Nairobi: National Park, Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe Tour

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day in Nairobi that combines wildlife encounters with cultural insights, this tour from Exellent African Wilderness Tours is a solid choice. It covers some of the city’s most iconic attractions—all in one seamless, full-day package.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its balance of wildlife spotting, interactive animal encounters, and cultural factory visits. Plus, the affordable price of $70 per person makes it accessible for most travelers. The third highlight that caught our eye is the insightful guide-led commentary, which adds context to each stop. Nonetheless, a potential downside is the additional entry fees for the key sites, which aren’t included in the base price, so budget accordingly.

This tour is a great fit for animal lovers, families, and curious travelers who want to see Nairobi’s best without spending days on separate excursions. If you’re short on time but eager to explore both wildlife and local crafts, this tour deserves your consideration.

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines wildlife, conservation, and cultural visits.
• Expert Guides: Known for knowledgeable guides who share insightful stories.
• Multiple Attractions: Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center, and Kobe Beads factory.
• Value for Money: At $70, it offers a good mix of experiences; but keep in mind extra entry fees.
• Flexible & Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
• Ideal for Animal & Culture Enthusiasts: Tailored for those eager for close animal encounters and learning about local crafts.

This tour packs a lot into a single day, making it an ideal way to get a broad sense of Nairobi’s wildlife and community life. Starting early, usually with hotel pickup around 5:20-6 am, you’re on your way to a full but manageable day of adventure.

Nairobi National Park: The First Encounter

The journey begins with a 4-hour game drive in Nairobi National Park, which is surprisingly close to the city center. Here, the safari vibe is real—expect to see lions lounging in the grass, giraffes gracefully nibbling leaves, and zebras grazing peacefully. The safari van, equipped with a pop-up roof, allows for excellent photo opportunities, especially when spotting elusive predators like cheetahs or the rare black rhino.

One reviewer mentioned how the guide’s knowledge made the experience more meaningful, pointing out animal behaviors and conservation efforts. This is important because Nairobi National Park isn’t just about spotting animals; it’s also about understanding the importance of preserving these species.

The park’s entrance fee of $43 per person isn’t included, but many find the overall experience worth the extra spend. The park’s proximity to Nairobi’s urban setting offers a unique contrast—wildlife against the skyline—that keeps the landscape interesting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Elephant Orphanage: Heartwarming Conservation

Next, the tour moves to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Here, you get to see young elephants that have been rescued and are in rehabilitation, learning to survive in the wild. The guided tour offers insights into the elephants’ stories and the ongoing conservation work.

One reviewer shared how feeding the elephants was a highlight, describing it as a “touching and memorable experience.” The $20 entry fee is reasonable considering the intimate encounter with these gentle giants. Visitors are often impressed with how knowledgeable the guides are about animal conservation, offering context that elevates the visit beyond just watching elephants.

The nurturing atmosphere of this orphanage makes it clear why many consider it a must-visit. It’s both educational and emotionally rewarding, especially if you’re traveling with children or animal enthusiasts.

Giraffe Center: Up Close with Africa’s Tallest

The Giraffe Center is next, where you’ll meet the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Here, the experience is interactive—you can feed the giraffes directly from the platform, a rare chance to get close to these majestic creatures without a fence barrier.

One reviewer noted, “Feeding the giraffes felt surreal,” and another mentioned how the guide’s explanations helped them appreciate the giraffe’s role in local culture and conservation. The entrance fee of $15 is a small price for such a memorable, Instagram-worthy moment.

This part of the tour is especially popular with families and anyone who wants a hands-on wildlife experience. It also offers a nice break from the more serious conservation areas, with a friendly, less intense atmosphere.

Kobe Beads Factory: A Cultural Touch

The tour wraps up at the Kobe Beads factory, where you’ll see artisans craft beautiful beads using traditional methods. It’s an interesting insight into local crafts, and many visitors enjoy browsing the handmade jewelry and souvenirs.

Some reviews mention that the factory tour is quite brief but worthwhile for understanding the craft’s cultural significance. It’s a relaxing way to end the day, offering a different perspective from the wildlife encounters—one rooted in local artistry.

The schedule is tight but well-paced. Expect early mornings with hotel pickups, followed by approximately four hours in the park, then visits to the orphanage, giraffe center, and finished with the factory tour. The entire day makes for a fulfilling experience, especially if you schedule some free time to explore or shop afterward.

Transport is in a comfortable van with ample space, and the group size allows for an intimate experience, guided by knowledgeable locals. The cost of the tour ($70) is quite fair considering the included visits, though remember the extra fees for park and site entries.

Practical Tips

• Wearing comfortable shoes and a hat is advised, as you’ll be outdoors most of the day.
• Bring a camera and binoculars—while cameras are encouraged, binoculars can enhance wildlife spotting.
• The tour starts early, so an alarm clock is your friend.
• You might find it helpful to request equipment for hire, like binoculars, if you don’t have your own.
• The tour offers flexible payment options—reserve now, pay later, which provides peace of mind.

This full-day adventure is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and culture seekers wanting an authentic taste of Nairobi’s animal conservation efforts and local craftsmanship. It’s especially suited for those with limited time who want a broad yet manageable experience. If you’re curious about African wildlife but don’t want to spend days on safari, this tour packs a meaningful punch.

This Nairobi tour offers a balanced and accessible way to explore some of the city’s most cherished sights. The combination of wildlife encounters, conservation education, and local crafts makes it a well-rounded experience. The guides’ knowledge and the thoughtfully curated stops turn a simple sightseeing day into a memorable adventure.

While the additional entrance fees add to the cost, most visitors find that the value gained—personal interactions with animals, cultural insights, and the convenience of hotel pickup—more than justifies the price. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Nairobi’s best without the hassle of planning multiple separate outings.

If you’re after a practical, engaging, and authentic day out that captures the heart of Kenya’s biodiversity and community, this tour is worth considering. It’s a delightful blend of nature, nurture, and local culture in one neat package.

Are hotel pickups included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Nairobi, making transportation straightforward.

What is the cost of entry to Nairobi National Park?
The park entry fee is $43 per person, which is not included in the base price but is worth the extra investment for the wildlife experience.

How long is the game drive in the park?
The game drive lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you ample time to spot a variety of animals and enjoy the scenery.

Can I feed the elephants and giraffes?
Yes, at both the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center, there are opportunities to feed the animals directly.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes and a hat are recommended. Bring sunscreen and possibly binoculars to enhance wildlife spotting.

Are additional fees required for the other sites?
Yes, the Elephant Orphanage ($20) and Giraffe Center ($15) have separate entrance fees. The Kobe Beads factory is included in the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, especially since children can enjoy feeding the animals and learning about wildlife conservation. It’s a family-friendly experience.

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Nairobi’s natural and cultural treasures, making it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a flexible, informative, and fun day exploring the city’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here: