Giraffe Centre, located just 20 minutes from Nairobi National Parkâs Main Langata Road Gate and about 27 minutes from Nairobiâs Central Business District (CBD), offers one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters in the city â the rare chance to stand eye-to-eye with the endangered Rothschildâs giraffes.
The Giraffe Centre, located in Langâata, Nairobi, is one of Kenyaâs most popular wildlife education and conservation attractions. Established in 1979 by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW), the Giraffe Centre was initially created to protect the endangered Rothschildâs giraffe, a subspecies of giraffe that was facing severe population decline. Since its inception, the Giraffe Centre has expanded its focus to include wildlife education, conservation awareness, and fostering a close-up experience with one of Africaâs most iconic animals.
This guide will provide an in-depth overview of the Giraffe Centre, including its history, key features, educational programs, and the reasons why it is a must-visit destination for tourists, families, and conservation enthusiasts.
đïž About the Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre, officially known as the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) Kenya, was founded in 1979 by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville. Their mission was to protect the endangered Rothschildâs giraffe, which at the time numbered fewer than 130 individuals in the wild.
The Leslie-Melvilles began with two giraffes, Daisy and Marlon, relocated from Western Kenya to their property in Langâata. Over time, the breeding and release program succeeded in reintroducing hundreds of giraffes into protected areas across Kenya.
Today, the Giraffe Centre is a non-profit conservation and education hub, combining wildlife preservation with public engagement, research, and environmental education for local schoolchildren.
History and Mission
The Giraffe Centre was founded by Jock Leslie-Melville and his wife Betty Leslie-Melville when they learned of the declining numbers of Rothschildâs giraffes in western Kenya. With only around 130 individuals left in the wild, the couple took action, starting by rescuing a giraffe named Daisy Rothschild and moving her to their property in Langâata, Nairobi.
Read the story of the Founding and Founders of Giraffe Center on this PDF.
This initiative led to the establishment of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) and the creation of the Giraffe Centre, with a primary focus on breeding the Rothschildâs giraffe and reintroducing them to safe areas. The Giraffe Centre now hosts thousands of visitors every year, raising awareness about giraffe conservation and broader wildlife issues in Kenya.
đ Location & Accessibility
- Address: Nyumbi Road, off Duma Road, Langâata, Nairobi
- Distance: About 15â20 km from Nairobi city center
- Travel Time: 25â40 minutes depending on traffic
- Accessibility: Easily reachable via taxi, private car, or guided day tour (often paired with Nairobi National Park or the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage)
Nearby landmarks include Giraffe Manor, Karen Blixen Museum, and the Bomas of Kenya, making it an ideal stop on any Nairobi itinerary.
The Rothschildâs Giraffe: A Conservation Success Story
One of the primary reasons to visit the Giraffe Centre is to learn about the Rothschildâs giraffe. This subspecies of giraffe is distinguishable by its white legs (from the knees down) and its lighter, less-defined coat markings compared to other giraffe species. At one point, Rothschildâs giraffes faced severe population threats due to habitat loss, human encroachment, and poaching.
Through the efforts of the Giraffe Centre, the population has rebounded significantly, with over 300 giraffes now living in protected parks and reserves across Kenya. These giraffes have been reintroduced into areas like Lake Nakuru National Park, Ruma National Park, and Mwea Game Reserve, ensuring the survival of the species.
Rothschildâs giraffes are one of three giraffe subspecies found in Kenya, distinguished by:
- Cream-colored legs (white âstockingsâ below the knees)
- Light, less jagged patches on their coats
- Calm temperament, making them ideal for close-up encounters
Once on the brink of extinction, their population has grown to over 300 individuals thanks to breeding and reintroduction efforts led by AFEW.
Read more about Rothchild’s Giraffe.
đ Opening Hours & Entry Fees
Opening Hours:
- Daily, including weekends and public holidays
- 9:00 AM â 5:00 PM (last entry around 4:30 PM)
Entry Fees (as of 2025):
| Category | Fee (KES) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Resident Adult | 1,500 | 11.81 |
| Non-Resident Child (3-12) | 750 | 5.91 |
| Resident/Kenyan Adult | 400 | 3.15 |
| Resident/Kenyan Child | 200 | 1.57 |
| Children Under 3 | 0 | 0.00 |
Best Visiting Times:
- Early morning (9:00â10:30 AM): Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
- Late afternoon (3:30â5:00 PM): Beautiful golden light for photography.
