Nairobi Animal Orphanage
A sanctuary for rescued wildlife, offering close encounters with lions, giraffes, and more, right in Nairobi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Nairobi Animal Orphanage
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary for rescued wildlife, offering close encounters with lions, giraffes, and more, right in Nairobi.
"It's more than just seeing animals—it's about understanding the importance of protecting them."
🎯 Affordable Entry Fees
Expect fees around Ksh 200-400 for residents, and Ksh 1500 for non-residents. Check current rates! :ticket:
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Essential for capturing incredible close-ups of animals. A good zoom lens is highly recommended. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lion Cub Feeding
Lion Enclosure
Witness the thrilling feeding of lion cubs, a spine-chilling and unforgettable experience with dedicated keepers.
Close Encounters with Rescued Animals
Various Enclosures
Get remarkably close to lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, monkeys, and diverse bird species, each with a rescue story.
Interactive Giraffe Experience
Giraffe Enclosure
Walk alongside and even feed baby giraffes, a surreal and heartwarming interaction that's a trip highlight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Animal Activity
Combine Your Visit for More Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry Fees
Expect fees around Ksh 200-400 for residents, and Ksh 1500 for non-residents. Check current rates! :ticket:
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Essential for capturing incredible close-ups of animals. A good zoom lens is highly recommended. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Combine with Safari Walk
Easily pair your visit with the Nairobi Safari Walk for a more extensive wildlife experience.
🤝 Learn from Keepers
Engage with the knowledgeable and friendly staff; they share fascinating stories about the animals. :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry Fees
Expect fees around Ksh 200-400 for residents, and Ksh 1500 for non-residents. Check current rates! :ticket:
📸 Bring Your Camera!
Essential for capturing incredible close-ups of animals. A good zoom lens is highly recommended. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Combine with Safari Walk
Easily pair your visit with the Nairobi Safari Walk for a more extensive wildlife experience.
🤝 Learn from Keepers
Engage with the knowledgeable and friendly staff; they share fascinating stories about the animals. :speech_balloon:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Nairobi can get warm. Carry water, especially if visiting during midday. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Nairobi Animal Orphanage for its intimate wildlife encounters and conservation focus. The affordability and accessibility make it a top choice for both locals and tourists. While some wish for more extensive animal interactions, the opportunity to learn about rescued animals and witness feeding times is a major draw.
"The Nairobi Animal Orphanage is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Kenya’s wildlife up close.
Located right next to Nairobi National Park, it’s home to rescued and rehabilitated animals including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, monkeys, and a variety of birds.
What makes it stand out is how close you can get to the animals while learning their stories and the conservation efforts behind them.
The moment I walked in, I could hear the calls of different birds and the distant roar of a lion — it immediately felt like I had stepped into a sanctuary full of life. I also remember standing quietly by the lion enclosure when they were being fed. It’s spine-chilling.
The orphanage is well-kept, affordable, and easy to access, making it perfect for tourists, families, and school groups alike.
It’s not just about seeing animals — it’s about understanding the importance of protecting them. A short visit leaves you with both unforgettable sights and a deeper appreciation for Kenya’s conservation work.
If you ever find yourself in Nairobi, take a couple of hours to visit the Animal Orphanage. It’s more than just a stop - it’s an experience that stays with you!"
Hussein Juma
"If you’re looking for a unique wildlife experience in Nairobi, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage is a great place to visit. Located inside Nairobi National Park, it’s home to rescued animals like lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, monkeys, and rare birds.
I loved how close you can get to the animals. It’s perfect for photography and learning about Kenya’s wildlife. Each animal has a story, and the staff are friendly and informative.
The orphanage is affordable for both locals and tourists, and it’s ideal for a short day trip in Nairobi. I recommend going in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler and the animals are more active. If you’re a content creator or wildlife enthusiast, this is a must-see spot in Nairobi!
📍 Great for:
• Nature lovers
• Solo travelers
• Families with kids
• Local and international tourists
• Content creators and photographers
💡 Travel tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Safari Walk or a Nairobi National Park tour for the full experience.
⭐ Overall rating: 4/5
📸 Don’t forget your camera! Bring one or a phone with good zoom for better animal shots
💵Entrance fees indicated in one of the photos."
