On a short Nairobi layover you can visit the Giraffe Centre to feed endangered Rothschild giraffes from a raised platform. This three-hour experience combines close wildlife encounters with conservation education and convenient city pick-up.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Step onto the raised wooden platform and a long, dark tongue reaches up to take a pellet from your palm — the giraffes move with deliberate curiosity, testing you like a new route through the bush. The Giraffe Centre sits on Nairobi’s urban edge, a slice of conserved woodland where Rothschild giraffes come close enough that you can watch their eyes and feel the press of their breath.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking on flat trails and raised platforms
Wildlife
History
The Giraffe Centre was established in the late 1970s to rescue and breed orphaned Rothschild giraffes and to provide conservation education to Nairobi residents.
Conservation
The center focuses on captive breeding, habitat restoration and community education to bolster Rothschild giraffe numbers and reduce human-wildlife conflict in the Nairobi corridor.
Reserve your spot on the Nairobi Airport Layover Tour Giraffe Center today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Plan extra airport buffer
Allow extra time for immigration and traffic—from Jomo Kenyatta Airport plan 45–60 minutes each way in moderate traffic, and add time to re-clear security before your next flight.
Follow feeding rules
Only feed approved pellets from the platform and follow guide instructions to avoid startling the giraffes or getting bitten.
Carry Kenyan shillings
Small local currency is useful for entrance gifts, refreshments or tipping your driver and guide.
Wear sun protection and closed shoes
The center is partly open with walking trails; a hat and sunscreen plus closed-toe shoes keep you comfortable and safe.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Good for the short trail and platform surfaces around the center.
Sunscreen and hat
Protects you during outdoor time in Nairobi’s strong sun.
all
Camera or smartphone
Capture close-up moments—use a strap when giraffes approach.
Small local currency (KES)
Useful for snacks, souvenirs, or tipping guides and drivers.