Question for Jan
 

I thought since I have 3 days in Tsavo that I would take one of those days and visit Tsavo East. I remembered that you'd mentioned something about visiting the adult elephants that were raised by the Sheldrick orphanage at a facility near Voi. Could you provide more details? Is it open for anyone to visit or is it by special arrangement only? Thanks.

Topping in hopes that Jan will see this :D

Patty:

Only the elephant adoptive parents may visit the older orphans at Voi. They try to limit their human contact at this point. They are taken out into the bush each day by their keepers and play with the wild elephants and then return to the stockades around 4:30 p.m. If you are an adoptive parent, just take a copy of your adoption certificate with you and you will be allowed to see your baby.

The very young orphans at Nairobi National Park can be visited by anyone. It is great fun watching them. They have their milk bottles and mudbaths from 11 - noon every day. There is no fee for entry, but it is hoped that people would leave a donation.

I know you would enjoy seeing these magnificent creatures as much as I.

Jan

So I can just show up with my adoption certificate? I don't need to let them know in advance? When is the best time to visit, after 4:30pm when they return from their play day? Or some other time? Thanks, Jan.

Patty:

Just take a copy of your adoption certificate with you. I would plan on being at the Voi stockades at 4:30 so you'll be sure to see them come in. Just show your certificate to Joseph or one of the keepers.

If you are able to have your safari company or driver call ahead and let them know you are coming on (whatever day) and will be bringing your certificate with you they can get exact directions.

Be sure to see the baby orphans at Sheldrick Trust @ Nairobi National Park also. It is a hoot to watch them mudbathing. That is always from 11 - noon.

Jan

Thanks again, Jan. I plan to visit the Nairobi facility also on our last day there. Hope you have a great trip!

Patty:

I know you will absolutely love Kenya. Have a marvelous time and please be sure to do a trip report when you get back. We all love hearing of one anothers safaris.

Jan

Hi Jan, incase you stop in here. I sent you one more pic to take with you.
Talk soon,
thanks, david