The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT), now known as the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (SWT), was established in 1977 by Dr. Dame Daphne Sheldrick in memory of her late husband, David Sheldrick. David Sheldrick was a pioneering wildlife conservationist and a founding Warden of Tsavo East National Park, one of Kenya's largest national parks. Born in 1919, David's career with Kenya's wildlife services spanned over two decades, during which he developed innovative conservation techniques and management strategies that are still in use today.

David Sheldrick's work in Tsavo East National Park began in 1948 when he was appointed as the park's first Warden. At the time, Tsavo East was largely unexplored and undeveloped, presenting numerous challenges for wildlife conservation. Under David's leadership, the park saw the construction of essential infrastructure, including roads, waterholes, and anti-poaching outposts. He also initiated extensive wildlife research programs and implemented measures tomitigate human-wildlife conflict, setting a precedent for conservation management in East Africa.

From its humble beginnings, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust quickly expanded its scope and impact. Initially focused on the care of orphaned elephants and rhinos, the Trust grew to encompass a wide range of conservation activities. Over the years, the Trust established several core programs aimed at addressing the various threats facing Kenya's wildlife.

• Orphans' Project: The heart of the Trust's work is the Orphans' Project, which rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephants and rhinos. Many of these orphans are victims of poaching, habitat destruction, or human-wildlife conflict. The Trust operates a dedicated nursery in Nairobi National Park, where young elephants and rhinos receive round-the-clock care. Once they are old enough, the orphans are gradually reintroduced into the wild at Tsavo East National Park.
• Anti-Poaching Efforts: Recognizing the critical need to protect wildlife from poaching, the Trust established anti-poaching units that operate in key conservation areas. These units work tirelessly to prevent illegal hunting and to safeguard endangered species.
• Mobile Veterinary Units: The Trust's mobile veterinary units provide crucial medical care to injured or ill wildlife in the field. These units, staffed by experienced veterinarians, increase the survival rates of animals that would otherwise succumb to their injuries.
• Aerial Surveillance: To enhance their conservation efforts, the Trust employs aerial surveillance to monitor wildlife populations and detect illegal activities. This proactive approach allows for timely interventions and improved protection of endangered species
• Community Outreach and Education: The Trust actively engages with local communities to promote conservation awareness and sustainable living practices. By fostering positive relationships and providing educational resources, the Trust helps to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and to build a culture of conservation.

Entry Charges

To visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's elephant orphanage, visitors are required to make a donation, which contributes to the care and rehabilitation of the orphaned elephants. Here are the details:

• Suggested Donation:
  • Adults: Ksh 500 (approximately $5)
  • Children: Ksh 250 (approximately $2.50)

Please note that these amounts are suggested donations and may vary. Visitors are encouraged to donate generously as the funds directly support the Trust's conservation efforts.

Opens

• Daily: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 
• During this hour, visitors can observe the baby elephants being fed and playing in the mud, and learn about the Trust's conservation work from the keepers

Booking:

• Visitors are advised to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry as the number of visitors may be limited.

COVID-19 Protocols:

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  • Adherence to any current COVID-19 guidelines is mandatory. This may include wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and sanitizing hands upon entry.

Adoption Program:

• Visitors have the opportunity to adopt an orphaned elephant, rhino, or giraffe. Adopting an orphan includes a one-year fostering period, during which sponsors receive regular updates and photos of their adopted animal.

Photography:

• Photography is allowed, but visitors should be 
  • mindful not to disturb the animals or obstruct other visitors' views.

Conduct:

• Visitors are expected to behave respectfully and quietly to avoid stressing the animals. Loud noises and sudden movements should be avoided.

Attire:

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  • Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended as the orphanage is located within Nairobi National Park, and the terrain may be uneven.

Weather Considerations:

• Visitors should be prepared for the weather, which can vary. Bringing hats, sunscreen, and water bottles for hot days, or raincoats and umbrellas during the rainy season, is advisable.