Discover the Untamed Beauty of Laikipia Plateau
Perched between the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya and the rugged lands of Samburu, the Laikipia Plateau feels like a world suspended in time. Imagine vast open savannahs, rolling hills, acacia-dotted plains, and dramatic escarpments where elephants roam freely, lions prowl at dusk, and endangered species like Grevy’s zebra and wild dogs thrive. Unlike the more crowded national parks, Laikipia offers a sense of exclusivity—private conservancies, luxury lodges, and intimate encounters with wildlife that make you feel as if you are part of nature’s grand story.
Whether you’re riding horseback alongside giraffes, flying over the Ewaso Nyiro River by helicopter, or walking on foot with expert Samburu and Maasai guides, Laikipia is not just a safari—it’s an immersion into raw wilderness and authentic culture.
Why Visit Laikipia Plateau?
Laikipia has emerged as one of Kenya’s premier safari destinations, rivaling even the Maasai Mara. Its strength lies in its private conservancies—pioneers of conservation tourism that combine wildlife protection with community empowerment. Together, they safeguard more than two million acres of wilderness, making Laikipia one of the largest continuous wildlife habitats in Africa.
Top Conservancies in Laikipia
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta is world-renowned for its rhino conservation program and as the home of the last two northern white rhinos. Visitors can enjoy Big Five safaris, night drives, and behind-the-scenes conservation tours. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a highlight.
- Where to stay: Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Sweetwaters Serena Camp
- Rates: From $400–$800 per person per night (all-inclusive)
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lewa shelters more than 10% of Kenya’s black rhino population and is a stronghold for Grevy’s zebra. It combines incredible wildlife viewing with meaningful community projects.
- Where to stay: Lewa Safari Camp, Elewana Kifaru House, Sirikoi Lodge,Lewa House,Lewa Wilderness Lodge
- Rates: From $600–$1,500 per person per night
Loisaba Conservancy
Adventure awaits at Loisaba—ride camels, trek on foot, or sleep under the stars in Loisaba’s famous open-air star beds. The conservancy is vital for elephant migration routes and African wild dog populations.
- Where to stay: Loisaba Star Beds, Loisaba Tented Camp
- Rates: From $500–$1,000 per person per night
Borana Conservancy
Borana is a leading Big Five reserve and rhino sanctuary, sharing a wildlife corridor with Lewa. Expect guided walks, horseback riding, and mountain biking with stunning views of Mount Kenya.
- Where to stay: Borana Lodge,Sirai House,Lengishu House,Arijiju,and Fuzz’s Camp
- Rates: From $1,000–$3,200 per person per night
Segera Conservancy
Segera is the epitome of luxury and sustainability, offering exclusive villas, a contemporary African art collection, and wellness retreats. Its focus is on rewilding and eco-tourism at the highest level.
- Where to stay: Segera Retreat
- Rates: From $1,000–$2,500 per person per night
Ol Jogi Conservancy
One of Laikipia’s most exclusive conservancies, Ol Jogi is favored by high-profile guests seeking total privacy. With ultra-luxury accommodations and bespoke safaris, it offers unmatched exclusivity.
- Where to stay: Ol Jogi House (booked exclusively)
- Rates: From $10,000–$15,000 per night for exclusive use (up to 14 guests)
Frequently Asked Questions About Laikipia Plateau
1. Where is Laikipia Plateau located? Laikipia lies in central Kenya, north and west of Mount Kenya, stretching towards Samburu and the Great Rift Valley.
2. What wildlife can I see in Laikipia? Laikipia is home to over 80 species of mammals, including the Big Five, African wild dogs, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, and large elephant herds.
3. How do I get to Laikipia? You can access Laikipia by road from Nairobi (about 4–5 hours) or by charter flight to Nanyuki, Lewa, Loisaba, Ol Pejeta, or Borana airstrips.
4. When is the best time to visit Laikipia? Laikipia offers year-round safaris, but the dry seasons (January–March and July–October) are best for wildlife viewing.
5. What activities can I do besides game drives? Walking safaris, horseback riding, camel treks, night drives, helicopter tours, and cultural visits to Samburu and Maasai communities.
6. Where should I stay in Laikipia? Popular options include Lewa Safari Camp, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Loisaba Star Beds, Borana Lodge, Segera Retreat, and Ol Jogi House.
7. Is Laikipia safe for tourists? Yes, Laikipia’s conservancies are secure and well-managed, offering guided experiences that prioritize guest safety and wildlife conservation.
Experience Laikipia: Kenya’s Wild Heart
For travelers seeking exclusivity, adventure, and authentic encounters, the Laikipia Plateau is unmatched. It is where luxury meets wilderness, conservation meets culture, and every safari moment feels like a personal discovery. Whether you’re on a family safari, a romantic getaway, or a conservation-focused journey, Laikipia offers one of Kenya’s most unforgettable safari experiences.
Best Laikipia Safari Itineraries
Planning a safari in Laikipia can feel overwhelming with so many world-class conservancies to choose from. Here are some carefully curated itineraries to inspire your journey:
3-Day Laikipia Safari (Lewa & Ol Pejeta)
Perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience Laikipia’s highlights.
- Day 1: Fly from Nairobi to Lewa Downs. Afternoon game drive in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, famous for rhinos and Grevy’s zebras. Overnight at Lewa Safari Camp or Sirikoi Lodge.
- Day 2: Morning safari in Lewa, then transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and track rhinos. Overnight at Ol Pejeta Bush Camp or Sweetwaters Serena Camp.
- Day 3: Morning game drive, optional lion tracking experience. Fly or drive back to Nairobi.
- From $2,500 per person (all-inclusive, excluding flights).
5-Day Laikipia Explorer (Lewa – Borana – Loisaba)
Ideal for those seeking variety in landscapes, activities, and luxury lodges.
- Day 1–2: Start at Lewa Conservancy. Safari drives, cultural visits, and rhino conservation tours.
- Day 3: Transfer to Borana Conservancy. Enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and sundowners with Mount Kenya views. Stay at Borana Lodge.
- Day 4–5: Continue to Loisaba Conservancy, famous for camel treks, walking safaris, and Loisaba Star Beds. Night game drives for nocturnal wildlife.
- From $5,000 per person (luxury accommodation, meals & activities).
7-Day Laikipia & Samburu Adventure
A longer itinerary combining Laikipia’s exclusivity with Samburu’s dramatic wilderness.
- Day 1–2: Begin at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, tracking rhinos and visiting the chimp sanctuary.
- Day 3–4: Move to Segera Conservancy for a luxury stay blending conservation, art, and wellness.
- Day 5–7: Fly to Samburu National Reserve. Enjoy game drives along the Ewaso Nyiro River, spotting rare species like the gerenuk, Somali ostrich, and reticulated giraffe. Stay at Saruni Samburu or Sasaab Lodge.
- From $7,500 per person (all-inclusive luxury safari).
Tailor-Made Safaris in Laikipia
Every traveler is different. Whether you want a family safari in Ol Pejeta, a luxury wellness escape at Segera, or an adventurous horseback safari in Borana, Laikipia offers something unique for everyone. Our specialists can also extend your journey to the Masai Mara Amboseli or the Kenya coast for the ultimate safari and beach holiday.
Experience Laikipia: Kenya’s Wild Heart
For travelers seeking exclusivity, adventure, and authentic encounters, the Laikipia Plateau is unmatched. It is where luxury meets wilderness, conservation meets culture, and every safari moment feels like a personal discovery.
🌍 Plan Your Laikipia Safari
Ready to experience the wild beauty of Laikipia? Whether you dream of tracking rhinos in Ol Pejeta riding horseback across Borana Conservancy, or sleeping under the stars in Loisaba, we’ll craft the perfect safari for you.
📩 Contact Beyond Kenya Safaris today to start planning your tailor-made Laikipia adventure.
✔ Private conservancies & luxury lodges
✔ Custom safari itineraries (3–10 days or more)
✔ Extensions to Masai Mara, Amboseli,or the Kenya Coast