The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya is a unique and popular tourist destination that offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with one of Africa’s most iconic animals. The Centre is nestled in a beautiful forested area, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy their time with the giraffes.
The Beloc magazine will tell you how to get into the embrace of a giraffe!
Important mission
The Africa Fund for Endangered Wildlife (A.F.E.W.) Kenya, founded in 1979 to help the endangered Rothschild Giraffe. They rescued giraffes from Western Kenya and bred them in captivity. A.F.E.W. USA raised funds to relocate more giraffes to safe areas, leading to over 300 giraffes now thriving in various Kenyan national parks. The Giraffe Centre also serves as a Nature Education Centre, educating thousands of Kenyan school children every year.
The Giraffe Centre is not only a place for tourists to have a close encounter with giraffes, but also plays a vital role in conservation efforts to protect these endangered species. By raising awareness about the threats facing giraffes and their habitat, the Centre is working to ensure a sustainable future for these iconic animals.
The non-profit centre links giraffe conservation with tourism, educating visitors on the importance of protecting ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Revenue generated from tourism activities supports conservation efforts and the local community with organizations such as Eco-tourism Kenya and the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya.
A day with the giraffes
Located just 20 kilometres from Nairobi’s city centre, the Giraffe Centre provides a green space for residents and tourists to enjoy nature and birdwatching. The centre is sustainable and supports local communities through employment opportunities and a gift shop that showcases Kenyan culture and talents. It is committed to environmental conservation with policies for efficient energy, water, and waste management.
Travelling with AfricaBrut after checking into the hotel, the Giraffe Centre is your first destination. You will have the chance to receive hugs from the tallest animals on Earth and feed them from your hand.
The Giraffe Centre offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the main attractions is the opportunity to feed and interact with these majestic creatures. The giraffes are gentle and friendly animals, and it is a truly unforgettable experience to feel their long, purple tongues gently wrap around your hand as they take the food from you.
Start off by checking the notice board for a map of the Centre and any important information. The browsing area is where you can witness the impressive height of our giraffe friends up close. A knowledgeable guide will provide you with food pellets containing corn, wheat, grass, and molasses to feed the giraffes. For an even more intimate experience, make your way to the Feeding Platform and be sure to receive a gentle kiss from these gentle giants.
Attend a lecture at the Information Centre to learn more about giraffes and wildlife in Kenya. Here, informative displays and exhibits provide insight into the giraffe’s biology, behaviour, and habitat, as well as the conservation efforts being made to protect them.
Beyond the Centre: Exploring Nature, Wildlife, and Culinary Delights in Nairobi
Visitors can also take guided tours of the Centre’s grounds and learn about the work being done to rehabilitate and release giraffes back into the wild. Explore the tranquil 1.5-kilometre nature trail by taking a leisurely walk or challenging hike. Keep an eye out for various bird species – the most spotted in one stroll is 60! In addition to birds, you may also encounter smaller animals like dikdik and squirrels along the way.
The trail leads down to the meandering Gogo River, and for those seeking a higher vantage point, a visit to the View Point will provide a stunning vista of the Ngong Hills. The scenery is sure to leave you in awe of the natural beauty surrounding you. As you make your way back to the centre, you may come across the Warthog Den. Be cautious as these creatures are known to suddenly emerge from the dark, deep holes in the ground. Keep a safe distance and admire them from afar.
At the end of your journey visit the Tea House for refreshments and giraffe watching and don’t forget to stop by the Gift Shop for souvenirs, as all proceeds support the centre’s conservation efforts.
What to do after such a long day? AfricaBrut has you dinging at the renowned Carnivore restaurant, which is ranked among the top 50 best restaurants in the world. This will be a memorable dining experience where you can savour delicious cuisine in a unique and exotic setting.
Overall, a visit to the Giraffe Centre in Kenya is a truly unique and memorable experience. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Giraffe Centre is perfect. So, next time you find yourself in Nairobi, make sure to pay a visit to this special place and come face to face with one of Africa’s most magnificent animals!
