Lilayi Elephant Nursery

The Lilayi Elephant Nursery is located in the grounds of Lilayi Lodge on Lilayi Road off Kafue Road, south of Lusaka, Zambia, about thirty minutes from the city centre. It is run by Game Rangers International and cares for orphaned elephant calves rescued from across the country, raising them until they are old enough to be reintroduced to the wild at a release facility in Kafue National Park. Visitors come mainly for the public feeding session, usually held in the mid-afternoon, when keepers bring the calves to an open area and bottle-feed them while explaining the story of each animal and the threats elephants face, including poaching and human-wildlife conflict. The experience lasts about an hour to an hour and a half. Seating and viewing areas are informal, and the calves are close enough to watch their behaviour clearly, though visitors are not generally allowed to touch them. Photography is a highlight, with best results from a position along the rope line, using natural light. The nursery depends on visitor fees and donations, so the entry price, quoted at about K150 to K200, directly supports the care of the animals. Advance arrangements are sensible, since session times and access conditions can change with the calves' routines, and visitors should confirm times with Game Rangers International before travelling. A taxi from Lusaka costs about K250 to K350 each way. Visitors should wear closed shoes, bring sun protection, and follow keepers' instructions, as the calves are young animals and the site is a working conservation facility.