đŠ What to Expect â The Giraffe Centre Experience
1. Meet and Feed the Giraffes
The highlight of your visit is feeding the tall, gentle Rothschildâs giraffes from a raised wooden platform, placing you eye-level with their elegant heads.
Visitors receive pellets made of maize, wheat, and molasses, the giraffesâ favorite treat. The giraffes gently take food from your hand with their long, purple tongues â a playful, unforgettable moment.
2. Educational Talks & Conservation Displays
AFEW staff and guides share information about giraffe species, their behavior, and ongoing conservation efforts. Visitors learn about the giraffeâs unique biology, habitat loss threats, and breeding success stories.
3. Nature Trail & Birdwatching
The Gogo River Nature Trail behind the main center offers a tranquil walk through indigenous forest. Expect to see warthogs, dik-dik antelopes, squirrels, and over 60 species of birds â including African fish eagles, hornbills, and sunbirds.
The circular trail takes about 45 minutes and is suitable for families and casual walkers.
4. Café and Souvenir Shop
The on-site café offers light snacks, tea, and coffee. The Daisy Zoovenir Shop sells handcrafted jewelry, carvings, and wildlife-themed souvenirs, with proceeds supporting local community and conservation projects.
đŠ 3. Top Things to Do at the Giraffe Centre
a. Feed the Giraffes
The highlight of every visit! Visitors stand on an elevated feeding platform, offering food pellets directly to the giraffes â or even daring the famous âgiraffe kissâ by holding a pellet between their lips.
- Best feeding times: 9:00 AM â 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM â 4:30 PM
- Giraffes here are gentle and accustomed to people.
b. Explore the Giraffe Centre Museum
Inside the visitor center, educational exhibits explain giraffe biology, threats, and the centerâs conservation work. Displays also highlight other endangered species in Kenya, such as black rhinos, Grevyâs zebras, and pangolins.
c. Walk the Nature Trail
The Giraffe Centre sits within a 95-acre sanctuary, home to over 180 bird species and small mammals like bushbucks and warthogs.
The trail offers a tranquil 1.5 km walk through indigenous forest â perfect for birdwatching and nature photography.
d. Visit the Gift Shop
Browse a curated selection of locally made crafts, T-shirts, jewelry, and souvenirs â all proceeds support giraffe conservation and environmental education
đ§ Education & Conservation Programs
A core mission of the Giraffe Centre is environmental education.
- Each year, over 50,000 Kenyan students visit the Centre for free conservation lessons.
- The education team partners with schools nationwide to promote sustainable wildlife management.
- The âAdopt a Giraffeâ program allows visitors to symbolically sponsor a giraffe, directly supporting care, feeding, and breeding initiatives.
đż Sustainability Efforts
The Centre operates on sustainable tourism principles:
- 100% of entrance and gift shop revenue supports conservation.
- Eco-friendly waste and energy management systems reduce its footprint.
- AFEW also funds community tree-planting programs and habitat restoration in giraffe ranges across Kenya.
đ§ Quick Facts About Rothschildâs Giraffes
- Scientific Name: Giraffa camelopardalis rothschildi
- Height: Up to 5.8 meters (19 feet)
- Weight: Up to 2,600 pounds
- Distinct Features: Lighter coat, no markings on lower legs (âwhite socksâ), and five ossicones (horn-like structures) instead of the usual two.
- Population: Around 2,500 individuals globally, mostly in Kenya and Uganda.
- Conservation Status: Near Threatened (IUCN Red List).
đŻ Tips for an Amazing Visit
- Arrive early: The giraffes are most active in the morning, and crowds build quickly.
- Dress comfortably: Wear neutral-colored clothes, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Bring a camera: Morning and late afternoon lighting is best for portraits and skyline shots.
- Avoid flash photography: It can startle the animals.
- Follow staff guidance: Never tease or hand-feed without supervision.
- Stay calm: Giraffes are gentle, but sudden movements can make them back away.
- Carry small bills or M-Pesa: The gift shop and café accept electronic and card payments only.
đž Photography Highlights
The Giraffe Centre is one of Nairobiâs most photogenic attractions.
Best Photo Spots:
- The raised feeding platform â iconic close-up shots with giraffesâ heads.
- The lower garden area â ideal for full-body giraffe portraits.
- Morning sunlight or golden-hour glow â enhances the giraffeâs warm coat tones.
- Use a fast lens (f/2.8âf/5.6) for crisp, shallow-depth portraits, or a wide-angle lens to include the Nairobi skyline.
đ§ Family & Educational Programs
The Giraffe Centre is popular with school groups and families.
- Childrenâs Activities: Feeding sessions, interactive talks, and guided nature walks.
- AFEW Education Program: Each year, over 50,000 Kenyan students visit for free environmental education funded by visitor entry fees.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps and accessible bathrooms available on-site.
đ Sustainability & Ethics
Visiting the Giraffe Centre directly supports conservation.
- All giraffes at the Centre are part of the AFEW breeding and reintroduction program.
- Proceeds fund wildlife education, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching projects.
- The experience is ethical â no riding, no forced contact, and no commercial exploitation of animals.
đ§ How to Get There
- From Nairobi CBD: 25â40 minutes by car via Langâata Road.
- From Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA): 35â50 minutes depending on traffic.
- Transport Options:
- Taxi or ride-hailing (Uber/Bolt).
- Organized tour (often paired with Nairobi National Park).
- Self-drive with parking available on-site.
đ§ș Combine with Nearby Attractions
The Giraffe Centre is conveniently located near other top Nairobi attractions â perfect for a half-day or full-day wildlife and culture tour:
| Attraction | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage | 10 mins | Baby elephants feeding & mud-bath experience (11 AM â 12 PM) |
| Karen Blixen Museum | 15 mins | Colonial farmhouse of Out of Africa fame |
| Kazuri Beads & Utamaduni Craft Centre | 10 mins | Handmade ceramics, jewelry & artisan crafts |
| Nairobi National Park | 20 min | A park with over 50 mammals and over 500 bird species. |
| Bomas of Kenya | 20 mins | Traditional dances & village reconstructions |
| Nairobi Safari Walk / Animal Orphanage | 20 mins | Elevated boardwalk with rescued wildlife |
| Talisman or Karen Coffee Garden | 10 mins | Scenic lunch or coffee stop surrounded by gardens |
â Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do I need to book in advance?
Not required for individual visitors. Large groups or school visits should reserve in advance.
Q2: How long does a visit take?
1â2 hours is typical, but allow up to 3 hours if walking the nature trail or relaxing at the cafĂ©.
Q3: Is it suitable for young children?
Yes. Kids love the hands-on feeding and safe environment. Car seats are not required for on-site visits.
Q4: Can I touch or hug the giraffes?
Visitors can feed the giraffes and may gently touch their necks while feeding â always under staff supervision.
Q5: What happens to the giraffes?
The Giraffe Centre operates a breeding program. Calves are raised until about three years old, then released into secure national parks such as Lake Nakuru and Ruma National Parks.
Q6: Is food available inside?
Yes. Thereâs a cafĂ© serving tea, coffee, light snacks, and soft drinks.
Q7: Are drones allowed?
No. Drone use is prohibited to protect the animals and visitors.
đ Suggested Half-Day Itinerary
9:00 AM: Arrive at Giraffe Centre, feed giraffes, take photos.
10:30 AM: Walk the Gogo River Nature Trail and visit the souvenir shop.
11:30 AM: Drive to the Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (public session 11 AM â 12 PM).
12:30 PM: Lunch at Utamaduni Craft Centre or Karen Coffee Garden.
2:00 PM: Optional visit to the Karen Blixen Museum or Bomas of Kenya.
This itinerary pairs perfectly with Nairobiâs other top wildlife attractions â an ideal extension to a Nairobi National Park morning safari.
đŠ Combine Your Giraffe Centre Visit with a Nairobi National Park Safari
If youâre short on time but want to experience Nairobiâs top wildlife attractions, you can easily combine your Giraffe Centre visit with a Nairobi National Park safari â both located along Langata Road, just 20 minutes apart.
At NairobiPark.org, we offer two flexible tour options that bring together the best of Nairobiâs urban wilderness â from close-up encounters with Rothschildâs giraffes to breathtaking game drives among lions, rhinos, and zebras right next to the city skyline.
Option 1: Nairobi National Park + Giraffe Centre (Half-Day Tour)
Perfect for visitors with limited time.
đ Itinerary:
- 6:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel or airport.
- 6:15â10:00 AM: Morning game drive in Nairobi National Park â spot lions, rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife as the sun rises over the savannah.
- 10:30â11:30 AM: Visit the Giraffe Centre, where youâll meet and feed the endangered Rothschildâs giraffes at eye level from the raised viewing deck.
- 12:00 PM: Drop-off at your hotel or airport.
đ° From $90 per person (based on group size)
Includes private Land Cruiser, driver-guide, bottled water, and Nairobi pick-up/drop-off.
(Park entry fees paid separately via eCitizen.)
If you want to add Giraffe Center visit to our Nairobi NP 1/2-day tour, mention it in your email to bookings@nairobipark.org
Option 2: Nairobi National Park + Giraffe Centre + Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (Full-Day Tour)
A full-day wildlife experience that combines Nairobiâs three most beloved conservation attractions.
đ Itinerary:
- 6:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel or airport.
- 6:15â10:00 AM: Extended game drive in Nairobi National Park â see lions, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, and diverse birdlife.
- 11:00 AMâ12:00 PM: Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage to watch baby elephants during their feeding and mud bath session.
- 12:30â1:30 PM: Lunch stop at a nearby restaurant (optional, at own cost).
- 2:00â3:00 PM: Visit the Giraffe Centre, where you can hand-feed Rothschildâs giraffes and learn about AFEWâs conservation work.
- 4:00 PM: Optional stop at Utamaduni Craft Centre or Kazuri Beads Factory for souvenirs.
- 5:00 PM: Return drop-off at your hotel or airport.
đ° From $130 per person (based on group size)
Includes private Land Cruiser, driver-guide, bottled water, and Nairobi pick-up/drop-off.
(Entry fees for park, orphanage, and Giraffe Centre paid separately via eCitizen.)
Both itineraries can start from any Nairobi hotel, Wilson Airport, or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with flexible timing and personalized pacing.
đ© To Book:
Email bookings@kambucampers.com
đ Summary
The Giraffe Centre is more than just a tourist stop â itâs a living conservation success story. In one visit, you can learn about endangered species, support local education, and stand beside the tallest animals on earth.
More Giraffe Center FAQs
đĄ About the Giraffe Centre
1. What exactly is the Giraffe Centre?
The Giraffe Centre is a nonprofit wildlife conservation and education center managed by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW-Kenya). It focuses primarily on breeding, protecting, and reintroducing the endangered Rothschildâs giraffe, while also promoting environmental education across Kenya.
2. How big is the Giraffe Centre sanctuary?
The property covers approximately 95 acres, including the main giraffe feeding compound, visitor facilities, and an indigenous forest sanctuary used for nature walks, birdwatching, and school programs.
3. Are the giraffes kept in captivity?
No â the giraffes at the Centre live in a semi-wild, free-roaming environment within the sanctuary. They are not tamed or trained; theyâre simply accustomed to people through decades of controlled, respectful human interaction.
4. How many giraffes live at the Centre?
Usually between 10 and 15 giraffes, including males, females, and calves. Once the young reach maturity, they are relocated to protected national parks and conservancies across Kenya.
5. Is the Giraffe Centre government-owned?
No â it is a private, nonprofit organization, though it collaborates closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and other conservation partners.
đŠ Giraffe Facts & Conservation
6. What makes the Rothschildâs giraffe unique?
- It has distinct white âstockingsâ on its legs (no markings below the knees).
- Its patches are light brown with smooth edges.
- It is taller and lighter-colored than the Masai and Reticulated giraffes.
- It is one of Africaâs rarest giraffe subspecies, once numbering fewer than 130 in the wild.
7. How successful is the Giraffe Centreâs breeding program?
Over the last 40 years, more than 300 Rothschildâs giraffes have been bred at the Centre and successfully relocated to Lake Nakuru National Park, Ruma National Park, Soysambu Conservancy, and Mwea Game Reserve â a remarkable recovery story for the species.
