Nairobi Tour Review: Giraffes, Elephants, & Beads – A Detailed Look

If you are thinking of seeing some wildlife and local craftsmanship, well then a day tour that includes the Giraffe Center, Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and a visit to the Kazuri Beads factory sounds about right, right? So, let’s check out my experiences and offer, too, a bit of helpful information if, in a way, you’re planning your own visit.

Meeting the Gentle Giants at the Giraffe Center

The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife, also called the Giraffe Center, is that place you visit to actually meet some really tall, spotted creatures, isn’t it? As a matter of fact, this sanctuary does a very, very fine job with Rothschild giraffes. That is to say, these giraffes were facing some big population problems but this place is on it. Anyway, you can, it’s almost like, get to hand-feed the giraffes. And what you are doing here is, also, supporting their conservation. Seems really, really neat to be so close to these calm giants.

So, it’s quite simple to get there from Nairobi. I think it might be a good idea to, arguably, organize your transport ahead of time. You’ll get that entry fee sorted out, that tends to be pretty fair. That’s what they call a “reasonable” price for visitors. So, right when you get there, you get this introduction. It’s very, very enlightening about giraffe conservation efforts. And then comes what many would argue is the awesome part: a chance to feed these gorgeous creatures. Those feeding pellets? Yes, of course, they give them to you.

And here’s a hot tip, by the way: get there when they open! You are gonna deal with just a little, slight smaller crowd of people and get the best giraffe interaction. If you think that the weather tends to be a bit sunny, bring a hat and maybe some sunscreen. So, don’t forget to bring a camera. Like your photos of those super-long giraffe tongues trying to get some snacks will be hilarious!

Rescuing and Caring for Elephants at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Elephant Orphanage, also known as a very heart-touching place. It’s almost like, baby elephants get another shot after losing their families. Or you could also call it a safe house and rehabilitation hub. This place really does a job when they’re trying to help them to then go back into the wild. Well, yes, they will completely win your heart.

You’ll get there right around when the orphanage has visiting hours for the public. Just double check the timing, won’t you? Because the timing matters. And the foster elephants that get paraded around do put on quite a scene, so to speak, alright? As a matter of fact, that moment feels touching. That also means, usually, that someone’s on-site and explaining everything about the elephants. Anyway, what they want, basically, is your time; after a short while they’ll bring the cuties back inside.

If you’re thinking of sponsoring a baby elephant: yeah, you absolutely can. A great way, arguably, to chip into a pretty fine job these folks do. In some respects, taking photos or videos? Of course, go ahead. Just listen for instructions about not distracting the little guys! After you’re done, it is worth it to go see what the gift shop sells because shopping helps the sanctuary too!

Discovering Local Art at Kazuri Beads Factory

You may have heard that “Kazuri” means “small and lovely” in Swahili; very poetic, yes? So, Kazuri Beads Factory offers opportunities in Kenya to ladies and it manufactures really fantastic handmade ceramics. Yes, really. Beads, necklaces, homeware stuff is all there; colorful, even.

At Kazuri, by the way, there are tours, very interesting, they’re like a sneak-peek on how the ceramics come alive. Actually, from molding and painting to kilning those pretty little beads get handcrafted. You can visit their showroom, where you might, arguably, discover that gift for your sister that you could, in theory, take back home with you. Or you could buy anything because doing it kind of supports a lady who might need the job!

You should give that tour an ear. I want to point out, if they’re sharing their background story. I think it is that these local endeavors contribute significantly to local welfare. That is what tourism really should stand for. Also: get photos to recall exactly what you like when buying! Make time so you can amble through and you might just find gems.

Tips for Planning Your Tour

Planning these visits can seem a bit trickier, yet there is no need. Anyway, if you want transport included or special perks: lots of operators deal with tours that cover these points, alright? Reading testimonials might also just allow someone to sort reliable ones, in a way. As a matter of fact, to make certain they are good for you and offer convenience, don’t fail at comparison!

Concerning peak season versus not. Yes it changes everything. The numbers might be lighter when the crowds get smaller so book your thing earlier. Also you, like your needs may not quite compare to any other. Therefore, customize or tailor to meet your standards with no worry whatsoever! About being comfy remember hats for solar protection; hydrating stuff to quench your thirst even after leaving home!

Regarding Kenyan cash, just make sure your supplier, vendor, is upfront about what card they get. Regarding souvenirs; that purchase? Buying locally always tends greatly toward reinforcing some communities around.

Wrapping it Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Nairobi Giraffe Center, Elephant Orphanage, and Kazuri Beads Tour has everything, nearly, when we talk seeing wildlife, also, being for local crafts while impacting other beings very substantially through patronage programs, as is the instance. Regarding being the type fit… It definitely seems suitable where someone seeks to encounter gentle nature creatures, supporting ethical trade & practices which promotes tourism, generally!