GIRAFFE CENTRE NAIROBI
Introducing the Famous Giraffe Centre of Nairobi
Here we explore the history of the Giraffe Centre and provide useful information about visiting the site. From the Centre’s origins to what you can expect during your visit, we’ll cover everything you need to know for a memorable experience. Whether you’re interested in feeding giraffes or learning about conservation efforts, you’ll find valuable insights to enhance your trip. Additionally, we’ll guide you on how to make the most of your time in Nairobi with other attractions you can visit nearby.
History of the Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi began in 1979, initiated by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville to protect the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, whose population had dwindled due to habitat loss. The couple established the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) and relocated several giraffes to their property in Karen, where a breeding program began to revive their numbers.
Over the years, the Giraffe Centre has expanded its mission beyond conservation to include education and public awareness. It opened its doors to visitors, allowing them to interact with giraffes while learning about conservation efforts. The success of its breeding program has seen many giraffes reintroduced to protected areas across Kenya.
Today, the Giraffe Centre is a major tourist attraction and educational hub. Its raised platform lets visitors feed giraffes at eye level, creating unforgettable experiences. It continues to promote conservation through its outreach programs, ensuring the legacy of Rothschild’s giraffes thrives for future generations.
Things to Do at the Giraffe Centre
1. Feed and Interact with Rothschild’s Giraffes
Step onto the elevated feeding platform and experience the thrill of hand-feeding giraffes. Visitors can offer specially formulated pellets to these gentle giants and learn about their unique adaptations and behaviors. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with wildlife up close.
2. Learn About Giraffe Conservation
The Giraffe Centre serves as an educational hub, offering detailed information about the conservation of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. Engage with staff, explore informative displays, and discover the impact of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW).
3. Take a Nature Walk in the Adjacent Sanctuary
Explore the serene natural trails within the nearby sanctuary. These trails meander through lush forests and offer opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, complementing the giraffe experience with a peaceful immersion in nature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Giraffe Centre is during its operating hours, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with mornings and midweek being ideal for fewer crowds. This ensures ample time to enjoy feeding and interacting with the giraffes in a relaxed atmosphere. The dry season (June to October and January to February) is particularly appealing, as it offers sunny days perfect for combining your visit with nearby attractions or nature walks. No matter the season, the experience promises unforgettable encounters with these gentle giants.
Giraffe Centre Nature Trail
The Giraffe Centre’s Nature Trail offers a serene escape into the lush greenery surrounding this iconic Nairobi attraction. The trail meanders through a carefully conserved patch of indigenous forest, home to various bird species, small mammals, and a diverse array of plant life. Visitors can stroll along its pathways, enjoying the tranquil environment while learning about the flora and fauna through well-placed informational boards.
This immersive trail provides an opportunity to connect with nature in a more intimate way. Guided by the serene chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves, you can discover the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts in Kenya. The trail’s design encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Ideal for nature enthusiasts and families alike, the Nature Trail complements the giraffe-feeding experience, adding depth to your visit. It’s not just about giraffes but a celebration of Kenya’s natural heritage, offering a holistic appreciation of its vibrant ecosystem.
Giraffe Centre Tours
Giraffe Centre tours offer an up-close encounter with Kenya’s iconic Rothschild’s giraffe, providing a perfect mix of education and interaction. Guests learn about giraffe conservation efforts, the history of the center, and the vital role these elegant creatures play in Kenya’s ecosystem. The guided experience ensures a deeper appreciation of wildlife preservation and the challenges it faces.
A highlight is feeding the giraffes from a raised platform, where their gentle nature and towering height leave a lasting impression. Visitors can also explore the serene Nature Trail, adding a peaceful, natural element to the adventure.
For a seamless and enriching experience, Africa Kenya Safaris offers tours that include a visit to the Giraffe Centre. These excursions are expertly curated, combining the thrill of giraffe interaction with other Nairobi highlights, ensuring a memorable journey for all ages. Let Africa Kenya Safaris bring this unique wildlife experience to life for you!
Giraffe Centre Reviews
Planning a visit to the Giraffe Centre? See what past visitors have to say! Reviews from platforms like Google and TripAdvisor provide valuable insights into the unforgettable experiences, educational highlights, and unique moments that make the Giraffe Centre a must-see destination in Nairobi. From the joy of feeding Rothschild’s giraffes to the serene beauty of the Nature Trail, these testimonials offer a glimpse of what awaits you. Explore the excitement and inspiration that others have discovered at this exceptional conservation site.
“Giraffe feeding is a soothing experience”
Beautifully kept space. Great handwashing practice before and after. The giraffe feeding is a soothing experience. Majestic, gentle creatures. Best to go early in the morning. Less crowd and more time to take in the platform scene. The guides were very knowledgeable and friendly. Its a short activity- max 30min to 45. Highly recommended.