Nelly kalekye
"Rescued animals being taken care of here. Amazing place. Please note that around 2.30 Mr Gerald will be feeding the animals. Gerald is a nice guy whose taken care of most of the big cats since they were cubs from about 20 years ago. Get to know him and watch him feed, it's the best part. Thank me later. Cheers"
A 7
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The orphanage is located within Nairobi National Park, accessible via Lang'ata Road. It's about a 35-minute drive from Nairobi city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Yes, there is parking available at the orphanage. It's part of the Nairobi National Park entrance, so follow the park's signage.
Absolutely! Many Nairobi wildlife tours include a stop at the Animal Orphanage, often combined with the Giraffe Centre and Nairobi National Park.
The orphanage generally follows the opening hours of Nairobi National Park. It's typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit.
While specific accessibility details can vary, the main paths are generally manageable. It's advisable to contact the park management for detailed information regarding accessibility for wheelchairs or mobility aids.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees vary for residents and non-residents. For residents, expect around Ksh 400 for adults and Ksh 200 for children. Non-resident fees are significantly higher, around Ksh 1500 for adults and Ksh 750 for children. Some sources mention rates as low as Ksh 200-230 for residents. Always check the latest rates with Kenya Wildlife Service.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can purchase tickets at the entrance gate. However, for guided tours or group visits, it's advisable to book in advance.
Discounts are typically offered for Kenyan residents and children. International visitors pay a higher rate. It's worth inquiring about any special offers or packages when you arrive.
Mobile money services like M-Pesa are widely used in Kenya, and it's likely you can use them for ticket purchases. However, it's always good to have some cash as a backup.
The entrance fee grants you access to the orphanage grounds to observe the rescued animals. It does not typically include guided tours or special feeding sessions, which may incur separate charges or be part of specific programs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of rescued animals including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, monkeys, baboons, and numerous exotic birds.
Yes, you can often find knowledgeable keepers or guides who can provide insights into the animals' stories and conservation efforts. Some tours might be scheduled, while others are informal.
Feeding times are a highlight, particularly for the big cats. Mr. Gerald, a long-time keeper, is known to feed the animals around 2:30 PM, which is a highly recommended time to visit.
The orphanage is designed for safe viewing of animals from designated areas. Always follow the instructions of the staff and maintain a safe distance from the enclosures.
Direct interaction is generally limited to specific activities like feeding baby giraffes under supervision. For most animals, observation from a safe distance is the norm to ensure both visitor and animal safety.
📸 📸 Photography
The enclosures are designed to offer good viewing angles. Areas near the lion and giraffe enclosures are particularly popular for photography.
For personal photography, no special permit is usually required. However, if you plan on professional or commercial photography, it's best to inquire with the Kenya Wildlife Service beforehand.
A camera with a good zoom lens is highly recommended to capture clear shots of the animals from a distance.
Drones are generally not permitted within national parks and wildlife sanctuaries due to disturbance to animals and security concerns. Always check the latest regulations.
Yes, feeding times are excellent opportunities for photography, but be mindful of other visitors and maintain safety protocols.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The educational aspect, learning about the rescued animals and conservation, is also a valuable takeaway for young minds. Practical tips for families include visiting during cooler hours to ensure the kids are comfortable and animals are active.
📸 Content Creators & Photographers
To get the best results, a camera with a good zoom lens is essential.
🌍 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with the nearby Nairobi Safari Walk to maximize your wildlife viewing for minimal cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Conservation: Rescue and Rehabilitation
The dedicated animal keepers, like Mr. Gerald who has cared for big cats for two decades, play a crucial role in nursing these animals back to health. Visitors get a unique glimpse into these conservation efforts. Seeing animals like lion cubs finding comfort in each other after being orphaned, or a baby giraffe being hand-reared, offers a profound connection to the importance of wildlife protection.
This commitment to conservation is evident throughout the facility, including its efforts to maintain a litter-free environment within the orphanage and the wider Nairobi National Park.
Experiencing Nairobi's Wildlife on a Budget
Non-resident fees are higher but still offer great value compared to many international wildlife parks. Many visitors highlight that you can have a fulfilling wildlife experience for under Ksh 500, especially if you are a resident.
To maximize your budget, consider combining your visit with other nearby attractions like the Nairobi Safari Walk, which also has relatively low entry fees.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit