Hotels near David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is the world's most successful elephant-rescue and rehabilitation programme - founded by Dame Daphne Sheldrick in 1977 in memory of her late husband, the legendary park warden David Sheldrick. The 60-hectare nursery in Nairobi National Park raises orphaned baby elephants (mostly poaching orphans) until they are around 3 years old, then transfers them to Tsavo National Park rehabilitation facilities for release.

Only one public viewing per day - 11:00-12:00 - when the babies come to feed and play. Capacity limited; advance online booking essential (5-7 days ahead in peak season) via sheldrickwildlifetrust.org. 1500 KES per person. Foster an orphan for 50 USD annually and you can return for the private 17:00 feeding (one of the only ways to see the elephants twice a day).

Pro Tip: Foster an orphan for 50 USD annually - you get a personalised certificate, monthly updates, and access to the smaller 17:00 evening feeding which is much quieter than the 11:00 public hour. The fostering programme is the foundation's primary income stream.