Giraffe Centre, Nairobi, Kenya: Complete Travel Guide, Location, Entry Fee, Things to Do & Rothschild Giraffe Conservation Experience
The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Nairobi and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Kenya safaris, wildlife tours, or short city excursions. Located in Lang’ata, Nairobi, the Giraffe Centre offers a rare opportunity to get up close with the endangered Rothschild giraffe, feed them by hand, and learn about giraffe conservation in East Africa.
If you are searching for things to do in Nairobi, Nairobi day trips, or wildlife attractions in Kenya, the Giraffe Centre should be at the top of your list.
Where is the Giraffe Centre Located in Nairobi?
The Giraffe Centre, Nairobi, is located in Lang’ata, approximately:
- 20 km (12 miles) from Nairobi city centre
- 30–45 minutes drive from Nairobi CBD (depending on traffic)
- Near popular attractions like the Karen Blixen Museum and the Bomas of Kenya
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Its central location makes it ideal for a half-day Nairobi city tour or a stopover before or after a Kenya safari.
What is the Giraffe Centre? (History & Conservation)
The Giraffe Centre in Kenya was established in 1979 by Jock Leslie-Melville and his wife, Betty, to protect the endangered Rothschild giraffe species.
At the time, Rothschild giraffes were close to extinction in Kenya, prompting a conservation breeding program under the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW).
By 1983, the Giraffe Centre had developed into a public education and tourism site.
Conservation Success Story
Today, the centre has successfully:
- Increased Rothschild giraffe populations through breeding
- Reintroduced giraffes into Kenyan national parks
- Educated thousands of Kenyan schoolchildren on wildlife conservation
- Supported long-term giraffe conservation programs in East Africa
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Things to Do at Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
A visit to the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi offers a mix of wildlife interaction, education, and nature experience.
1. Feed the Giraffes in Nairobi
The most popular activity at the Giraffe Centre, Lang’ata, is feeding giraffes from a raised wooden platform.
Visitors receive pellets and can:
- Hand-feed Rothschild giraffes
- Take close-up photos
- Experience giraffes at eye level
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2. Learn About Wildlife Conservation in Kenya
Inside the education centre, visitors learn about:
- Giraffe conservation programs in Kenya
- Wildlife protection in East Africa
- Habitat loss and conservation challenges
- Community-based conservation efforts
This makes the Giraffe Centre ideal for educational tours in Nairobi and family-friendly activities in Kenya.
3. Nature Walk in Giraffe Centre Sanctuary
The Giraffe Centre sits within a 95-acre nature sanctuary connected to Ngong Forest and Ololua Forest.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Forest nature walks
- Bird watching in Nairobi
- Sightings of monkeys and warthogs
- Scenic river ecosystems (Gogo River area)
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4. Relax at the Giraffe Centre Tea House
The on-site tea house offers a peaceful break with:
- Snacks and drinks
- Views of giraffes roaming nearby
- A relaxing, natural atmosphere
Giraffe Manor Nairobi: Luxury Giraffe Hotel Experience
Located next to the Giraffe Centre is the world-famous Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, one of the most unique boutique hotels in the world.
Why Giraffe Manor is famous:
- Rothschild giraffes interact with guests at breakfast
- Giraffes often poke their heads through windows
- Luxury colonial-style accommodation
- Exclusive wildlife photography opportunities
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Best Time to Visit Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
The Giraffe Centre is open all year round.
Best visiting times:
- Morning hours (best giraffe activity + fewer crowds)
- June to October (dry season, ideal for Nairobi tours)
- November to May (lush green scenery and photography)
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Giraffe Centre Entry Fee & Visiting Information
While entry fees may vary depending on residency status, the Giraffe Centre remains an affordable Nairobi attraction.
Visitor Tips:
- Book early during peak tourist season
- Carry a camera for wildlife photography
- Follow the giraffe feeding safety instructions
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Combine with Nairobi city tours
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How to Get to Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
You can access the Giraffe Centre via:
- Taxi or Uber from Nairobi CBD (30–45 minutes)
- Private safari tours
- Nairobi city tour packages
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Nearby Attractions in Nairobi
You can combine your visit with:
- Karen Blixen Museum, Nairobi
- Bomas of Kenya cultural village
- Nairobi National Park safari
- Kazuri Beads Women’s Factory
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Why Visit Giraffe Centre Nairobi?
The Giraffe Centre is one of the top-rated Nairobi tourist attractions because it offers:
- Close encounters with endangered giraffes
- Educational conservation experiences
- Family-friendly wildlife activities
- Easy access from Nairobi city
- Perfect photography opportunities
Whether you are on a Kenya safari holiday, a Nairobi layover, or a wildlife tour in East Africa, this attraction offers an unforgettable experience.
Book Your Giraffe Centre Nairobi Tour
Plan your visit with trusted safari experts:
Ultimate Wild Safaris
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
+256 705 087 906 / +256 760 282 342
Final Thoughts: Giraffe Centre, Nairobi, in Kenya
The Giraffe Centre, Nairobi, is more than just a tourist site—it is a leading conservation success story and one of the best places in Africa to experience wildlife up close.
From feeding Rothschild giraffes to learning about conservation and enjoying peaceful forest walks, this attraction is a must-visit for anyone exploring Nairobi safari tours or Kenya wildlife experiences.
