Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari Guide: Wildlife, Luxury Stays & Sample Itineraries
The sun was just rising over the rugged peaks of Mount Kenya when I first caught sight of Baraka, the blind black rhino, grazing at dawn just beyond the river’s edge. Mist curled among the acacias, and the light painted the plains golden. In that moment I realized Ol Pejeta Conservancy was more than just a wildlife sanctuary—it was a story of resilience, of conservation, of hope.
Here in Laikipia, cattle once grazed where now rhinos roam, and chimpanzees rescued from the illegal trade find refuge among the trees. Ol Pejeta is where wildlife and community converge, where your safari dollars help protect endangered species like the black rhino—and even the last two northern white rhinos on earth. Whether you seek raw game viewing, soulful sunrises, or luxury amid the wild, Ol Pejeta delivers an experience that stays with you.
What & Where: Key Facts about Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Location & Size: Approximately 360 km² in Laikipia County, central Kenya, set between the foothills of Mount Kenya and Aberdares.
- Altitude / Landscape: Ranges from about 1,700 to 2,100 metres; habitats include open savannah, acacia woodlands, riverine forests, wetlands.
- Wildlife Highlights:
• Home to the largest population of black rhinoceros in East Africa.
• The last two northern white rhinos in the world (Najin & Fatu) are here.
• The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, rescue and rehabilitation centre.
• Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, buffalo), plus rare species such as Grevy’s zebra, wild dogs, oryx etc. - Conservation & Community: Ol Pejeta is not just for tourists—revenues support anti-poaching, veterinary services, heritage & community development (schools, health, infrastructure). Integrated livestock ranching model helps with habitat management.
Accommodation Options
Whether you want rugged charm, mid-range comfort or full luxury, Ol Pejeta offers several lodging styles to suit every traveller.
| Accommodation | Level / Style | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Ol Pejeta Bush Camp (Asilia Africa) | Luxury tented camp (≈7 tents) | Eco-luxury, with river view, bush walks, intimate safari experience. |
| Sweetwaters Serena Camp | Luxury / Full Service | Great for full board stays, quality amenities, superb wildlife viewing near waterholes. |
| Mutara Camp | Boutique / Exclusive Use | Elevated tents, cliff-top views, fewer guests for more privacy. |
| Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages | Exclusive / Private House Style | Private cottages (1- and 2-bedroom), private chef, private vehicle, immersive bush experience. |
| Porini Rhino Camp | Comfort / Mid-Luxury | Under-the-acacia tents, good guides, close to key wildlife areas. |
| Pelican House | Mid-range / Self-catering or private house | Ideal for families or groups, self-cater or serviced, good value. Ol Pejeta Conservancy Kenya+1 |
Sample Itineraries
Here are sample itineraries depending on how much time you have, and whether you want to combine Ol Pejeta with Samburu or Masai Mara.
3-Day Itinerary: Ol Pejeta Focus
Day 1: Depart Nairobi early → arrive Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Settle in your lodge/camp. Afternoon game drive. Evening talk about conservation work; visit Information Centre.
Day 2: Morning safari drive; visit the Endangered Species Enclosure to see Najin & Fatu (northern white rhinos). Midday rest; afternoon visit to Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Optional guided walking safari at dusk.
Day 3: Sunrise game drive, chance for photogenic wildlife at golden hour. Breakfast, pack up. Maybe a short bush walk or nature walk. Return to Nairobi after lunch/dinner depending on transport.
5-Day Combo: Ol Pejeta + Samburu
This gives you a chance to see two very different ecosystems (Laikipia & Samburu).
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Travel from Nairobi → arrive Ol Pejeta. Evening game drive. |
| Day 2 | Full day in Ol Pejeta: morning game drives, Endangered Species Boma, chimp sanctuary, evening safari. |
| Day 3 | Early morning drive → travel to Samburu (via airstrip or good roads). Afternoon game drive in Samburu. |
| Day 4 | Full day in Samburu: explore riverine habitat, view Samburu “Special Five” species (grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx). Cultural visit with local community. |
| Day 5 | Early game drive → return to Nairobi (or depart from nearest airstrip) after lunch. |
5-Day Luxury Combo: Ol Pejeta + Masai Mara
If you want the big cat action and stunning savannah of the Mara, with luxury comforts.
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Fly or drive from Nairobi → arrive at a luxury lodge in Ol Pejeta. Evening game drive / sundowner. |
| Day 2 | Full safari in Ol Pejeta: Endangered Species Enclosure, Chimpanzee Sanctuary, guided walks. Stay luxury. |
| Day 3 | Morning at Ol Pejeta, then transfer (by flight or road) to a luxury camp in Masai Mara Conservancies or Reserve. Afternoon game drive. |
| Day 4 | Full day in Mara: early morning drive, optional hot air balloon at dawn (if available), afternoon drive, enjoying luxury camp amenities. |
| Day 5 | Final early morning drive. After breakfast, depart Mara → Nairobi. |
Practical Travel & Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (June-October; December-February) are best for wildlife visibility. Wet season brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds but roads can be challenging.
- Getting There: From Nairobi by road (~3-4 hours to Nanyuki then into Ol Pejeta), or by light aircraft/charter flights into airstrips inside or near the conservancy.
- What to Pack: Layers (nights and mornings may be chilly), good walking shoes, binoculars, sun hat, camera, insect repellent.
- Health & Permits: Ensure vaccination status (yellow fever, etc.), carry malaria prophylaxis, travel‐insurance. Ask whether guided walks are included.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I see the last northern white rhinos at Ol Pejeta?
Yes — Ol Pejeta is home to the last two northern white rhinos, Najin & Fatu, in the Endangered Species Enclosure. Visits are possible under guided safari arrangements. - Is it possible to visit chimpanzees in Kenya?
Yes — the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is located inside Ol Pejeta. It’s Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary. - What kind of wildlife can I expect to see beyond rhinos and chimps?
You can see the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhino), and other rarer species (wild dog, Grevy’s zebra, oryx), plus a rich birdlife. - Is it safe to go on walking safaris or night drives?
Yes, with proper guides. Ol Pejeta has well-trained rangers and safety protocols. Night drives are offered in certain camps under controlled conditions. Check with your lodge. - How many days do I need to experience Ol Pejeta well?
For a meaningful visit, 3 full days gives you time to absorb the wildlife, visit the rhino & chimp enclosures, and enjoy game drives. Longer stays (5+ days) allow combos with other parks like Samburu or Masai Mara or more rest. - What are the accommodation price ranges?
Varies widely: budget/basic lodgings or camps, mid-range, luxury camps or exclusive use lodges. Prices depend on season, lodging type, inclusions (meals, game drives, transfers). Many luxury lodges run at higher nightly rates. - What does staying inside the conservancy vs. outside mean?
Staying inside typically gives you earlier or more flexible game drives, private activities and closer wildlife, sometimes at higher prices. Lodgings outside are often more affordable but may involve more travel to get into game zones. - Do safari fees / conservancy fees included in accommodation?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Always check whether rates include conservancy/park entrance fees, activities (game drives, night drives, walks). Some lodges make them part of the package. - Is Ol Pejeta family-friendly?
Yes — many lodges accept children (though minimum ages vary), and there are activities suitable for kids (wildlife viewing, storytelling, visiting sanctuaries). For walking or game drives, check age restrictions and safety.