Laikipia, Central Highlands
Laikipia Central Highlands, in the heart of Kenya’s Central Highlands, Laikipia stands as a testament to conservation success and unspoiled wilderness. While the Maasai Mara often steals the spotlight, Laikipia offers something even more exclusive—expansive landscapes, diverse wildlife, and sustainable tourism that puts conservation at the forefront. This region, stretching from the foothills of Mount Kenya to the semi-arid plains of the north, is home to some of the country’s most spectacular private conservancies.
A visit to Laikipia is not just about game viewing; it’s about experiencing nature on a deeper level. Walking safaris, horseback adventures, cultural interactions, and conservation experiences define this safari paradise. Here’s why Laikipia should be at the top of your travel list.
Where is Laikipia and Why is it Special?
Laikipia lies northwest of Mount Kenya, covering over 9,500 square kilometers of pristine wilderness. Unlike Kenya’s national parks, which are government-run, Laikipia consists mainly of private and community conservancies, where wildlife and local communities coexist. This means visitors enjoy exclusive, crowd-free safaris while directly supporting conservation and local livelihoods.
The terrain varies from lush highlands and acacia woodlands to rocky outcrops and open plains. This diversity supports a vast range of wildlife, including some of Africa’s most endangered species. With fewer visitors than Kenya’s more famous parks, Laikipia offers a remote, authentic safari experience where you feel completely immersed in nature.
Wildlife and Conservation in Laikipia
Laikipia is home to a greater diversity of large mammals than anywhere else in Kenya outside of the Maasai Mara. This includes black and white rhinos, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalos, hippos, and giraffes. The area is also one of the last strongholds of the Grevy’s zebra, a rare species distinguished by its narrow stripes.
One of Laikipia’s greatest conservation stories revolves around the African wild dog. Once considered extinct in Kenya, this species has made a remarkable comeback, and Laikipia now holds one of the largest populations in East Africa.
Unlike traditional national parks, where game drives dominate, Laikipia’s conservancies focus on low-impact, high-quality tourism. Visitors can participate in behind-the-scenes conservation work, such as tracking collared lions, learning about rhino protection, and meeting anti-poaching teams.
Laikipia’s Private Conservancies and Safari Activities
Laikipia’s unique conservancy model provides exclusive safari experiences unavailable in national parks. Each conservancy operates independently, offering tailor-made activities beyond the typical game drive.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta is perhaps the most famous conservancy in Laikipia, renowned for its groundbreaking rhino conservation efforts. It is home to the last two northern white rhinos on Earth and a significant population of black rhinos. Visitors can go on traditional game drives, visit the rhino sanctuary, and track lions with researchers.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lewa has played a crucial role in protecting endangered species, particularly rhinos and Grevy’s zebras. Its stunning landscapes make it one of the most scenic locations in Laikipia, and visitors can explore on foot, horseback, or game vehicles.
Borana Conservancy
Borana is one of Kenya’s leading eco-tourism success stories, offering guests the chance to stay in luxury lodges while directly supporting rhino conservation. The conservancy is completely unfenced, allowing wildlife to roam freely between Borana and Lewa.
Loisaba Conservancy
Loisaba is a paradise for adventure seekers. In addition to game drives and walking safaris, visitors can go on camel treks, mountain biking, and horseback safaris. One of its most unique offerings is Loisaba Star Beds, where guests sleep under the African sky on a raised wooden platform.
Ol Lentille Conservancy
Perfect for travelers looking for exclusivity and privacy, Ol Lentille is a community-owned conservancy offering highly personalized safaris. The area is known for its stunning rock formations and panoramic views, making it an excellent spot for guided nature walks.
Beyond the Game Drives: Activities in Laikipia
Walking Safaris
Unlike vehicle-based safaris, walking safaris in Laikipia bring you eye-level with nature. Guided by expert rangers, you’ll follow animal tracks, learn about medicinal plants, and experience the bush in a way that heightens all your senses.
Horseback and Camel Safaris
Some conservancies, including Lewa and Borana, offer horseback safaris, allowing visitors to ride alongside zebras, giraffes, and antelope. In northern Laikipia, camel safaris led by Samburu guides provide a unique way to explore the landscape.
Cultural Encounters
Laikipia is home to Samburu, Maasai, and Pokot communities, who have lived in harmony with wildlife for generations. Visitors can engage in authentic cultural experiences, such as visiting traditional villages, witnessing Samburu warrior ceremonies, or learning about local conservation initiatives.
Night Game Drives
Most national parks in Kenya do not allow night game drives, but Laikipia’s private conservancies do. With the help of spotlights, you can search for elusive nocturnal creatures, such as leopards, aardvarks, and bush babies.
Fly Camping Under the Stars
For a true wilderness adventure, some conservancies offer fly camping, where guests sleep in lightweight tents set up deep in the bush. With no fences and only the sounds of the wild surrounding you, this is the ultimate way to reconnect with nature.
Best Time to Visit Laikipia
Laikipia is a year-round safari destination, but the best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June to October and January to March) when animals gather around water sources. The green season (November to May) offers stunning landscapes, fewer tourists, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Where to Stay in Laikipia
Laikipia offers a mix of luxury lodges, tented camps, and eco-retreats, many of which support conservation initiatives. Some top choices include:
- Segera Retreat – A high-end, art-filled eco-lodge offering an exclusive experience.
- Lewa Wilderness – One of Kenya’s oldest private lodges, known for its strong conservation focus.
- Loisaba Tented Camp & Star Beds – Perfect for those looking for a unique sleeping experience under the stars.
- Ol Pejeta Bush Camp – A fantastic option for those interested in conservation.
- Borana Lodge – A stunning property where tourism directly funds rhino conservation.
Plan Your Safari to Laikipia
If you are looking for a unique, conservation-focused safari away from the crowds, Laikipia is the perfect destination. From private conservancies and diverse wildlife to cultural encounters and adventure activities, this region redefines the African safari experience.
Whether you want to track rhinos on foot, sleep under the stars, or ride horseback through the savannah, Laikipia offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, conservation, and adventure. Start planning your Laikipia safari today and discover why this hidden gem is one of Kenya’s best-kept secrets!
