Exploring Nairobi’s National Park, Baby Elephant, and Giraffe Centers: A Guide

From experiencing the world’s highest concentration of endangered species, to getting up close and personal with baby elephants, there’s plenty to do in and around Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. If you’re looking to make the most of your time there, look no further than exploring Nairobi’s national parks, baby elephant, and giraffe centers.

Nairobi National Park is an oasis right in the heart of the city, the only game park so close to a major city in the world. It is well signposted and is located seven kilometers to the south of the city center. This park is home to more than 500 species of animals, including lions, rhinos, zebras and warthogs. You can drive through the park and view animals in their natural habitat or take part in organized walking safaris with experienced wildlife guides. Alternatively, you can take a hot air balloon ride at dawn to get a bird’s-eye view of the park and the superb African sunsets that accompany it.

If you want something a bit more hands-on, then take a trip to The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi National Park. This center is part of an elephant orphanage and also runs a highly successful adoption program. The orphanage takes in orphaned baby elephants, rehabilitates them and then eventually reintroduces them into the wild. Visitors to the center can get up close and personal with the orphaned elephants while they are being bottle fed and learn more about the work being done here. This is a particularly popular experience among those with families or children who want to get a special experience while they are in Nairobi, so be sure to book well in advance.

Giraffe Centers are another great way to experience wildlife up close and get an understanding of Kenyan conservation efforts. As part of their conservation efforts, the Giraffe Center provides giraffe genetics research and education programs aimed at raising awareness about conservation efforts worldwide. At the center, visitors can observe giraffes from a viewing tower and learn more about the work being done by volunteers. In addition, visitors can also feed the giraffes from ground level, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re looking for a unique experience while in Nairobi then all three of these activities are highly recommended. Exploring Nairobi’s national parks, elephant orphanage, and giraffe center is a great way to get an understanding about wildlife conservation in Kenya and to get up close and personal with some amazing wildlife creatures. To book your National Park, Baby Elephant and Giraffe Centre Tour in Nairobi, click here.

Nairobi is an amazing place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Exploring Nairobi National Park, Baby Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe Centre is the best way to get an understanding of Kenya’s conservation efforts while getting up close and personal with some of Africa’s most amazing creatures. Whatever your reason for visiting Nairobi, be sure to add these three incredible experiences to your itinerary!

Insider’s Guide to Exploring Nairobi’s National Park, Baby Elephant, and Giraffe Centers

If you’re planning a trip to Africa, Nairobi should be at the top of your list. Located in Kenya, the city offers an abundance of cultural experiences, local history, and natural beauty. One of the top attractions in Nairobi is undoubtedly the Nairobi National Park, which is unique as it’s located just a few miles outside of the city centre. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore Nairobi’s National Park, Baby Elephant, and Giraffe Centers to help you make the most of your trip.

National Park

Located just a few kilometres from the city centre, Nairobi National Park is one of the only national parks in the world that’s located so close to a capital city. Here, visitors can experience stunning wildlife, a wide range of bird species, and unique landscapes. Being a game reserve, visitors can spot lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and different types of antelope, among others. A visit to the National Park is an opportunity to experience wildlife safari in Nairobi.

Insider tips

– Opt for early morning and late afternoon game drives when the animals are more active.
– Don’t forget to carry sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense during the day.
– Hire a local guide to make the most of your visit.

Baby Elephant Center

The Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage is a must-see attraction in Nairobi. The center was established in 1977 to care for baby elephants who have been orphaned, mostly due to poaching. At the center, visitors can see the baby elephants playing, feeding, and receiving care, all while learning about the efforts being made to protect these gentle giants.

Insider tips

– There are two feeding sessions every day, at 11 am and 3 pm, during which visitors can watch the baby elephants feed.
– You can adopt a baby elephant for a year, which helps support the center’s efforts.
– Avoid wearing bright colors or anything that can catch the attention of the elephants.

Giraffe Center

The Giraffe Centre is located in the Lang’ata suburb of Nairobi and is an educational centre focused on the conservation and breeding of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. Visitors can feed the giraffes from a raised platform, learn about giraffe conservation efforts, as well as explore the nature trail.

Insider tips

– The best time to visit the Giraffe Center is in the early morning or late afternoon when the giraffes are active.
– Avoid making sudden movements when feeding the giraffes as they can be easily startled.
– Take a stroll along the nature trail, which is home to a variety of bird species.

Dining spots

Nairobi is a melting pot of cultures, and this is evident in its diverse culinary scene. Some of the top dining spots in the city include:

– Carnivore Restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience where guests can indulge in exotic meats such as crocodile, ostrich, and camel.
– Talisman, which is popular for its gourmet cuisine and stunning outdoor setting.
– Java House, a local coffee chain that offers a variety of delicious breakfast and lunch options.

Insider tips

– Try the local dishes such as ugali, sukuma wiki, and nyama choma.
– Don’t be afraid to venture out of the city centre to discover hidden gems.
– Book your reservations in advance as some restaurants can be quite busy.

Cultural experiences

Nairobi is a city rich in culture. Some of the top cultural experiences to explore include:

– Maasai Market, where visitors can shop for locally crafted jewelry, clothing, and other souvenirs.
– Karen Blixen Museum, which showcases the life and times of the famous author of ‘Out of Africa’.
– National Museum of Kenya, which offers insights into the natural history and cultural heritage of Kenya.

Insider tips

– Bargain for a better price when shopping at the Maasai Market.
– Take a guided tour of the Karen Blixen Museum to gain a deeper appreciation of the author’s life and work.
– Check out the temporary exhibits at the National Museum of Kenya for a glimpse into all things Kenyan.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For those seeking unique experiences, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Karura Forest, a peaceful and serene nature reserve located in the outskirts of Nairobi.
– Ngong Hills, a perfect spot for hiking with stunning views of the city.
– Matbronze Wildlife Art Gallery, which showcases incredible works of art depicting African wildlife.

Insider tips

– Hire a guide to ensure you make the most of your visit to Karura Forest.
– Carry enough water and snacks when hiking Ngong Hills.
– Take your time exploring the Matbronze Wildlife Art Gallery to fully appreciate the artwork on display.

In conclusion, Nairobi is a city full of surprises, with plenty to offer for tourists of all types. By exploring its National Park, Baby Elephant, and Giraffe Centers, as well as sampling its diverse culinary scene, immersing yourself in its rich culture, and venturing off the beaten path, you’ll be sure to have a memorable and unforgettable trip.