Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
We all deserve a second chance.
From the very first gentle trumpet of a calf at dawn, the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi offers Rewild travelers an intimate journey into conservation’s heart. Nestled within Nairobi National Park, the Trust’s Nairobi Nursery opens daily from 11 a.m.–12 noon, inviting visitors to witness orphaned elephants mud-bathing and milk-feeding—an unforgettable hour that directly supports their rehabilitation.
Founded in 1977 by Dame Daphne Sheldrick, this world-renowned sanctuary rescues orphaned elephants and rhinos, nurtures them in the Nursery, and guides their gradual reintegration into the wild at Reintegration Units in Tsavo East and Kibwezi. Each sighting at the nursery carries the promise of a new beginning for these vulnerable animals. Your visit isn’t mere observation—it’s a gesture of hope and support for their journey back to freedom.
For travelers staying at the Trust’s eco-lodges near the Reintegration Units, opportunities abound for heartfelt encounters with elephants re-learning survival skills under the watchful eyes of dedicated keepers. The experience extends beyond the animals—it’s a deeply personal window into human-wildlife connection, bringing you close to the rhythms of reintegration and remembrance.
Beyond the Nursery, the Trust’s efforts unfold across Kenya: anti-poaching patrols, canine units, mobile veterinary teams, aerial surveillance, habitat restoration, and community outreach all form a tapestry of impact. Your visit—and the modest entry support—bolsters these initiatives, reinforcing the seamless link between responsible travel and meaningful conservation.
For Rewild travelers eager to amplify their impact, private experiences offer deeper immersion—witnessing tiny calves through the lens of a personal guide, feeding sessions, and conversations with keepers, all with minimal disruption (getyourguide.com). These exceptional encounters leave travelers changed—connecting vanishing wild souls with newfound hope in our own.
Choosing to visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is more than a moment in time—it’s a commitment. A commitment to seeing conservation in action, supporting wildlife’s most vulnerable, and believing that together, we can rewild not just species, but spirits too.
