Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre on the edge of Nairobi is a conservation project for the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, and an unforgettable chance to meet them face to face. From a raised wooden platform at head height, you can hand-feed the giraffes food pellets as their long blue-black tongues curl around them; the bold may try the famous 'giraffe kiss' (hold a pellet between your lips). It's a genuine, hands-on wildlife encounter that's a particular hit with children.

Beyond the feeding, there's an informative visitor centre on giraffe conservation and a short forest nature walk. It's run by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife and your visit supports breeding and education efforts. It pairs naturally with the neighbouring Karen suburb attractions (the Karen Blixen Museum, and the David Sheldrick elephant orphanage nearby).

Don't miss

• Hand-feeding endangered Rothschild's giraffes at head height
• The famous 'giraffe kiss'
• The conservation and education centre
• A short forest nature walk
• Supporting a genuine breeding programme

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Giraffe Centre

Cheapest way inNairobi National Park and Giraffe Centre Guided Safari Tour5★ · 33 travelers5–6 hoursFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →Best full dayTour: Giraffe Center and Nairobi National Park4.8★ · 308 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$248 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleGiraffe Centre Safari Experience in Nairobi / Kobe Beads Factory5★ · 28 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$39 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Go in the morning when the giraffes are most active and crowds are smaller.
• It's a real conservation project, your entry fee supports breeding and education.
• Combine it with the nearby Karen Blixen Museum and the Sheldrick elephant orphanage.
• It's well outside central Nairobi, arrange a car or taxi for the trip.

A bit of history

The Giraffe Centre was established in 1979 by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife to breed the endangered Rothschild's giraffe and educate Kenyans about wildlife conservation. Its breeding programme has helped reintroduce giraffes into Kenyan parks.