The Giraffe Centre, Nairobi
The Giraffe Centre is one of Nairobi’s most popular and unique attractions, offering an unforgettable opportunity to get up close and personal with the endangered Rothschild giraffe.
Overview
Giraffe Centre is a non-profit conservation organization established as a breeding program to save the Rothschild’s giraffe from extinction. Its core mission is conservation, environmental education. The main draw is the raised wooden feeding platform that puts you at eye level with these gentle giants, where you can feed them, pet them, and even get a famous ‘giraffe kiss’.
Key Highlights and What to Do
- Feed the Giraffes- Purchase a handful of special pellets, which are provided by the Centre at a fee, and offer them to the giraffes. They use their long, dexterous, and soft tongues to take the food from your hand.
- The Giraffe Kiss- If you hold a pellet between your lips, a curious giraffe might lean in and take it with its tongue.
- Learn and Educate- Take time to read the informative displays about giraffe conservation, the different species of giraffes, and the threats they face.
- Nature Walk- Explore the short, well-maintained nature trail through the adjacent Gogo River Sanctuary, a small forested area. You might spot warthogs, dik-diks, and numerous bird species.
- Visit the Warthogs- It’s common to see warthogs roaming the grounds, often kneeling to graze on the grass.
- Tips for Your Visit
- Cash- They accept cards, but it’s always safer to bring enough Kenyan shillings to pay for entry and any additional donations
- Wear closed-toe shoes- The warthogs roam freely and harmlessly, but their hooves can be sharp if they get barefoot.
- Hand sanitizer. Your hands will get slobbery from the giraffe pellets, so it’s good to carry the sanitizer.
- Camera Ready- Have your camera or phone ready since the interactions happen quickly and are priceless.
- Combine your Trip- Plan to visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (fosters orphaned elephants- open only 11-12 pm daily for public viewing) and the Karen Blixen Museum on the same trip to make the most of your journey to the Karen area.
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