By Dianah Achieng
If you’re planning a visit to Kenya’s vibrant capital, a trip to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi should be on your list. This popular attraction allows visitors to get up close with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes—an experience that’s hard to forget.
Located in the lush suburb of Karen, just 40 minutes from Nairobi’s CBD, it blends wildlife conservation, hands-on learning, and fun photo ops, making it ideal for tourists, families, couples, and nature lovers.
About the Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife established the Giraffe Centre in 1979. Its primary mission is to protect the Rothschild’s giraffe, a subspecies once on the brink of extinction. The center began with a few giraffes and has since grown into a full-fledged conservation and education hub. The giraffes live in a secure, semi-wild environment, and visitors can interact with them from an elevated wooden platform. Educational programs target schoolchildren and local communities to promote environmental awareness.
Activities at the Giraffe Centre Nairobi
Nairobi Giraffe Feeding: An unforgettable experience
Certainly, the highlight is feeding the giraffes. Visitors feed the giraffes specially prepared pellets while standing on an elevated platform. If you have the courage to feed them with your mouth, you can even receive a tender “giraffe kiss.” Staff members are available to share information about giraffes and their behavior, making this interactive experience both entertaining and educational.
Handwashing stations are available to ensure hygiene after feeding.
Nature Trail
A scenic 1.5 km trail along the Gogo River, perfect for a quiet stroll or birdwatching.
Education Centre
Learn more about giraffe behavior, biodiversity, and Kenya’s conservation efforts.
Gift Shop
Eco-friendly crafts, books, and souvenirs made by local artisans.
Visitor Details
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (including weekends and public holidays).
Giraffe Centre Tickets:
– Kenyan Adults: Ksh 400 (USD 3)
– Kenyan Children: Ksh 200 (USD 1.50)
– Non-Resident Adults: Ksh 1,500 (USD 11)
– Non-Resident Children: Ksh 750 (USD 6)
Payments accepted via M-Pesa, Visa, and Mastercard. Cash is not accepted.
Bookings
No booking is needed for individual visits. Groups of 15+ or school visits must contact the management in advance via the official website. You can do so by calling +254 720 633 999 or emailing info@giraffecentre.org
Best Time to Visit the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi
For an active giraffe feeding experience, visit between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM or after 3:00 PM. During these hours, the giraffes are more active and less affected by the heat, offering a more engaging feeding experience. Weekends and school holidays tend to be more crowded, so weekdays are ideal for a quieter visit.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
If you’re planning a day around the Giraffe Centre, several fascinating spots are just a short drive away. Here are some nearby attractions worth adding to your itinerary:
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Location: Inside Nairobi National Park (about 20–25 mins from the Giraffe Centre)
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM (strictly during the public viewing hours)
Entry Fee: Ksh 500 (USD 4) per person (all proceeds support elephant care)
Highlights: Watch baby elephants during their feeding and mud bath session; optional elephant fostering program.
Location: Karen Road, about 10 minutes from the Giraffe Centre
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
Entry Fee: Ksh 200 (citizens), Ksh 1,200 (USD 9) for non-residents
Highlights: former home of the “Out of Africa” author, guided house tours, peaceful garden setting.
- Nairobi Safari Walk—A family-friendly walk through open animal enclosures.
Main entrance of Nairobi National Park (approx. 30 mins from the Giraffe Centre)
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Ksh 250 (citizens), Ksh 600 (residents), Ksh 1,500 (USD 11) for non-residents
Highlights: wooden boardwalk, variety of animals in open enclosures, a preview of Kenya’s diverse habitats.
- Oloolua Nature Trail—Hidden gem for hiking, waterfalls, and forest views.
Location: Oloolua Forest, Karen (approx. 10–15 mins from Giraffe Centre)
Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Ksh 200 (citizens), Ksh 600 (USD 4.50) for non-residents
Highlights: bamboo forest, waterfall, cave, and a scenic trail ideal for hiking, birdwatching, or picnicking.
How to get there (which matatus go to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi?)
Take a taxi or Uber for convenience (about 40 minutes from CBD). Alternatively, take matatu number 24 from Kencom or Ambassador Stage in the CBD. Ask to be dropped off near the Giraffe Centre or Gogo River junction. From there, it’s a 10–15 minute walk or a short boda boda (motorbike taxi) ride.
How long should you spend at the Giraffe Centre, Nairobi?
Most visitors spend between 1.5 and 2 hours at the Giraffe Center in Nairobi. This gives you ample time to feed giraffes, walk the trail, visit the education center, and browse the gift shop. If you combine the trip with nearby attractions, plan a half-day excursion.
Ready for a Tall Adventure?
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience one of Nairobi’s most iconic wildlife attractions. Visit the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi to create unforgettable memories with these towering beauties. Bring your curiosity, your camera, and a heart ready to learn and appreciate Kenya’s wildlife heritage.
Contact Travel Moran today to book your experience and start your giraffe journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you need to book the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi?
A: No. Individual walk-ins are welcome. Groups of 15+ and school visits should notify the management in advance via the official website.
How much time should I allocate for my visit to the Giraffe Centre?
A: Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives you enough time to feed giraffes, explore the trail, enjoy educational exhibits, and shop for souvenirs.
How much do they charge at the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi?
A: Ticket prices are Ksh 400 for Kenyan residents and Ksh 1,500 for non-resident adults—about USD 3 and USD 11, respectively. Children pay half the adult rate.
What should you wear to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi?
A: Wear breathable, comfortable clothes and sturdy walking shoes. Neutral colors work best for photos and blend nicely with the natural surroundings.
What is the etiquette for Giraffe Manor, Kenya?
A: Stay quiet around animals, avoid flash photography, and only feed giraffes under staff supervision. It’s a luxury hotel experience that must be booked in advance.
Which matatus go to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi?
A: Matatu No. 24 from Nairobi CBD to Karen Hardy is your best option. Ask the driver to drop you near the Giraffe Centre junction.
What is found in the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi?
A: Expect to find Rothschild giraffes, a raised feeding platform, nature trails, a biodiversity education center, and a local artisan gift shop.
How much is a night at Giraffe Manor, Kenya?
A: A night costs about $620 per person, inclusive of meals and giraffe interactions. It’s an exclusive boutique experience.
How much is the entry to Nairobi Safari Walk?
A: Entry costs Ksh 250 for residents and Ksh 1,500 (about USD 11) for non-residents. It’s a great family-friendly addition to your Giraffe Centre visit.
