Located in the heart of Tsavo, Ithumba stands out as a charming sanctuary, particularly during the beautiful green season. The rich hues of nature come alive as weaver birds announce the arrival of rain with their nests, a sure indication of the changing seasons.
Once a barren stretch of land, Ithumba has been wonderfully rejuvenated into a lush oasis, rightfully earning its reputation as the shining gem of Tsavo East National Park.
Established by the forward-thinking David Sheldrick, Ithumba blossoms into a thriving hub of biodiversity when the rains arrive.
The once crimson earth, now drenched in rain, comes alive with a vibrant display of lush greenery, buzzing insects, and the lively antics of vervet monkeys.
The air hums with energy, painting a stunning picture of nature’s strength and rejuvenation.
During the rainy season, the young elephants of Ithumba eagerly embrace the rain, delighting in every aspect of the transformation it brings.
Their days are spent joyfully splashing in rainwater puddles and enjoying the fresh vegetation that sprouts up. With each raindrop, their excitement only grows.
Pausing to revel in the downpour, the orphans roll around on the wet ground, showing pure happiness.
The social dynamics at Ithumba change as the rains attract elephants from far and wide, drawn by the promise of water and food.
Even as some independent elephants venture out to explore the lush Tsavo, Ithumba remains a haven of joy during the green season.
With the freedom to explore, the orphaned elephants in Tsavo have turned the area into their own underwater playground. They can’t resist splashing around in puddles, playing in smaller pools, or diving into the main waterhole, moving gracefully like playful fish.
Their days are now full of life and energy, thanks to the abundance brought by the rains. In an incredibly heartwarming moment, Wendi, a wild-spirited orphan, brought a precious new addition to Ithumba on November 17—a tiny calf named Wema, which means “goodness” in Swahili.
Welcomed into a world of lush greenery and plenty, Wema represents the beauty of life and the hope for a thriving future within the loving embrace of Ithumba. As the green season progresses, Ithumba remains a sanctuary for both orphaned and wild elephants, showcasing the beauty of nature’s cycles and the enduring charm of Tsavo’s treasured gem.