If you ever find yourself in northern Kenya, make sure to visit the Reteti Elephant Sanctuary. Here, the stories of rescued elephants and the dedication of their keepers create an unforgettable experience.
My colleagues and I left Soroi Samburu Lodge shortly after breakfast, eager for the day ahead. On our way, we passed children herding goats and cows, some asking for clean drinking water. The land is harsh, and water is hard to find. This situation reminds us of how much we often take for granted.
As we approached Reteti, we were greeted by a striking sight: adult giraffes standing perfectly still near the parking area. Nature has its own way of slowing you down and reminding you to stop and take it all in.
Reteti, located in the Namunyak Conservancy, is the first community-run elephant orphanage in Africa. Every elephant here has a story that often begins with hardship, whether rescued from drought, poaching, or accidents. Thanks to the dedication of the keepers, those stories transform into ones of hope and healing.
We were welcomed by Naomi, one of the keepers. After her warm introduction, she shared the story of Reteti, including why it was created, the struggles with finding the right milk formula, and the many rescues that shaped its mission. Each tale carried both weight and hope, and as I listened, I found myself holding back tears.
While I listened to Naomi’s stories, a young giraffe who had recently been rescued wandered over to us. Naomi handed us some fallen pods to offer him as a treat, and just like that, a bond was formed. The trust this young creature showed was astonishing. He took food gently from our hands, followed our steps, and seemed to listen to our conversation as if he wanted to join in. Naturally, we took countless selfies, and he even seemed to pose for us.
One story that stayed with me was that of Long’uro, an elephant who lost his trunk to hyenas. By all odds, he shouldn’t have survived. Yet, he is thriving. They adjusted his care, bottle by bottle, hour by hour, until he found his own way. Watching him play is nothing short of miraculous.
At Reteti, the bond is not just about survival; it’s about love, patience, and respect. The keepers don’t just raise elephants; they prepare them to return to the wild, getting them ready for a free and bright future.
I left with tears in my eyes but also laughter in my heart, carrying the memory of elephants, giraffes, and the incredible humans who care for them as if they were their own.
The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary is a must-visit when in Samburu.
By MICHELA CONSIGLIO
