Nairobi: Game drive, elephant Orphanage & giraffe centre.

Exploring Nairobi through this combination tour offers a rare balance of wildlife encounters and city sightseeing, all wrapped into one accessible day. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that combines fun, education, and authentic interactions.

What really stands out are the chance to see Kenya’s iconic wildlife within a city environment, the personalized guidance from knowledgeable local guides, and the opportunity to touch and feed giraffes—something many travelers find memorable. Plus, the tour’s affordability at $139 per person makes it a compelling option for those seeking value. However, keep in mind that entry fees are extra, and visiting the park early in the morning is crucial for the best animal sightings.

This tour is perfect for anyone eager to experience Nairobi’s wildlife close-up without a lengthy or complicated arrangement. It’s also great for travelers who want a balanced day of adventure and learning—especially if you’re traveling with family or prefer guided experiences that handle the logistics.

Key Points

• Unique City Location: The only national park within a city, offering a convenient wildlife experience.
• Comprehensive Experience: Combines game drive, elephant orphanage visit, and giraffe feeding in one day.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Local guides like Eric are highly praised for their friendliness, patience, and expert knowledge.
• Value for Money: At $139, it provides a full day of activities with transportation and guided tours included, excluding entry fees.
• Authentic Interactions: Feed giraffes and see orphaned elephants, making the experience memorable and personal.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Early Morning Pickup and Game Drive at Nairobi National Park

The adventure begins with an early pickup from your hotel—crucial for catching the park at its most active. Early mornings tend to be the best time to spot animals in their natural behaviors, and the tour’s use of a safari jeep maximizes your chances. We’ve learned from reviews that guides like Eric take extra care to ensure everyone is comfortable and has a good view, which can make a difference if you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a first-timer.

Nairobi National Park is unique because it’s the only national park located just a short drive from the city center. This proximity makes it extremely accessible for a half-day trip. Expect to see a variety of animals including zebras, giraffes, buffalos, and perhaps some lions if you’re lucky. The guide’s expertise ensures you don’t miss key sightings, and many reviewers mention how Eric’s local knowledge adds a lot of value.

Visit to the Elephant Orphanage

By midmorning, the tour moves on to the nearby Elephant Orphanage. What makes this stop special is the chance to learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned baby elephants. Reviewers like Jennafer highlight how guides like Eric explain the care process and the elephants’ journey back to the wild, making the experience both heartwarming and educational. Seeing these tiny, vulnerable creatures up close offers a powerful reminder of conservation efforts in Kenya.

The orphanage is not just a photo op; it’s a place to gain insight into how local organizations are working tirelessly to save the elephants. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see these gentle giants and better understand the challenges they face.

Lunch Break

After visiting the orphanage, the tour includes a lunch break at a local restaurant. While the details of the meal aren’t specified, this pause is a good chance to relax, enjoy some local flavors, and discuss the morning’s sightings. It also gives you a moment to reflect on the conservation efforts and wildlife encounters you’ve experienced so far.

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Giraffe Centre & Giraffe Feeding

Post-lunch, the tour heads to the famous Giraffe Centre, where visitors can get up close to the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Many reviewers like Jennafer mention how touching and feeding these gentle animals is a highlight. The centre is dedicated to giraffe conservation, and you’ll learn about the different giraffe species found in Kenya.

The experience of hand-feeding giraffes pellets and gently touching their long, soft tongues is both fun and educational. You’ll also get a glimpse of the iconic Giraffe Manor nearby, a luxury hotel that has made the giraffe’s nose-in-the-window fame. While you won’t stay there, seeing it from the Giraffe Centre adds a touch of Nairobi’s unique blend of wildlife and luxury.

Souvenir Shopping & Drop-off

The final stop is a nearby gift shop, offering souvenirs at reasonable prices. This is a handy addition, allowing visitors to pick up Kenyan crafts, jewelry, or photographs to remember their trip. Afterward, your guide will return you to your hotel or residence, wrapping up a well-organized day.

Practical Details & Value

Transportation & Group Size

The tour provides private transportation, which enhances comfort and timing flexibility. The use of a safari jeep during the game drive offers optimal animal viewing opportunities, especially since the guide will navigate the best spots within Nairobi National Park.

Cost & Entry Fees

The $139 price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guided commentary, and the gift shop. However, entry tickets are paid separately—$60 for the national park, $20 for the elephant orphanage, and $12 for the Giraffe Centre. Budgeting for these costs is important for a complete picture of the overall expense.

Tour Flexibility & Cancellation

Booking is flexible with the option to reserve now and pay later, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. This makes it convenient for spontaneous plans or uncertain travel dates.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wildlife lovers, families, or first-timers in Nairobi. If you prefer guided tours that handle logistics and give you insightful commentary, this is a good pick. The tour’s accessibility and friendly guides like Eric make it especially suitable for travelers with mobility considerations or those wishing for a personalized experience.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently praise Eric for his friendly attitude, patience, and vast local knowledge. Jennafer mentions how Eric’s support was invaluable given her mobility limitations, while Tracey highlights how his flexibility and careful driving made her visit enjoyable. Many note that guides like Eric go beyond expectations, making the experience more engaging and educational.

The consistent theme is that the guides are well-informed, attentive, and genuinely caring, which significantly enhances the overall trip. This personal touch helps travelers feel comfortable and more connected to the wildlife and conservation messages.

Final Thoughts

This Nairobi tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, conservation education, and city sightseeing, all in a single day. The combination of game drives and close encounters with elephants and giraffes makes it appealing for nature lovers and those wanting a taste of Kenyan wildlife without the need for long safaris. The tour’s affordability, combined with knowledgeable guides and flexible booking, makes it a smart choice for most travelers.

While the entry fees add to the cost, the overall experience justifies the expense, especially given the convenience of a guided, all-in-one itinerary. It’s a great way to tick off some of Nairobi’s best wildlife attractions in a structured, enjoyable way.

For travelers seeking engaging, authentic experiences with expert guides who genuinely care, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and conservation efforts.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides transportation from your hotel and during the day’s activities, ensuring smooth travel between stops.

Do I need to buy the entry tickets separately?
Yes, entry fees for Nairobi national park, the elephant orphanage, and the giraffe centre are paid separately—$60, $20, and $12 respectively.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute adjustments.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Many reviews mention guides like Eric being patient and accommodating, so it could be suitable, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

What is included in the price?
The $139 covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation during the tour, a guided experience, and a gift shop stop.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it appears to be a full-day activity, starting early in the morning and ending with hotel drop-off.

Is there an opportunity to buy souvenirs?
Yes, the tour includes a stop at a souvenir shop with affordable options for Kenyan crafts and memorabilia.

Who is the guide?
The experience is led by Eric Munene, known for his friendly demeanor, expert knowledge, and attentive care.

Would this tour be good for families?
Yes, the interactive nature—feeding giraffes, seeing elephants—makes it family-friendly and fun for children and adults alike.

This Nairobi tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience Kenya’s wildlife and city highlights in one memorable day—perfect for those wanting an authentic, guided adventure with great value.

You can check availability for your dates here: