Nairobi National Park and Giraffe Centre: A Unique Half-Day Safari Experience
Experience a half-day safari that fuses the wild with the city at Nairobi National Park, Kenya’s only protected wildlife reserve near an urban center. Complete your adventure with an interactive visit to the Giraffe Centre, where conservation meets close encounters with endangered Rothschild giraffes.
The Experience
Before You Go
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
Plan your safari early in the morning or late afternoon to catch animals during their most active periods and enjoy favorable lighting for photography.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Choose sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven, dusty terrain throughout the game drive and center visits.
Keep Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated; bottled drinking water is provided but having your own is convenient.
Respect Wildlife Distances
Maintain a safe distance from animals and follow your guide’s instructions to protect both your safety and the animals’ habits.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Spot Thornicroft’s giraffes near less visited sections of Nairobi National Park.
- •Visit the enclosed education area at Giraffe Centre that showcases local plant species used in Maasai culture.
Wildlife
- •Rothschild giraffe
- •African lion
Conservation Note
Both the park and Giraffe Centre play key roles in protecting endangered species and educating the public on sustainable coexistence with wildlife amid urban growth.
Nairobi National Park was established in 1946, making it one of the earliest protected wildlife sanctuaries in Kenya, unique for its location close to an expanding city.
Photographer's Notes
- • Open plains along the park’s central drive
- • Near the waterhole where animals congregate
- • Feeding platforms at the Giraffe Centre
What to Bring
Camera with Zoom LensEssential
Capture distant wildlife and close-up moments with giraffes during feeding sessions.
Sun Hat and SunglassesEssential
Protect yourself from strong sun exposure during open-roofed game drives.
Lightweight Hiking ShoesEssential
Provide comfort and traction on uneven dirt tracks within the park.
Binoculars
Enhance your ability to spot animals at a distance in the expansive park landscapes.
Common Questions
Is Nairobi National Park safe for visitors?
Yes. Guided game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles designed for safety, and professional guides ensure protocols around wildlife interactions are followed.
Do I need to bring my own transport to the park?
No. Hotel pickup and drop-off within Nairobi CBD are included in the tour package.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes. The tour is suitable for all ages, but infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the drive.
Is lunch included during the tour?
No, lunch is not included but there will be approximately one hour to eat at nearby local restaurants after visiting the Giraffe Centre.
What animals are typically seen during the game drive?
Visitors often see lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, jackals, and a variety of bird species, with monkeys commonly spotted near the park entrance.
Can I feed the giraffes at the Giraffe Centre?
Yes. Under the supervision of staff, visitors can hand-feed the Rothschild giraffes in a safe and educational setting.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Nairobi, Nairobi County
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking involved but requires ability to sit and stand during game drive.
Ready to Explore Nairobi?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now