Of Chows and Dhows

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

A must-visit when in Nairobi, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust(DSWT) is an orphan rescue and rehabilitation program. It is an organization that promotes conservation, preservation, wildlife and habitat protection.

DSWT provides food, clothing, shelter and medication to orphan elephants. They hand-raise the orphans till they are of age to be reintegrated into the wild Tsavo National Park. DSWT is not only a harbour for elephants, there are other animal species such as giraffes and rhinos.

There are 36 orphaned elephants in their care as of the time of writing. Each of the animals gets specialised care and attention from the staff, who know them all by name and their background. The animals are given names from the communities where they are from. You can read more about the animals and the organisation here.

Getting there

DSWT is located on the outskirts of Nairobi along Mbagathi Road and right inside the KWS Workshop. If using public transport, take matatu number 125/126 which is boarded from the Railway station.

DSWT is a bit far from the gate so if you are walking you might want to factor in the time you’ll take to walk.

The baby elephants come in, running for their milk. As the baby elephants drink water, feed and play, one of the knowledgeable staff explains about the trust, and the adverse effects of poaching and then goes ahead to introduce each and every one of the baby elephants and their back story.

The second group comes in running for their milk as well, gulping it down in seconds, but then again they are elephants so it is expected! The energy in the elephants is unmatched. They put on a good show and it is impossible not to fall in love with them.

P.S. Make sure you arrive at least twenty minutes earlier to get the best views of the elephants as the place gets pretty packed.

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Charges

The entry fee is Kshs. 500 ($6). The visiting time is 11:00 am- 12:00 pm which is the elephants feeding time.

Things to Note about the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

• It is better to visit DSWT on weekdays for the same reason.
• Make sure you keep time. otherwise, you will miss the elephants.

In Conclusion

David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT)  exceeded my expectations in so many ways. It is well-run, clean and organised. By simply visiting the place, you contribute to a worthy cause. Every cent that goes to DSWT is used in caring for babies.

You can adopt an elephant of your choice, which comes with some merchandise and exclusive information about your adopted baby for Kshs 5,000(around $60) a year. If you are wondering what to get a loved one who loves animals, you can adopt a baby elephant for them. Trust me, it would be the perfect gift!

Seeing them feed and play in the dust will stay in your heart forever. Hearing how their families were killed will make you want to extinguish poaching from the face of this earth and let the gentle giants roam the world in peace.

Do let me know if you have visited the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and what your experience was.

See you on the next one, bye!