Elephants Orphanage, Giraffe Center, and Blixen Museum Tour

Elephants Orphanage, Giraffe Center, and Blixen Museum Tour: A Deep Dive into Kenya’s Wildlife and Heritage

If you’re seeking an authentic experience that combines Kenya’s incredible wildlife with its captivating cultural history, this tour offers just that. Promising a blend of close encounters with gentle giants and a step back into the colonial past, it stands out as a well-rounded, budget-friendly adventure.

What we love most? The chance to play with playful elephants, the opportunity to get eye-to-eye with Rothschild’s giraffes, and the peaceful ambiance of Karen Blixen’s house. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and inclusive transportation make it convenient and enjoyable.

But, a potential consideration is the cost of entry fees, which aren’t included in the $50 ticket—meaning you’ll need cash for the various sites, which could add up. Still, for those wanting a balanced look at Kenya’s wildlife and history, this tour tends to hit the spot.

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to see key highlights of Nairobi’s surroundings without breaking the bank. It also suits wildlife lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a mix of outdoor and historical sights.

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Key Points

Cost-effective: At $50, the tour offers a great value considering the sites visited.
Wildlife encounters: Close, personal interactions with elephants and giraffes enrich your understanding of conservation efforts.
Cultural insight: The Karen Blixen Museum provides a peaceful glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past.
Well-organized logistics: Hotel pickup, transport in a 4X4 safari van, and guided commentary keep the day smooth.
Flexible scheduling: You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Additional costs: Entry fees and conservation fees are extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a thoughtfully curated introduction to some of Kenya’s most beloved attractions, offered by Bundu Travels. Starting from your Nairobi accommodation, a friendly guide will pick you up in a comfortable, open-roof 4X4 vehicle, setting the tone for a relaxed, engaging day. The open-roof design of the van is especially appreciated—it allows for excellent photo opportunities and unobstructed views during game drives and sightseeing.

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Visiting the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Your first stop is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a renowned orphanage dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants and rhinos. Here, you’ll get the chance to play with tiny, mischievous baby elephants—a highlight for many visitors. Reviewers often mention that the staff is passionate and eager to share their conservation stories, adding a deeper understanding of Kenya’s fight to protect its wildlife.

Expect to spend about an hour at this sanctuary. Admission costs approximately $20, which is not included in the tour price. Visitors report that seeing the baby elephants drinking, playing, or even being fed is an emotionally rewarding experience. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’ll appreciate how this site focuses on rescue and rehabilitation, fostering hope for Kenya’s endangered species.

Giraffe Centre: Getting Up Close with Rothschild’s Giraffes

Next is the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. Here, you’re encouraged to feed these gentle giants from a raised platform—an experience described as “surreal” and “fun for kids and adults alike.” Reviewers often highlight how close you can get, with some saying they felt like they were face-to-face with the giraffes.

Entry costs about $15 and is also an additional expense. Many visitors mention that the staff is friendly and eager to educate on giraffe conservation efforts. The lush grounds provide stunning backdrops, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the peaceful environment.

Lunch Break: Local Flavors

After these wildlife encounters, a convenient lunch break awaits at a nearby restaurant or hotel, many of which serve traditional Kenyan dishes or international cuisine. This pause helps recharge for the final leg of the tour, and reviewers often appreciate the chance to discuss the morning’s highlights over a meal.

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Karen Blixen Museum: A Step Into Kenya’s Colonial Past

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the Karen Blixen Museum, housed in the house where the famous author of Out of Africa once lived. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and indigenous forest, the museum offers a calm, nostalgic vibe. From the veranda, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Ngong Hills, making it a perfect spot for photographs and reflection.

A guided tour, included in the package, provides insights into Karen Blixen’s life and her enduring connection to Kenya. Visitors comment that walking through the well-preserved house feels like stepping back in time, with many noting the serene atmosphere and lush surroundings that are ideal for outdoor events like small gatherings or wedding photos.

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The Practical Side: Logistics & Costs

All transportation, guided commentary, and bottled water are included, simplifying what could otherwise be a complicated day. The tour takes about 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and how long you linger at each site.

While the main price is just $50 per person, remember that entry fees are extra—adding up to approximately $79 for all sites combined. This includes $20 for the orphanage, $15 at the giraffe centre, and a conservation fee of $43 for Nairobi National Park (if you choose to visit). You’ll need to carry cash for these, so planning ahead will help avoid surprises.

Guides are well-trained and multilingual, making explanations engaging and easy to follow. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeability and friendliness of guides like Alex and Peter, who go out of their way to answer questions and share personal stories.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This experience offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and cultural insights, all within a manageable time frame and budget. By visiting the orphanage and giraffe centre, you’re directly supporting conservation efforts—your visit helps fund these essential projects. Meanwhile, the Karen Blixen Museum provides context to Kenya’s colonial history, making the tour both educational and enriching.

The stunning views of Ngong Hills from Blixen’s house are a serene reward after a busy morning, and the open-roof safari van ensures you won’t miss a photo opportunity. The tour’s flexibility—such as the option to reserve now and pay later—is an added bonus for spontaneous planners.

That said, travelers should be prepared for additional costs for site entries and have cash on hand. Also, since the tour is based around Nairobi, it’s especially suitable for visitors staying nearby who want a full day of highlights without venturing far afield.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re passionate about wildlife and conservation, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a meaningful, engaging day. History buffs will also appreciate the glimpse into Kenya’s colonial past through Blixen’s home.

The tour’s moderate price and inclusive approach make it accessible for many budgets, while the authentic encounters—like feeding giraffes and cuddling elephants—offer genuine moments that pictures simply can’t capture. If you’re short on time but want a well-rounded introduction to Kenya’s natural and cultural riches, this tour should be on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Nairobi, making the experience seamless.

How long is the tour?
Expect around 6-7 hours, including travel time, site visits, and lunch.

What should I bring?
Carry your camera, cash for entry fees, and your passport or ID for identification.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a safari van with an open roof, designed for comfort and great photo angles.

Can I pay for entry fees on the day?
Entry fees are not included in the initial $50; you will need cash to cover these at each site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, kids often enjoy feeding giraffes and playing with elephants, though supervision is recommended.

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

This tour offers a practical, engaging, and visually stunning way to experience Kenya’s wildlife and history. It’s perfect for those who want a meaningful introduction without the hassle of organizing multiple visits or breaking the bank. Whether you’re gazing at Ngong Hills from Blixen’s veranda or marveling at playful elephants, it’s a day that leaves lasting impressions.