The David Sheldrick elephant orphanage, officially the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Nairobi Nursery, is one of the most heart-warming stops in Kenya. Orphaned baby elephants, rescued from drought, poaching and human-wildlife conflict, are fed, cared for and prepared to return to the wild. Even hardened travellers tend to leave with a smile.
Where it is and why it exists
The nursery is on the edge of Nairobi National Park, in the Langata area close to the city. It was founded by Dame Daphne Sheldrick, in memory of her husband David Sheldrick, the founding warden of Tsavo East National Park. Over decades, the trust has pioneered milk formulas and rearing techniques that made it possible to raise orphaned elephants successfully. The orphans spend their early years in Nairobi before moving to rehabilitation units in Tsavo, where they gradually rejoin wild herds. Our Nairobi National Park guide covers the park next door.
Public visiting hours
The nursery opens to the public for one hour a day, in the late morning. During that time, the keepers bring out the young elephants to feed, play in the mud and drink from large bottles. A keeper explains each orphan’s story, which is often moving. Arrive early to find a good spot; the place gets busy, particularly in school holidays. Check the trust’s official website for current times, fees and any changes.
Booking tips
- Book your slot online in advance when possible.
- Bring cash or a card as indicated, and a camera, but do not use flash.
- Wear shoes you do not mind getting muddy.
- Do not try to touch the elephants unless the keepers tell you to.
Adopt an orphan
The trust runs a fostering programme. For a modest annual contribution, you can symbolically adopt an elephant or another orphaned animal and receive updates. Foster parents may be allowed to visit in the evening to see the elephants go to bed, though you must arrange this in advance with the trust. Support goes directly to veterinary care, keepers and anti-poaching work.
Plan a Karen and Langata day
The nursery sits close to several other attractions. Pair it with the Karen Blixen Museum and the giraffe centre, and read our Giraffe Manor guide if you want a breakfast with giraffes. A relaxed lunch in Karen completes the day. See the Nairobi stopover guide for more ideas.
Why it matters
Seeing the orphans reminds you what is at stake. Visit respectfully, follow the keepers’ instructions and think about contributing. We are happy to include a nursery visit in any itinerary that starts or ends in Nairobi.
Quick answers
When can I visit the Sheldrick elephant orphanage?
The nursery opens to the public for one hour in the late morning. Check the trust website for current times and fees.
Can I adopt an elephant?
Yes. The fostering programme lets you support an orphan and receive updates, and foster parents may arrange an evening visit.
Where is it located?
On the edge of Nairobi National Park in the Langata area, close to Karen.
Safaris that fit this guide
These Cherish Africa Safaris trips match what this guide covers. We can adjust any of them to your dates, group size and budget.
- 3 Days Amboseli Bush Safari Adventure
- 3 Days Amboseli Safari Adventure: Majestic Wildlife & Mount Kilimanjaro Views
- 6 Days Comfort Safari: Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, and Maasai Mara Exploration
Not sure which trip suits you? Browse all our Kenya safari tours or send us an enquiry.
Plan it with people who live here
We are a Nairobi-based team and every trip starts from our own doorstep. If you would like help turning these ideas into a real itinerary, message us on WhatsApp (+254 794 588 242), write to info@cherishafricasafaris.com, or use our contact form. We usually reply the same day.
David sheldrick elephant orphanage: Key Takeaways
The main points on david sheldrick elephant orphanage are covered above. If you would like help applying them to your own dates and budget, our team can plan the trip with you. For more advice on david sheldrick elephant orphanage, or a quote tailored to your group, contact Cherish Africa Safaris and we will reply the same day.
