Exploring the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi: A Genuine and Engaging Experience
If you’re considering a visit to Nairobi’s renowned Giraffe Centre, this private tour offers a thoughtful blend of wildlife interaction, conservation education, and local culture. Though we haven’t personally joined the tour, reviews and detailed descriptions highlight what makes this experience stand out.
What loves us most? The opportunity to feed the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes up close, the knowledgeable guides who bring the story behind these gentle giants to life, and the optional visit to Kobe Beads Factory that adds a splash of local craftsmanship.
One consideration to keep in mind is the entrance fee of $15 USD, which is not included in the basic price but is well worth the experience. This tour is best suited for animal enthusiasts, families, or travelers looking to combine a wildlife adventure with cultural insights.
Key Points:
- Close Encounters: Feed and interact with Rothschild’s giraffes under professional supervision.
- Educational Focus: Learn about giraffe conservation efforts and behavioral traits.
- Local Culture: Optional visit to Kobe Beads Factory supports local women artisans.
- Comfort & Convenience: Private transportation, pickup, and drop-off included.
- Affordable Price: At $60 per person, the value lies in the intimate experience and expert guidance.
- Flexibility: Most travelers can participate, with a private tour ensuring personalized attention.
Why Choose This Tour?
This private Giraffe Centre tour offers a rare chance to get up close and personal with one of Africa’s most iconic animals. The experience isn’t just about feeding giraffes; it also emphasizes conservation, education, and supporting local communities. It’s tailored to those who appreciate meaningful wildlife encounters without the bustling crowds, thanks to the private nature of the tour.
What to Expect from the Itinerary
Starting with a Punctual Pickup at 9:00 AM, the journey begins with a comfortable drive through Nairobi, setting the tone for a relaxed yet engaging morning. The Giraffe Centre itself is a dedicated space for the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, a species found only in East Africa’s grasslands. Here, you’ll have the chance to feed these tall, gentle creatures with your own hands—an experience described as both “interestingly explained” and “memorable” by previous visitors.
An added perk is the optional visit to Kobe Beads Factory, where local women craft beautiful beads, often used for jewelry and souvenirs. This visit not only enriches your cultural understanding but also supports a grassroots economy. Many reviewers highlight this as a touching insight into local entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.
After about two hours, your guide will ensure smooth transportation back to your hotel, leaving you with meaningful memories and, hopefully, some souvenirs.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Nairobi
The Experience at the Giraffe Centre
The real highlight—feeding the giraffes—is made even better by the guides’ expert explanations about giraffe behaviors and habitat needs. One reviewer fondly recalled, “Mr. Moses came to pick up at the hotel and drove us to the giraffe center… he explained the process and showed us all the giraffes there,” emphasizing how guides add educational value and personalized attention.
The giraffes themselves are quite accustomed to visitors, making for excellent photo opportunities. The feeding process is straightforward but requires some guidance, which the staff and guides are happy to provide. Guests consistently describe the experience as “interesting” and “hands-on,” with many mentioning that getting to interact with the giraffes was a highlight.
The Educational and Conservation Aspect
The Giraffe Centre is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a proactive effort to protect Rothschild’s giraffes, a species now classified as vulnerable. The center educates thousands of Kenyan school children each year, spreading awareness about wildlife preservation.
Visitors learn about the behaviors, habitat preferences, and threats facing these animals. This educational component ensures you leave with a deeper appreciation of the species’ plight, transforming a fun animal encounter into a meaningful conservation experience.
The Optional Kobe Beads Factory Visit
The visit to Kobe Beads Factory is an optional add-on that many travelers find worthwhile. Guided by local women artisans, you’ll see firsthand how traditional bead-making is done. It’s a chance to support women entrepreneurs and purchase unique souvenirs, which many reviewers say they appreciated for their quality and authenticity.
One guest mentioned, “Meeting with women who are experts in making beads for many years was a highlight of the trip,” noting how this experience offers a deeper connection to local culture.
Practical Details and Pricing
At $60 per person, this tour offers good value considering the private transportation, personalized guiding, and cultural enrichment. The entrance fee to the Giraffe Centre is an additional $15 USD. While not included in the initial price, many find it justifiable for the exclusive experience.
The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable addition to a busy itinerary. The private setup means you can tailor the experience slightly—perhaps spend more time feeding the giraffes or exploring the cultural site—depending on your interests.
Transportation is comfortable, with pickup and drop-off included, so you won’t have to worry about navigating Nairobi’s busy streets or haggling for taxis. The tour also includes a free company T-shirt and Wi-Fi, adding small touches of professionalism and convenience.
- Nairobi Airport Layover Half Day Tour to Nairobi National Park
- Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
- Overnight tour to mount Longonot and Hells Gate Naivasha
- Overnight Mount Longonot and Hells Gate National Park From Nairobi
- Overnight Tour to Mt Longonot and Hell’s Gate Park from Nairobi
- 6 Days Amboseli, Lake Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari
Authenticity and Guides
From the review mentioning Mr. Moses, it’s clear that the guides are well-trained and friendly, making the entire experience more engaging. They not only facilitate animal interaction but also share insightful stories about giraffe conservation efforts in Kenya.
This emphasis on knowledgeable guides means you’ll gain more than just photos—you’ll leave with a better understanding of the ecological importance of these animals and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best for animal lovers, families with children, or those interested in conservation. If you’re seeking a peaceful, educational experience that combines wildlife, culture, and community support, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer private, flexible arrangements rather than group tours.
Final Thoughts
The private Giraffe Centre tour in Nairobi offers an authentic, educational, and heartfelt encounter with Kenya’s iconic giraffes. With personalized guides and an optional cultural visit, it’s a well-rounded experience for those eager to connect with local wildlife and community efforts.
While the entrance fee is an additional cost, the overall value is high—combining close animal interactions, conservation education, and cultural insight. The private nature of the tour ensures a more relaxed, tailored experience, perfect for those wanting a memorable day in Nairobi.
For animal enthusiasts, families, and ethical travelers, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to see endangered species up close while contributing to vital conservation work. It’s a meaningful way to spend a few hours that leaves you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of Kenya’s wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children will enjoy feeding the giraffes and learning about conservation efforts.
How long does the tour take?
The main activity at the Giraffe Centre lasts around two hours, including transportation and optional cultural visits.
What is included in the tour price?
Transportation, pickup, drop-off, a driver guide, Kobe Beads Factory visit, and a free company T-shirt are included.
How much is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee is $15 USD and is paid separately at the gate.
Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss with your guide about spending more time at certain stops or including additional activities.
Is the tour family-friendly?
Absolutely. The hands-on giraffe feeding and educational components make it suitable for families and children.
Are there any physical limitations to consider?
Most activities involve standing or gentle walking. Please inform your guide if mobility issues exist.
Is this tour environmentally responsible?
Yes, as a conservation-focused center, the Giraffe Centre emphasizes education and sustainable practices.
What makes the guides special?
Guides like Mr. Moses are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, enhancing the learning experience.
How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through Viator or contact MOSHEL TOURS AND TRAVEL directly for personalized arrangements.
To sum it up, this private Giraffe Centre tour in Nairobi delivers an authentic, educational, and memorable wildlife experience. It’s perfect for those looking to make a positive impact while enjoying close encounters with one of Africa’s most beloved animals. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a family, or with friends, this tour offers a valuable glimpse into Kenya’s conservation efforts and local culture, all in a relaxed and personalized setting.
More Tours in Nairobi
- Giraffe center, stedmark animals haven & Nairobi Park Tour
- Private Tour To Giraffe Centre in Nairobi
- Day Tour to Nairobi national park, Elephants, and Giraffe Center
- Kitengela Anselm Hot Glass tour
- Day tour to Giraffe center and Karen Blixen Nairobi
- Half-Day Private Guided Safari Tour to Nairobi National Park
More Tour Reviews in Nairobi
Still browsing? Here are more Nairobi experiences we've covered recently
- 6-Day Kenya and Tanzania safari
- Nairobi National Park Half-day Game Drive
- 3 Days Maasai Mara Adventure
- 3 Day Maasai Mara & Migration safari
- 2 Days Amboseli Getaway Trip
- 3 Days Masai Mara Joining Safari (lenchada)
- Trail Running in Nairobi, Kenya
- Giraffe center, stedmark animals haven & Nairobi Park Tour
- Private Tour To Giraffe Centre in Nairobi
- Day Tour to Nairobi national park, Elephants, and Giraffe Center
- Kitengela Anselm Hot Glass tour
- 7 Days Into the Wild Wonder : Lodge Safari with Private 4×4 JEEP