Giraffe Centre Nairobi

Giraffe Centre Nairobi is a Kenyan non-profit organization and nature Education Centre, located in Langata Nairobi, 40 minutes from Nairobi’s City Centre that was founded in 1979 by the late Jock Leslie-Melville, a Kenyan citizen of British descent, and his American-born wife, Betty Leslie-Melville.

They began the Giraffe Centre after discovering the sad plight of the Rothschild Giraffe. A subspecies of the giraffe found only in the grasslands of East Africa. The Giraffe Centre has also become world-famous as a Nature Education Centre, educating thousands of Kenyan schoolchildren yearly.

The center’s main purpose is to educate Kenyan school children and youth on their country’s wildlife and environment and allow local and international visitors to come into close contact with the world’s tallest species, the giraffe.

Where is Giraffe Center Nairobi located?

The Giraffe Centre is located on Nyumbi Road, off Duma Road, in the Lang’ata suburb of Nairobi, approximately 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from the city center. It’s easily accessible by car, taking about 30 to 40 minutes via Langata Road, depending on traffic.

Visitors from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, around 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away, can expect a drive of 40 minutes to an hour, while those from Wilson Airport, just 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away, can reach the center in 20 to 30 minutes.

When is the best time to visit Giraffe Center Nairobi?

The best time to visit the Giraffe Centre is during the dry season from December to March and June to October to avoid rain ruining planned excursions. However, the center is open to visitors year-round.

The rainy seasons from March to May and late October to early December are still fantastic times to visit,  the feeding deck is covered by a roof in case it rains, and it will be less busy. 

What is the history of Giraffe Center Nairobi?

The Giraffe Centre was founded in 1979 by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe, whose habitat in Western Kenya was being lost. They began by bringing two young giraffes, Daisy and Marlon, to their home in Lang’ata, Nairobi, and started a breeding program.

The couple founded the Africa Fund for Endangered Wildlife (A.F.E.W.) to raise funds for moving giraffes to safer areas, successfully relocating 26 giraffes to reserves like Ruma, Lake Nakuru, and Nasolot. In 1983, they established an Educational Centre to raise awareness, which continues to educate thousands of Kenyan school children. Today, over 300 Rothschild giraffes are thriving in various protected areas in Kenya.

What activities can be done in Giraffe Center Nairobi?

Feed the Giraffes: One of the main attractions at the Giraffe Centre is the opportunity to feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Visitors can hand-feed the giraffes from a raised observation platform, allowing for an up-close interaction with these gentle giants. The giraffes are accustomed to human interaction, and feeding them is not only enjoyable but also a great way to learn about their habits and conservation.

Learn about Conservation: The Giraffe Centre serves as a hub for conservation education, where visitors can learn about the efforts to protect the Rothschild giraffe and other endangered wildlife in Kenya. The center provides informative talks and exhibits, educating visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation and the role each person can play in preserving Kenya’s natural heritage.

Take a Nature Walk: The Giraffe Centre offers guided nature walks through its lush surroundings. These walks allow visitors to explore the indigenous forests around the center, where visitors can observe local flora and fauna. The guides share valuable information about the ecosystem and the role it plays in supporting local wildlife, offering an enriching outdoor experience.

Bird Watching: The Giraffe Centre is home to various bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching. Visitors can spot numerous native bird species during their visit, and the nature trail is an ideal place to observe birds in their natural habitat. Bird-watching enthusiasts can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while identifying different species, adding another dimension to the visit.

Visit the Education Centre: The Giraffe Centre’s Education Centre is dedicated to teaching school children and the general public about the importance of conservation. Visitors can explore various exhibits that highlight environmental conservation efforts, with a focus on endangered species like the Rothschild giraffe. The center also offers educational programs for schools, providing an interactive learning experience for students.

Click on the following links below to view some of our tours to the Giraffe Center Nairobi as well as its neighboring attractions:

Giraffe Center Nairobi Day Tour | Click Here
Giraffe Centre Karen Blixen Kazuri Bead Tour | Click Here
Nairobi National Park Elephant Orphanage Giraffe Centre Tour | Click Here
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Giraffe Centre Nairobi Tour | Click Here
Elephant Orphanage Giraffe Center Kazuri Beads Karen Blixen Museum Tour | Click Here
Nairobi National Park Elephant Orphanage Giraffe Centre Karen Blixen Museum Tour | Click Here

Are there any Accommodation options near Giraffe Center Nairobi?

Feed the Giraffes

At the Giraffe Centre, one of the most exciting activities is the chance to feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Visitors can hand-feed these gentle giants from a specially designed raised platform.

The giraffes have become accustomed to interacting with humans, allowing for an intimate, educational experience. The giraffes use their long, prehensile tongues to take food, usually pellets, directly from your hand.

This close interaction is not only entertaining but also teaches visitors about the species’ behavior, diet, and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them. Feeding the giraffes promotes awareness about their habitat, making this activity both fun and informative for all ages.

Learn about Conservation

The Giraffe Centre is dedicated to educating visitors about wildlife conservation, particularly the preservation of the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Through interactive exhibits, talks, and tours, the center provides detailed information about giraffe biology, threats to their survival, and ongoing efforts to restore their population in Kenya.

The center also emphasizes the role each individual can play in supporting conservation, from responsible tourism to participating in wildlife protection initiatives. Visitors can learn about the broader conservation challenges in Kenya, including habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. By raising awareness, the Giraffe Centre fosters a deeper understanding of the importance of preserving biodiversity and protecting Kenya’s wildlife for future generations.

Take a Nature Walk

The Giraffe Centre offers guided nature walks that allow visitors to explore the indigenous forests surrounding the area. These walks are led by experienced guides who provide insights into the local ecosystem, including the flora and fauna found within the forest.

The trail offers a chance to see a variety of plant species and smaller wildlife, giving visitors a holistic view of the area’s biodiversity. The walks are both peaceful and educational, offering a respite from the urban setting of Nairobi.

As you explore the environment, the guides will explain the critical role these forests play in supporting local wildlife, especially giraffes. This activity complements the experience of interacting with the giraffes, connecting visitors more deeply with the natural world.

Bird Watching

Bird watching at the Giraffe Centre is another popular activity for nature enthusiasts. The center’s surrounding natural habitat is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it an ideal location for observing Kenya’s native birdlife.

Visitors can follow the nature trail through the forested areas to spot various bird species, including weaver birds, hornbills, and sunbirds. The serene setting allows for an immersive bird-watching experience.

Bird guides are available for those interested in learning more about the species they encounter. Whether you are an avid birder or a casual visitor, bird-watching adds another layer of enjoyment to your visit, highlighting the Giraffe Centre’s diverse ecosystem.

Visit the Education Centre

The Giraffe Centre’s Education Centre plays a vital role in raising awareness about conservation, particularly among young students. The center hosts educational programs and exhibits that teach about wildlife preservation, focusing on endangered species such as the Rothschild giraffe.

Schools frequently visit the center for interactive learning sessions, where children are taught about environmental sustainability and the importance of biodiversity. Visitors of all ages can explore informative displays and participate in discussions led by conservation experts.

The Education Centre not only highlights local wildlife conservation efforts but also stresses global environmental issues, inspiring visitors to contribute to conservation initiatives in Kenya and beyond.

Notes

* Free for Children under 3 years of age
* To qualify as a resident you will need to provide Kenyan or East African identification. We accept regular ID, passports, or alien card
* Children are between three to 12 years old. Students below 23 years old with a valid Student Identification Card (ID) from a recognized learning institution also pay this amount

There is no accommodation option directly within the Giraffe Centre, but there are several luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly hotels & lodges nearby that cater to various preferences. Here are detailed descriptions of the options:

Giraffe Manor

Giraffe Manor is an iconic luxury boutique hotel, located a mere 5-minute walk from the Giraffe Centre in the Lang’ata suburb. It’s renowned for its intimate wildlife experience, as Rothschild giraffes wander freely on the grounds, even peeking through the windows during meal times.

The property, originally built in the 1930s, features a historic charm with vintage décor, offering 12 beautifully designed rooms and suites. Guests enjoy elegant surroundings, including lush gardens, while interacting with giraffes and enjoying gourmet meals. This hotel provides an immersive wildlife experience combined with unparalleled luxury, making it ideal for special occasions and unique stays.

The Retreat at Giraffe Manor

Located just 80 meters from Giraffe Manor, The Retreat offers a wellness-focused luxury experience. The facility features day rooms, an infinity pool with views of the giraffe sanctuary, a steam room, a sauna, a hot tub, a gym, and two spa treatment rooms.

This serene sanctuary is designed to complement your stay at Giraffe Manor or serve as a relaxing day retreat. Guests enjoy vibrant cuisine at Daisy’s Café and the calming ambiance of the surrounding forest. The Retreat offers a peaceful, rejuvenating environment, perfect for unwinding before or after a safari, providing a harmonious blend of wellness and nature.

Olsupat Lodge

Olsupat Lodge is a cozy option located about 5 kilometers from the Giraffe Centre, nestled in a quiet section of Lang’ata. It offers a peaceful escape with its outdoor pool, spacious gardens, and comfortable accommodations.

The lodge is designed to offer a relaxing atmosphere for travelers looking to enjoy Nairobi’s wildlife attractions, including the Giraffe Centre, with the convenience of being just a short drive away. Ideal for nature lovers, it provides simple yet comfortable amenities, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers who want easy access to nearby wildlife and the bustling city.

House of Waine

House of Waine is a sophisticated boutique hotel located in the Karen suburb, about 8 kilometers from the Giraffe Centre. This upscale property offers personalized service, luxurious rooms, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

The hotel provides a serene escape from the city while maintaining close proximity to Nairobi’s top attractions, such as the Karen Blixen Museum and the Giraffe Centre. Its combination of colonial charm, modern comforts, and privacy makes it ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and a touch of luxury. The hotel also offers fine dining and exclusive experiences, catering to discerning guests.

Acacia Tree Lodge

Located approximately 7 kilometers from the Giraffe Centre, Acacia Tree Lodge is a boutique property in Karen offering a welcoming, homely atmosphere. It features modern, comfortable rooms designed to cater to both tourists and business travelers.

The lodge is known for its friendly staff and peaceful ambiance, with close access to local tourist sites like the Karen Blixen Museum. Acacia Tree Lodge provides an affordable yet charming experience, making it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a relaxing stay within reach of Nairobi’s wildlife and cultural attractions.

Hemingways Nairobi

Hemingways Nairobi is a five-star luxury hotel, located about 9 kilometers from the Giraffe Centre in the Karen suburb. Known for its colonial architecture and expansive suites, the hotel offers exceptional service, fine dining, and views of the Ngong Hills.

It’s perfect for travelers looking for a high-end base to explore Nairobi, with amenities including a world-class spa, spacious rooms with private balconies, and personalized butler service. Whether for leisure or business, Hemingways provides a sophisticated blend of comfort and elegance, making it a top choice for discerning travelers.

Mobile: + 254-721-242-711
WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711
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Email: [email protected]
Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com