18 Mar 2010
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Compass Editor
It’s no secret that Kensington Tours specializes in classic safaris to East Africa. Last year alone we sent hundreds of travelers to Kenya and Tanzania. Although there is nothing like one of our private guided game drives, we always encourage our adventurers to get out of their 4X4’s, visit local villages, community projects and experience this remarkable region hands on.
One of our favourite recommendations is a trip to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, in Tsavo East National Park, Kenya. Established shortly after the death of conservationist David Sheldrick in 1977, the Trust that bears his name does extraordinary work protecting Africa’s dwindling rhinos and elephants, running anti-snare units, and funding anti-poaching patrols. Through it they run the Orphans Project, an inspiring endeavour that has saved countless orphaned young elephants, rhinos & various other animals. Too young to survive on their own, they are rescued, carefully reared and then released back into the wild. Sometimes taking as long as 10 years before they are ready, the Orphans Project provides these awe-inspiring creatures a second chance at life and freedom.
Below you’ll find some photos from a Kensington traveler’s recent tour. The project is only open to the public for an hour each day, but as he said you’ll “remember the elephant orphanage for a lifetime.”
Visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust at http://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/asp/orphans.asp