Nairobi National Park, Baby Elephant and Giraffe Centre Tour

Getting a taste of Nairobi’s wildlife without leaving the city might sound ambitious, but this tour promises just that. Designed for travelers who want a quick yet enriching peek into Kenya’s iconic animals, it combines a morning game drive, a visit to the renowned Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and a hands-on giraffe experience. While it’s not flawless, many find it offers genuine encounters and good value for a day out.

What we like about this experience is its convenience—all key sights are packed into one day, with experienced guides helping you spot wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. We also appreciate that it’s relatively affordable, making it accessible for many travelers. That said, some travelers have noted disappointments related to organization and costs, so managing expectations is wise. It works best for those seeking an authentic, active day with animals, especially if you’re short on time but want a snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife scene.

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Key Points

Accessible location close to Nairobi city center makes it easy to join.
Wide variety of wildlife in Nairobi National Park for a satisfying safari experience.
Engaging elephant and giraffe interactions bring the animals closer to you.
Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of local conservation efforts.
Price reflects good value, but entrance fees are not included in the base cost.
Not suited for travelers with mobility impairments or those looking for a luxury safari.

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Exploring Nairobi National Park

Just a short drive from downtown Nairobi, Nairobi National Park is a surprising urban wilderness. It’s Kenya’s oldest national park, established in 1946, and offers a surprisingly diverse setting where lions, elephants, zebras, rhinos, giraffes, and more roam freely.

During the game drive—done in a private safari vehicle—you’ll get a chance to see animals in their natural habitats. Expect to spot elephants grazing, lions lounging in the shade, and plenty of zebras and giraffes wandering about. The guides’ expertise is a real plus here—they know where to look and how to spot those elusive animals.

One traveler noted, “The views were stunning, and the guide was very knowledgeable,” which is consistent with the overall praise for the guides’ professionalism. The game drive can vary depending on the time of day and luck, but generally, it’s a great way to kick off the day, especially if you love wildlife photography or simply want to see some of Africa’s iconic animals close-up.

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

Visiting the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a highlight of this tour. Known worldwide for its work caring for orphaned elephants, it offers visitors a chance to learn about wildlife conservation efforts firsthand.

The visit is not just a quick peek; it’s an educational experience. You can observe the young elephants being cared for and, if you’re lucky, feed a baby elephant by hand. The staff are passionate and eager to share stories about each rescued animal, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

A reviewer mentioned the opportunity to see elephants up close, emphasizing how touching it was to watch the calves play and be cared for. The orphanage’s work is a vital part of Kenya’s wildlife protection, and visitors often leave with a deeper appreciation for conservation challenges.

The Giraffe Centre: Feeding and Interacting

The Giraffe Centre offers one of those memorable “once-in-a-lifetime” moments—feeding giraffes by hand. This close interaction allows you to kiss a giraffe on the nose or feed them leaves directly from your hand. It’s playful, charming, and surprisingly intimate.

The centre also provides educational information about giraffes and the threats they face, such as habitat loss and poaching. It’s a fun and engaging experience for all ages, especially kids or animal lovers.

One traveler appreciated how “the giraffes came right up to us,” emphasizing how close and personal the experience felt. The centre is designed to foster awareness and appreciation for these gentle giants, making it a meaningful stop in your day.

Detailed Tour Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Nairobi, ensuring a hassle-free start. From there, you’re driven to Nairobi National Park for your game drive, which typically lasts a couple of hours. The guides are experienced and helpful, often pointing out animals you might miss on your own.

After the game drive, the group moves on to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Here, you’ll learn about the orphanage’s work and may get a chance to see the calves up close. Keep in mind that entrance fees to the park are not included in the ticket price, which adds to the overall cost if you wish to enter the park itself.

Next, there’s a break for lunch at a designated restaurant within Nairobi National Park. The meal provides an opportunity to relax and discuss the morning’s sights. Some tours include a visit to a beads factory afterward, although this isn’t detailed in the official itinerary.

The final stop is the Giraffe Centre, where you can feed the tall, friendly giraffes and learn about conservation efforts. The tour wraps up with a transfer back to your hotel, typically in the late afternoon.

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Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation is in a safari vehicle, which offers good visibility and comfort. The tour lasts around a full day, making it suitable for travelers with a few free days in Nairobi. Pricing at $54 per person offers decent value, but remember the Nairobi National Park entrance fee (around US$43 for adults) is extra if you want to go inside.

Guides are described as knowledgeable and professional, which greatly enhances the experience. They’re typically fluent in English, with some offering French and Spanish as well, making the tour accessible to a wide range of travelers.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring, especially at the giraffe centre. Be prepared for the weather—hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

What’s not included: Food, drinks, and park entrance fees unless specified. This means the overall cost can add up if you want to go into the park or enjoy lunch at a nicer spot.

Limitations: The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the stops and walking involved.

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Authentic Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared a negative experience, mentioning that “the tour did not take place, the organizer abandoned us, changed the tour time, and didn’t answer calls or messages.” This highlights the importance of booking with reputable providers and confirming arrangements beforehand.

On the positive side, several travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and appreciated how close animals were brought to them at the giraffe centre and elephant orphanage. Many felt the experience was good value, especially given the variety of sights packed into a single day.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced, accessible introduction to Nairobi’s wildlife highlights. While it’s not a luxury safari, it provides authentic encounters with animals, educational insights, and a chance to support conservation efforts. The combination of a game drive, elephant orphanage visit, and giraffe feeding creates a well-rounded day that appeals to wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike.

If you’re looking for a convenient way to see Kenya’s iconic animals without traveling far from Nairobi, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those with limited time or those hoping to get a taste of African wildlife in a more urban setting.

However, be aware of the potential for organizational hiccups (as some reviews reveal), and consider the costs involved beyond the initial price. For a straightforward, engaging day with lots of animal interactions, this tour provides genuine value.

FAQ

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the Nairobi National Park entrance fees are not included in the $54 price unless you select an option that covers them. Expect to pay around US$43 for adults.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a safari vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Nairobi.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

Can I feed the animals myself?
Yes, at the Giraffe Centre, you’ll have the chance to feed giraffes by hand. At the elephant orphanage, you may be able to feed a baby elephant if your timing aligns.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but it’s not designed for travelers with mobility issues. The activities involve some walking and standing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended. Also, a camera for wildlife and animal encounters.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

This tour strikes a practical balance between affordability and authenticity, making it a solid choice for those eager to experience Nairobi’s wildlife in an accessible, organized way.