Nairobi: Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and 3 Hours Game Drive

If you’re planning a trip to Nairobi and want a blend of heartwarming conservation stories with a quick wildlife fix, this tour offers a compelling mix. It combines a visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage—where adorable baby elephants steal hearts—with a short but rewarding game drive in Nairobi National Park, showcasing Kenya’s iconic animals in their natural habitat.

We’re impressed by how this experience offers a balanced view of elephant rescue efforts and genuine wildlife sightings without the long hours or hefty price tag often associated with safaris. The guide’s storytelling, the chance to see rhinos and hippos up close, and the convenience of hotel pick-up make it a practical choice. However, it’s worth noting that park entrance fees are not included**, which can add to your overall expense, and the tour might feel a bit rushed if you’re craving a full-day safari.

This experience suits travelers who want an introductory safari, families with kids eager to see elephants, or those with limited time but still craving a taste of Kenya’s wildlife. It’s also ideal if you love animals and want to learn about conservation efforts firsthand.

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Key Points

Animal encounters: See baby elephants and other wildlife at the orphanage and in the wild on a game drive.
Conservation focus: Learn about the efforts to rescue and rehabilitate elephants and rhinos.
Convenience: Hotel pick-up and drop-off make logistics simple.
Value for money: The $105 fee includes transportation, entry to the orphanage, and a 2-hour game drive.
Limited time: The tour is designed to fit into a half-day, so expect a quick but rich experience.
Additional costs: Park entrance fees are extra, approximately $45 USD.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting with the logistics, the tour is operated by Majestic Quest Tours And Travel, a reputable provider known for reliable services and friendly guides. The experience begins with hotel pickups, which means you avoid the hassle of arranging transport yourself—a significant plus in busy Nairobi.

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Visiting the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage

You’ll head straight to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage — a sanctuary renowned for its impactful conservation work. The visit opens around 11:00 AM, giving you the chance to see baby elephants being fed, playing, or simply resting. Many reviews praise the emotional connection visitors feel during these moments—descriptions of “tiny, wrinkly elephants” having “their first taste of independence” are common.

One reviewer mentioned, “The orphanage staff are incredibly passionate, and you can see how much effort goes into caring for these orphaned animals.” The orphanage is more than just a cute visit; it’s a story of hope and conservation dedication. The guide is usually knowledgeable about the elephants’ histories and the ongoing rescue efforts, making the visit both educational and moving.

Tip: Because entrance is included but the orphanage opens at a set time, arriving early can improve your experience—less crowding means better photo opportunities.

The 2-Hour Game Drive in Nairobi National Park

Following the orphanage visit, if your pickup is early, the tour begins with a 2-hour game drive in Nairobi National Park. This drive offers a snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife without the long hours typical of safari tours. Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and rhinos in their natural environment, often near water bodies.

Guests have noted that the wildlife sightings can be quite good, given the short duration, especially if you’re lucky with timing. One reviewer shared, “We managed to spot a rhino and several giraffes, which was more than I expected in just two hours.” The park’s proximity to Nairobi’s city center makes this quick safari highly accessible.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of animal rescue stories and wildlife viewing packs a punch for those new to safaris. Plus, the inclusion of free WiFi and bottled water during transportation enhances comfort and convenience.

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The Practical Side

The transportation is by van, which typically means a small group—ideal for personalized attention. The travel pace is relaxed enough to allow decent wildlife viewing, but keep in mind the park entrance fee ($45 USD) isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

While the tour is shorter, reviews indicate that the experience feels authentic and engaging. One visitor said, “It’s the perfect quick fix for wildlife lovers who don’t have time for a full-day safari, but still want a meaningful encounter.”

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Considerations and Tips

Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera—the park can get sunny, and wildlife photography is a highlight.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
Though the tour is flexible—you can reserve and pay later—cancellation is possible with 24 hours’ notice for a full refund.
Remember, smoking is not allowed in the vehicle, aligning with the focus on conservation and safety.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a quick and meaningful introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and conservation efforts. Families will enjoy the adorable elephants and accessible game viewing, while solo travelers get a chance to tick off wildlife sightings in just a few hours.

It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want an authentic safari experience that combines education with fun. However, if you’re after extensive game viewing or a full-day adventure, you might find this tour too brief.

Final Thoughts

This tour through Majestic Quest Tours offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kenya’s wildlife and conservation scene, all packed into a manageable morning or afternoon outing. The combination of the elephant orphanage and a quick game drive brings together heartwarming animal stories and the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural environment.

The value lies in the convenience, affordability, and meaningful encounters. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an authentic experience without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

While you should budget extra for park entrance fees and be mindful of the limited duration, this tour delivers a satisfying snapshot of Nairobi’s wilderness and the ongoing efforts to protect its iconic species.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $105 per person fee covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation by van, entry to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and a 2-hour game drive in Nairobi National Park. Mineral water and free WiFi are also included.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, park entrance fees are not included and cost approximately $45 USD. Food and drinks are not included either, so you might want to bring snacks.

What is the best time to visit the orphanage?
The orphanage opens around 11:00 AM, so arriving early or at the opening time helps avoid larger crowds and allows more time to see the elephants.

How long is the game drive?
The game drive lasts about 2 hours, offering a quick but worthwhile wildlife experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families with children will enjoy the adorable elephants and the chance to see wildlife in the wild. Just be mindful of the physical requirements and age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water. It’s always good to have a zoom lens for wildlife photography.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems due to the nature of the vehicle and physical activity involved.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, reservations can be made in advance, and you can choose to reserve now and pay later, adding flexibility to your travel planning.

This tour offers a balanced, accessible introduction to Kenya’s wildlife and conservation efforts, making it an excellent choice for those with limited time but a desire for authentic animal encounters.