8. What other species can be found in the sanctuary?
You may encounter bushbucks, warthogs, squirrels, and over 180 bird species, including turacos, sunbirds, and hornbills.
9. Does AFEW support other wildlife conservation projects?
Yes. AFEW funds projects focused on:
- Habitat restoration and tree-planting in degraded giraffe ranges.
- Community outreach to reduce poaching and humanâwildlife conflict.
- Environmental education programs for schools and universities.
đ Visiting & Planning Your Trip
10. How far is the Giraffe Centre from Nairobi National Park?
Itâs located about 20 minutes from Nairobi National Parkâs Main Langata Gate â perfect for combining both in a half-day or full-day itinerary.
11. How far is it from Nairobiâs city centre or JKIA?
- From Nairobi CBD: approximately 27 minutes (via Langata Road).
- From JKIA Airport: around 35â45 minutes depending on traffic.
12. What are the opening days and hours?
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including weekends and public holidays.
đ Last entry is at 4:45 PM.
13. What is the best time of day to visit?
- Morning (9:00â10:30 AM) â Giraffes are hungriest and most interactive.
- Late afternoon (3:00â4:30 PM) â Good lighting and smaller crowds.
14. Is the Giraffe Centre ever closed?
The Centre remains open year-round but may close briefly during extreme weather or maintenance. Announcements are posted on-site or through local operators.
15. How long does a visit take?
A full visit typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, though guests combining nearby attractions (like the Elephant Orphanage) may stay longer.
đïž Tickets, Payments & Booking
16. Can I buy tickets at the gate?
Yes. Tickets are sold on-site â no advance booking is needed for individual visitors.
17. What forms of payment are accepted?
- M-Pesa mobile money (preferred)
- Cash (Kenyan Shillings only)
- Some operators accept Visa/Mastercard payments in advance.
18. Do I need to show ID or proof of residency?
Yes â Kenyan citizens and residents should carry their ID or passport to qualify for resident rates.
19. Are there annual passes or memberships?
At present, AFEW does not offer annual passes, but supporters can join the Adopt a Giraffe program for a one-year symbolic adoption.
đ§ââïž Visitor Experience
20. What exactly happens during the giraffe feeding experience?
Visitors stand on an elevated platform to feed giraffes pellets made from maize, molasses, and lucerne. Itâs a safe, supervised, and enjoyable experience for both adults and children.
21. Are the giraffes always hungry?
Feeding sessions are carefully timed and limited. Staff ensure giraffes are not overfed, maintaining a natural feeding rhythm.
22. Whatâs the famous âgiraffe kissâ?
Visitors can hold a pellet between their lips and let a giraffe gently take it â a fun, photogenic, and harmless tradition at the Centre!
23. Are there feeding rules?
Yes â visitors should:
- Only feed the giraffes official pellets provided by staff.
- Avoid touching the giraffesâ faces or horns (ossicones).
- Supervise children closely.
- Refrain from loud noises or sudden movements.
24. Can I pet the giraffes?
No â direct touching or hugging is not permitted, to avoid stressing the animals. Feeding is the only approved interaction.
đ§ Education & Programs
25. What is the AFEW Education Program?
AFEW runs one of Kenyaâs largest environmental education outreach programs, offering free lessons and excursions for local schools on conservation, climate, and ecology.
26. How many students visit annually?
Over 50,000 students participate in AFEWâs programs every year, making it a cornerstone of Kenyaâs wildlife education network.
27. Can international schools or universities book educational tours?
Yes â the Centre offers special rates and customized conservation sessions for international academic groups. Advance booking is required.
28. Can I volunteer or intern at the Giraffe Centre?
Yes, but spaces are limited. AFEW occasionally accepts volunteers or research interns in environmental education, wildlife monitoring, and communications.
đż Facilities & Accessibility
29. Is the Giraffe Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The feeding deck, visitor center, and restrooms are wheelchair-accessible via ramps. The forest trail, however, may be uneven in sections.
30. Are restrooms available?
Yes â clean, well-maintained restrooms are located near the main visitor center.
31. Is there a café or restaurant?
A small outdoor café serves coffee, juices, and light snacks, with shaded seating. For full meals, nearby restaurants such as Karen Coffee Garden, Talisman, or Utamaduni Café are popular choices.
