Giraffe CenterThe Giraffe Center is a must-see if you want to experience the thrill of the planet's tallest and most elegant mammal eating out of your hand ...
... or your mouth ...
... or if you fancy watching giraffes lazily browsing the upper branches of the acacias dotted in the center's grounds or grazing.
But there are other reasons why this giraffes' sanctuary, located in the upmarket Karen suburb, is an absolute winner. First, it was established by Jock Leslie-Melvile in 1979 to save the then gravely endangered Rothschild giraffe. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) which runs the center, the number of this species of giraffe has risen from a paltry 120 when the center was opened, to well over 300. Third, this world-famous tourist attraction educates children about the country's wildlife and on the need to conserve the environment. Fourth (and I don't intend this to be an essay!), the opportunity to see tortoises, warthogs and guinea fowl up-close will come as an unexpected bonus to many.
And, if you love it there AND have really deep pockets (and ready to spend about US$ 525 per night half board), you can stretch this surreal experience a while longer by booking into the exclusive Scottish-styled Giraffe Manor where you will, am sure, happily share your meals with the graceful inhabitants of the compound.
The center is open daily from 9am to 5.30pm. Non-resident adults pay Ksh. 500 while children pay Ksh. 250. Return from Giraffe Center to Nairobi
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