Ol Pejeta Conservancy: Where Conservation Meets Adventure
Ol Pejeta Conservancy lies in the Laikipia region of central Kenya, nestled between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range. It stretches across 90,000 acres and offers one of the most unique wildlife experiences in East Africa. This is not just another safari destination. It is a model of conservation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism.
A Home for the Last Northern White Rhinos
Ol Pejeta is world-famous for protecting the last two northern white rhinos on Earth—Najin and Fatu. These rhinos live under 24-hour armed guard. They symbolize the global fight against extinction. Visitors can meet them up close and learn about the cutting-edge science underway to try and save the subspecies using IVF technology. This encounter is deeply emotional and educational.
Big Five and Beyond
The conservancy shelters the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos (black and white), leopards, and buffalo. Game drives take you across savannahs and riverine forests, where wildlife thrives in well-protected spaces. You may see cheetahs resting in the shade or African wild dogs trotting through the plains. Ol Pejeta also supports endangered Grevy’s zebras and Jackson’s hartebeest. Night game drives give you a chance to spot nocturnal species like aardvarks and bush babies.
Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Ol Pejeta is the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, established with the Jane Goodall Institute, rescues and rehabilitates orphaned and abused chimpanzees from across Africa. The sanctuary offers guided walks where you observe these intelligent primates in a natural, forested environment.
Conservation at the Core
Ol Pejeta leads many conservation projects. It protects over 140 black rhinos and actively supports anti-poaching operations. Revenues from tourism fund healthcare, education, and water access in neighboring communities. Visitors can learn about this work through conservancy tours and behind-the-scenes experiences. This transparent, community-first approach sets it apart.
Activities for Every Traveler
Game drives remain the most popular activity, but there is more to do. Cycling safaris let you pedal through wildlife-rich zones with an armed ranger. Horseback riding near rhinos offers a quieter way to connect with nature. Guided bush walks reveal animal tracks and medicinal plants. You can also visit the Morani Information Centre to learn about animal behavior and conservation.
For families, Ol Pejeta provides engaging activities for kids. They include junior ranger programs and wildlife scavenger hunts.
Where to Stay
The conservancy offers a range of accommodations. For luxury, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp and Sweetwaters Serena Camp provide top-tier comfort with stunning views and close-to-nature experiences. Budget travelers can opt for Pelican House or Porini Rhino Camp, which offer eco-friendly lodging and personalized service.
How to Get There
Ol Pejeta lies about 220 kilometers north of Nairobi. The drive takes around four hours along the Nairobi–Nanyuki road. You pass through scenic highlands and local towns like Naro Moru. Private transfers, group tours, and car rentals are all available.
For faster access, daily flights operate from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip. From there, it’s a short drive to the conservancy gate. Local operators often bundle flights, transfers, and accommodation into custom safari packages.
Best Time to Visit
Ol Pejeta welcomes visitors year-round. However, the dry seasons—June to October and December to February—offer the best wildlife viewing. During these months, animals gather at waterholes and visibility improves. The wet seasons bring lush landscapes and migratory birds, ideal for photographers and birdwatchers.
Plan your visit.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers more than wildlife. It provides insight into the future of conservation, where communities and animals thrive together. Whether you seek thrilling safaris, educational encounters, or meaningful travel, this conservancy delivers it all. A visit here not only inspires but also contributes directly to protecting some of Earth’s most endangered species.
