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Meet baby elephants and learn their journey back to the wild 8 Rating
Set within the peaceful boundaries of Nairobi National Park and only about 17 kilometers from the city center, lies a place that has become a symbol of hope and second chances—especially for orphaned elephants. Established in 1977 by Dame Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her late husband, this wildlife haven is not just a sanctuary but a home, a healing space, and a powerful conservation center dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of vulnerable animals in Kenya.
This organization operates with a clear mission: to rescue young elephants that have been orphaned due to poaching, human-wildlife conflict, drought, or natural disasters, and provide them with a nurturing environment. At the heart of its operations is the Nairobi Nursery, where these traumatized calves are lovingly cared for by dedicated keepers who act as surrogate mothers. These keepers feed the elephants specialized formula, watch over them around the clock, and slowly help them regain trust in the world around them.
The process of rehabilitation is both compassionate and strategic. Once the elephants are strong enough, they are gradually transferred to reintegration units in protected wilderness areas like Tsavo East National Park and the Kibwezi Forest. Over time, and at their own pace, they reintegrate into wild elephant herds, returning to the ecosystem they were once taken from. This reintegration process can take years, underscoring the deep, lifelong commitment the Trust offers to each animal it rescues.
Beyond elephant rehabilitation, this conservation center operates a wide range of programs aimed at preserving Kenya’s biodiversity. These include anti-poaching patrols, mobile veterinary units that treat injured wildlife in remote locations, aerial surveillance to monitor illegal activities, and educational initiatives that empower local communities. Every effort is geared toward building coexistence between humans and wildlife, ensuring the survival of Kenya’s iconic species for generations to come.
One of the most touching experiences for visitors is the daily public viewing hour at the nursery, held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM (except on December 25th). During this one-hour session, guests can witness the playful energy of the young elephants as they enjoy their midday feeding and mud baths. It's an opportunity to not only see these majestic creatures up close but also to learn about the challenges they’ve faced and the hope their future now holds.
The session is educational, emotional, and inspiring—perfect for families, conservation enthusiasts, and anyone with a love for animals. The keepers also take time to share each elephant’s story, describing where they were found, what led to their rescue, and how they’ve adjusted to life at the nursery. It’s a reminder of the resilience of wildlife and the power of human compassion.
Advance booking is required to attend the public visiting hour, and it must be done through the official website. Additionally, as of September 2023, all visitors to the nursery are required to pay the Nairobi National Park entry fee, even if they are not planning to explore the park beyond the orphanage. This fee supports the park’s maintenance and contributes indirectly to the broader conservation efforts across the region.
This heartfelt project is not just about saving animals—it’s about restoring balance to nature, supporting long-term conservation, and educating the world on the importance of protecting our most vulnerable species. Whether you're a tourist, local, volunteer, or donor, a visit here promises to leave a lasting impact on your understanding of wildlife preservation.
If you’re seeking an experience that is as enriching as it is moving, this sanctuary offers a unique glimpse into the dedication, effort, and love behind every rescued elephant’s journey back to the wild. It’s not just a visit—it’s a powerful reminder of why every life, no matter how small
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