Ol Pejeta Conservancy- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Nestled on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau at the foothills of Mount Kenya, the 90,000‑acre (≈360 km²) Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers a safari experience that combines iconic wildlife, thoughtful conservation and welcoming infrastructure.

What sets it apart is the presence of the last two remaining northern white rhinos, a thriving black rhino population, and a chimpanzee sanctuary — all within easy reach of Nairobi.

Ol Pejeta began life as a cattle ranch. Purchased in the 1940s and managed for beef production for decades, the land shifted its focus in 2004 to conservation. Today it operates as a not‑for‑profit wildlife conservancy that integrates cattle ranching with wildlife protection and community development.

The wildlife is exceptional:

• Hosts East Africa’s largest black rhinoceros sanctuary and protects the final two northern white rhinos on Earth.
• The chimpanzee sanctuary (Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary) allows visitors to observe rescued chimpanzees — rare for Kenya.
• Supports the full “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino) and a host of plains-species, providing excellent game-viewing opportunities.

The conservation model is compelling: by maintaining cattle ranching alongside wildlife, Ol Pejeta generates diversified income that supports ecological restoration and community livelihood initiatives. This integrated approach means visitors experience a working landscape stewarded for wildlife and people alike.

For travellers, Ol Pejeta offers more than standard game drives. Day‑visitors and longer stays can choose from morning and afternoon drives, night safaris, chimp sanctuary visits, lion-tracking excursions, bush walks and horseback or cycling options.

Accommodation ranges from tented camps to luxury lodges within or adjacent to the conservancy. Because of its proximity to Nairobi (about three-hour drive or light aircraft into Nanyuki), it fits easily into Kenya itineraries.

• Best times to visit generally align with Kenya’s drier months (June to September) for optimal wildlife visibility and comfortable conditions.
• As with any safari destination, safety and health-preparation matter: antimalarials are recommended, and wildlife-viewing rules must be followed.