Regarding unique experiences in Nairobi, a visit to the Nairobi Giraffe Centre should be at the top of your list. This non-profit organization, also known as the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Giraffe Centre, plays a pivotal role in conserving the critically endangered Rothschild giraffe. These giraffes differ from other subspecies as they have no patterning below the knee, and their numbers were dwindling quickly due to habitat encroachment and mass hunting. Before conservation efforts began, only about 100 Rothschild’s giraffes remained in the wild. The center was founded in 1979 by Betty and Jock Leslie Melville, and due to their efforts, the population has now doubled to 300 across Kenya.
Conservation Efforts
The Nairobi Giraffe Centre’s primary mission is to conserve the endangered Rothschild giraffe. This subspecies of giraffes is unique in that it has no patterning below the knee, and their numbers were dwindling quickly due to habitat encroachment and mass hunting. Before conservation efforts began, only about 100 Rothschild’s giraffes remained in the wild.
The Nairobi Giraffe Centre was founded in 1979 by Betty and Jock Leslie Melville. Since then, it has been crucial in breeding and reintroducing Rothschild giraffes into the wild. The breeding program has been successful, and the population of Rothschild giraffes has doubled due to the Centre’s conservation efforts.
The Nairobi Giraffe Centre also works to educate the public about giraffes and the challenges they face. Visitors can learn about the giraffes and the Centre’s conservation efforts through exhibits and information provided at the Centre. Additionally, the Centre actively works with other organizations and government bodies to advocate for the protection and conservation of giraffes and their habitats.
The Nairobi Giraffe Centre also raises funds through the entrance fee, curio shop, and tea house, which support the conservation efforts for the Rothschild giraffes. Visiting the Centre allows visitors to have a unique and unforgettable experience and contribute to the conservation efforts of the Rothschild giraffes.
The Experience
The main attraction at the Nairobi Giraffe Centre is the opportunity to feed the giraffes from a raised platform. Visitors can observe the giraffes up close and hand-feed them specially prepared pellets. Warthogs can also snuffle around the giraffes’ hooves, scavenging on the fallen pellets. The Centre also offers a 1.5-kilometer self-guided forest walk in the adjacent nature reserve. This is a great way to explore the local flora and fauna while taking in the views of Nairobi and the Ngong hills.
After the walk, visitors can relax in the tea house or browse the Daisy Zoovenir Shop for souvenirs. 90% of the funds for the Centre are derived from the entrance fee, curio shop, and tea house, so shopping at the Centre also supports the giraffes’ conservation.
Staying at Giraffe Manor
Staying at Giraffe Manor is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the Rothschild giraffes. The Manor is located near the Nairobi Giraffe Centre in Langata, and it’s a perfect option for those who want to immerse themselves in the giraffe experience.
Built in 1930s, Giraffe Manor is a boutique hotel characterized by large windows, sprawling green creepers, beautiful sunny terraces, and green courtyards. However, what makes Giraffe Manor special is the presence of endangered Rothschild giraffes that often pop their heads through the open windows while you enjoy a continental breakfast. Guests can hand-feed the giraffes and take photos with them; it’s a truly unique and exciting experience.
The hotel rooms are spacious and comfortable; some lead to private terraces where visitors can sit and enjoy the afternoon sun and wait for giraffes to amble up in the hope of treats. The hotel staff is friendly, and the service is excellent. Giraffe Manor offers a variety of activities and excursions, such as a visit to the Giraffe Centre, Nairobi National Park, an elephant orphanage, and more.
When planning your visit, it is recommended to book well in advance as it’s a popular destination and the hotel rooms fill up quickly. The rates vary depending on the type of room and the time of the year, so it’s best to check the official website of the Manor for more information.
Planning Your Visit
When planning your visit to the Nairobi Giraffe Centre, it is important to remember the best time to go, how to book and the costs involved.
The best time to visit the Nairobi Giraffe Centre is during the dry season, between December to March and June to October. This is the best time to avoid rain and make the most of planned excursions. However, the Centre is open to visitors year-round, and the rainy seasons, which are from March to May and late October to early December, are also great times to visit. Although it may rain, the feeding deck is covered by a roof to protect visitors and will be less busy.
To book your visit, you can visit the Center’s official website or book through a tour operator. The Centre is open to visitors every day of the week except Christmas Day and New year’s Day. Entrance fees vary depending on the type of visit, and group discounts are also available.
It is also worth noting that the Centre is a non-profit organization, and 90% of the funds are derived from the entrance fee, curio shop, and tea house. By visiting the Centre, you are supporting the conservation efforts of the Rothschild giraffes.
Overall, visiting the Nairobi Giraffe Centre is a unique and unforgettable experience. With proper planning, you can make the most of it while supporting the Centre’s conservation efforts.
Conclusion
The Nairobi Giraffe Centre is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in conservation and unique experiences. Not only do visitors have the opportunity to feed and observe the giraffes up close, but they also have the chance to support the Centre’s important conservation efforts. The Centre’s breeding program has greatly succeeded in increasing the Rothschild giraffes’ population and reintroducing them into the wild.
In addition to the giraffe feeding and forest walk, visitors can also relax in the tea house and purchase souvenirs from the Daisy Zoovenir Shop. For an even more unique experience, visitors can stay at Giraffe Manor, where they can have giraffes present during breakfast and wait for them to amble up to their private terrace in the hope of treats.
When planning your visit, the best time to visit is during the dry season, but the Centre is open year-round. If you plan to travel during peak season, it is recommended to book well in advance to ensure availability.
In conclusion, visiting the Nairobi Giraffe Centre is a fantastic way to support conservation efforts while having an unforgettable experience. The opportunity to feed and observe the Rothschild giraffes up-close, combined with the forest walk tea house and Daisy Zoovenir Shop, make it a perfect destination for visitors of all ages. If you’re lucky enough to stay at the Giraffe Manor, you can make your experience even more special by having giraffes present during breakfast and waiting for them to come to your private terrace.
