Giraffes, Elephant Orphanage, Beads, Bomas &Carnivore Dinner

Planning a day in Nairobi that combines wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and authentic Kenyan flavors? This tour from SHAGAMI KENYA TOURS AND SAFARIS offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes Kenya special, all in one manageable day. It’s an experience perfect for those wanting to see iconic animals, learn about local traditions, and enjoy a hearty, exotic meal — all without breaking the bank.

What really makes this tour stand out? We love the intimate encounters with giraffes and elephants, the opportunity to appreciate Kenya’s vibrant culture through dance and music, and of course, the chance to indulge in the Carnivore’s legendary meat feast. One potential consideration? The Elephant Orphanage visit is only open from 11 am to 12 pm, so timing is key if you want to see the baby elephants in action. This tour is ideal for travelers craving a diverse day of wildlife, culture, and cuisine, especially those new to Nairobi or short on time but eager to tick off multiple must-see sights.

Key Points

• Wildlife Close-Ups: Feed giraffes and see rescued elephants up close.
• Cultural Insight: Enjoy traditional dance, music, or poetry at Bomas.
• Authentic Cuisine: Taste a variety of meats at Nairobi’s Carnivore Restaurant.
• Includes Entrance Fees: All major site admissions are covered in the price.
• Small Group Experience: More personal and flexible group size.
• Timing Matters: The Elephant Orphanage visit is limited to a short window, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Nairobi’s Wildlife: Giraffe Center & Elephant Orphanage

We start the day with a pickup from your hotel or airport, setting the tone for a relaxed yet enriching experience. The first stop is the Giraffe Center, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Here, you’ll have the chance to feed these towering creatures from an elevated platform, getting surprisingly close to their gentle, curious faces. Visitors often comment on how this encounter feels almost surreal — standing face-to-face with giraffes that seem to have stepped right out of a storybook.

What makes this experience special? Not only do you get a rare opportunity to feed and observe the giraffes, but the center also emphasizes ongoing conservation efforts. You can listen to short presentations about their work, which adds a meaningful layer to the visit. Many reviews mention how engaging the staff is and how they explain the importance of preserving these iconic animals, making the experience both fun and educational.

Next, we head to the Elephant Orphanage (strictly open from 11 am to 12 pm). Here, you’ll see baby and adolescent elephants rescued from poaching, injury, or abandonment, and learn about their individual stories. Guides like Daphne Sheldrick, who’s renowned for her work rehabilitating orphaned elephants, help tell these heartwarming tales. Visitors frequently express how touching it is to see the young elephants in such a caring environment and how the stories of rescue and recovery highlight Kenya’s commitment to wildlife protection.

The visit is brief but impactful, offering a chance to witness the gentle giants’ personalities and understand the ongoing efforts to give them a second chance. This stop is often praised for its authenticity—it’s clear that every effort is made to give these animals a new lease on life, and the experience truly feels like stepping into a conservation success story.

Bead Factory Tour: Crafting Kenyan Artistry

After wildlife, we switch gears to visit the Kobe Bead Factory, a pottery and bead-making workshop that reveals Kenya’s vibrant artisanal traditions. Here, you can watch skilled artisans craft intricate beads from start to finish, appreciating the skill and patience involved. Reviewers mention how seeing the entire process, from raw material to finished product, adds a new appreciation for handmade Kenyan jewelry and crafts.

This stop isn’t just about shopping; it’s about understanding the cultural significance behind the jewelry and supporting local craftsmanship. Many visitors find the staff friendly and eager to explain the symbolism behind different bead patterns, making it a rewarding cultural detour.

A Taste of Kenyan Culture: Bomas of Kenya

Lunchtime takes you to the Bomas of Kenya or similar venues like Tamambo, where you can enjoy traditional Kenyan dishes (at your own expense). Following that, you’re treated to a lively cultural show. Tribal dances, music, poetry, and even drama performances showcase Kenya’s diverse heritage.

We loved the way the performers blend vibrant costumes, rhythmic movements, and storytelling through dance. Reviewers mention that these performances are held daily from 2:30 pm to 4 pm, and they’re a fantastic way to grasp the country’s cultural richness in an authentic setting. The performances are energetic, colorful, and often interactive — a highlight for travelers eager to connect with Kenya’s traditions beyond photographs.

Expect a mixture of entertainment styles, from lively drumming to traditional dance, possibly with some humorous elements. It’s a wonderful culture that leaves many visitors with a deeper appreciation for Kenya’s diverse tribes.

The Carnivore Experience: Kenya’s Meat Feast

No trip to Nairobi is complete without experiencing The Carnivore, famous for its endless parade of meats carved directly onto your plate. Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a lively atmosphere and a unique decor featuring zebra stripes and safari motifs. The dining experience is straightforward but satisfying: a serve-yourself style with a variety of meats including beef, ostrich, lamb, pork, alligator, and more.

The meat is cooked over open flames and served on skewers, bringing out smoky flavors. You can stop the flow by lowering a white flag, which many reviews describe as an amusing, interactive touch. Pair your meats with a selection of salads, sides, and a rotating tray of vegetables. The dessert course offers sweet stops to finish your feast, accompanied by coffee.

Guests frequently mention how the quality and variety of meats make it worth the price, especially for those who love hearty, protein-rich meals. The lively, convivial atmosphere adds to the memorable experience, making it a perfect way to cap off the day.

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Practical Details & Tips

The tour is priced at $395 per person, which covers most major site entrance fees, transportation, and guide services. The small-group format offers a more personal experience and flexibility. The pickup and drop-off service makes logistics easier, allowing you to relax and enjoy the day.

Keep in mind that lunch at Bomas or similar venues is not included in the price, so budget for that separately. Also, tipping is customary but optional—many travelers choose to tip guides and staff based on service quality.

Timing is crucial, especially for the Elephant Orphanage visit. Since it’s only open from 11 am to 12 pm, a morning start is best to maximize your experience. The entire tour lasts about a full day, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Kenya’s wildlife, culture, and cuisine without the need for overnight stays.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicles, and the group sizes tend to be small, which encourages a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. The professionalism of guides, including their knowledge and friendliness, is often highlighted in reviews, adding to the overall value.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Nairobi day tour offers a practical and engaging way to see some of Kenya’s most iconic sights in one go. It balances wildlife encounters with cultural insights and authentic food, making it ideal for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time.

The chance to feed giraffes and see baby elephants up close makes this experience memorable in a way few other tours can match. The cultural show at Bomas adds depth, giving you a glimpse into Kenya’s diverse traditions, while dinner at Carnivore wraps up the day with a hearty, authentic feast.

The overall value lies in the seamless combination of activities, all included in one reasonable price. This tour suits travelers who want a broad, authentic experience of Nairobi that’s both fun and educational. If you’re genuinely interested in wildlife, Kenyan culture, and memorable cuisine without fuss, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Elephant Orphanage visit limited to specific times?
Yes, it is only open from 11 am to 12 pm, so plan your schedule accordingly to see the baby elephants.

Are all entrance fees included in the tour price?
Most major sites like the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Bomas are covered, making it a convenient package.

Can I purchase lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but you can buy it at Bomas or nearby restaurants at your own expense.

How long does the whole tour take?
Typically, it’s a full-day experience, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children tend to love feeding giraffes and seeing elephants, making it a family-friendly option.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather, with a hat and sunscreen for outdoor activities. Expect some walking at each site.

In summary, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Kenya’s wildlife, culture, and cuisine in one day. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences, meaningful wildlife encounters, and hearty local food. With friendly guides, a manageable group size, and all key site fees covered, it offers excellent value for a memorable Nairobi adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: