Nairobi: National park Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center

Exploring Nairobi in a single day might seem ambitious, but this tour from Felmu Tours and Safaris makes it doable and memorable. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, a close look reveals an experience packed with the chance to see Kenya’s iconic wildlife and adorable creatures up close—without the need for lengthy safaris or complex arrangements.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on authentic interactions: you get to see elephants at a baby sanctuary, gaze at giraffes at their dedicated center, and enjoy a safari drive within Nairobi National Park. The convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off makes the logistics straightforward, especially if your time is limited. Plus, the small group size promises a more intimate experience, which often translates to better opportunities for photos and personal engagement.

However, one thing to consider is the entry fee structure. While the tour price is quite affordable at $58 per person, you will need to budget extra for the park, Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe Center entrance fees—especially if you’re keen on visiting all three spots thoroughly. Also, since the prices vary for each entry, having cash and credit options handy will make your visit smoother.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded wildlife experience in Nairobi but have limited time. It suits families, solo adventurers, or small groups looking for a hassle-free, educational day with some of Kenya’s most loved animals.

Key Points

• Convenience: Hotel pick-up and drop-off simplify your day.
• Cost-effective: Affordable base price with transparent additional entry fees.
• Close encounters: Opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, and other native wildlife.
• Authentic experiences: Visit the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center for up-close animal interactions.
• Guided tour: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
• Flexible booking: Book now, pay later, and cancel with ease.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This full-day adventure begins with a hotel pick-up, making the journey stress-free—no need to worry about arranging transport or finding your way around. The first stop is Nairobi National Park, a unique urban safari destination where you might catch sight of lions, zebras, rhinos, and giraffes against the city skyline. While the guide’s insights are not specifically detailed, their role in pointing out wildlife and helping with photography is invaluable—especially in a park where animals often appear unexpectedly.

Next, you’ll visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, renowned for caring for baby elephants rescued from various parts of Kenya. The entrance fee here is $20 cash, and reviews highlight the joy of witnessing these tiny pachyderms up close, often during feeding or playtime. Visitors often mention the heartfelt stories of resilience and the chance to learn about elephant conservation efforts, making this visit both fun and meaningful.

The final stop is the Giraffe Center, where the famous Rothschild giraffes roam freely and visitors can feed them from a platform. The $15 credit card fee ensures a cashless experience at the gate, which is handy for many travelers. Guests often describe the giraffes as friendly and curious, offering great photo opportunities and a rare chance to interact directly with these gentle giants.

Throughout the day, bottled water is provided, and the guide’s commentary enhances the experience by sharing local insights and answering questions. The entire tour typically lasts around a full day, with enough time at each location to enjoy the animals without feeling rushed.

What to Expect at Each Location

Nairobi National Park offers a surprisingly diverse safari experience within a short drive from the city center. While some visitors note that the park’s wildlife can be spotted more easily in the early morning, the afternoon visits still provide excellent sightings. The park’s open plains, acacia trees, and occasional rocky outcrops create a beautiful backdrop for wildlife viewing. Keep your camera ready, as the views are often stunning, especially with Nairobi’s skyline in the distance.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a highlight for animal lovers. Visiting during the dedicated feeding times (usually in the morning or late afternoon) is rewarding, as you witness tiny elephants being fed and playing. The sanctuary’s mission to rehabilitate and release elephants makes it more than just a sightseeing spot—it’s an inspiring look at conservation in action.

Giraffe Center feels like stepping into a storybook. The giraffes are used to visitors and often approach the platform eagerly, sticking their long necks through the feeding window. It’s an engaging, tactile experience that combines education with fun. Many reviews mention how they appreciated the chance to learn about giraffe conservation efforts, which adds depth to the visit.

Practical Details

The tour costs $58 per person, which covers the guide and bottled water. Remember, the entrance fees for each location are paid separately ($3.2 for the park, $20 for the Elephant Orphanage, and $15 at the Giraffe Center). Having cash and credit card options available is recommended, especially as the Elephant Orphanage only accepts cash.

Timing-wise, expect a full day, with pick-up scheduled early to maximize your time. The small group size often results in a more relaxed pace and better interaction with your guide. The guide, though not named in the reviews, is described as knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.

Transport is comfortable and includes door-to-door service, so there’s no fuss about navigating Nairobi’s busy streets or finding parking—an important perk in a bustling city.

Authenticity and Value

For just $58, this tour offers a well-rounded wildlife experience that balances adventure, education, and conservation. Seeing elephants, rhinos, and giraffes in close proximity, especially with young animals at the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center, creates lasting memories. The price is fair considering the convenience and the chance to see Kenya’s wildlife without venturing far from Nairobi.

While some visitors mention that the park’s wildlife sightings can vary, the overall experience remains engaging, particularly for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The added value of knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics makes this a popular choice among travelers wanting a snapshot of Kenya’s iconic animals.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want a day packed with wildlife encounters without the hassle of long-distance safaris. It appeals to families, solo travelers, or small groups who enjoy seeing animals in natural or semi-natural settings and want to learn more about conservation efforts. It’s also a good option if your time in Nairobi is limited and you’d prefer an organized, informative tour rather than trying to do it solo.

It’s best suited for those comfortable walking and standing for periods, and who appreciate a mix of wildlife, education, and cultural insight packed into one accessible day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes convenient pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, making it simple to join without extra planning.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $58 per person, excluding entrance fees which are paid separately at each location.

Are the entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are paid separately: $3.2 for Nairobi National Park, $20 cash for Elephant Orphanage, and $15 credit card at the Giraffe Center.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and binoculars are recommended to maximize your wildlife viewing experience.

Can I pay with a credit card?
Yes, the Giraffe Center accepts credit cards, but the Elephant Orphanage only accepts cash.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, it’s a family-friendly experience with opportunities for children to see and learn about animals up close.

How long does the tour last?
It typically fills a full day, with enough time at each location to enjoy the animals and take photos.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

This Nairobi tour offers a practical yet enriching way to experience Kenya’s wildlife within a city setting. The combination of game viewing, conservation-focused visits, and close animal interactions makes it ideal for travelers seeking a snapshot of Kenya’s natural beauty without the need for extended safaris. The clarity on costs, ease of logistics, and authentic animal encounters make it a solid choice for those with limited time but big wildlife ambitions.

For anyone eager to meet elephants and giraffes firsthand, especially if visiting Nairobi for just a day, this tour provides a well-balanced, memorable experience. The affordability combined with the opportunity to see iconic species in a relaxed environment delivers real value—making it a standout option for wildlife enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: