David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage – A Complete Visitor’s Guide
🐘 Experience the Magic of the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), now known as the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, is one of the world’s most renowned elephant orphanages. Located in Nairobi, Kenya, this sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants before releasing them back into the wild.
Visitors can watch baby elephants being bottle-fed, playing in the mud, and learning survival skills. It’s an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
🌍 Location: Nairobi, Kenya (Inside Nairobi National Park)
⏰ Visiting Hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Daily, by reservation)
🎟 Entry Fee: $20 per person (See booking details below)
Why Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage?
✅ Watch Baby Elephants Up Close – See rescued calves interact and play.
✅ Learn About Elephant Conservation – Discover how elephants are rescued and rehabilitated.
✅ Adopt an Orphaned Elephant – Support conservation efforts by fostering an elephant.
✅ Perfect for Families & Wildlife Lovers – A unique experience for kids and adults alike.
✅ Combine with Other Attractions – Visit Nairobi National Park & Giraffe Centre nearby.
How the Orphanage Rescues & Rehabilitates Elephants
1️⃣ Rescue – Orphaned elephants are found abandoned due to poaching, human-wildlife conflict, or drought.
2️⃣ Rehabilitation – The calves are cared for by dedicated keepers who bottle-feed them and teach survival skills.
3️⃣ Reintroduction – After several years, the elephants are released into Tsavo National Park, where they integrate with wild herds.
📌 Interesting Fact: Over 260 orphaned elephants have been successfully returned to the wild since the orphanage was founded.
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Entry Fees (2024 Updated Prices)
| Category | Entry Fee (USD) | Entry Fee (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | $20 | 3,000 KES |
| Children (Under 12) | $5 | 750 KES |
| Elephant Adoption | $50+ | 7,500+ KES |
📌 Payment Methods: Online booking only (Cash is not accepted at the gate).
📌 Important: Booking is required through the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust website.
Best Time to Visit the Elephant Orphanage
✅ Best Viewing Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Feeding & playtime).
✅ Avoid Peak Crowds: Book early as slots fill up fast.
✅ Best Season: Dry season (June – October & January – February) for clear views.
How to Get to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The orphanage is located inside Nairobi National Park, about 30 minutes from Nairobi city center.
🚗 By Car:
- 30-minute drive from Nairobi CBD.
- Parking available at the entrance.
🚕 By Taxi/Uber:
- Estimated fare: $10 – $15 from Nairobi.
📌 Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit:
✔ Nairobi National Park – See lions, rhinos, and giraffes.
✔ Giraffe Centre – Feed endangered Rothschild’s giraffes.
✔ Karen Blixen Museum – Learn about Kenya’s colonial history.
How to Adopt an Elephant at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
For $50 per year, you can adopt an orphaned elephant and receive:
✔ Monthly updates on your elephant’s progress.
✔ Exclusive access to evening visits at the orphanage (foster parents only).
✔ A certificate of adoption and elephant stories.
📌 Adopt an elephant today via the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust website.
Book Your David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Tour Today!
📩 Contact Us for Safari Packages
🌍 WhatsApp / Call:+254112458884
📧 Email: booking@annestkenyasafaris.com
Plan your perfect Nairobi wildlife tour with Annest Kenya Safaris!
FAQs About Visiting the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage
The public visit lasts one hour (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM).
No, but you can watch them up close and sometimes they come near visitors.
Online booking is required via the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust website.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera for amazing photos!