32. Does the Centre have Wi-Fi?
No public Wi-Fi is provided, allowing visitors to enjoy a screen-free wildlife experience.
33. Is smoking or vaping allowed?
No. The entire sanctuary is a smoke-free zone.
34. Is there secure parking?
Yes, a free parking area is available for visitors, tour vans, and school buses.
35. Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely. Itâs one of Nairobiâs top attractions for families â safe, educational, and engaging for children of all ages.
đž Photography & Filming
36. Can I take photos and videos?
Yes â photography is encouraged! The giraffes are very photogenic and used to cameras.
37. Are professional photoshoots allowed?
Yes, but permits are required for professional, commercial, or media photography. These can be arranged through the AFEW office in advance.
38. Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are prohibited without prior clearance from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
39. Are there the best times for photos?
- Morning (9:00â10:00 AM): Soft golden light for portraits.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM): Warm tones and fewer crowds.
40. What camera lens is recommended?
A wide-angle lens (16â35mm) for close-ups or a medium zoom (70â200mm) for portraits works perfectly.
đïž Souvenirs & Adoption
41. Is there a souvenir shop?
Yes â the on-site AFEW Gift Shop sells giraffe-themed crafts, apparel, and eco-friendly products.
42. What is the âAdopt a Giraffeâ program?
Visitors can symbolically adopt a giraffe, helping to fund its feeding, veterinary care, and relocation to a national park. Adopters receive:
- A personalized certificate
- Photo and details of the giraffe adopted
- Updates on conservation progress
43. Can I make a donation?
Yes â cash and mobile donations are accepted on-site or through AFEWâs official channels.
đ Transportation & Tours
44. How can I get there from the city?
Most visitors use:
- Taxis or ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Uber, Little Cab)
- Private tours from Nairobi National Park or hotels
- Matatus toward Hardy or Karen, then a short walk or boda-boda
45. Can I combine Giraffe Centre with other attractions?
Yes â itâs near several top Nairobi attractions:
- David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (11:00 AMâ12:00 PM)
- Karen Blixen Museum
- Bomas of Kenya
- Utamaduni Craft Centre / Kazuri Beads Factory
- Nairobi Safari Walk & Animal Orphanage
46. Is the Giraffe Centre included in full-day Nairobi safaris?
Yes. Many full-day Nairobi tours offered by NairobiPark.org include:
- Morning game drive in Nairobi National Park
- Visit to the Elephant Orphanage
- Stop at the Giraffe Centre
- Optional add-ons like Karen Blixen Museum or Bomas of Kenya
đŠïž Seasons & Weather
47. When is the best time of year to visit?
The Giraffe Centre is open year-round, but the best months are:
- JuneâOctober (dry season): Pleasant weather and fewer insects.
- DecemberâMarch: Great for photography and outdoor activities.
48. Whatâs the weather like?
- Mornings: Cool (16â20°C / 60â68°F)
- Afternoons: Warm (24â28°C / 75â82°F)
Light showers may occur between AprilâMay and OctoberâNovember.
49. What should I wear?
- Light, neutral-colored clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen
- A light jacket for cooler mornings
𧳠Miscellaneous Questions
50. Are pets allowed?
No. Pets are not permitted within the sanctuary for safety and health reasons.
51. Can I bring outside food or drinks?
Small snacks and water are fine, but full picnics are not allowed to protect wildlife.
52. Are there medical facilities nearby?
The nearest hospitals are Karen Hospital and Langata Hospital, both within 15 minutes.
53. Is the Giraffe Centre suitable for elderly visitors?
Yes. It has shaded rest areas, benches, and gentle slopes.
54. Does the Centre close during rain?
No â the feeding deck is covered, so visits continue during light rain.
55. Is tipping required?
Tipping is optional but appreciated. Typical range: KES 200â500 for guides.
đ Final Advice from NairobiPark.org
- Pair your visit: Combine the Giraffe Centre with a morning Nairobi National Park safari or a visit to the Elephant Orphanage for a complete wildlife day.
- Arrive early: The giraffes are most playful before mid-morning.
- Travel light: You only need a camera, sunscreen, and curiosity.
- Support conservation: Every ticket and souvenir directly contributes to the care and protection of Kenyaâs giraffes.