The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Kenya also known as the Nairobi Giraffe Center is a place where the critically endangered Rothschild giraffes are protected and repopulated. Schoolchildren and many tourists visit this place often to have fun and learn about wildlife conservation.

Nairobi Giraffe Center was founded in 1979 by Betty and Jock Leslie Melville (a grandson of a Scottish earl) in a bid to save the subspecies. This was after the conservationists had learned that the only remaining Rothschild giraffes in Kenya were in danger due to human settlements in their habitat.

To initiate the conservation efforts, Betty and Jock Leslie Melville decided to bring two young Rothschild giraffes to their home, currently the Giraffe Manor located in the Lang’ata suburb. They name one of the giraffes Daisy, who is featured in Betty’s book “ Raising Daisy Rothschild”.

The sanctuary has successfully distributed several breeding pairs of Rothschild Giraffe into Kenya national parks. At the time there were about 80 of them surviving in the country. Currently, this number has risen to over 1,000 giraffes thanks to AFEW’s tireless efforts.

Why are Rothschild giraffes endangered?

Understandably, Rothschild giraffes scientifically named giraffa camelopardalis rothschild, are only found in savannahs, grasslands, and open woodlands of Kenya and Uganda. They are easily distinguishable from other subspecies, displaying no markings on the lower legs.

One of the main reasons why Rothschild giraffes are endangered is due to human encroachment in their habitat. This problem began when the post-colonial government of Kenya bought a privately owned ranch to resettle squatters, which was the Rothschild’s sole habitat in the country.

Although some of the Rothschilds were successfully relocated to Lake Nakuru National Park by the Kenya Wildlife Department, poaching and predation led to a decline in their population. Before 2018, the subspecies were listed on the IUCN’s Red List as endangered.

Visiting the Giraffe Center, Nairobi

A visit to the giraffe center works well with an early morning game drive in the Nairobi National Park. Regardless of the park’s proximity to the city, it’s home to four out of the Big Five. More than 500 species of birds also live here. Guided walks provide a more blissful nature interaction. 

Before heading to the giraffe sanctuary, I would also recommend a stop at The Sheldrick, Wildlife Trust. This elephant orphanage is located at the Nairobi National Park right next to the  KWS Central Workshop Gate on Magadi Road. It’s open between 11 am and 12 pm local time.

The Giraffe Center opens from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day including weekends and all public holidays. For a fulfilling experience, it’s best to plan for a 1.5 to two-hour visit. From the raised wooden structure, guests can watch the giraffes up close and hand-feed them.

Once you have finished with the giraffes, you can head out on a self-guided forest walk in the adjacent Gogo River sanctuary. The 1.5 km trail offers great views of indigenous trees and the Ngong hills on the horizon. You may also observe warthogs in the woods.

A cup of tea at the Daisy Restaurant and a visit to the Souvenir shop should culminate your day. Guests staying at the Manor are free to enjoy relaxation at the retreat located on the property. Swimming, gym workouts, sauna, and steam baths will help you overcome any travel fatigue.

How to get to Giraffe Center in Nairobi

Located on Nairobi’s outskirts, Giraffe Center is just a short drive from the CBD. The 18 Km journey takes about 30 minutes depending on the traffic conditions. Visitors coming to Kenya must book a flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and take a taxi to this destination.

Many places around the Giraffe Center offer great accommodation services. Giraffe Manor, located in the facility, is highly sought after. Giraffes often roam the property allowing guests to interact with them freely. Breakfast at the Manor is enjoyed together with giraffes on your table.

Besides, there are many other hotels and guesthouses nearby including The House of Wine, Acacia Tree Lodge, Nairobi Tented Camp, Maasai Ostrich Resort, Karen Blixen Coffee Garden, and Cottages. Regardless of where you stay, book your accommodation in advance.

Nairobi Giraffe Center entry fee

By visiting the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife or making a purchase from the shop and Teahouse on the property, you contribute towards educating school children and teachers across Kenya. Entrance rates are as follows:

• Non-Resident Adults – Ksh. 1,500 (approx. $15.00)
• Non-Resident Children – Ksh. 750 (approx. $7.50)
• Resident Adults – Ksh. 400
• Resident Children – Ksh. 200
• Free for Schools and children under 3 years of age

Note: Schools must book their visit to the Giraffe Center in advance. Further, guides at the Fund are Environmental Studies students who volunteer as Educators. Offering them a tip is also a special initiative towards their conservation efforts and studies at large.

What’s the best time to visit?

The Giraffe Center is open to guests year-round but the best time to visit is during the dry season from December to March and June to October. The rainy seasons from March to May and late October to early December are still fantastic times to visit for less crowds.

As said, if you are traveling during the peak season, you should book in advance. It’s best to plan your visit through a reputable tour operator. They will arrange for transport, accommodation, and even meals during your stay and game drives. This means your stay will be smooth and enjoyable.

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