Elephant Orphanage Rescue Centre Nairobi

Discover Elephant Orphanage Rescue Centre Nairobi

Located within the southern edge of Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage Rescue Centre Nairobi—also known as the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nairobi—is a world-renowned conservation centre dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants and rhinos. Since its founding in 1977 by Dame Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her husband Major David Sheldrick, it has been at the forefront of animal welfare, combining conservation with community outreach and education Southern Valley Safaris+5GloboTreks+5GloboTreks+5Justin Plus Lauren+12Wikipedia+12TripSavvy+12Sheldrick Wildlife TrustSheldrick Wildlife Trust+4Nairobi National Park+4Kenya Wild Parks+4Twendesasa+4Kenya Wild Parks+4Ads Kenya+4.

A Sanctuary for Orphaned Wildlife

Every year, orphaned elephant calves affected by poaching, drought, or human-wildlife conflict arrive at the centre. The dedicated team of keepers hand-rears these young elephants, often feeding them every three hours, including through the night. Once old enough (typically 2–3 years), the calves move to reintegration units in Tsavo East or Kibwezi to prepare for reintroduction into the wild Twendesasa+1Ads Kenya+1.

Public Feeding Hour

From 11 AM to 12 PM daily (closed only on Christmas Day), the centre opens its gates to a limited number of visitors to witness the magic of midday feeding and mud baths. Cheering visitors watch as orphaned elephants rush in for milk bottles and playful mud splashes, guided by expert keepers who share heartwarming rescue stories Southern Valley Safaris+5Nairobi National Park+5Ads Kenya+5. This hour-long session is a highlight for families, bloggers, and travellers alike.

Booking and Visitor Experience

Visits require advance booking directly with the Trust (no third-party slots), which can be scheduled up to three months ahead. Visitors receive a confirmation email that must be shown at the KWS Central Workshop Gate on Magadi Road from Nairobi. For the best vantage point, arrive around 10:30 AM—the park gate opens an hour earlier GloboTreks+4Kenya Wild Parks+4Nairobi National Park+4Sheldrick Wildlife Trust+7Sheldrick Wildlife Trust+7Victor Matara+7.

Conservation Through Participation

Attending the feeding session is more than a visit—it’s an opportunity to support vital conservation work. All donations at entry support the animals’ daily care, veterinary treatments, and ongoing field activities. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to adopt an orphan: annual contributions start at USD 50, and adopters receive updates, photos, and exclusive access to afternoon viewing sessions Rustic Nature Tours+2Nairobi National Park+2Kenya Wild Parks+2.

A Combined Safari Experience

Located inside Nairobi National Park, a visit to the orphanage can be paired with a short game drive through the park, offering chances to glimpse rhinos, lions, buffalo, and giraffes. This combination makes for a comprehensive wildlife experience without leaving the city limits Nairobi National Park.

Elephant Welfare and Educational Impact

Beyond hand-feeding, the centre emphasises elephant psychology, social behaviour, and the rehabilitation process. During the public hour, keepers explain how each calf was rescued and cared for. Children and adults often describe the moment as emotional, educational, and transformative.

Why This Centre Stands Out

• Interactive and heart‑warming visits: baby elephants at close range during feeding and mud-play

• Conservation education: stories that highlight the impact of poaching and human-wildlife conflict

• Rehabilitation-first approach: every calf is prepared for wild release

• Supportive community impact: contributions benefit anti-poaching, veterinary outreach, and local employment