How to Plan Your Nairobi Tour: Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, Beads Center & Bomas of Kenya

If you’re planning a trip to Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, you’re in for a treat. With a rich cultural heritage, a thriving wildlife scene, and a bustling urban landscape, Nairobi is one of the most exciting travel destinations in Africa.

Among its many attractions, the Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, Beads Center & Bomas of Kenya Tour stands out as a must-see itinerary item. Here’s how to plan your tour and make the most of your time in Nairobi.

Overview

The Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, Beads Center & Bomas of Kenya Tour is a private, guided tour that takes you on a journey through Nairobi’s vibrant culture and wildlife. During the tour, you’ll get up close and personal with some of Kenya’s most beloved animals, including giraffes and elephants, learn about traditional crafts like pottery and bead making, and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage through music and dance.

Your private guide will pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb, and you’ll travel by private vehicle to the various attractions on your itinerary. You’ll enjoy round-trip transfers, and lunch is available for purchase.

Here’s what’s included in the tour:

• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transport by private vehicle
• Lunch (own expense)
• Gratuities

If you’re staying in an Airbnb or private apartment, pickup is available from those locations as well.

Attractions

The Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, Beads Center & Bomas of Kenya Tour includes four main attractions:

Giraffe Center

The Giraffe Center is a sanctuary for endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. During your visit, you’ll have an opportunity to feed these gentle giants and interact with them up close. The center is situated on 140 acres of land and is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Elephant Orphanage

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage is home to baby elephants that have been orphaned due to poaching or other circumstances. The orphanage provides a home for these animals, where they can be taken care of until they’re old enough to return to the wild. During your visit, you’ll get to watch these baby elephants play and enjoy their daily bottle feeding time. The orphanage is open daily from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Beads Center

The Kazuri Beads Factory is a women’s cooperative that produces handmade ceramic beads. During your visit, you’ll get to see the craftspeople at work, learn how the beads are made, and even try your hand at making your own bead necklace. The Beads Center is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Bomas of Kenya

The Bomas of Kenya is a cultural center that celebrates the heritage of Kenya’s many tribes. During your visit, you’ll experience authentic music and dance performances, learn about traditional dress and customs, and take a guided tour of the center’s many exhibits. The Bomas of Kenya is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Booking

To book your Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, Beads Center & Bomas of Kenya Tour, visit Viator’s website at book the tour here. Make sure to book in advance to secure your preferred tour dates and times.

Conclusion

The Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, Beads Center & Bomas of Kenya Tour is an unforgettable experience that will give you an intimate look at the unique culture and wildlife of Kenya. With a private guide and comfortable transportation, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the day without having to worry about logistics. Book your tour today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Most Frequently Asked Questions About Nairobi: Your Ultimate Guide

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a vibrant metropolis that is rapidly developing and modernizing. Famous for its national park, fantastic food scene, and vibrant culture, Nairobi is a must-visit destination in East Africa. However, before you embark on your journey to Nairobi, you may have a lot of questions. In this blog post, we have rounded up the most frequently asked questions about Nairobi to help you plan a hassle-free trip.

1. Is Nairobi Safe for Tourists?

Nairobi has had a longstanding reputation for being unsafe for tourists. However, with the recent security measures implemented by the government, Nairobi is now relatively safe for tourists. Like in any other city, you should be cautious of pickpockets, street scams, and avoid walking alone at night, especially in the downtown area. It is also advisable to stick to the tourist areas, such as Westlands, Karen, and Langata, where there is a police presence.

2. What is the Best Time to Visit Nairobi?

The best time to visit Nairobi is from January to March and from July to October, when the weather is dry and sunny. The peak tourist season in Nairobi is from July to October when the great wildebeest migration takes place in the nearby Maasai Mara National Reserve. If you wish to avoid the crowds, plan your visit during the low tourist season from April to June and November to December, although be prepared for frequent afternoon showers.

3. What are the Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Nairobi?

Nairobi has lots of tourist attractions that cater to various interests. It is home to Nairobi National Park, the only game park within a city, where you can spot the big five animals. Other popular tourist attractions include the Giraffe Centre, where you can feed the endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, where you can see baby elephants being fed, and the Karen Blixen Museum, which showcases the life of the author of “Out of Africa.” For a panoramic view of the city, head to the KICC Helipad or the Nairobi Arboretum.

4. What is the Local Currency in Nairobi?

The local currency in Nairobi is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). Foreign currencies such as the US dollar, Euro, and British Pound are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions. However, we recommend exchanging your currency at authorized foreign exchange bureaus, banks, or withdrawing from ATMs rather than exchanging on the street where you may get ripped off by scammers.

5. Do I Need a Visa to Visit Nairobi?

Yes. Visitors to Nairobi, and Kenya as a whole, require a visa for entry. You can either get a visa on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or apply for an eVisa online before your trip. The eVisa is valid for a single entry of up to 90 days, and it is advisable to apply for it at least two weeks before your planned travel date.

6. What is the Local Language in Nairobi?

The local language in Nairobi is Swahili, which is widely spoken across Kenya and East Africa. English is also widely spoken and is the language of instruction in schools, business, and government offices.

7. What is the Food Like in Nairobi?

Nairobi has a diverse food scene with a mix of African and international cuisine. Local dishes such as Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Ugali (a maize-based side dish), and Pilau (spiced rice dish) are a must-try for any foodie. Nairobi also has various international restaurants, including Chinese, Indian, Italian, and Japanese cuisines. Vegetarians and vegans will also be pleasantly surprised by the delicious and healthy vegetarian options available in Nairobi’s restaurants.

8. What Should I Wear in Nairobi?

Nairobi has a conservative dress code due to its conservative cultural and religious values. When in public places, it is advisable to dress modestly, covering your arms and legs. Avoid wearing revealing clothing such as shorts, tank tops, or miniskirts unless you are visiting the beach or hotel pool. You can dress casually when visiting tourist attractions, but for business or formal occasions, formal attire is expected.

9. How Can I Get Around Nairobi?

Nairobi has various modes of transportation, including taxis, buses, matatus (minivans), and motorcycle taxis. However, we recommend using reputable taxi companies such as Uber or Bolt, which offer safety, convenience, and a fair price for their services. Alternatively, you can rent a car, but be sure to get an international driver’s license and familiarize yourself with the local driving rules.

10. What Souvenirs Should I Buy in Nairobi?

Nairobi is a shopper’s paradise, with various markets and specialty shops selling various items, including authentic African textiles, crafts, jewelry, and local coffee. The Maasai Market is a popular spot for tourists to buy souvenirs, while the Utamaduni Craft Centre offers a range of Kenyan-made handicrafts, including beaded jewelry, sculptures, and paintings. When shopping, be prepared to haggle as it is a common practice in Nairobi’s markets.

In Conclusion

Nairobi is a unique and diverse city with lots to offer tourists. By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided you with helpful insights on what to expect when visiting Nairobi. Remember always to stay safe, respectful, and conscientious in your interactions with the locals. Plan accordingly, and you are sure to have a memorable trip to Nairobi.