The David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center: A Must-Visit Wildlife Sanctuary in Nairobi
Nestled in Nairobi, Kenya, the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Center (AFEW) stand as two of the most iconic wildlife conservation centers in Africa. Dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of orphaned elephants and Rothschild giraffes, these sanctuaries offer visitors a firsthand experience of Kenya’s rich conservation efforts.
Itinerary: David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center Tour
8:30 AM – Pick-up from your hotel or residence in Nairobi.
9:00 AM – Arrive at the Giraffe Center. Learn about Rothschild giraffes, feed them, and enjoy the nature walk.
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM – Visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Watch baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud while learning about their conservation.
️ 12:30 PM – Optional stop at a local craft market for souvenirs.
1:00 PM – Drop-off at your hotel or preferred location.
A Legacy of Conservation
Established in 1977 by Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) has become one of the world’s leading elephant rescue and rehabilitation programs. The orphanage is home to rescued baby elephants, who receive specialized care before being reintegrated into the wild. Visitors can watch feeding sessions, witness playful mud baths, and learn about elephant conservation in Kenya.
At the Giraffe Center (AFEW), visitors have the unique opportunity to feed and interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes. The center plays a crucial role in breeding and releasing giraffes back into protected areas across Kenya.
Unforgettable Experiences at the Sheldrick Orphanage & Giraffe Center
✔ Up-close encounters with baby elephants and giraffes.
✔ Educational talks on wildlife conservation and Kenya’s biodiversity.
✔ Interactive feeding sessions with the gentle giraffes.
✔ Opportunities to adopt an elephant and support conservation efforts.
✔ A guided tour through the Giraffe Center Nature Trail, offering stunning views of Nairobi’s landscape.
Plan Your Visit Today
A visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center is an essential experience for any traveler to Nairobi. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, conservation supporter, or family looking for an educational adventure, this tour offers a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
Book Your Tour Now:
David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Center Tour
https://cruzeiro-safaris.com/nairobi-tours/product/nairobi-national-park-tour-and-elephants-orphanage/
https://cruzeiro-safaris.com/nairobi-tours/product/nairobi-national-park-tour-elephants-orphanage-and-giraffe-center/
https://cruzeiro-safaris.com/nairobi-tours/product/nairobi-animal-orphanage-and-giraffe-center-tour/
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Reviewed by: Lori A, September 2015
I enjoyed seeing the elephants feed and play. I really enjoyed hearing the commentary on each elephant – their age, how old they were when they came to the orphanage, and the process for working with the elephants at different ages. Very informative and fun.
admin –
Reviewed by: Barbara D, June 2017
The tour provider was Cruzeiro Safaris and the driver guide was Timothy. We called and extended the booking to also include an afternoon game drive in Nairobi National Park. So, Cruzeiro Safaris was good when I called and extended the booking at the published rate, to also include the afternoon. Timothy was a good driver, but was not very knowledgeable about the Elephant Orphanage or Giraffe Center….the good news is that both of those facilities has a speaker that gives you the background. Where Timothy excelled was on the game drives. He had a good eye for spotting the animals, was on the phone and talking with the other drivers regarding where the animals were at, so we got to see lions, white rhinos, Masai giraffes, common zebras, cape buffalo, ostriches, impala, elan, and hartebeasts. The only downside to the day was the vehicle, while very much enjoyed the roof that opened up, so could stand and see animals, BUT the aircon did not work, so there was times in the morning when driving that had to have windows open to get air in the va