Few travel experiences are as unique and heartwarming as standing face-to-face with an endangered Rothschild's giraffe. At the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, travelers get the rare opportunity to interact with these gentle giants in an ethical, educational, and unforgettable way.

At SmartWise Travel, we’ve crafted a special tour experience that brings you closer to Kenya’s iconic wildlife while staying true to our mission: travel that is responsible, enriching, and smart.

What is the Giraffe Centre?

Located in the quiet suburb of Lang’ata, just outside Nairobi’s bustling city center, the Giraffe Centre was established by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) in 1979. Its primary mission is to protect the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, one of the rarest giraffe subspecies in the world.

Today, the Giraffe Centre serves as a conservation hub, an environmental education center, and a must-visit destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Why Visit with SmartWise Travel?

Our Giraffe Centre tours are not just about snapping a selfie (though you’ll have plenty of chances for that too). Here’s what makes SmartWise Travel’s experience different:

1. Expert-Led Experience

Your tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who provides in-depth insight into giraffe conservation, the history of the Centre, and the wider role of giraffes in Kenya’s ecosystem.

2. Ethical Wildlife Interaction

We prioritize the well-being of wildlife in all our tours. At the Giraffe Centre, visitors feed giraffes using specially provided food pellets — with no petting, no riding, and no stress to the animals.

3. Small Group Access

Enjoy a more personal and immersive visit with our small group tours. This not only enhances the experience but also reduces environmental and social impact.

4. Optional Add-On: Giraffe Manor Exterior Stop

While access to the famed Giraffe Manor is limited to guests, our tour includes a guided walk through the surrounding area, perfect for learning about the property’s history and capturing some iconic shots.

5. Combine with Other Nairobi Highlights

Make the most of your day. Our special tour can be combined with a visit to:

• The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (elephant orphanage)

• Kazuri Beads Women’s Factory

• Karen Blixen Museum

Smart travel is efficient travel — we help you make the most of your time in Nairobi.

What You’ll Learn and Experience

• The biology and behavior of Rothschild’s giraffes

• Conservation challenges and successes in Kenya

• How eco-tourism supports wildlife preservation

• The connection between education, local communities, and conservation efforts

You’ll also enjoy the thrill of standing on the giraffe feeding platform, where these towering creatures gently reach down to take food from your hand — or, if you’re lucky, a gentle “giraffe kiss” in exchange for a pellet.

Is the Giraffe Centre Family Friendly?

Absolutely. Our tours are designed for travelers of all ages. Children love the interaction, and adults appreciate the opportunity to support a worthy cause while learning more about Kenya’s biodiversity.

It’s a perfect day activity for:

• Families

• Solo travelers

• Couples

• School or educational groups

How to Book

SmartWise Travel offers Giraffe Centre tours as:

• A half-day standalone experience

• Part of a full-day Nairobi City & Wildlife Tour

• A pre-safari activity before heading to the Maasai Mara or other national parks

All tours include:

• Round-trip transportation from your Nairobi accommodation

• Entrance fees

• Bottled water

• A certified local guide

Booking is simple. Visit our website or contact our team directly to schedule your tour and customize your Nairobi itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Giraffe Centre isn’t just a tourist attraction — it’s a meaningful space where conservation, education, and community come together. When you book a tour with SmartWise Travel, you're doing more than sightseeing. You're supporting local efforts to protect endangered species and engaging with Kenya in a deeper, more thoughtful way.

Ready to meet Nairobi’s tallest residents?

Book your special Giraffe Centre tour today with SmartWise Travel — where every journey makes a difference.