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Nairobi Animal Orphanage
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The Nairobi Animal Orphanage, located at the main gate of Nairobi National Park, is the oldest facility of its kind in Kenya, having opened its doors in 1964. It serves as a vital treatment and rehabilitation center for wild animals that have been orphaned, injured, or confiscated from illegal trade across the country. The primary objective is to provide expert medical care and nursing, with the ultimate goal of reintroducing animals back into their natural habitats whenever feasible. The orphanage is home to a diverse array of residents, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, baboons, and various tropical birds. For visitors, the facility has a safe and educational environment to observe these powerful predators and other wildlife at close range, making it an exceptionally popular destination for families and school excursions. It plays a crucial role in public outreach, raising awareness about the devastating impacts of poaching and the importance of preserving Kenya's rich biodiversity. Animals are housed in large, naturalistic enclosures and receive constant attention from a dedicated team of veterinarians and caregivers.
- Location: Kenya
- Top sights: Impala observation point · Kabooma Cultural Dancers · David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
- Nearby: Ngong (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 21 | 22 | 21 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 20 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 39 | 29 | 64 | 114 | 73 | 25 | 16 | 22 | 20 | 53 | 81 | 65 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage can usually be visited; it is located inside Nairobi National Park. Access is only from outside the enclosures; you cannot enter the animal shelters themselves.
Typical hours
Opening hours typically follow those of Nairobi National Park, roughly from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The orphanage is usually open daily; best visiting times are early morning and late afternoon.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed, but without flash to avoid disturbing the animals. Avoid using self-timers and tripods as they may startle the animals.
Time needed
A visit usually takes about one hour to see all the enclosures. For families with children, allow one and a half hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the Giraffe Centre Nairobi or the Nairobi Safari Walk, both nearby. A safari in Nairobi National Park is also a great option.
Getting there
The orphanage is accessible by taxi or organized safari tours; having your own driver is recommended. The entrance is at the main gate of Nairobi National Park.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning when animals are most active and park entry fees are lower. Do not feed the animals without permission, as it can harm them.
Geography
Facts
- The orphanage was established in 1964 as the first such facility in Kenya.
- It is conveniently located at the main entrance of Nairobi National Park.
- The facility typically cares for more than 20 different species of animals at a time.
- Over 200,000 visitors, including many local students, visit the orphanage each year.
- The center includes specialized veterinary facilities for wildlife surgery.
- The site is managed and operated by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
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Sights in the town Nairobi Animal Orphanage (7)
Kabooma Cultural Dancers📍 landmark
This spirited cultural attraction features traditional Kenyan dance performances and rhythmic music.
🌐 kabomaculturaldance.co.ke🕒 Mo-Su 07:00-18:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Nairobi Animal Orphanage?
A treatment and rehabilitation center for orphaned or injured wild animals.
Which animals can be seen there?
Lions, cheetahs, hyenas, jackals, and various species of monkeys.
Where is it located?
Right at the main entrance of Nairobi National Park on Langata Road.
Are you allowed to touch the animals?
No, it is a zoo-like enclosure; direct contact is not allowed for safety reasons.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Nairobi Animal Orphanage: where is it located?
Nairobi Animal Orphanage is located in Kenya.
Nairobi Animal Orphanage: what is there to see?
Highlights include Impala observation point, Kabooma Cultural Dancers, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
Nairobi Animal Orphanage: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Sep.
Nairobi Animal Orphanage: why is it worth visiting?
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage, located at the main gate of Nairobi National Park, is the oldest facility of its kind in Kenya, having opened its doors in 1964.
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