Overview

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (Elephant Orphanage) Located inside Nairobi National Park, this world-renowned sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to witness the rehabilitation of baby elephants rescued from the wild—many orphaned due to poaching, drought, or human-wildlife conflict. Visiting hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM (daily) What to expect: Watch baby elephants being bottle-fed and rolling in mud Learn each elephant's rescue story from their dedicated keepers Get the chance to adopt one and receive monthly updates It’s heartwarming, educational, and perfect for both kids and adults. Giraffe Centre (Lang'ata Giraffe Sanctuary) Just a 20-minute drive from the elephant orphanage, the Giraffe Centre is home to the endangered Rothschild giraffe. What to do: Feed giraffes from an elevated platform Learn about giraffe conservation efforts Get up close—maybe even a “giraffe kiss” (optional but hilarious) This visit is interactive and typically takes 30–45 minutes. Best Tip: Combine the Elephant Visit with Nairobi National Park Instead While both the elephant orphanage and giraffe centre are lovely experiences, many travelers find that combining the David Sheldrick Trust with a Nairobi National Park safari offers more value for your time and money, especially if you're looking for a real wildlife experience. Why? Nairobi National Park is right next to the elephant orphanage. You get to see lions, rhinos, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and more in their natural habitat—all within 10 minutes of the city center. You can do an early morning game drive (6:30–10:30 AM), then visit the elephants at 11:00 AM—perfect combo! Great for travelers with limited time who still want an authentic Kenyan safari. Sample Itinerary for a High-Value Day: 6:30 AM: Pick-up and Nairobi National Park game drive 10:30 AM: Head to David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Elephant feeding & talk Optional: Quick visit to Giraffe Centre or lunch nearby