Day Tour: Giraffe Center,Elephant Orphanage& Carnivore Lunch

Traveling to Kenya often conjures images of vast savannahs, iconic wildlife, and vibrant local culture. For those eager to get a taste of both the country’s gentle giants and its lively culinary scene in a single day, the Day Tour to the Giraffe Center, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and Carnivore Restaurant offers an engaging blend of wildlife encounters and delicious eats. This experience, priced at $195 per person, promises a balanced mix of educational insight and authentic Kenyan flavors.

From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the journey begins with close encounters with endangered Rothschild giraffes, followed by heartwarming stories of rescued elephants, and finally a feast of prime meats at one of Africa’s most famous eateries. This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, foodies, or anyone seeking a full day of sightseeing that balances conservation education with indulgent dining.

One thing to keep in mind is the optional $45 conservation fee for Nairobi National Park access, which is a must if you wish to visit the Elephant Orphanage. This trip offers excellent value for a comprehensive and authentic Kenyan experience, especially if you’re interested in learning about local conservation efforts while enjoying some of the best grilled meats.

Key Points

• Wildlife close-up with Rothschild giraffes at the Giraffe Center
• Heartwarming stories of rescued elephants at the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
• Authentic Kenyan cuisine at the Carnivore Restaurant with unlimited prime meats
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into conservation and local culture
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours
• Additional fee for Nairobi National Park access if you choose to visit the Elephant Orphanage

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

This full-day tour stands out for its well-rounded approach to showcasing Kenya’s wildlife and food culture in one seamless, accessible package. It’s particularly appealing because it combines the chance to come eye-to-eye with giraffes, learn about elephant rescue efforts, and then refuel with a legendary meat feast. We love that it’s designed to give visitors a meaningful look at conservation while also offering a fun, interactive dining experience.

While the itinerary is packed, it’s manageable within a day, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire for authentic, memorable moments. The only potential drawback is the mandatory conservation fee for the Elephant Orphanage, which isn’t included in the base price but is a worthwhile contribution to wildlife preservation.

This tour suits those who value a mix of education and entertainment, are keen on wildlife conservation, and enjoy hearty, social meals. It also works well for travelers wanting a convenient, guided experience rather than navigating these sites alone.

What to Expect: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Giraffe Center: Up Close and Personal with Endangered Giraffes

Your day begins with a pickup around 8 AM from your Nairobi hotel or residence. The first stop is the Giraffe Centre, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the endangered Rothschild giraffe. The drive itself is a pleasant introduction to the outskirts of Nairobi, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature.

Once there, you’ll be guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the ongoing efforts to protect these gentle giants. The highlight is the raised observation platform, which allows you to feed these majestic giraffes directly from your hand, often leading to amusing and memorable moments—trust us, these giraffes are surprisingly friendly and curious.

Visitors also have access to an auditorium where talks about conservation are held, giving context to the giraffe’s endangered status and the importance of their preservation. Several reviews mention that guides are well-informed and eager to share stories about the giraffes’ breeding programs and challenges they face.

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: Tales of Rescue and Rehabilitation

Next, you’ll head to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, open strictly between 11 am and 12 noon. This timing is crucial—miss it, and you miss the experience. Here, you’ll witness adorable rescued baby elephants and learn their personal stories. Guides are praised for their passionate storytelling, which makes the experience both educational and heartwarming.

The orphanage is a sanctuary for elephants that lost their mothers to poaching, injury, or other tragedies, and it’s clear that the staff are dedicated to their rehabilitation. Visitors often comment on the emotional connection they feel as they watch these young elephants being fed and played with, with many noting that it leaves a lasting impression.

Be aware of the extra $45 conservation fee needed to access Nairobi National Park if you wish to visit the Elephant Orphanage, which many consider a worthwhile investment given the emotional and conservation value of the visit.

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Lunch at Carnivore Restaurant: A Meaty Celebration

Following the wildlife visits, the tour concludes with a lively lunch at Carnivore Restaurant, famed for its all-you-can-eat meat buffet. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere is fun and vibrant, with staff in traditional striped aprons and straw hats moving swiftly around the table.

The meal kicks off with a hot soup of the day, followed by a sizzling cast-iron platter filled with prime cuts of beef, ostrich, lamb, pork ribs, crocodile, chicken wings, sausages, and more. The Masai swords are used to carve generous portions directly onto your plate, making the experience both interactive and delicious.

Accompanying the meats are a variety of salads, vegetables, and sauces, which help balance the hearty flavors. The circulating of meats is timed, with a white flag signaling when to halt, ensuring everyone gets a fair share. Many reviews highlight how filling and satisfying the meal is, with some wishing for a bit more variety, but overall, the quality of the meats is praised.

Dessert and coffee wrap up the feast, and after a relaxed post-meal period, your driver transports you back to your hotel.

The Value of This Tour

At $195, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines wildlife conservation education with an iconic culinary experience. The price covers entry fees to the Giraffe Center and the Elephant Orphanage, as well as your lunch at Carnivore. The only additional cost is the optional $45 conservation fee for Nairobi National Park access, which many see as a worthwhile contribution to wildlife preservation.

The guides are frequently highlighted for their knowledge and enthusiasm, often sharing behind-the-scenes insights that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and interact with the guides.

Transport is comfortable and reliable, with convenient pick-up and drop-off at your Nairobi accommodation. The tour’s timing is suited to avoid the midday heat, and the schedule allows for a relaxed yet full day.

Highlights for Travelers

• Wildlife encounters with giraffes and elephants that feel intimate and genuine
• The educational component that explains conservation efforts without feeling overly academic
• A robust and flavorful lunch that showcases Kenya’s legendary meat dishes
• The opportunity to support wildlife through optional fees and donations
• The informative guides who bring stories to life with their passion and knowledge
• Flexibility in booking and cancellation, perfect for planning in advance

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to combine wildlife education with a cultural and culinary adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate up-close animal encounters and are interested in conservation efforts. Food lovers will enjoy the Carnivore’s hearty meat feast, especially if they’re open to trying unusual meats like crocodile or ostrich.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the guided nature of the tour and the interactive activities make it accessible and engaging. It’s not designed for those seeking a long safari drive or detailed wildlife photography, but rather for an authentic, balanced glimpse into Kenya’s natural and culinary riches.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this tour offers a balanced snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife and food culture. The visit to the Giraffe Center and Elephant Orphanage provides meaningful interactions with animals that have inspiring stories of rescue and conservation. The meal at Carnivore delivers a satisfying and authentic taste of Kenya’s famous culinary tradition, making it a memorable highlight.

The tour’s cost reflects its inclusiveness, providing entry, guide services, and a hearty lunch—all in a single day. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable staff, you’ll leave with both a better understanding of conservation efforts and a full belly from the legendary feast.

For travelers seeking a straightforward yet enriching experience that showcases Kenya’s wildlife and culinary treasures, this tour hits the mark. It’s a well-curated, practical way to see and taste Kenya in one go, especially if your time is limited but your curiosity is endless.

FAQ

Do I need to pay extra for the Elephant Orphanage?
Yes, there is an additional $45 per person fee for the Nairobi National Park Conservation Fee, which is required for access to the Elephant Orphanage.

What is the best time to visit the Elephant Orphanage?
The orphanage is open strictly between 11 am and 12 noon, so plan your visit accordingly.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the visits to the giraffe and elephant sanctuaries are family-friendly, and kids tend to enjoy feeding the giraffes and watching the elephants.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately a full day, starting around 8 AM and returning to your hotel afterward, with the lunch included.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers pickup and drop-off, visits to the Giraffe Center and Elephant Orphanage, and lunch at Carnivore Restaurant.

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

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and casually, with hat and sunscreen recommended for outdoor activities. Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and feeding animals.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
While not explicitly stated, most guided tours in Nairobi provide comfortable, climate-controlled transportation, making the journey more enjoyable.

To sum it up, this tour balances wildlife encounters with authentic Kenyan cuisine, providing a meaningful and enjoyable day for curious travelers. Whether you’re an animal lover, a foodie, or a bit of both, it’s a practical way to see the best of Kenya in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: