The David Sheldrick Nairobi

• Africa

A Heartwarming Encounter:

Visiting the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

Nestled within the picturesque Nairobi National Park, just a short distance from the bustling city center, lies the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, also affectionately known as the Elephant Orphanage. This non-profit organization, founded in 1977 in honor of the late David Sheldrick, the renowned warden of Tsavo National Park, has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation efforts in Kenya.

David and his wife, Daphne, pioneered innovative techniques for hand-rearing orphaned animals and successfully reintegrating them back into their natural habitats. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust holds the distinction of being the first organization to successfully raise and rehabilitate infant elephants, returning them to the wild elephant communities within the national parks.

For over two decades, Daphne Sheldrick tirelessly dedicated herself to perfecting the intricate process of caring for orphaned elephants, developing specialized animal husbandry techniques and formulating the ideal milk formula to meet their nutritional needs.

Orphaned elephants face a grim fate due to poaching and natural causes. Without the nurturing care of their mothers, these vulnerable infants are at risk of certain death. The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust provides a lifeline, offering round-the-clock care and attention to orphaned elephants, ensuring their survival and eventual reintegration into the wild.

The dedicated keepers at the orphanage become surrogate families to the orphaned elephants, providing the love, care, and support they desperately need. The Trust works closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) on various conservation projects, including operating a mobile veterinary unit that serves the Tsavo National Parks, Amboseli National Park, Shimba Hills National Park, and the Chyulu Hills. Additionally, the Trust plays a vital role in de-snaring efforts within the vast Tsavo National Park.

A remarkable achievement of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is their successful relocation of elephants between major national parks, contributing to the conservation of these majestic creatures.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about wildlife conservation. Located just a few minutes from Nairobi, the orphanage offers a heartwarming experience that will leave you inspired and touched. Visitors are welcome to witness the daily care and interaction between the orphaned elephants and their dedicated keepers.

The Trust’s unwavering commitment to rehabilitating orphaned elephants and protecting wildlife is evident in the success of their efforts. Many of the elephants raised at the orphanage have been successfully reintegrated into wild elephant herds, forming their own families and contributing to the preservation of their species.

A visit to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is not only an opportunity to witness the incredible work of conservationists but also a chance to connect with these gentle giants and contribute to their well-being.

Included and Excluded

Itinerary