David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nairobi Nursery
A sanctuary for orphaned elephants and rhinos, offering a glimpse into vital conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure a prime viewing spot
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Nairobi Nursery
Best Time
Secure a prime viewing spot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary for orphaned elephants and rhinos, offering a glimpse into vital conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
"One of the most magical places I’ve ever visited, truly unforgettable!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views
Beat the crowds and snag a front-row spot for the feeding by arriving at least 30 minutes before 11 AM.
💰 Support Their Mission
Consider adopting an elephant or donating to fund their vital care and conservation efforts.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 5,604 reviews
Type
Pet Care
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 11 AM Feeding Frenzy
Main viewing area
Witness orphaned elephants rush for their milk bottles in an adorable, heartwarming spectacle. Pure joy!
Mud Bath Mayhem
Elephant enclosure
Watch the young elephants playfully roll and splash in the mud, a natural behavior for their skin and enjoyment.
Meet the Rhinos
Rhino enclosure
See the rescued black rhinos, Raha and Olomunyak, and learn about their incredible recovery stories.
Gentle Giants Up Close
Viewing area
If they're feeling social, you might get to pet an elephant as they greet visitors. A truly magical moment!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Elephant Encounters
Beyond the Nursery: Supporting Conservation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views
Beat the crowds and snag a front-row spot for the feeding by arriving at least 30 minutes before 11 AM.
💰 Support Their Mission
Consider adopting an elephant or donating to fund their vital care and conservation efforts.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Nairobi can be warm; bring water and wear sunscreen. A hat is also a good idea!
🚗 Easy Access via Uber/Taxi
Uber and taxis are readily available and a convenient way to reach the nursery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Best Views
Beat the crowds and snag a front-row spot for the feeding by arriving at least 30 minutes before 11 AM.
💰 Support Their Mission
Consider adopting an elephant or donating to fund their vital care and conservation efforts.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Protected
Nairobi can be warm; bring water and wear sunscreen. A hat is also a good idea!
🚗 Easy Access via Uber/Taxi
Uber and taxis are readily available and a convenient way to reach the nursery.
🦏 Meet the Rhinos Too!
Don't miss the chance to see the rescued rhinos, Raha and Olomunyak, who also receive dedicated care.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust as a magical and unforgettable experience, highlighting the incredible work done to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephants and rhinos. The opportunity to see the baby elephants up close, witness their feeding, and even pet them is a major draw. While the viewing hour is short and can get crowded, the educational value and the emotional connection forged with these animals make it a highly recommended visit for all.
"One of the highlights in Nairobi is visiting this elephant orphanage. You can join a tour or book it online a few days ahead and get there by uber. Since this facility is located inside Nairobi National Park, you need to pay both national park fee and then this elephant orphanage fee. The elephant feeding show is only during 11 am and 12 noon."
Harry Zheng
"This is one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited (by far)!! The only recommendation I’ve give is to arrive early so you have a good view.
It was amazing to learn about the critical work this wildlife trust is doing to save elephants from unfortunate situations.
Even better, you can actually PET them if they come close enough which is a magical experience on its own."
Jack Atkins
"The Sheldrick trust looks after orphaned elephants. They are rescued from different parts of Kenya and brought in and given professional care and protection including medical care. The elephant babies seemed to be well looked after. One can feed the elephants and pet them too as they are very friendly. They also have two rhinos that are kept secure and taken care of. The organization seems to be very dedicated towards their goals and the people who work here do so with passion. You will need to book a visit through email at least 48 hours in advance and the visit is only from 11am to 12pm. Strongly recommended to visit if you are in Nairobi."
Zafar Elahi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The nursery is located within Nairobi National Park. The easiest way to get there is by Uber or taxi, which can drop you off directly at the entrance. If you are driving yourself, be prepared for the park entrance fee in addition to any nursery visit fees.
Yes, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Nursery is situated within the boundaries of Nairobi National Park. This means you'll need to pay the park entrance fee.
Uber and local taxis are the most convenient options from Nairobi's city center. They can take you directly to the nursery's entrance.
While you can book taxis in advance, ride-sharing apps like Uber operate widely in Nairobi, so booking on-demand is usually straightforward.
Public transport options are limited and may involve multiple transfers, making them less convenient for reaching the nursery efficiently. Taxis or ride-sharing services are highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The nursery viewing is free, but donations are highly encouraged. However, you will need to pay the Nairobi National Park entrance fee, which varies for residents and non-residents.
While the nursery viewing itself doesn't require advance booking, it's wise to arrive early for the 11 am to 12 pm viewing slot. For specific adoption programs or tours, check their website.
The nursery is open to the public for viewing and feeding demonstrations daily from 11 am to 12 pm only.
The elephant feeding is part of the public viewing hour and does not have a separate fee. Your contribution through donations or adoption supports these feedings.
No, the nursery is strictly open for public viewing only between 11 am and 12 pm daily.
🎫 🐘 Onsite Experience
You'll witness orphaned baby elephants being fed their milk formula, playing in mud baths, and interacting with their keepers. You might even get to pet them!
Visitors cannot directly feed the elephants. However, you can watch the keepers feed them their specialized milk formula during the viewing hour.
Yes, if an elephant is curious and approaches the viewing area, you may have the opportunity to pet them. It's a magical experience!
Yes, the nursery also cares for rescued black rhinos, Raha and Olomunyak, who you can see during your visit.
The public viewing is only one hour long (11 am to 12 pm). Arriving early is recommended to get a good spot.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash, especially near the animals.
The feeding time and the mud baths offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capturing the elephants interacting with their keepers is also very rewarding.
Avoid using flash photography, as it can startle the animals. Also, be respectful of the keepers and other visitors.
While you can't pose for selfies with the elephants, you might get lucky if one approaches you and you can capture a candid moment.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you have a zoom lens, it can be helpful for capturing close-ups from the viewing area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit