Nairobi:National Park,Elephant Orphanage&Giraffe Center Tour

Introduction
If you’re looking to get a true feel for Nairobi’s wildlife and local crafts in one day, this tour offers a practical and rewarding option. It combines a game drive in Nairobi National Park with visits to iconic animal shelters and cultural sites, making it a well-rounded experience.

What we like most? The 4-hour game drive offers ample wildlife sightings, the Elephant Orphanage provides touching animal encounters, and the Giraffe Center is a rare chance to feed and interact with giraffes. Plus, the Kobe Beads Factory gives a glimpse into local craftsmanship.

One hiccup to consider is that the entrance fees for the park, orphanage, and giraffe center are not included in the tour price, so budget around $78 extra. Still, for just $50, this tour offers a good value considering all the engaging stops. It’s perfect for animal lovers, those keen on cultural insights, or travelers with limited time who want a rundown of Nairobi’s highlights.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $50, it covers multiple attractions with a variety of experiences.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect a 4-hour game drive with chances to see cheetahs, lions, rhinos, and more.
• Animal Conservation Focus: Visits to the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center support important wildlife efforts.
• Local Crafts: The Kobe Beads Factory adds a cultural dimension, showcasing local artisanship.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel easily up to 24 hours in advance.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their insights, making each stop informative and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Nairobi’s Wildlife: What to Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup times starting around 5:20am to 6:00am, depending on your hotel location. The early start is key for maximizing your day, especially on a trip that packs so much into a single day.

Nairobi National Park
The highlight for many is the 4-hour game drive through Nairobi National Park, a unique urban wilderness. The guides are experienced, often sharing interesting tidbits about the animals and their behaviors. Expect to see a variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, hyenas, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. Bird lovers will also find plenty to watch.

One reviewer noted, “The game drive was fantastic; I loved the way the guides pointed out animals I wouldn’t have noticed on my own.” With a pop-up roof van, you get unobstructed views, ideal for photography and wildlife spotting. The park entrance fee is $43 per adult and $25 per child, which is an additional cost to keep in mind.

Elephant Orphanage
Next, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a favorite among visitors. Not only can you see these adorable baby elephants, but you also get the chance to feed them, which is a truly special experience. Guides here are knowledgeable about conservation efforts, adding an educational layer. One review mentioned that “the staff was so passionate, explaining how the orphanage helps rescued elephants grow and eventually reintegrate into the wild.” The entrance fee is $20 per person.

Giraffe Center
The Giraffe Center offers a close-up view of Rothschild’s giraffes, an endangered species. Visitors can interact directly with the giraffes, feeding them from a platform. This makes for memorable photos and a tangible connection with these gentle giants. The entry fee is $15 per person.

Cultural and Craft Stops
To round out the day, the tour visits the Kobe Beads Factory, where you learn about local bead-making traditions. It’s an opportunity to appreciate Kenyan craftsmanship and even purchase souvenirs. Many reviewers appreciated this stop for its relaxed pace and cultural insights.

The Value and Practicalities

At just $50, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the included experiences like the game drive and animal interactions. The main cost is the additional entrance fees—around $78 in total—so budgeting accordingly is wise.

Transportation is in a van with a pop-up roof, which is comfortable for wildlife viewing and keeps the group small enough for personal interaction. Early pickup means you avoid the crowds and have the best chances for animal sightings.

What sets this tour apart is the reputation of guides—several reviewers praised their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience richer. Since the tour is booked through Dollare Tours, you get the flexibility of reservations with pay later options and free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind.

In-Depth Look at Each Stop

Nairobi National Park
The park’s proximity to the city makes it a standout feature. You’ll get a sense of wild Africa just minutes from urban life. The guides are skilled, often sharing interesting facts about animal behaviors or park conservation efforts. Many travelers view this as a rare chance to experience wildlife without traveling far from Nairobi.

One review highlighted the guide’s expertise in spotting a hidden black rhino, which is a rare sighting elsewhere. The game drive offers enough time—around four hours—for a thorough safari experience, and the open vehicle design ensures excellent photography opportunities.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
This is arguably Nairobi’s most beloved wildlife attraction. The orphanage’s mission to rescue and rehabilitate elephants makes your visit meaningful. Visitors appreciate the chance to watch calves being fed and learn about the conservation challenges faced. A reviewer mentioned, “It was heartbreaking yet inspiring to see these tiny elephants and hear about how they are saved from poaching or human-wildlife conflict.”

The facility is well-organized, and guides are friendly, offering insights into each elephant’s story. Visiting here not only entertains but also supports a conservation project, adding purpose to your trip.

Giraffe Center
Feeding the Rothschild’s giraffes is a highlight, especially for families or animal lovers. The center is designed specifically for interaction, and many reviews mention that the giraffes are surprisingly gentle and curious. “The giraffes licked my hand, which was both a bit strange and incredibly cool,” one visitor shared.

The center also provides educational materials about giraffe conservation, emphasizing the importance of protecting this endangered species.

Kobe Beads Factory
This stop offers a relaxing look into Kenyan artistry. Guided by local artisans, you’ll see how beads are crafted and learn about their cultural significance. Travelers often purchase unique souvenirs here, and many appreciate the chance to support local artisans directly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, as these are paid on-site and not included.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor walking and wildlife viewing.
• Carry a hat and sunscreen; Nairobi can get quite sunny, especially early in the morning.
• Bring binoculars and a camera—the vistas and wildlife opportunities are plentiful.
• Early pickup means an early start—be prepared for a long, fulfilling day.
• Hydrate—bottled water is provided, but having your own is always handy.

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Who Would Benefit Most?

This tour is ideal for animal lovers eager to see wildlife in a relatively accessible setting, families seeking an engaging day with kids, and cultural enthusiasts interested in local crafts. It’s also well-suited to those on a budget, as it offers a comprehensive experience for a modest price, with additional costs for entry fees.

Travelers wanting a smooth, guided experience with knowledgeable guides will appreciate the professionalism and insight provided. It’s a great way to cover the highlights of Nairobi’s wildlife and culture without the hassle of arranging individual visits and transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Nairobi hotel, making logistics easy.

How long is the game drive?
The game drive lasts approximately four hours, providing ample time to see a variety of animals.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe Center are paid separately—expect about $78 in total.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and consider hats and sunscreen for sun protection.

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

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and kids, especially since it offers interactive animal experiences.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English, ensuring clear explanations and guides’ insights.

Overall, this Nairobi tour offers a balanced, authentic experience packed with wildlife, cultural visits, and conservation education. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, value-driven day that covers the city’s most engaging highlights without feeling rushed. With friendly guides and a variety of stops, it provides a comprehensive introduction to what makes Nairobi truly special.

You can check availability for your dates here: