Giraffe Centre | Nairobi

The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi, Kenya, is a unique conservation and education center located in the Lang’ata suburb, just about 20 kilometers from the city center. It is best known for its successful efforts in the protection and breeding of the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, one of the rarest giraffe subspecies in Africa.

Background and Mission

The Giraffe Centre was established in 1979 by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville, a Kenyan-British conservationist couple who were deeply committed to saving the Rothschild’s giraffe from extinction. At the time, fewer than 130 individuals were known to exist in the wild.

They founded the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) to support the conservation and breeding of this subspecies and to raise awareness through education. The Giraffe Centre was built as a sanctuary and educational facility that would allow visitors to interact with giraffes while learning about conservation.

Main Features

Rothschild’s Giraffe Conservation

The Centre maintains a breeding program for Rothschild’s giraffes, which are distinct for their light-colored coats and lack of markings below the knees.

Giraffes born at the center are raised under semi-wild conditions and later released into protected game parks across Kenya, such as Lake Nakuru National Park, to strengthen wild populations.

Feeding Platforms

One of the most popular attractions at the Giraffe Centre is the raised wooden platform, which allows visitors to feed the giraffes at eye level.

Guests can hand-feed the giraffes specially formulated pellets and sometimes even receive a giraffe "kiss" if they’re brave enough to hold a pellet between their lips.

Education and Awareness

The Centre runs environmental education programs for schoolchildren and young visitors, offering guided talks, conservation games, and field trips.

It aims to instill a culture of wildlife respect and conservation from an early age, especially among local communities.

Nature Trail

The Giraffe Centre also features a nature trail through the nearby Gogo River Sanctuary, a small forest area with various bird species, small mammals, and indigenous flora.

It’s a peaceful place for short walks, birdwatching, or just enjoying the local landscape.

Location and Accessibility

The Giraffe Centre is located in Lang’ata, adjacent to the Giraffe Manor, a famous luxury boutique hotel where giraffes often poke their heads through the windows during breakfast.

It’s easily accessible by taxi or tour vehicle from Nairobi’s city center or from Nairobi National Park, making it an ideal stop for visitors combining wildlife and city experiences.

Visiting Information

Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including weekends and public holidays.

Entrance Fee: An affordable fee is charged for both local and international visitors, which supports the center’s conservation and education efforts.

Best Time to Visit: Morning visits are typically less crowded. The giraffes are most active and engaged with visitors in the earlier hours.

Significance

The Giraffe Centre has been crucial in increasing the population of Rothschild’s giraffes, which are now classified as near threatened rather than critically endangered, thanks to successful breeding and rewilding efforts.

It serves as a model for interactive conservation tourism, where animal welfare is prioritized, and education is central to the visitor experience.

Conclusion

The Giraffe Centre in Nairobi is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a vital conservation institution that combines wildlife preservation with hands-on education. Visitors not only enjoy the unforgettable experience of interacting with the world’s tallest animals but also leave with a deeper appreciation of the challenges facing Kenya’s biodiversity and the efforts being made to protect it for future generations.