Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, Nairobi

Nestled on the border of Nairobi National Park is a haven for young orphaned elephants, victims of the illegal ivory trade. Known as the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, this facility rescues and rehabilitates elephants from various regions of Kenya.

Each day at 11 am, the baby elephants eagerly emerge from the acacia forest and gather around a muddy watering hole to be fed by their caretakers. After filling their bellies, the young calves enjoy rolling in the mud, splashing murky water into the air, and engaging in playful interactions with one another. This heartwarming spectacle can be observed for a precious hour from the sidelines, after which the elephants return to the nearby woodlands. The knowledgeable keepers on site are available to educate visitors about the orphanage's mission and the significance of their conservation efforts.

The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, established 45 years ago by a family deeply passionate about Kenya and its natural beauty, is dedicated to a variety of initiatives that support the conservation, protection, and preservation of wildlife and their native habitats. Their activities extend across Kenya and encompass anti-poaching measures, environmental preservation, community awareness campaigns, addressing animal welfare issues, providing veterinary care for distressed animals, and rescuing and nurturing orphaned elephants, rhinos, and other species to ensure their eventual successful reintegration into the wild.