Day Tour to Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center

Exploring the Day Tour to Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center

If you’re visiting Nairobi and want a meaningful, hands-on experience with Kenya’s iconic wildlife, this day tour offers a well-rounded peek into the efforts to save and protect these majestic animals. From playful elephants to tall, curious giraffes, it’s a chance to interact directly with some of Africa’s most beloved creatures, all within a manageable, budget-friendly package.

What we really love about this tour is its balance of fun and education — you get to feed giraffes and play with elephants, while also learning about conservation efforts. The accessible location within Nairobi makes the tour convenient, and the inclusion of optional visits like the Kazuri Beads Factory adds a cultural twist. However, the timing restrictions at the Elephant Orphanage (only open between 11 am and 12 noon) might require careful planning, especially if you’re tight on time.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful half-day adventure, especially those with a love for animals or family groups wanting an engaging, educational experience. If you prefer more extensive wildlife safaris or a more relaxed schedule, you might want to consider other options, but for a quick, impactful encounter, this one hits the mark.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Animal Encounters: Get close to rescued elephants and Rothschild’s giraffes in their natural, yet protected environments.
• Educational Value: Learn about conservation efforts and the stories behind the animals’ rescue journeys.
• Cultural Insights: Optional visits to local craft factories, like Kazuri Beads, highlight African craftsmanship.
• Convenient & Flexible: Pickup and drop-off from Nairobi CBD simplify logistics.
• Cost & Fees: Entry fees are separate from the tour price, with additional charges for certain sites like Nairobi National Park.
• Experience Timing: The Elephant Orphanage is only open for one hour, so punctuality is key.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup & Introduction

The tour begins with a prompt pickup at any hotel or residence within Nairobi CBD around 9:30 am. This efficient start means you avoid early morning hassle and can relax knowing transport is organized. Your guide from Valley Rocks Tours will likely introduce you to the day’s plan, setting a friendly, informative tone.

First Stop: David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The highlight for many is the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, which is only open from 11 am to 12 noon. We loved how this limited window encourages punctuality but also heightens anticipation. Within this hour, you’ll have the chance to mingle with young elephants — playful babies and slightly older teenagers — and hear their stories directly from the guides.

Reviews mention that the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing touching details about how each elephant arrived at the orphanage, their names, and future plans for release. One visitor observed, “You really get a sense of the elephants’ personalities, and it’s quite moving to see how well they’re cared for.” The rescue stories highlight the importance of conservation, making this more than just a cute animal visit.

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Second Stop: Giraffe Center

Next, you’re driven to the Giraffe Center, where the focus shifts to Rothschild’s giraffes — an endangered species. The center actively engages in conservation efforts, and you’ll learn about the threats facing these gentle giants. The feeding experience is a favorite — you’ll hold out a piece of bread and watch the giraffes stretch their long, inquisitive necks for a treat.

Many visitors mention how magnetic these giraffes are, especially when taking selfies with their towering, tongue-lolling faces in the background. The viewing platforms and well-maintained grounds allow for some stunning photos, making this a favorite for social media enthusiasts.

Optional Cultural & Culinary Experience

After the giraffe encounter, the tour offers an optional lunch, allowing you to relax and process the morning’s activities. If you choose, your guide can take you to local eateries or arrange a picnic.

For those interested in cultural crafts, the Kazuri Beads Factory can be included in the afternoon. Visitors rave about the beautiful bead jewellery handcrafted by local women, often describing it as a meaningful way to support African artisans. The factory visit adds a layer of cultural appreciation, showing how traditional skills are used to create vibrant souvenirs.

Drop-off & Summary

Finally, the tour wraps up with a drop-off back at your hotel, typically by early afternoon, leaving you with plenty of time to explore Nairobi further or relax after your wildlife encounter.

What You Need to Know: Practical Details

Cost & Entry Fees

While the tour price is $99 per person, remember that entrance fees are not included:

• David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage: $20 USD
• Giraffe Center: $15 USD
• Access to Nairobi National Park where the orphanage is located: an additional $45 USD per person (mandatory if you want to include the park visit).

These fees cover the conservation efforts and upkeep of the facilities, reflecting that this tour is primarily about impactful, ethical interactions rather than just sightseeing.

Timing & Duration

The scheduled start at 9:30 am with about an hour at the orphanage means your day is well-paced. Since the Elephant Orphanage is only open from 11 am to 12 noon, arriving on time is essential. The entire tour, including travel and optional activities, typically takes around 4-5 hours, making it ideal for those who prefer half-day excursions.

Transportation & Group Size

The guide/driver provides air-conditioned transport, ensuring comfort as you move between sites. The group size tends to be small to medium, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized. This setup allows for questions and more interaction with guides, who are known to be friendly and knowledgeable.

Additional Tips

• Bring cash for entrance fees and optional purchases at the factory or souvenirs.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and light outdoor activity.
• Timing is key — arrive punctually for the Elephant Orphanage opening window.
• No pets allowed, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer mentioned that the guide’s commentary was detailed and heartfelt, especially when sharing stories about the elephants’ rescues. They appreciated the opportunity to see the animals in a naturalistic setting while knowing their rescue stories are genuine and ongoing.

Another noted that the photo opportunities at the giraffe center were fantastic, with the giraffes often leaning over the fences, making for close-up shots. The optional visit to Kazuri Beads was described as a “highlight for cultural interest”, giving a tangible sense of local craftsmanship.

The Final Word: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour offers a meaningful introduction to Kenya’s conservation efforts, along with some fantastic wildlife interactions. It’s perfect for families, first-time visitors, or animal lovers who want a manageable yet impactful experience in Nairobi.

If you’re after a quick, well-organized adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and education, this tour gives excellent value — especially given the chance for up-close animal encounters. However, if you’re looking for a more extensive safari or want to explore Nairobi’s other attractions, you might want to consider additional or alternative excursions.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and offers engaging animal interactions that children often love. Just keep in mind the timing restrictions at the Elephant Orphanage.

How long does the entire tour last?
Typically around 4-5 hours, including travel, visits, and optional activities like the Beads Factory or lunch.

Are the entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are separate — approximately $20 for the Elephant Orphanage and $15 for the Giraffe Center. The Nairobi National Park access costs an additional $45 if included.

Can I visit the Kazuri Beads Factory?
Yes, this is an optional stop that can be added to your tour. It’s widely appreciated for its authentic crafts and supporting local women artisans.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection like hats and sunscreen, and casual outdoor clothing.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and can be arranged separately or during your free time after visits.

What is the best time to visit?
The morning hours, especially for the Elephant Orphanage, which opens from 11 am to 12 noon. Punctuality ensures you don’t miss the key experience.

Are pets allowed on this tour?
No, pets are not permitted.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

This tour offers a compelling glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts, with lively animal encounters and meaningful cultural insights. It’s a practical choice for travelers seeking a well-organized, authentic, and educational experience within Nairobi.

You can check availability for your dates here: