Nairobi: Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center Day Tour

Travelers looking to spend a meaningful day in Nairobi often consider this popular tour that combines wildlife encounters with local craftsmanship. The Nairobi Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kenya’s conservation efforts and artisanal traditions, all at an accessible price point of around $35 per person.

From the moment we hear about the opportunity to feed baby elephants and interact with Rothschild’s giraffes, it’s clear this experience offers more than just sightseeing. It’s about engaging with Kenya’s wildlife and culture in a real, authentic way. While some may find the overall value depends on certain logistics—like entrance fees and optional extras—many find it a worthwhile introduction to Nairobi’s highlights. This tour is especially perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Kenya’s wildlife and craftsmanship without breaking the bank.

Three things we love about this experience:

• The chance to feed and get close to Majestic Rothschild’s giraffes in their semi-wild habitat
• Watching adorable baby elephants being fed and playing in the sanctuary
• The opportunity to learn about local beadwork craftsmanship and create your own jewelry

A potential downside: The tour’s reviews reveal that some travelers experienced cancellations or issues with refunds, so confirming booking details and flexibility is important. Plus, entrance fees are not included unless you opt for the package that covers them, which adds to the overall cost.

This tour is best suited for animal lovers, families, and culturally curious travelers eager for a hands-on, affordable Nairobi experience. Now, let’s walk through what you can expect and why these stops matter.

Key Points

• Wildlife conservation in action: See giraffes and elephants up close while learning about Kenyan efforts to preserve these species.
• Interactive experiences: Feeding giraffes and baby elephants makes this tour memorable.
• Authentic local crafts: The Kazuri Beads Factory provides insight into Kenyan artisanship.
• Value for money: At $35, it’s an affordable way to see iconic wildlife and support local craftsmanship.
• Logistics matter: Includes hotel pickup, transportation, guide, and bottled water but not the entrance fees unless specified.
• Caution with bookings: Some reviews note cancellations and refund issues, so stay flexible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Entails

This Nairobi day tour kicks off with hotel pickup, making logistics straightforward. From there, your first stop is the Giraffe Center, home to Rothschild’s giraffes, a species that’s rare and critically endangered. Here, you’ll get a rare opportunity to observe these tall, elegant creatures in their semi-wild environment. One of the highlights is feeding the giraffes, which is often described as a gentle, almost surreal experience. You’ll likely find the guides knowledgeable, sharing insights about giraffe conservation.

Viktoriia’s review mentions that her guide, Hadascar, was “a great guide” and that the trip was “very nice,” especially at the giraffe center. This reflects the general sentiment that guides add a lot of value, making the experience more informative and enjoyable.

Next, your adventure continues at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary dedicated to caring for orphaned elephants. Here, you’ll observe playful baby elephants being fed and see the trainers, or keepers, tenderly caring for them. The young elephants often frolic in the water, creating charming photo opportunities. The sanctuary also educates visitors about the threats faced by elephants and ongoing conservation efforts, making it both an adorable and meaningful stop.

A note from a traveler highlights that “they watched the youngest elephants being fed”, and that seeing the playful antics of 2-3-year-olds grasping their milk bottles with trunks was particularly charming. The sanctuary’s focus on rescue, rehabilitation, and education adds depth to what might otherwise be a simple animal encounter.

Finally, the tour wraps up at the Kazuri Beads Factory, where artisans craft colorful beads and pottery. This visit offers a glimpse into local craftsmanship, with opportunities for visitors to make their own jewelry. It’s a creative break from wildlife, giving travelers a chance to appreciate Kenyan artistry and perhaps purchase souvenirs directly from the artisans.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation & Group Size: The tour includes transportation from your hotel, typically in a shared vehicle, which helps keep costs down and allows for casual conversations with fellow travelers. The group size isn’t specified exactly but is likely small to medium, fostering a more intimate experience.

Duration & Timing: Expect a full-day experience, with the itinerary likely spanning about 6-8 hours, including travel time between sites. The tour usually begins with hotel pickup and ends with a drop-off back at your accommodation, making logistics hassle-free.

Cost & Value: At $35 per person, the base price is quite reasonable considering the stops. However, note that entrance fees for Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center are not included unless you choose the option that covers them. Entrance fees are approximately US $43 for adults at Nairobi National Park (not included here), and similar fees may apply for these sites if you opt to pay on arrival.

What to Bring: Comfort is key—wear comfortable shoes since there’s some walking involved at each site. Also bring water, especially if you visit during warm weather, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for sun protection.

Important Restrictions: Pets are not allowed, and it’s wise to book in advance to secure your spot. If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, adding flexibility.

Real Traveler Insights & Tips

The tour’s authentic charm partly comes from the guides, who seem to make a difference. Viktoriia’s review praised her guide, Hadascar, emphasizing the trip’s quality. Conversely, some reviews mention unexpected cancellations, so travelers should confirm their bookings and be prepared for possible changes.

The experience of feeding giraffes is often highlighted as a unique highlight—just be mindful that the animals can be surprisingly gentle and inquisitive, so keep your camera ready. The elephants at the sanctuary are equally engaging, especially for families or animal enthusiasts.

The visit to the Kazuri Beads Factory adds a cultural touch, offering insight into local women’s craftsmanship. Making your own jewelry not only creates a fun souvenir but also supports the local community.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, animal lovers, and those new to Nairobi who want a balanced mix of wildlife and culture. It offers a good introduction to Kenya’s conservation efforts while providing engaging, up-close animal interactions. It’s also a solid option for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided day without the high costs associated with larger safaris or private tours.

However, those seeking an exclusive or luxury experience might find the tour somewhat straightforward. Also, travelers who prefer to skip optional expenses like entrance fees could want to budget accordingly.

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Final Thoughts

This Nairobi tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to encounter some of Kenya’s most iconic animals and artisan crafts. The opportunity to feed giraffes and watch adorable elephants in a sanctuary setting makes it an emotionally rewarding experience. Plus, the visit to Kazuri Beads adds a cultural flavor that enriches the trip.

While there are some caveats—like the possibility of cancellations or additional entrance fees—the overall experience remains a solid choice for travelers looking to combine wildlife encounters with cultural insights. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate engaging guides, authentic experiences, and value for money.

If you’re visiting Nairobi and want a meaningful, yet simple day trip, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to confirm your booking, keep an open mind about potential changes, and enjoy these special encounters with Kenya’s gentle giants and talented artisans.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
Not unless you select the option that covers them. Otherwise, you will need to pay entrance fees separately at the sites, which are approximately US $43 for adults at Nairobi National Park.

How long is the tour?
It typically lasts about 6-8 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, with stops at the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Kazuri Beads Factory.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from your hotel in Nairobi, making it easy to join without worrying about logistics.

Can I make jewelry at the Kazuri Beads Factory?
Yes, the tour offers a chance to make your own jewelry with skillfully made beads, providing a fun, hands-on experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s some walking involved. Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is also advisable.

Are pets allowed on the tour?
No, pets are not permitted.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families and children who enjoy animals and crafts. The close-up animal encounters are usually very engaging for kids.

In essence, this Nairobi day tour offers a practical, authentic look at some of Kenya’s beloved wildlife and craft traditions. With engaging guides, meaningful interactions, and reasonable pricing, it’s a great choice for anyone wanting a taste of Nairobi’s best in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: