Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Overview

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife conservancies, located between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare ranges. It is renowned for its pioneering conservation efforts, particularly in protecting rhinos, chimpanzees, and other endangered species. With over 90,000 acres of protected savannah grasslands, Ol Pejeta blends thrilling safari experiences with impactful conservation tourism, making it one of East Africa’s must-visit destinations.

Why Visit Ol Pejeta?

Ol Pejeta offers a unique safari experience that goes beyond wildlife viewing. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rhino Sanctuary – Home to the last two northern white rhinos in the world, as well as a large population of critically endangered black rhinos.

• Chimpanzee Sanctuary – The only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees, rescued and rehabilitated from across Africa.

• Big Five Reserve – Spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo in one location.

• Conservation Impact – Visiting directly supports anti-poaching efforts, community projects, and wildlife research.

• Private Safari Experience – With fewer crowds than national parks, Ol Pejeta offers intimate game drives and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Location

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is located in Laikipia County, central Kenya, approximately 200 km north of Nairobi. It sits along the Equator, offering panoramic views of Mount Kenya to the east and the Aberdare ranges to the west.

When to Visit

• Best Time: June – October (dry season) for easy wildlife spotting.

• Green Season: November – May, when the landscape is lush, migratory birds arrive, and fewer tourists are around.

• Year-Round: Wildlife viewing is excellent year-round, and Ol Pejeta’s road network allows for good access even in wetter months.

How to Get There

• By Road: A 3.5 – 4-hour drive from Nairobi via the A2 highway through Nanyuki. Roads are mostly tarmacked and well-maintained.

• By Air: Daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip (about 45 minutes), followed by a short transfer to the conservancy.

Attractions & Points of Interest

• The Northern White Rhinos: Meet Najin and Fatu, the last two of their kind on Earth.

• Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Walk through a haven dedicated to orphaned and rescued chimps.

• Lion Tracking: Join researchers to track lions using radio collars.

• Night Game Drives: Spot nocturnal animals such as aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, and serval cats.

• Walking Safaris & Cycling Tours: Explore the conservancy on foot or by bike for a closer connection with nature.

• Cultural Visits: Learn about local communities and the conservancy’s role in supporting them.

Accommodation Options

Ol Pejeta offers a wide range of stays to suit different preferences:

• Luxury Camps & Lodges:

  • Ol Pejeta Bush Camp – An intimate safari camp perfect for eco-conscious travelers.

  • Sweetwaters Serena Camp – A luxurious tented camp overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife.

• Mid-Range & Family-Friendly:

  • Pelican House – A charming self-catering guesthouse ideal for families and groups.

• Budget & Adventure:

  • Campsites within the Conservancy – Affordable options for those seeking a wilder experience under the stars.

Travel Tips

• Conservancy Entry Fee: Visitors need to pay a conservancy fee, which goes directly into conservation.

• Pre-Book Activities: Lion tracking, night drives, and rhino visits often require prior booking.

• Pack for Cool Nights: Due to its higher altitude, evenings and mornings can be chilly even in the dry season.

• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance and follow the conservancy’s eco-guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance.