David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi

Outty Ranking 65 4.3 · 92 traveler reviews3 hoursFrom $75
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Outty Ranking

65/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.3/5

Based on 92 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi worth booking?

David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi is a 3-hour experience in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya, from $75 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.3/5 rating across 92 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
65 / 100
Rating
4.3/5 (92)
Duration
3 hours
From
$75 per person

Take a day out of Nairobi's hustle and bustle and head to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Witness Visiting the only Elephant Orphanage within the city of Nairobi  meeting some of the largest mammals on earth and learn about their lives and how they survive in the wild. The visit takes place during feeding time viewing is strictly between 11:00 to 12:00

What you get

    About this experience

    Take a day out of Nairobi's hustle and bustle and head to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. Witness Visiting the only Elephant Orphanage within the city of Nairobi  meeting some of the largest mammals on earth and learn about their lives and how they survive in the wild. The visit takes place during feeding time viewing is strictly between 11:00 to 12:00

    What's included

    Included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    • Professional guide
    • Pick up and drop off from your Hotel/accommodation

    Not included

    • Food and drinks
    • Lunch
    • Gratuities
    • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

    What you'll see and do

    1. Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

      The tour starts by picking you from your Hotel/Home within Nairobi 9:30AM. We will drive you to David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust have a walk through the little center from 11am - 12pm in an open space, with a rope fence around it. The youngest elephants come trotting out of the bush to greet their keepers who stand at the ready with giant bottles of milk. For the next 10-15 minutes you can watch each little one slurp and gargle their milk. When they're done, there's water to play with and keepers to nudge and get hugs from. While you get to watch them play and take photos. You find out how old they were when they arrived at the orphanage, where they were rescued from, and what got them into trouble. The most common reasons for getting orphaned being: mother's poached, falling into wells, and human/wildlife conflict. Once the youngest are all fed, they are led back into the bush, and it's the turn of the 2-3 year olds. Some of them can feed themselves, and some are still fed by their keepers. It's very cute to watch them hold their giant milk bottles in their trunks and close their eyes with joy as they make quick work of several gallons of milk.

      60 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Park fees Included

      Park fees Included: Nairobi national park and Elephant park fees included Pickup included

    • Park Entrance Fees Excluded

      Pay Park fees USD85 Per Person: To pay Nairobi National Park USD85 Per person at the Gate of the Park Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Gracepatt Safaris

    Know before you go

    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult

    Photos

    David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National Reserve, photo 2David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National ReserveElephant Orphanage, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National ReserveDavid sheldrick, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National ReserveDavid Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National Reserve, photo 6David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi in Maasai Mara National Reserve, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 92 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    5 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    92 verified traveler reviews for David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    68
    4 star
    3
    3 star
    8
    2 star
    6
    1 star
    7
    Sort
    IanMumford · September 2026

    Rueben was excellent.

    It was an amazing tour. Our driver/guide Reuben was excellent—very knowledgeable, friendly, flexible and professional.

    via Tripadvisor

    GregB172 · September 2026

    Be prepared for large crowds

    While the work of the David Sheldrick Foundation and the Elephant Nursery is important, the hour-long presentation near the feeding corral is essentially an appeal for donations. The day we attended there were nearly 300 people vying to get as close as possible to the fifteen elephants on display. Not at all a ‘behind-the-scenes’ experience.

    via Tripadvisor

    77marniet · September 2026

    David Sheldrick Elephant orphanage experience

    Really wonderful experience and my driver was punctual, knowledgeable and courteous. The experience with the orphaned elephants was really special. Highly recommend.

    via Tripadvisor

    larapM4989WC · August 2026

    Best Day ever!!

    We had a great experience at the Orphanage today! So many small Animals and all of their Backround, we can really recommend it! But if you‘re lucky to meet the Tour Guide Reuben, then your day will be even more awesome!! We had the best and most fun Time with him <3 Thank you Reuben!

    via Tripadvisor

    Michael_P · August 2026

    Great elephant experience but spoilt by national park entry fee.

    The cost to get into the National Park is daylight robbery. Otherwise we really enjoyed it. Sam was our driver and he was excellent. Highly recommend him to anyone 👌.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    3 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $75 to $275
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    32
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Gracepatt Safaris, who run 32 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 50.3.

    See everything Gracepatt Safaris runs

    Why this scores 65

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)56
    Review evidence (18% weight)85
    Booking momentum (14% weight)82
    Value for money (12% weight)55
    Listing quality (10% weight)68
    Local standing (8% weight)0
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Maasai Mara National Reserve.

    How much does David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi cost?

    +

    Prices start at $75 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Maasai Mara National Reserve usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi take?

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    Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Maasai Mara National Reserve is not rushed.

    Is David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.3/5 across 92 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Maasai Mara National Reserve, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi?

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    Around 32 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Maasai Mara National Reserve can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Maasai Mara National Reserve and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Maasai Mara National Reserve within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Maasai Mara National Reserve?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Maasai Mara National Reserve experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include African Wildlife & Nature - 5 Kenya national parks - 6 day Jeep Safari, 2 Days Classic Maasai Mara Safari, 4-Day Tour in Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivash, Masai Mara from Nairobi. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Maasai Mara National Reserve?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Maasai Mara National Reserve?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi?

    +

    Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; Professional guide; and Pick up and drop off from your Hotel/accommodation. Not included: Food and drinks; Lunch; Gratuities; and Souvenir photos (available to purchase). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 647 listed pickup locations in and around Maasai Mara National Reserve. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Maasai Mara National Reserve. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi?

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    Across 92 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi?

    +

    There are 2 options to choose from, including Park fees Included, Park Entrance Fees Excluded. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage Half-Day Tour in Nairobi.

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