20 kmDistance
30–45 minDrive time
Any vehicleVehicle needed
USD 20 (donation)Entry fee
The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust sits in Karen, about 20 km from Nairobi’s city centre, within Nairobi National Park’s grounds near the Mbagathi Gate. The Trust rehabilitates orphaned elephant and rhino calves, with a public visiting hour daily. Any vehicle handles the drive.
Key Takeaways
- Distance: ~20 km from Nairobi CBD via Langata Road, Karen.
- Drive time: 30–45 minutes.
- Public visiting hour: 11:00–12:00 daily — arrive by 10:45 for a good viewing spot.
- Entry: donation-based, typically around USD 20 suggested minimum.
- Vehicle: any saloon or SUV.
- Highlight: orphaned elephant calves being mud-bathed and bottle-fed by their keepers.
What to Expect
- Elephant orphan parade — keepers bring the current orphaned calves to a mud wallow for feeding and play, with a keeper narrating each calf’s rescue story
- Rhino rehabilitation — the Trust also rehabilitates orphaned black rhinos alongside its elephant programme
- Adoption programme — visitors can symbolically “adopt” an orphan calf to support its ongoing care
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is the public visiting hour at the Sheldrick Trust?
11:00 to 12:00 daily. Arrive by 10:45 to secure a good viewing position at the mud wallow.
How much does it cost to visit?
Entry is donation-based, with a suggested minimum of around USD 20 per adult.
Do I need to book in advance?
Advance online booking is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, as visitor numbers for the public hour are limited.
Can I hire a car in Nairobi for a Sheldrick Trust visit?
Yes. Barguts Tours provides vehicle hire for the trip. Contact Barguts Tours at carhirenairobi.co.ke or call +254 707 116 220.