Nairobi National park, elephant orphanage and giraffe center

Exploring Nairobi’s famous wildlife attractions in a single day might seem ambitious, but this guided tour makes it not only manageable but truly memorable. From spotting lions against the city skyline to getting up close with rescued elephants and feeding the iconic Rothschild giraffes, this experience offers a fantastic blend of adventure and education.

What we particularly love about this tour is its balance of wildlife viewing, conservation stories, and personal interactions. You’ll appreciate the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat and learn about Kenya’s ongoing efforts to protect its species. The expert-guided commentary enriches your understanding, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

A possible consideration: the early start means waking up at dawn — but, honestly, that’s when the animals are most active, and it’s all part of the wildlife magic. If you’re a morning person or keen to maximize your day, this is spot-on. This tour caters well to wildlife enthusiasts, families, and travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Nairobi’s natural treasures.

Contents show

Key Points

All-in-one experience: Covers Nairobi National Park, Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe Center
Expert guidance: Insightful commentary on wildlife and conservation
Close animal encounters: Feed giraffes and see baby elephants up close
Stunning scenery: Wildlife with a city skyline backdrop
Flexible options: Optional craft shop visit for souvenirs
Good value: Combines multiple attractions at $80 per person

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Nairobi’s Wildlife Close to the City

This tour is a fantastic way to see Kenya’s iconic animals without traveling far from Nairobi’s bustling center. It’s designed to give visitors a well-rounded experience—combining wildlife sightings, conservation stories, and opportunities for personal interactions—all within a manageable schedule.

The itinerary kicks off early at 5:45 AM, with pickup from your hotel or residence. This early start is crucial since the animals are most active in the morning, and it helps avoid the mid-day heat and crowds. The entire day is thoughtfully planned to maximize your experience, ending around 4:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to reflect on your day or explore more on your own.

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

Morning Game Drive at Nairobi National Park

The highlight for many is the morning game drive, which typically lasts about 3 to 4 hours. The park is unique because it’s one of the few within a capital city, offering a surreal view of wildlife against Nairobi’s skyline. The open-roof safari vehicle guarantees excellent views and photo opportunities.

During the drive, you might spot lions, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and cheetahs, all thriving in their natural environment. The guide’s insights are invaluable—many reviews praise the guiding staff for their knowledge and passion. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was fantastic, sharing stories about animal behavior and conservation efforts that made the wildlife come alive.”

A common highlight is the chance to see big cats and rhinos in the wild, which feels even more special with the backdrop of a bustling city just beyond the horizon.

Elephant Orphanage Visit

Post-game drive, you’ll visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, a place dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned elephants rescued from various parts of Kenya. Here, you can witness the adorable sight of baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud—a sight that’s as charming as it is poignant.

The orphanage has a compelling story; the staff explains how many elephants have been rescued after losing their mothers to poaching or human-wildlife conflict. Visitors often comment on the heartwarming interactions and the important role the orphanage plays in conservation. One visitor shared: “Watching the baby elephants being fed was a highlight—I could have stayed all day.”

The photo sessions are a bonus, as you get close to these gentle giants and learn about their journey back to health, with the ultimate goal of reintroducing them into the wild.

Lunch and Rest

A short break for lunch lets you recharge. Whether you choose to eat at a local restaurant or have a picnic, this is your chance to discuss the morning’s adventures and prepare for the afternoon.

More Great Tours Nearby

Giraffe Center and Conservation

In the afternoon, the Giraffe Center offers a different kind of wildlife experience—hand-feeding the endangered Rothschild giraffes. The center’s elevated feeding platform allows you to offer them treats directly from your hand, sometimes resulting in adorable kisses from these towering animals.

Many visitors find this interaction both fun and educational, as the center emphasizes the conservation challenges faced by Rothschild giraffes. The grounds are also home to native plants and other wildlife, so it’s a peaceful spot to stroll and soak in the natural environment.

There's plenty more to explore in Nairobi

Optional Craft Visit

For those interested in supporting local communities, the optional visit to the Kazuri Beads Womens Cooperative offers a chance to see how handmade beads and pottery are crafted by local women. It’s a great way to pick up unique souvenirs and learn about social enterprise efforts.

Return and Reflection

The day wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel or residence, leaving you with incredible memories and perhaps some new photos, stories, and perspectives on Kenya’s wildlife conservation.

The Value of this Tour

Priced at $80 per person, this tour packs in a lot of value. It’s not just about the attractions; it’s about the stories, the wildlife encounters, and the understanding of Kenya’s efforts to protect its animals. The combination of guided game drives and close-up animal interactions makes it comprehensive and engaging.

The entry fees—$43 for Nairobi National Park, $20 for the Elephant Orphanage, and $15 for the Giraffe Center—are not included but are straightforward to pay, with some options for online pre-registration. Many reviews mention that the guide assists with this, making entry smooth.

The transportation in an open-roof safari vehicle is a highlight, offering great visibility and photo ops. Small group sizes mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which improves the overall experience.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families with children, and first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to Kenya’s natural riches. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see a variety of animals and Learn about conservation efforts firsthand. The early start suits those eager to make the most of their day, and the overall pacing is well-balanced.

If you’re interested in supporting local communities and buying authentic souvenirs, the optional craft shop visit adds a meaningful touch.

The Sum Up

This full-day Nairobi tour offers a well-curated taste of Kenya’s wildlife, conservation, and culture. You’ll leave with a richer understanding of the animals, their habitats, and the challenges they face—all while enjoying incredible views and up-close encounters.

The combination of game drives, rescue stories, and giraffe feeding makes this a versatile experience, especially for travelers wanting a meaningful, interactive day without straying far from the city.

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone interested in conservation, this tour provides a memorable and educational adventure at a reasonable price.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel or residence pickup at around 5:45 AM, giving you a head start on wildlife activity.

How long is the game drive?
The game drive in Nairobi National Park lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, offering plenty of time to spot various animals.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fees for Nairobi National Park ($43), Elephant Orphanage ($20), and Giraffe Center ($15) are paid separately, but guides assist with entry procedures.

Can I visit the craft shop?
Yes, there’s an optional visit to the Kazuri Beads Womens Cooperative, which can be added to your schedule for about 30 minutes to an hour.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, with options available nearby or as a packed picnic.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, the interactive animal encounters and short travel distances make it a family-friendly choice.