Nairobi: Elephant Orphanage Trust and Giraffe Center Tour

If you’re visiting Nairobi and want to connect with its remarkable wildlife and local craftsmanship, this tour offers a thoughtful, engaging experience. It combines a close-up encounter with baby elephants and giraffes with a glimpse into Kenya’s vibrant artisan scene, all wrapped up in a day that feels both fun and meaningful.

Three things we love about this tour are the intimate animal interactions, the knowledgeable local guides, and the chance to learn about conservation efforts firsthand. However, a potential consideration is the limited opening hours at the Elephant Orphanage, so advance planning is essential. This tour suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, appreciate cultural insights, and want a private, flexible way to explore Nairobi’s conservation projects.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Exclusive experience for your party, with personalized attention from guides who speak multiple languages.
• Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with baby elephants and see rare Rothschild giraffes in their habitat.
• Cultural Insight: Visit the Kazuri Beads factory and discover local craftsmanship and community stories.
• Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off, included entrance fees, and transportation in well-maintained vehicles.
• Early Planning Needed: Elephant Orphanage visits are limited to a one-hour window, so booking in advance is crucial.
• Value for Money: At $115 per person, combining multiple activities in one day offers a lot of authentic experience for the price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Seamless Pickup and Introduction

From the moment you book, this tour is designed to be straightforward and stress-free. The company, Perfect Wilderness Tours and Safari, emphasizes private, door-to-door service, with friendly guides who are fluent in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, and Italian. This flexibility means you can communicate your preferences easily.

Your driver and guide, who are both experienced and courteous, pick you up from your Nairobi accommodation at a time that suits you. As several reviews highlight, the drivers are professional, punctual, and eager to share local insights, making the journey itself part of the adventure.

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage

The first stop is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, known for its efforts in rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants. The official visiting hours are from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, so timing is key. The tour’s flexibility and confirmed bookings ensure you won’t miss this highlight.

Once inside, you’ll have the chance to mingle with adorable baby elephants and see teenage ones, too. These moments are truly special — hearing the stories of how each elephant arrived at the sanctuary adds a heartfelt dimension. The experience is often described as “touching” and “informative,” with guides sharing conservation messages that resonate long after.

One reviewer shared, “The visit to the baby elephants was very exciting,” emphasizing how close and personal the interactions can be. It’s a rare opportunity to see these gentle giants up close, and many find it to be a highlight of their Kenya trip.

Giraffe Center: Feeding Endangered Rothschild Giraffes

Next, the tour takes you to the Giraffe Center, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Here, you’ll learn about conservation programs aimed at protecting this rare species. The highlight is feeding the giraffes, which is both fun and educational.

Visitors often comment on how friendly and curious the giraffes are — they often poke their heads through the feeding stations, making for fantastic photo opportunities. The guides will provide background on the efforts to conserve these majestic creatures, which have seen their numbers dwindle due to habitat loss and poaching.

One traveler noted, “Returning to the Giraffe Center with those splendid creatures was outstanding,” capturing how memorable and charming this encounter is. Seeing these giraffes in a naturalistic setting, while actively participating in their care, makes the experience particularly meaningful.

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Kazuri Beads Factory: Supporting Local Artisans

An added cultural element is a visit to the Kazuri Beads factory, renowned for handcrafted pottery and beads made by local artisans, primarily mothers seeking sustainable income. You’ll observe how the beads are made, gaining insight into community projects that empower women.

This stops adds a local flavor to your day, giving you a chance to purchase souvenirs that support local livelihoods. Reviews have praised the factory for its beautiful artwork and friendly staff, making it a worthwhile detour from the wildlife stops.

Additional Options and Flexibility

Some tour packages include visits to the Nairobi National Park for an additional fee ($45 per person). This is a straightforward, affordable way to extend your wildlife experience if time permits. The tour company emphasizes owning the vehicles ensuring guaranteed daily departures, which enhances reliability.

Transportation and Comfort

All transport is via well-maintained private vehicles, ensuring comfort and safety. Many reviews mention how the vehicles are clean, spacious, and equipped to handle the day’s activities smoothly. As some guests noted, the driver’s professionalism and friendliness enhance the overall experience.

Timing and Booking Tips

Since the Elephant Orphanage has a strict visiting window, booking well in advance is advised. The tour’s flexible scheduling and “pay later” option give travelers the confidence to reserve without immediate payment, knowing they can cancel 24 hours ahead for a full refund.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who add context and personal stories, making the tour more engaging. As one traveler put it, “Meshack, the driver and guide, was very informative and friendly,” which illustrates how meaningful guided commentary can be.

The personalized service — from hotel pickup to tailored explanations — is a big plus. Many reviews emphasize how guides go beyond the basics, making you feel cared for and informed.

A common thread is the delicious food and snacks on the way, which, though not included in the package, often enhances the day. Some travelers highlight that the lunch was “super delicious” and enjoyed the local flavors.

Critiques and Considerations

A few guests mentioned that food and gift shops at some stops were disappointing — the restaurant was reportedly not great, and gift shop prices can be high. These are minor issues, but they serve as a reminder to prepare for meals or bring snacks if desired.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want a personalized and authentic experience with Kenya’s iconic animals. Its private nature and flexible schedule make it perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day without the crowds.

It’s also well-suited for those interested in conservation and local communities, as the visits to the Elephant Orphanage and Kazuri Beads highlight efforts that benefit local families. With knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages, it’s a fantastic choice for international visitors eager to learn and connect.

The value is clear — for $115, you gain access to multiple meaningful experiences, comfortable transport, and plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re after a day that’s both fun and impactful, this Nairobi tour offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

FAQ

Do I need to book the Elephant Orphanage in advance?
Yes, visits to the Elephant Orphanage Trust must be reserved beforehand, as the time slots are limited and tend to fill up quickly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, consider the age of children, as the visit involves close animal interactions and some walking. It’s best suited for kids who enjoy animals and are comfortable with wildlife.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour typically runs for a full day, with the main stops at the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center, plus the optional Beads factory visit.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the price covers private pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, as well as transportation in a well-maintained vehicle during the tour.

Can I include Nairobi National Park?
Yes, for an additional $45 per person, you can visit Nairobi National Park, which is located inside the city and offers a classic safari experience.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, camera, and some snacks or water for the day. The guides will provide insights and information along the way.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Although it’s a private tour, solo travelers can enjoy the personalized service, and guides are attentive to individual needs.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of wildlife, conservation education, and local artisan culture, all delivered with friendly, professional guides, makes this a comprehensive and authentic experience.

In summary, this Nairobi tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, cultural exploration, and community support, making it a rewarding choice for travelers wanting to see the best of Kenya’s heart and soul in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: