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About The Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre, located in Lang'ata, Nairobi, is a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation and protection of the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Established in 1979, the center's primary aim is to educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation and to breed these magnificent animals in a protected environment. The Giraffe Centre provides a unique opportunity for visitors to get up close and personal with giraffes, allowing them to feed, interact, and even receive a friendly kiss from these gentle giants. It's an educational experience that combines fun and learning, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The center plays a crucial role in the preservation of Rothschild giraffes, whose population had dwindled to fewer than 120 in the wild. Through breeding programs and conservation efforts, the Giraffe Centre has successfully increased their numbers and reintroduced them into various national parks in Kenya. Additionally, the center runs extensive educational programs for schoolchildren, teaching them about environmental conservation and the importance of biodiversity. This makes the Giraffe Centre not just a tourist attraction, but a vital part of Kenya’s conservation efforts.
History Of Giraffe Centre
The Giraffe Centre was founded by Betty and Jock Leslie-Melville, a Kenyan-born British couple, in 1979. The couple started the center after they rescued a baby Rothschild giraffe named Daisy from western Kenya, where its natural habitat was being threatened by human activities. They brought Daisy to their home in Lang'ata and soon realized the need for a dedicated sanctuary to protect the dwindling population of Rothschild giraffes.
Over the years, the Giraffe Centre has grown from a small sanctuary to a renowned conservation and education center. The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) Kenya, a non-profit organization established by the Leslie-Melvilles, oversees the operations of the Giraffe Centre. Through their efforts, the center has successfully bred numerous giraffes and released them into safe, protected areas across Kenya. The Giraffe Centre continues to honor the legacy of its founders by maintaining its commitment to wildlife conservation and education.
Time To Visit
The best time to visit the Giraffe Centre is during the dry seasons, which typically run from June to October and January to February. During these months, the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities, and the giraffes are more active. The center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including weekends and public holidays. Morning visits are recommended for a more intimate experience with the giraffes, as the center can become crowded later in the day.
Entry Fee
The entry fee for the Giraffe Centre is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors. As of 2024, the entry fees are as follows:
1: Adults: KES 1,500 (approximately USD 15)
2: Children (3-12 years): KES 750 (approximately USD 7.50)
3: Children under 3 years: Free
These fees help support the center’s conservation and education programs, ensuring the continued protection of the Rothschild giraffe and other wildlife.
Time Required For Travel
A visit to the Giraffe Centre typically requires around 2 to 3 hours. This time frame allows visitors to fully enjoy feeding the giraffes, exploring the nature trail, and learning from the educational exhibits. For those traveling from Nairobi's city center, the journey to the Giraffe Centre takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions.
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