Nestled within the boundaries of Nairobi National Park, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage stands as a symbol of hope and compassion. Serving as a treatment and rehabilitation center for wild animals, this refuge provides solace to a diverse array of creatures. Here, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, jackals, serval cats, rare Sokoke cats, warthogs, leopards, various monkeys, baboons, and buffalo find a safe haven. The skies above are adorned with parrots, guinea fowls, crowned cranes, and ostriches. Established in 1964, the orphanage is Kenya’s oldest of its kind, fulfilling a dual role as an educational and training facility. It has been a sanctuary where over 20 different species of animals and birds are rehabilitated and treated, having been abandoned or injured in their natural habitats.
The Nairobi Animal Orphanage extends its compassionate arms to a wide spectrum of creatures, including herbivores like monkeys, baboons, buffalo, warthogs, as well as carnivores such as lions, cheetahs, rare Sokoke cats, jackals, servals, and hyenas. It’s not just the land-dwellers that find refuge here; various bird species, including ostriches, parrots, guinea fowls, and crowned cranes, are commonly rescued as well, often from farms and communities. Every animal undergoes thorough medical examination and receives necessary treatment before embarking on a tailored feeding and rehabilitation program, based on the cause of their orphaned state. Beyond its role as a refuge, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage plays a vital role in educating the public, primarily school children who may not have the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats.
While it may not replicate the grandeur of witnessing these animals in the wild, the Nairobi Animal Orphanage serves as a lifeline for these creatures, offering them a second chance at life. Park rangers step in to provide medical attention and care, ensuring each animal is on the path to recovery. The ultimate goal is to strengthen these animals, both physically and emotionally, so they may eventually be released back into their natural habitats, contributing to the conservation of their species.
For those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Nairobi National Park, Nairobi Tented Camp offers a unique accommodation option within the park’s boundaries. Additionally, travelers can find comfort at The Emakoko, a family-owned lodge that offers a tranquil escape amidst the wilderness.
Embarking on a journey through Nairobi National Park unveils a world of adventure. Game drives are particularly enchanting, best experienced in the morning and afternoon when wildlife is most active. For those seeking a closer connection with nature, nature walks near the hippo pool offer a unique perspective.
Nairobi National Park enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year, thanks to its altitude ranging from 5030 to 5774 feet (1530 to 1760 meters) above sea level. This makes it an ideal destination for a short vacation during your visit to Nairobi, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and wildlife.