Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center Tour with Options

Planning a trip to Nairobi? If you’re eager to connect with Kenya’s iconic wildlife while learning about local conservation efforts—and maybe even getting a few memorable selfies—you’ll find this tour a compelling choice. It combines close-up animal encounters, cultural insights, and craftsmanship, all wrapped into a single day of exploring the city’s highlights.

What we love about this experience is how it feels authentic and educational without feeling rushed. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making every stop engaging. Plus, the opportunity to feed giraffes and baby elephants is unforgettable. The value for money is impressive, especially considering the inclusion of multiple attractions and transport, but keep in mind there’s an additional conservation fee for the Nairobi National Park.

A possible drawback? The tour is quite packed, so if you prefer a slow-paced, more immersive experience, this might feel a bit quick. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded snapshot of Nairobi’s wildlife, culture, and local craftsmanship without spending too much time on logistics or complex planning.

This tour fits best for first-time visitors, family groups, or anyone looking to tick several Nairobi highlights off their list in one go—especially if wildlife and supporting local artisans matter to you.

Key Points

• Authentic animal encounters: Feed giraffes and see baby elephants up close in a friendly, caring setting.
• Cultural insights: Visit the Kazuri Beads Factory, where local artisans craft jewelry and pottery.
• Flexible options: Add on visits to Karen Blixen Museum, Bomas of Kenya, or Nairobi National Park depending on your interests.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides like Kelvin, Jonathan, and Steve bring local stories to life.
• Convenience: Hotel transfers and roundtrip transport make it easy to enjoy without the stress.
• Value for money: At $35 per person, you get multiple attractions, knowledgeable commentary, and hassle-free logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What to Expect and How It’s Set Up

This tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a real plus for travelers wanting to maximize their day without worrying about navigating Nairobi’s traffic or booking taxis. The transport is comfortable, clean, and reliable, with guides like Kelvin, Jonathan, or Steve often praised for their friendliness and local knowledge. Depending on which package you choose, the tour includes entry tickets to the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and other options like the Karen Blixen Museum or Nairobi National Park.

Visiting the Giraffe Center

Your first stop is the Giraffe Center, a semi-wild sanctuary where Rothschild’s giraffes roam freely. Here, you’ll have the chance to feed these gentle giants—an experience many reviews describe as playful and memorable. The giraffes are used to close human interaction, making it easy to get up close and snap some Instagram-worthy photos. Reviewers mention the highlight of feeding giraffes, with one noting, “feeding the giraffes was a nice experience,” and another saying, “being able to feed and be so close to the animals was brilliant.”

The center is also educational, with guides explaining the efforts to conserve these endangered animals. It’s a meaningful visit that underscores the importance of wildlife preservation, which many travelers find inspiring.

The Elephant Orphanage: Heartwarming and Educational

Next, you visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, famous for its work rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants. You’ll see baby elephants frolicking in their enclosure and learn about their rescue stories—something that often tugs at heartstrings. Multiple reviews highlight how emotional and touching this experience is, with one guest commenting, “watching the baby elephants run in for their feeding was genuinely moving.”

The orphanage is situated within Nairobi National Park, which means visitors must pay the park conservation fee (USD 43 for adults, USD 23 for children). The tour operator usually guides you on how to pay this fee via the eCitizen platform, a step that can seem a bit complicated if you’re not used to Kenyan online processes, but guides are usually helpful.

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Crafting with Local Artisans at Kazuri Beads Factory

After the animal encounters, the tour takes a cultural turn at the Kazuri Beads Factory. Here, you’ll see women passionately creating beautiful beads and pottery by hand, supporting local employment and craftsmanship. This stop is often praised for its vibrant atmosphere and the chance to purchase unique souvenirs directly from artisans. Several reviews mention the impressive craftsmanship and the stories behind each piece, making this more than just a shopping stop—it’s a glimpse into local entrepreneurship.

Some travelers note that souvenirs can be overpriced, with one reviewer advising against spending too much on simple jewelry, as similar items are widely available at lower prices elsewhere.

Optional Add-Ons for a Richer Day

The tour offers various add-ons, allowing you to customize your experience. You might visit the Karen Blixen Museum, a charming house at the foot of Ngong Hills, or explore the Bomas of Kenya, which showcases traditional Kenyan tribal villages with dance performances. For wildlife enthusiasts, a game drive in Nairobi National Park is also available—a fantastic way to see more wildlife, although it does require an additional fee of USD 43.

The Practicalities

The entire day is designed for convenience. With hotel pickup and drop-off, you avoid the hassle of transport logistics. The tour typically lasts around 6-8 hours, depending on the options chosen and traffic conditions — Nairobi traffic can be unpredictable, as some reviews mention. The group size tends to be small, often just a handful of travelers, enhancing the personal feel and allowing guides to give more tailored attention.

Experience Highlights and Authentic Insights

Guides like Kelvin and Jonathan are consistently praised for their friendliness, patience, and extensive knowledge. They share stories about the rescue efforts at the Elephant Orphanage and conservation projects at the Giraffe Center, adding depth to the visit. One reviewer noted that their guide, Jonathan, went out of his way to make the day special, including helping with park entry paperwork and even stopping for coffee when everyone was parched—small gestures that make a big difference.

The Value Proposition

At $35 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It combines wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and local craftsmanship—something you’d spend much more time and money trying to piece together independently. The inclusion of hotel transfers simplifies logistics, and the flexibility to add optional activities makes it adaptable to different interests.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors to Nairobi wanting a broad overview of the city’s wildlife and culture in one well-organized day. Families and solo travelers alike will appreciate the mix of interactive animal experiences and cultural stops. It’s also a great choice if you’re short on time but want an authentic, meaningful introduction to Kenya’s environment and artisans.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced, engaging look at Nairobi’s natural and cultural gems, with the added benefit of knowledgeable guides who make the experience both educational and fun. The chance to get close to giraffes and elephants, combined with cultural visits like the Kazuri Beads Factory, result in a day packed with memorable moments—without breaking the bank.

While the schedule can feel a little packed, the overall value, authenticity, and guide expertise make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable day exploring Nairobi’s best. Whether it’s your first trip to Kenya or a repeat visit, this tour captures the spirit of the country’s wildlife and local creativity beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book this tour in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy travel seasons. You can reserve online and pay later, offering flexibility.

Are hotel pickups available?
Absolutely. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making planning easier and removing transport worries.

What is included in the price?
The $35 fee covers roundtrip transportation, entry to the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and optional sites like the Kazuri Beads Factory. Some attractions like Nairobi National Park require an additional conservation fee paid separately.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, you can choose different options to include places like the Karen Blixen Museum, Bomas of Kenya, or a game drive in Nairobi National Park.

How long does the tour last?
Typically, the full experience lasts about 6-8 hours, depending on the options chosen and traffic conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially with close-up animal encounters. Just ensure children can handle a full day of sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, and don’t forget sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Pets are not allowed at the attractions. Also, you’ll need to pay the Nairobi National Park conservation fee via the eCitizen platform.

Can I visit the attractions separately without a tour?
Yes, but you’ll need to arrange transport and tickets independently, which can be more complicated than booking this guided tour.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, according to the tour provider’s policy.

This tour strikes a practical balance between wildlife, culture, and local arts, making it a rewarding experience for anyone keen to explore Nairobi beyond its bustling streets. Prepare for adorable animals, engaging guides, and a window into Kenya’s efforts to protect its natural heritage—all in one accessible, well-paced day.

You can check availability for your dates here: