Early Morning Nairobi Park Elephant& Giraffe Sanctuary

Planning a safari in Kenya often means long drives and big crowds, but this Early Morning Nairobi Park Elephant & Giraffe Sanctuary tour offers a different vibe. It’s a chance to see iconic wildlife without the usual hassle, all while learning about conservation efforts.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the skip-the-queue access means more time spotting animals instead of waiting in line. Second, the close encounters with baby elephants and giraffes are genuinely memorable – especially if you love touching and feeding these gentle giants. Third, the knowledgeable guides bring the experience to life with insightful stories.

A potential consideration: the entire day is quite structured, so it’s best suited to those who enjoy a busy, activity-packed morning. If you’re seeking a relaxed, slow-paced outing, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for wildlife lovers eager to pack in several highlights, it hits the spot.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a convenient, educational, and wildlife-rich experience close to Nairobi, particularly those curious about conservation or with limited time.

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Key Points

All-inclusive price covers entrance fees, guiding, transport, and booking for special spots.
Early start at 6:00 am maximizes animal sightings and avoids crowds.
Includes a three-hour game drive in Nairobi National Park with expert guides.
Visits to the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center provide hands-on interactions.
The tour is perfect for animal lovers, conservation enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a comprehensive day trip.
Flexible booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on this Tour

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The Morning Game Drive in Nairobi National Park

Your day begins bright and early with a hotel or airport pickup at 6:00 am. The early morning is when the animals are most active, and the park is less crowded. Your safari vehicle, equipped with a pop-up roof, is designed for optimal viewing and photography.

During the three-hour drive, your guide—like Simba, who has garnered praise for being friendly and highly knowledgeable—will focus on showing you a variety of wildlife. Expect to see rhinos, lions, and possibly hyenas or cheetahs, as they start their day. The calm morning light creates ideal conditions for animal sightings, making this a highlight of the trip.

The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

At around 11:00 am, you’ll head to the Elephant Orphanage, which is only open for about an hour. Here, you’ll see baby elephants—many of whom are orphans due to poaching or human-wildlife conflict—and learn about the rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

Guests report that the guides are eager to share stories of these young elephants’ journeys from hardship to safety. You’ll learn what led them to be orphans and see the dedicated work that goes into raising them. One reviewer mentioned that they appreciated the transparency and education provided, making the visit more meaningful.

Lunch Break and Relaxation

After this emotional and educational stop, you’ll have around an hour for lunch, which you’ll need to arrange yourself. Some may prefer to pack snacks or choose spotty local eateries. The flexibility means you can enjoy a quick bite or sit down for a relaxed meal, depending on your preference.

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The Giraffe Center Experience

Post-lunch, your journey continues to the Giraffe Center. Here, expect to see the tall, graceful Rothschild giraffes and learn about their endangered status. Guides often share interesting facts about their behaviors and traits, giving you a chance to understand why they are such vital conservation ambassadors.

One of the most popular activities is feeding the giraffes, which guests find both fun and educational. You’re encouraged to get close, touch their velvety tongues, and even take photos—creating memories that last long after the day ends.

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Final Drop-off

The tour wraps up with your guide returning you safely to your hotel or airport. The early start, combined with a well-paced itinerary, ensures you get a comprehensive view of Nairobi’s wildlife and conservation efforts without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The all-inclusive price of $200 per person covers entrance fees to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, and the Giraffe Center, which can otherwise add up if booked separately. This convenience—and the fact that the Nairobi National Park conservation fee is included—makes it clear that you’re paying for a seamless experience.

You also get the advantage of guided expert commentary. Guests like Linda, who praised their guide Simba for being knowledgeable and friendly, highlight how this personal approach enhances the overall experience. Her review also notes that the tour included all entrance fees, which she found to be a significant plus compared to other tours where you’d pay separately.

The pop-up roof safari vehicle ensures you have unobstructed views, which is essential when wildlife spotting. The early start means you’ll enjoy quieter roads and more intimate animal encounters, making the experience more authentic.

The Experience’s Strengths

Wildlife encounters: Seeing rhinos, lions, and baby elephants early in the morning is a highlight, especially in a park so close to Nairobi.
Conservation focus: Learning about the efforts at the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center adds depth and purpose to your visit.
Close encounters: The chance to feed giraffes and touch baby elephants creates memorable, tangible moments.
Expert guides: Simba’s knowledge and friendly demeanor elevate the experience, offering insights you wouldn’t get independently.

Possible Drawbacks

Time constraints: The morning is packed, which might feel rushed for some travelers. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, an entire day might be too tight.
Limited flexibility: As the itinerary is structured, there’s little room for spontaneous activities or extended stays at each stop.
Not suitable for wheelchair users: The tour’s physical setup or vehicle may not accommodate mobility aids.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is a solid pick for wildlife lovers eager to see Kenya’s iconic animals in a short window. It’s perfect for visitors with limited time in Nairobi who want a comprehensive, convenient, and educational experience.

Those interested in conservation and animal rescue will particularly appreciate the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center visits. Plus, if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy being close to nature and animals, this tour offers plenty of opportunities for memorable interactions.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a luxurious or very relaxed experience or those with mobility limitations, due to the early start and structured nature of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel or airport pickup at 6:00 am, allowing for a full and early day of wildlife viewing.

How long is the game drive?
Expect around three hours in Nairobi National Park with a focus on spotting a variety of animals like rhinos and lions.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, and the Giraffe Center are covered in the price.

Can I feed the giraffes?
Absolutely. You’ll have the opportunity to feed and get close to the giraffes, learning about their traits and behaviors.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased at the designated stop; the tour allows about an hour for this.

What is the maximum group size?
While the exact size isn’t specified, the vehicle is suitable for a small group, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s great for animal-loving children, but note that the early start and structured schedule may require young kids to be adaptable.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, camera, some snacks, and sun protection, as you’ll be out in the park for several hours.

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

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

Final Thoughts

For those seeking an efficient, educational, and wildlife-filled adventure close to Nairobi, this Early Morning Nairobi Park Elephant & Giraffe Sanctuary tour is a choice that balances value with memorable moments. It’s especially appealing if you want to visit multiple conservation sites in one morning without the fuss of planning each entry separately.

The combination of early game drives, close animal encounters, and insightful guides makes this trip worthwhile, especially for first-time visitors or families. While it might feel a bit rushed for leisurely travelers, the richness of the sights and stories makes it a worthwhile investment.

If your goal is to experience Kenya’s wildlife diversity in a single, well-organized morning, this tour ticks all those boxes while offering a friendly, guided touch that enriches your understanding of local conservation efforts.

Remember, booking in advance and choosing a reputable provider like African Beast Tours and Safari guarantees a smooth, enjoyable, and insightful outing—one you’ll likely remember long after you’ve left Nairobi.