Sagala
The five-year-old, who was found in the open plains all alone during a drought when she was two years old, is generally considered shy—unless it’s feeding time! Always alerting others when the bottles are ready and the first in line to chow down, Sagala has earned the nickname “Milk Time-Keeper.”
Jotto
Jotto was approximately one month old when he fell down a well. When attempts to locate his mother failed, he was brought in to the orphanage in a very delicate state as his digestive system was in disarray. Luckily, he took to formula without too many issues and is now a curious and boisterous bull who is doted on by the older females.
Malkia
Malkia’s mother was a well-known matriarch with impressive ivory. When she passed away during a severe drought, her baby was rescued at just six months old. Malkia was called “queen” in Swahili in honor of her mother. Now, at age two, she has a very determined and mischievous nature that’s quite entertaining and befitting of her name.
Become a Foster Parent
Rearing infant elephants and rhinos is an expensive, long-term commitment, and the DSWT is largely funded by contributions from fostering. It costs just $50 per year, and in return, you’ll receive a certificate with your orphan’s profile and history, a monthly summary of his or her progress, and access to a Keeper’s Diary, which has daily entries and regularly updated photographs. You’ll also get up-to-date information on the various activities happening at the nursery. As a foster parent, you’re considered part of the team, and, therefore, kept in-the-know.
The public are allowed to visit at 11 a.m. every day, which is when the babies come out for their midday feeding and mud bath—always a hilarious occasion to observe. Foster parents are invited back for an exclusive visit at 5 p.m., where they will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these elephants as they get ready to hit the hay. Bedtime story, anyone?
Plan Your Visit
Any trip to Kenya with Extraordinary Journeys can include a stopover at the Orphans’ Nursery in Nairobi National Park. We offer three itineraries that already have a built-in visit: our 12-Day and 9-Day Fly-in Safari packages as well as our new 11-Day Kenya Conservation Safari. But, really, any adventure can be customized to meet your elephant-hugging-needs.
We also offer opportunities to spend time with elephants at other conservation-based camps across the continent. Let us know what you’re looking for and we can set you up with the elephant safari of your dreams. Call or email us to learn more!
Related: Learn more about what it’s like to bring up baby elephants!