Nairobi: Private Elephant Orphanage Tour

Planning a trip to Nairobi and eager to meet some adorable, rescued elephants? We’ve looked into the Private Elephant Orphanage Tour offered by Kenya Bush Expeditions and have all the details to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money. This tour promises a close-up experience with baby elephants, along with a glimpse into wildlife conservation efforts, all for around $100.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see these gentle giants up close, learn about the conservation work from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy some local shopping afterward. However, a potential snag is the additional park entry fee, which can significantly bump up your total cost—something to keep in mind if you’re watching your budget.

This tour works best for travelers who want an authentic, educational wildlife encounter without spending hours on logistics. Whether you’re visiting Nairobi with family or friends, or simply want a meaningful experience with Kenya’s wildlife, this could be a solid choice—just be prepared for some extra fees.

Key Points

• Close encounters with baby elephants provide memorable, Instagram-worthy moments.
• Learn about elephant adoption and conservation directly from trusted guides and professionals.
• Includes hotel pickup and private transport for convenience and comfort.
• Additional fees—such as the Nairobi National Park entrance—may significantly increase the overall cost.
• Authentic local shopping stops add a cultural touch to the experience.
• Suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Nairobi Elephant Orphanage Tour

This tour is centered around a visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, one of Africa’s most renowned conservation organizations. Starting with a 10:45 AM arrival, you’ll be greeted by a guide who provides a brief, one-hour presentation about the orphanage’s mission, history, and how they rescue and rehabilitate elephants. The guide’s background as a knowledgeable host ensures you get context as well as answers to any questions.

Getting Up Close with Baby Elephants

Once the introduction ends, you’ll get the chance to see the orphaned elephants enjoying their formula milk feed. This part of the tour is especially popular because of how approachable and friendly the elephants are during feeding times. You might even get to touch and interact with them, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. Several visitors noted the elephants’ gentle nature, and the fact that the staff is attentive to ensure it’s a safe, educational experience.

However, some reviews pointed out that the duration of the visit may be shorter than expected—about an hour—despite claims of a longer experience. As one reviewer shared, “It lasted 1 hour, not 3 hours as advertised,” which could be disappointing for those expecting a more extended encounter.

Exploring the Surroundings

After the main activity, the tour includes a quick shopping stop at a local wood crafts store. Here, you’ll find handcrafted souvenirs, jewelry, and home decor, supporting local artisans. Following this, there’s a visit to a Kazuri beads factory—famous for its brightly colored ceramic beads—adding a cultural and artisanal flavor to your day.

Optional Lunch and Additional Activities

You’ll be advised on nearby dining options for lunch, which is not included in the price. Some travelers prefer to find a local restaurant nearby for a more authentic meal, while others opt for a quick bite to keep the schedule tight.

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The Hidden Cost: Park Entry Fees

A crucial detail—several reviews highlight that the entry fee to Nairobi National Park is not included in the tour price and can be steep, around $45 per person. Some travelers expressed frustration, sharing stories where additional costs were unexpectedly added, sometimes after they’ve already paid for the tour. It’s worth planning ahead if you want to include a visit to the park, as it can double or triple the initial price.

Transportation and Group Size

The entire experience is conducted with hotel pickup and drop-off, using private transportation arranged by the tour operator. This adds convenience, especially after a morning with active kids or tired travelers. The guides are trained professionals, ensuring safety and engaging commentary throughout.

Who Is It For?

This tour caters well to families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic conservation experience. It’s suitable for all ages, and the small-group setting ensures personalized attention. But, if you’re looking for a longer, all-inclusive experience, or want to avoid extra fees, you might want to explore other options or plan your own day.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer, John, gave the experience a perfect rating, saying it was “Excellent in all respects.” He appreciated the guides’ knowledge and the opportunity to interact closely with the elephants. Conversely, some travelers expressed disappointment about the length of the visit—notably, Marion felt the tour was much shorter than advertised, lasting only an hour instead of three, which dampened her experience.

Others, like Jan, pointed out a significant cost concern: “The entire trip was a scam,” due to additional fees for park entry that weren’t clear upfront. Several reviews described feeling overcharged—one traveler paid over $136, with additional costs for park entrance—leading to frustration and feeling misled.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Book in advance to secure a spot and clarify costs.
• Carry cash for the optional park entrance fee and souvenirs.
• Arrive on time for the 10:45 AM start to maximize your experience.
• Prepare for extra costs if you want to visit Nairobi National Park afterward.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a meaningful, educational wildlife experience that offers close-up moments with baby elephants, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for families or first-time visitors who want a quick, guided introduction to Kenya’s conservation efforts. The convenience of hotel pickup and private transport makes it a hassle-free option.

However, be aware of the additional entrance fees—these can substantially raise the cost—and the possibility of the shorter-than-expected visit. For travelers on a tight budget, or those seeking an all-day adventure with fewer extra costs, it’s worth exploring other options or booking directly with the orphanage.

Ultimately, this experience shines when you’re looking for a personal, authentic encounter with elephants combined with some cultural shopping. The guides’ knowledge and the chance to see conservation efforts firsthand are invaluable. Just double-check what’s included to avoid surprises, and consider your budget for the extra park entry fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day comfortably.

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs approximately $100 per person, which covers the visit to the orphanage, transport, guide, and entry fee to the orphanage.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, the Nairobi National Park entrance fee (around $45 per person) is not included, and some reviewers experienced additional charges for park entry.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all ages, and children especially love seeing the elephants up close.

How long does the visit last?
The official schedule suggests about a one-hour visit with the elephants; some reviews mention that it might be shorter than advertised, so manage expectations.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, a sun hat, and cash for extra expenses or souvenirs.

Can I visit the park and other attractions on the same day?
Yes, you can visit other nearby attractions like the Giraffe Center or explore Nairobi National Park, but be prepared for additional costs and time considerations.

Final Words

This tour offers a genuine peek into Kenya’s conservation work and the adorable world of rescued elephants, all wrapped up with the comfort of private transport. It’s a good pick for those who value close interactions with wildlife and want a straightforward, guided experience. Just stay alert about extra fees and the potential for a shorter visit than advertised.

If your priority is meaningful animal encounters, the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides, and supporting local artisans, this tour hits many marks. For travelers seeking a more comprehensive or flexible wildlife adventure, consider planning additional activities or exploring other tours that include Nairobi National Park and the Giraffe Center. Either way, this experience can add a special touch to your Kenyan journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: