Nairobi National Park and Elephant Orphanage(with fees)

If you’re planning to visit Nairobi and want a taste of safari life without venturing too far from the city, the Nairobi National Park and Elephant Orphanage tour offers a compelling mix of wildlife spotting and heartfelt conservation stories. This tour is especially ideal if you’re short on time but craving authentic animal encounters in a setting that combines urban convenience with wilderness adventure.

What we love about this experience? First, the early morning game drive provides the chance to see lions, rhinos, and other wildlife when they’re most active — a true thrill. Second, the opportunity to meet and even touch baby elephants at the orphanage makes this visit uniquely personal. Lastly, the guided insight helps you understand Kenya’s ongoing efforts to protect and rehabilitate its iconic species.

One consideration? The short window at the elephant orphanage (11:00 am to 12:00 pm) means timing is key — it’s a tight schedule that could feel rushed if you’re expecting a more leisurely exploration.

This tour suits travelers looking for a compact, meaningful wildlife experience that balances adventure, education, and a touch of emotional connection. Perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time in Nairobi.

Key Points

• Close proximity to Nairobi makes this a convenient, quick escape into the wilderness.
• Early morning game drive maximizes wildlife sightings, especially predators and rhinos.
• Touching baby elephants offers an intimate, memorable conservation experience.
• All-inclusive fees cover park entry, orphanage visit, and transportation, providing good value.
• Guided tour with a knowledgeable driver ensures you see a variety of animals.
• The timing and schedule are tight but well-organized, ideal for a half-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary and Starting Point

The tour kicks off at 6:00 am, with hotel or airport pickup, setting you up for an early start — a smart move for wildlife viewing, as animals are most active during dawn. Your guide, likely someone with local expertise, will transport you in a proper safari vehicle with a pop-up roof—perfect for spotting and photographing animals from all angles.

Once at Nairobi National Park, you’ll begin a main gate game drive. Expect to traverse various habitats within the park, which surprisingly, is located just minutes from Nairobi’s city center. The park’s unique location means you might see rhinos and lions getting ready for their day, quietly lounging or stalking through the grasslands—if you’re lucky, these majestic creatures will be out and about early morning.

The guides aim to maximize your sightings and share insightful information about the animals and their behaviors. Many reviews highlight that the guides are attentive and passionate, often sharing little-known facts that bring the experience alive. Some noted that their guide, David, had a knack for spotting wildlife in dense bush and was eager to answer questions.

The Elephant Orphanage: Heartwarming Encounters

After approximately two hours of game viewing, you’ll head to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, a short drive away, which opens exclusively from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. This timelimited window is when the orphanage hosts visitors, giving you a chance to get up close with the baby elephants.

The orphanage is a sanctuary where orphaned elephants are cared for and rehabilitated with the ultimate goal of returning them to the wild. As you walk the grounds, you’ll learn about the circumstances that led to each elephant’s rescue—be it poaching, human-wildlife conflict, or accidents. The guides offer touching stories about the elephants, many of whom are still quite young and playful.

Visitors have described the experience as “emotional and educational,” with opportunities to touch and feed the elephants. One reviewer noted, “It was incredible to see these tiny creatures so vulnerable but surrounded by people dedicated to their survival.” This part of the tour adds a human and emotional element, setting it apart from typical game drives.

Lunch and Return

Following the orphanage visit, you’ll have about an hour for lunch at your own expense—many travelers recommend grabbing a quick bite nearby or packing snacks to save time. Afterward, you’ll be transported back to your hotel or the airport, with the tour wrapping up around early afternoon.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $220 per person covers a lot:

• Entry fees for Nairobi National Park and the Elephant Orphanage
• Transport in a suitable safari vehicle with a roof hatch for optimal wildlife viewing
• Guided commentary from experienced drivers

However, it excludes lunch and drinks, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat in town afterward. The newly imposed conservation fees are included in the price, ensuring your visit supports local wildlife initiatives.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Book in advance and confirm your pickup location to ensure smooth logistics.
• Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend into the environment and avoid startling animals.
• Carry binoculars if you want closer views of distant animals—though the safari vehicle’s roof hatch helps in this regard.
• Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the wildlife and elephants up close.
• Arrive early to maximize sightings; the early morning hours are prime time for predators and rhinos.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a quick, impactful safari day close to Nairobi. It suits those interested in conservation, wildlife photography, or simply wanting to see Africa’s iconic animals without the expense or time commitment of a longer safari. Families, first-time visitors, and wildlife enthusiasts will find this tour both rewarding and manageable.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful combination of wildlife viewing and an emotional connection with Kenya’s conservation efforts. The early start and relatively short schedule make it a practical choice, especially if you’re tight on time or arriving in Nairobi. The guidance and vehicle quality add to the overall value, helping you see a good variety of animals without feeling rushed.

While the schedule is packed, it delivers a fulfilling glimpse of Kenya’s natural world right on the doorstep of the city. The chance to touch and learn about baby elephants leaves a lasting impression, making this experience more than just a typical game drive.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and accessible safari day in Nairobi, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine wildlife encounters with a conservation story, all within a manageable timeframe.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups start at 6:00 am, so plan to be ready a little before that to avoid missing the start.

What animals are most likely to be seen during the game drive?
Expect to see rhinos, lions, and a variety of other wildlife. Early mornings are the best time for predator sightings and rhino activity.

How long is the game drive?
The game drive lasts approximately two hours, giving you a good chance to spot different animals and capture photos.

Can I touch the baby elephants?
Yes, during the short visit to the orphanage from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, you will have the opportunity to see, and in some cases, touch or feed the elephants.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, camera gear, and possibly binoculars. Snacks are optional since lunch isn’t included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who are interested in animals and wildlife will find this tour engaging, though age restrictions might depend on individual policies.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

This tour truly offers a snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife, combining the thrill of game viewing with a meaningful conservation visit. It’s a smart, cost-effective way to add authentic wildlife experiences into your Nairobi itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: