3 days
Photo: U.S. Department of State, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSheldrick elephant orphanage
Nairobi
The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's Nairobi nursery rescues orphaned baby elephants from across Kenya, most of them victims of poaching, drought or conflict with people. Keepers stay with the calves day and night, and once old enough they move to rehabilitation units in Tsavo and elsewhere before returning to the wild.
Each day the nursery opens for one hour so visitors can watch the youngest orphans drink their milk and play in the mud, while a keeper tells their stories.
What happens at the visit
- The orphans arrive in small groups from the forest with their keepers.
- Keepers feed them giant bottles of milk, then the calves play in the mud and dust.
- A keeper introduces each elephant and explains how it was rescued.
- Visitors stand behind a rope; the calves often come close.
How to book
Bookings must be made in advance with the trust, up to about three months ahead, and only confirmations from the trust are valid. Arrive by about 10:30am: the visit lasts exactly one hour and late arrivals can't extend it. The fee is a minimum donation, paid on arrival.
Fostering an orphan
For a donation of US$50 a year you can foster an orphan online, receive updates on its progress, and book a private evening visit to watch the elephants come back to their stables for the night.
Tip: Combine the visit with Nairobi National Park in the morning and the Giraffe Centre after lunch: all three are in the south west of the city. See our Nairobi stopover guide.
Practical information
| Public visit | 11am to 12pm daily, except 25 December |
| Fee | US$20 adults, about US$5 under 12s, cash |
| Booking | Email the trust, up to about 3 months ahead |
| Location | Inside Nairobi National Park, off Magadi Road |
| Fostering | From US$50 a year, includes a private evening visit option |
Who it suits
Everyone, especially families and anyone with a morning in Nairobi before or after a safari. It gets busy, so arrive early for a spot at the rope. If you only have an hour, this is the most rewarding hour you can spend in Nairobi.
Where it is
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Every tour here includes Sheldrick elephant orphanage in its itinerary. Best rated first.
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Sheldrick elephant orphanage: questions
What time is the Sheldrick elephant orphanage open?
The public visit runs from 11am to 12pm every day except 25 December.
Do I need to book the elephant orphanage?
Yes. Book in advance with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust; walk ins and same day bookings aren't accepted.
How much does it cost?
A minimum donation of US$20 for adults and about US$5 for children, paid in cash on arrival. Nairobi National Park's fee is separate if you enter the park.