If you’re visiting Nairobi and short on time but eager to see some of Kenya’s most beloved animals, this private Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center tour offers a practical, personalized way to do so. With just around three hours of total activity, it’s perfect for travelers who want a quick yet meaningful wildlife experience without the hassle of public transport or crowded group tours.

What we particularly like about this tour is the door-to-door transfer, which removes the stress of navigating Nairobi’s busy streets, and the chance to see conservation efforts firsthand. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be waiting around for others, making it ideal for those with tight schedules or wanting a more intimate experience. However, since it’s a short tour, it might not satisfy those looking for a deep dive into Kenya’s wildlife beyond the two main attractions. This tour is great for animal lovers, families, or first-timers eager to tick off some must-see spots efficiently.

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Key Points

Private, hassle-free experience with door-to-door transfers
Includes entrance fees for both the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center
Expert driver guides enhance the visit with local insights
Perfect for a quick introduction to Nairobi’s conservation efforts
Ideal for animal enthusiasts and busy travelers
Free cancellation offers peace of mind

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This Nairobi tour is designed to maximize your wildlife sightings while minimizing the time and effort involved. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you won’t need to worry about navigating Nairobi’s traffic or finding exact locations. Instead, you’ll relax in a comfortable safari van or car, depending on your group size, as your driver guides you through the day.

The main attractions are the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Giraffe Center—two iconic spots that showcase Kenya’s dedicated conservation efforts. Both are located within Nairobi, which makes this a convenient, manageable day trip for travelers who might otherwise miss out on these attractions during a busy safari or city stay.

Looking for more options in Nairobi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

The first stop takes you to the elephant orphanage, most famous for caring for baby elephants rescued from various parts of Kenya. This site is nestled in a quiet corner of Nairobi National Park, which adds an authentic safari feel despite being within city limits. The orphanage operates with a dedicated team of conservationists, including families who have committed years to protecting these majestic creatures.

The orphanage opens only between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm, so timing is crucial. During this hour, visitors can watch the elephants being fed and receive explanations about their rescue, rehabilitation, and release programs. One reviewer, Neil_T, said, “Really enjoyed the elephant orphanage and happy to see the great work they are doing to protect the species.” It’s quite a moving experience, especially if you love animals and are interested in conservation efforts.

Stop 2: Giraffe Center

Next, your tour takes you to the Giraffe Center, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Here, you’ll get the chance to feed these gentle giants from a raised platform, gaining a close-up view that’s often surprisingly interactive. Visitors frequently comment on how surprisingly tame and curious the giraffes are, often sticking their heads right into your feeding troughs.

This site is less time-sensitive than the orphanage, so you can take your time to snap photos and enjoy the company of these iconic animals. The experience is both educational and fun, especially for children and animal lovers. The reviews highlight guides’ knowledge; one reviewer appreciated the “awesome tour guides” who made the experience feel welcoming and allowed for some food stops along the way.

The Practicalities: Transport and Guides

Transportation is included in the tour fee, which is a significant advantage. The vehicle varies based on group size but is generally a safari van or car that comfortably fits everyone. The driver-guides are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights about Nairobi’s wildlife conservation efforts and local culture, enriching your visit.

Because the tour is private, your group benefits from flexibility and a personalized pace. Neil_T and Keanta_B both appreciated the guides’ friendliness and attentiveness, with Keanta_B mentioning how the guides let them stop for food along the way—an added touch that makes the experience more relaxed and tailored.

There's plenty more to explore in Nairobi

Cost and Value

At $194.81 per person, this tour might seem a bit steep at first glance. However, when you consider the inclusion of entrance fees, private transport, and guides, the value becomes clearer. Public transport or independent visits could easily cost more or be less efficient, especially if you factor in time and taxi fares. Plus, the peace of mind knowing that entry fees are covered means no additional costs surprise you during the day.

This tour is particularly appealing for travelers who value convenience and personalized service over a large group experience. For families and animal lovers, the ease of everything being organized for you adds a lot of value.

What Reviewers Say

Both Neil_T and Keanta_B praised the tour highly. Neil_T highlighted the “great work they are doing to protect the species,” echoing the importance of supporting conservation programs. Keanta_B appreciated the guides’ warmth and the flexibility they offered, making the visit more enjoyable.

The general consensus is that this tour provides a rewarding, hassle-free way to see two of Nairobi’s most famous animal attractions, with knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits animal lovers, families wanting a quick educational outing, or travelers with limited time in Nairobi. It’s an excellent introduction to Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts without the long hours or logistical headaches of a larger safari. Because it’s private, it’s also well-suited for couples or small groups seeking intimacy and flexibility.

If you’re looking for a deeper wildlife adventure beyond these two sites, you might want to consider other tours. But for a well-organized, impactful snapshot of Kenya’s efforts to protect elephants and giraffes, this is a solid choice.

Summary

This Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience some of Nairobi’s most iconic wildlife spots. The private transportation and expert guides make it a smooth, enjoyable outing, especially for those pressed for time or seeking convenience. The inclusion of entrance fees adds to its value, ensuring no hidden costs.

While the price might seem high for a three-hour tour, the comfort, personalized attention, and meaningful encounters justify it. It’s an experience that balances education, fun, and conservation, making it ideal for animal enthusiasts, families, or first-time visitors eager to see Kenya’s unique fauna.

If you want a relaxed, insightful introduction to Nairobi’s wildlife efforts, this tour delivers both in spades.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including transportation, site visits, and some time at each location.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup, drop-off, and transfers between the sites are all included in the price.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, confirming your booking ensures your preferred timing and availability, especially as the orphanage is only open for a specific hour.

Can I join with a small child?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for families, especially since the experience is safe and interactive.

What is the best time to visit the Elephant Orphanage?
The orphanage is open only between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm for visitors, so plan your tour accordingly.

Are tips expected?
Tips are not included and are at your discretion, generally appreciated for guides who enhance your experience.

This tour is a smart choice for anyone wanting to experience Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts in a relaxed, hassle-free manner. With its excellent reviews and knowledgeable guides, it provides a meaningful introduction to the animals and the ongoing efforts to protect them.