be suitable for very young kids.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and possibly snacks if you wish.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides organized transport in a comfortable vehicle, making the morning smooth and easy.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Pregnant women, people with back problems, and wheelchair users are advised against taking this tour due to walking and accessibility considerations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Nairobi’s wildlife conservation and cultural history. It’s a perfect pick for those who want a memorable, meaningful half-day adventure with excellent value and genuine encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: