Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is situated on the plains of the Laikipia Plateau, near Nanyuki town in the Laikipia District of Kenya. It lies 17 kilometers northeast of Lake Nakuru National Park and 217 kilometers north of Nairobi.
The conservancy was established in 1988 and was initially part of the extensive Ol Pejeta Ranching Ltd, which transitioned into a wildlife conservancy dedicated to conservation and community development.
The conservancy spans approximately 90,000 acres of savannah grassland, offering diverse habitats that support a wide range of wildlife. The terrain includes open plains, acacia woodland, and riverine habitats.
Weather & Climate
The climate in Ol Pejeta is fairly consistent throughout the year, with moderate temperatures around the mid-seventies during the day. The dry season runs from June to September, with a slight chance of rain falling in August. The heavy or long rains fall from March to May, and temperatures are known to fall to around 50F later in the season.
What is the best time to visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
June to October and December to March are the best times to visit Ol’ Pejeta Conservancy, as this is the dry season. The rainy season makes it sometimes challenging to drive dirt roads. However, take into account that July August, and December are high season, which means it’s more busy with tourists.
The months of September and October are cooler, dry, and less busy, which makes that probably the best time to plan your visit.
How do I get to Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
By Road: If you are coming from Nairobi, the drive will take you about 3-4 hours. The road from Nairobi to Nanyuki is tarmacked although there are parts under construction with the new dual carriage set to reduce the drive to less than 3 hours in the future. Keep in mind that the last 13 kilometers to Ol Pejeta is a well-maintained all-weather road.
From Nakuru/ Naivasha, use the Nyahururu and Nyeri route to enter Ol Pejeta through Nanyuki. About 6.5km after the Nanyuki airstrip, there is a sign to Ol Pejeta on the left, and it is labeled Rongai Gate. 4×4 vehicles are essential in the rainy season. Note that the road around the west and north of the Conservancy is only practicable with a large 4WD in wet conditions.
The main gate into Ol Pejeta for visitors is the Rongai gate to the east of the Conservancy, which lies at the end of the road from Nanyuki town. Visitors can also enter via Serat Gate on Rumuruti Road.
By Air: There are daily scheduled flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip, which is a 45-minute drive from Ol Pejeta. Air Kenya and Safarilink both offer services to Nanyuki from Nairobi.
All accommodation providers on Ol Pejeta can arrange a transfer to and from the airstrip. It is also possible to charter a flight from any other wildlife conservancy or airstrip, into Ol Pejeta’s airstrip (currently only open to charter flights).
What activities can be done in Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
Game Drives: Explore Ol Pejeta’s diverse and expansive wilderness on a game drive, led by experienced guides. You’ll have the chance to see the “Big Five” and other wildlife in their natural habitats during the cooler parts of the day, enhancing the likelihood of spotting active animals. Safety and informative commentary are key features of this experience.
Night Drives: Experience the nocturnal side of Ol Pejeta with night drives, available from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM and 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Guided by experts using spotlights, you might see elusive creatures like aardvarks, zorillas, and leopards. Dress warmly and in neutral colors for this unique adventure.
Meet the Northern White Rhinos: Visit the world’s last two northern white rhinos and learn about their conservation at Ol Pejeta. This rare opportunity supports ongoing efforts to save the species. The experience is available daily at the Morani Information Centre at multiple times throughout the day.
Dog Tracking (Canine Anti-Poaching Unit): Join the K9 unit to participate in a dog-tracking activity. Interact with bloodhounds, observe their scent-tracking abilities, and engage in an educational and thrilling conservation experience. This two-hour activity starts at 8:30 AM from the Morani Information Centre.
Lion Tracking: Track lions fitted with radio collars and contribute to conservation research. This activity, available daily between 6:30-8:30 AM and 3:30-5:30 PM, provides insights into lion behavior and the challenges they face. Wear neutral colors and remain in vehicles for safety.
Wildlife-livestock Integration: Learn about Ol Pejeta’s unique model of integrating livestock management with wildlife conservation. Visit predator-proof cattle bomas, observe cattle grazing, and participate in daily activities. This educational two-hour experience starts at 8:00 AM.
Walking Safari: Experience the plains of Ol Pejeta on foot with park rangers, exploring the park’s wildlife and learning about ranger life. Walks are arranged in the mornings or afternoons and offer unrestricted views and closer encounters with nature.
Run in the Wild: Join a 5-7 km run across Ol Pejeta’s plains with armed rangers, offering an immersive wildlife encounter and insight into ranger training. The run departs from the Morani Information Centre on Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:00 AM. Participants should be reasonably fit and wear appropriate gear.
Visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Established in 1993, this sanctuary provides a refuge for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, visitors can observe and learn about chimpanzees’ rehabilitation and conservation.
Camping: Enjoy a unique camping experience in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness. Ol Pejeta offers private campsites that blend privacy and comfort with the natural surroundings, providing an immersive experience in the conservancy.
What are the accommodation options in Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
Kicheche Laikipia Camp: A small luxurious tented camp located in the center of Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The camp has six elegantly furnished tents, each with insect-proof netting and Persian rugs. Activities include day and night game drives, game walks, horse riding, and visits to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp: A luxury tented camp on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, featuring seven tents with options for twin, double, or family accommodation. Activities include day and night game drives, bush walks, lion tracking, and visits to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages: Spacious luxury cottages in an exclusive wilderness area of Ol Pejeta. The four cottages are self-catering with en-suite facilities. Activities include bush meals, game drives, bush walks, bird walks, picnics, and lion tracking.
Pelican House: A thatched self-catering cottage overlooking Pelican Dam. It accommodates eight to twelve guests and is close to attractions like the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Morani’s Restaurant. Activities include Maasai village visits, game drives, and night drives.
Porini Rhino Camp: A luxury eco-camp with eight guest tents within Ol Pejeta. Each tent has a double and single bed with en-suite facilities. Activities include game drives, bush walks, spear-throwing, lion tracking, and visits to the Rhino and Chimpanzee Sanctuaries.
Sanctuary Tambarare Camp: Luxury accommodation with ten tents offering private verandas and walk-in showers. Activities include lion tracking, horseback riding with rhinos, game drives, bush walks, and visits to the endangered species enclosure and chimpanzees.
Sweetwaters Serena Camp: A 4-star family-friendly camp with 56 standard tents and 17 luxury tents. The camp is located around a waterhole, providing a sense of exclusivity. Activities include lion tracking, game drives, chimpanzee sanctuary visits, camel rides, and jogging.
The River Camp: Luxury safari accommodation on the banks of the Ngobit River. The camp offers seven twin/double tents and one family unit. Each tent has en-suite bathrooms and private decks. Activities include game drives, bird walks, and spa treatments.
The Stables: Budget bandas near the main Ol Pejeta Office. The bandas host long-term researchers and small groups, offering basic amenities like a desk, chair, and shared showers and toilets. Wi-Fi is available when the generator is on.
Maisha Sweetwaters Camp: Located near Rongai Gate, the camp offers a secluded wildlife experience with options for both self-catering and all-inclusive stays. Activities include game drives, visiting the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and exploring the uncrowded wilderness area.
Rift Valley Adventures Camp: A large camp with 15 adjustable tents, capable of hosting 180 guests. The camp has a lounge, dining areas, a large fireplace, a pizza oven, and a bar. It’s suitable for educational groups and adventure activities within Ol Pejeta.
Ol Pejeta House: A luxury private lodge originally home to Adnan Khashoggi. Located in the center of Ol Pejeta, it offers a serene stay with access to pioneering conservation projects and sightings of black and white rhinos, the Big Five, and the last two northern white rhinos.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Wildlife | Animals & Birds
Ol Pejeta Conservancy hosts more than 10,000 large mammals and features an endangered species boma, which is home to various rhino species, Grevy’s zebra, and Jackson’s hartebeest. Visitors to the conservancy have access to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, established in 1993 by Ol Pejeta Conservancy in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Jane Goodall Institute.
The sanctuary is known for its black rhinos, southern white rhinos, and the functionally extinct northern white rhinos, which include the last two northern white rhinos in the world. The conservancy is also home to about 300 elephants and features wildlife corridors that enable movement between Ol Pejeta and the greater Laikipia/Samburu ecosystem.
Large predators in the conservancy include approximately 67 lions, 30 cheetahs, 20 leopards, 60 spotted hyenas, and a pack of African wild dogs. Smaller predators such as black-backed jackal, serval, caracal, and the bat-eared fox also inhabit the area, along with other species like hippos, giraffes, baboons, monkeys, aardvarks, and ostriches. Various antelopes are also present, including Grant’s gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle, impala, Beisa oryx, waterbuck, and eland.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 300 species of birds. The diverse avian population includes a variety of resident and migratory species that thrive in the conservancy’s rich and varied habitats.
From the vibrant plumage of the lilac-breasted roller and the elegant flights of the grey-crowned crane to the powerful presence of raptors like the martial eagle and the bateleur, the birdlife at Ol Pejeta is both abundant and spectacular.
Wetland areas within the conservancy attract waterfowl such as the African fish eagle and the great white pelican. At the same time, open savannas and woodlands provide a perfect environment for species like the yellow-throated longclaw and the superb starling. The conservancy’s commitment to preserving its natural habitats ensures that these bird species continue to thrive, offering visitors an unparalleled birdwatching experience.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Activities | Things To Do
Game Drives: Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers an exciting opportunity to explore its diverse and expansive wilderness, renowned for its rich biodiversity and iconic wildlife. Led by experienced guides who are well-versed in the area’s flora and fauna, game drives typically take place in safari vehicles equipped for both comfort and optimal wildlife viewing.
During the drive, visitors have the chance to encounter a wide array of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, various antelope species, and an abundance of birdlife. The conservancy’s open savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands provide varied habitats that support this diverse wildlife population.
Game drives are scheduled during the cooler parts of the day, usually early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active. This timing enhances the chances of witnessing predator-prey interactions, grazing herds, or even rare species like the endangered Grevy’s zebra or Jackson’s hartebeest.
Safety is a priority during game drives, and visitors are required to remain in their vehicles at all times to ensure their protection and to respect the natural behavior of the animals. Guides provide insightful commentary about the wildlife encountered, conservation efforts within the conservancy, and the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Night Drives: With the help of a spotlight and an expert Ol Pejeta guide, you have the opportunity to see some of Kenya’s more elusive creatures. Guests often recount sightings of aardvarks, zorillas, bat-eared foxes, leopards, and lion hunts around the campfire when they return.
This night game drive activity is available daily from 0700 to 0900 hours and from 2100 to 2300 hours. Since it can get chilly during night drives, we recommend dressing in extra layers for warmth and wearing neutral-colored clothing.
Meet the Northern White Rhino: Experience a rare opportunity to visit the world’s last two remaining northern white rhinos. In 2009, Ol Pejeta Conservancy became home to four of the final seven northern white rhinos from the Dvůr Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic. Unfortunately, Suni passed away from natural causes in October 2014, and Sudan died from age-related issues on March 19, 2018. Now, only two females remain.
These precious rhinos live in a 700-acre enclosure where visitors can meet them up close and learn about their incredible journey from the dedicated keepers who care for them around the clock. Proceeds from the “Meet the Northern White Rhinos” experience are used to support ongoing conservation efforts to save the species from extinction. This unique experience is available daily at the Morani Information Centre at 0830 hours, 1100 hours, 1500 hours, and 1630 hours.
Dog Tracking (Canine Anti-Poaching Unit): Join Ol Pejeta’s K9 unit for a thrilling and interactive ‘dog tracking’ activity. Here, you will mingle with one of wildlife’s friendly protectors, the bloodhounds.
Known for their strong scent-tracking abilities, visitors are encouraged to run and hide from the sniffer dogs who will seek them out. The exercise will be repeated with visitors at the other end of another dog’s leash.
This time, you will watch the hounds in action tracking the scent trail of a pretend poacher. This two-hour-long activity starts at 0830 hours from the Morani Information Centre. We recommend that clients wear closed shoes and carry sunscreen and a hat. Clothing should be of neutral color.
Lion Tracking: The Ol Pejeta Conservancy boasts one of the highest predator densities in Kenya, with lions being the dominant species. Guests can experience these apex predators up close through the lion tracking activity, where some lions have been fitted with radio collars.
Participants will use a receiver to track collared lions and gather vital information about each pride member. The data collected contributes directly to Ol Pejeta’s ecological monitoring unit, aiding in finding solutions to the challenges facing Laikipia’s lions.
This activity is available daily between 0630 – 0830 hours and 1530 – 1730 hours, requiring a minimum of two participants. It is recommended that clients wear closed shoes, carry sunscreen and a hat, and dress in neutral colors. For safety, guests should remain in their vehicles at all times.
Wildlife-livestock Integration: Ol Pejeta operates a unique livestock-wildlife integration model. Livestock plays an important role in rangeland management as well as revenue generation for conservation work. Come and learn how our livestock department manages our sizeable herd of 7,000 Boran cattle and a smaller herd of Ankole cattle, to promote the quality of our grasslands by creating ‘biodiversity hotspots’.
You will get a chance to visit our predator-proof cattle ‘bomas’ as well as visit a cattle herd outgrazing. You may also take part in one of the day’s activities of moving a cattle ‘boma’ or assisting in a cattle spray race. The activity is available daily at 0800 hours and lasts for approximately 2 hours. Clients are recommended to have closed shoes.
Walking Safari: A walking safari in the Ol Pejeta plains offers unrestricted views of the park – be brave and walk alongside park rangers, learn about their daily lives as you explore the park in search of wildlife. Walking safaris can be arranged in the mornings or afternoons – either between 0630-0830 hours or 1530-1730 hours.
Run in the Wild: Experience the ultimate adventure and fitness challenge with a 5 to 7km run across the sweeping plains of Ol Pejeta, guided by our armed rangers. This exhilarating activity offers one of the most immersive wildlife encounters available in the conservancy.
As you jog through the gentle terrain in the morning breeze, you’ll gain insight into the rigorous training of rangers and a profound respect for their dedication and responsibilities. There’s a chance to encounter diverse wildlife including elephants and rhinos along the way, all under the watchful guidance of our expert team.
For your comfort and safety, our professionals are with you every step, and a support vehicle remains nearby to carry any belongings or provide a rest if needed. Should fatigue set in, our rangers are known to join in with exercises while ensuring your well-being throughout.
Group sizes are limited to 6 participants, and a reasonable level of physical fitness is required, including the ability to run 5kms without pause. The run departs from the Morani Information Centre on Wednesdays and Fridays at 0700 hours.
Participants are advised to wear appropriate running shoes, carry water, and wear a hat, with sunscreen recommended for protection. Due to the nature of the activity, it is not suitable for children under 12 years old unless special permission is granted.
Visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Established in 1993 and open daily from 10:00 to 15:30 hours, the sanctuary provides a refuge for chimpanzees who have been orphaned or rescued from various situations. It is located on an island within the park, creating a secure and suitable environment for these non-indigenous species.
Chimpanzees arriving at the sanctuary receive dedicated care aimed at restoring their health and well-being. Once they are ready, some individuals are rehabilitated and reintroduced into the wider conservancy area. Ol Pejeta is distinctive in Kenya as the sole location where these chimpanzees can be found, making it a pivotal center for their conservation and rehabilitation.
Visitors to the sanctuary have the chance to observe these intelligent and social primates up close, while also learning about the challenges they face and the efforts being made to protect them.
Camping: Camping in Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness. The conservancy provides several camping options, including private campsites, which allow you to enjoy the natural surroundings while maintaining a level of privacy and comfort.
Below are our trips exclusively to Ol Pejeta Conservancy / Sweetwaters Game Sanctuary:
Ol Pejeta Conservancy / Sweetwaters Game Reserve Day Trip from Nairobi | Click Here
Ol Pejeta Conservancy / Sweetwaters Game Reserve from Nanyuki | Click Here
Ol Pejeta Conservancy / Sweetwaters Game Reserve 2-Days 1 Night Safari | Click Here
Ol Pejeta Conservancy / Sweetwaters Game Reserve 3-Day Kenya Safari | Click Here
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Accommodation | Where To Stay
Kicheche Laikipia Camp
Kicheche Laikipia Camp is a small luxurious tented camp overlooking a waterhole in the center of the 110,000-acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which lies on the Laikipia Plains, 217 km from Nairobi and 14 km from Nanyuki Town.
Transfers by road from Nairobi take approximately 3.5 hours. Scheduled flights from Nairobi land at Nanyuki Nanyuki airstrip or Kamok the airstrip within Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The camp has 6 luxurious tents nestled at the foot of an indigenous forest overlooking a large waterhole.
Each tent is elegantly furnished and has insect-proof netting, Persian rugs, a clothes rack, and a seating area. Enjoy day and night game drives, game walks, horse riding, rhino tracking, canoeing, and Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is a luxury tented camp located at Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy in Nanyuki. The camp is located on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, overlooked by the dramatic snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya.
The camp lies on the Laikipia plains 17 km from Nanyuki and 217 km from Nairobi. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp has 7 tents in total, with 6 tents offering either twin or double beds which accommodates a total of 12 guests, and 1 family tent available which accommodates up to 4 guests.
All tents are situated along the river. Guest activities include; day and night game drives, bush walks, etc. day & night game drives, bush meals, lion tracking, picnics, and visits to Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, etc.
Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages
Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages are spacious luxury private safari accommodations located in the heart of Ol Pejeta Conservancy’s exclusive wilderness area. The cottages are tucked away along a beautiful, acacia-studded river line about 226 km from Nairobi, about 4 hours drive.
Nanyuki town is located about 30 km away. Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages has 4 cottages (Moja Juu & Moja Chini Cottage, Mbili Cottage, and Tatu Cottage). The bedrooms are en-suite with shower, washbasin, and a toilet room.
The cottages are on a self-catering basis; thus, guests can prepare their meals or have the chef prepare meals for them. Enjoy bush meals, day game drives, bush walks, bird walks, picnics, and lion tracking.
Pelican House
Pelican House is a thatched upcountry self-catering cottage situated in the east of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia, 17 km from Nanyuki Airstrip. The house is located 215 km from Nairobi and driving time takes about 4 hours.
Pelican House overlooks the serene Pelican Dam, this cozy all-inclusive or self-catering cottage sleeps eight but can sleep 12 on request. Pelican House is within easy reach of some of Ol Pejeta’s best wild experiences – including the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Baraka the blind black rhino, and Morani’s Restaurant. Enjoy Maasai village visits, day game drives, visit Ol Pejeta Visitor Education Centre, night game drives, and sundowners.
Porini Rhino Camp
Porini Rhino Camp is a classic luxury tented eco-camp located within Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a vast 90000-acre wildlife area between the Aberdares and the majestic Mount Kenya. The camp is located an hour’s drive from Nanyuki, 215 km from Nairobi, and driving time takes about 4 hours.
Porini Rhino Camp consists of just 8 guest tents comfortably furnished, each with a double and single bed and with an en-suite bathroom with a flush lavatory and safari shower. The rooms are spacious and offer beautiful views of raffia palms, yellow fever trees, and tamarinds while overlooking the river. Enjoy day & night game drives, escorted bush walks, spear-throwing, lion tracking, sundowner, and visits to the Rhino Sanctuary Area and the Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Sanctuary Tambarare Camp
Sanctuary Tambarare Camp offers luxury accommodation in the privately owned wildlife reserve of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, located between the foothills of the Aberdares and the magnificent, snow-capped Mount Kenya.
Transfer from Nanyuki Airstrip to camp approximately 1 hour while from Nairobi to Sanctuary Tambarare approximately 4-5 hours. Sanctuary Tambarare Camp has 10 luxurious guest tents which have private verandas overlooking the scenic plains, walk-in showers, double basins, and sumptuous towels.
Spend days tracking lions; riding horses alongside northern and southern white rhinos, spotting the Big 5 on game drives and guided bush walks, or visiting the resident hippos on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Other guest activities include night game drives, bird walks, dog tracking, visits to the endangered species enclosure, and behind-the-scenes chimpanzees.
Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Sweetwaters Serena Tented Camp is a 4-star family-friendly hotel located in the 110,000-acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy, in Laikipia Plains 17 Km from Nanyuki town and 217 Km from Nairobi. The camp has a total of 56 standard tents (16 double tents and 23 twin tents) + 17 luxury tents in the Morani wing.
These spacious tents combine the traditional ambiance of a safari camp with the comforts of home. The rooms have either a king bed or two twin beds. The hotel amenities include Free Wi-Fi, Premium bath amenities, a Coffee/tea-making station, a robe, a hair dryer, and a safety box.
The excellent location of the Sweetwaters Serena Camp around a waterhole gives a sense of exclusivity and serenity in the Conservancy. Enjoy Lion Tracking, Day and Night Game drives, Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, camel rides, jogging, etc.
The River Camp
The River Camp is a luxury safari accommodation set on the banks of the Ngobit River and within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia. Ol Pejeta Conservancy, in Laikipia Plains, is approximately 17 Km from Nanyuki town and 217 Km from Nairobi.
There are daily scheduled flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Nanyuki airstrip, which is a 45-minute drive from Ol Pejeta. The river camp offers 7 luxury twin/double tents and 1 family unit with a capacity for 16 people. All guests are designed for comfort and natural elegance with private en suite bathrooms.
The tents offer both indoor and outdoor showers and private decks with day beds overlooking the river and waterhole. A swimming pool and spa treatment tent will complete the safari experience at the River Camp.
The Stables
The Stables Budget Bandas are functional budget accommodations located near the main Ol Pejeta Office in Ol Pejeta Conservancy. There are 14 bandas each with a desk and chair and one power socket. Showers and toilets are shared. Wi-Fi connection is available only when the generator is on. The bandas host long-term researchers, individuals, and small groups.
Maisha Sweetwaters Camp
Maisha Sweetwaters Camp is located near Rongai Gate at Ol Pejeta Conservancy Nanyuki. The camp is located in the 110,000-acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy, in Laikipia plains, 25 km from Nanyuki town and 217 km from Nairobi.
Transfers by road from Nairobi take approximately 3.5 hours and 50 minutes by flight while the airstrip is 17 km away. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is high profile wildlife sanctuary of significant importance to conservation. It is a relatively uncrowded wilderness area, home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including critically endangered and even functionally extinct species!
Rift Valley Adventures Camp
Rift Valley Adventures Camp Ol Pejeta is situated within the 110,000 acres of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, 14 Kilometers from Nanyuki town. The camp is set in a securely fenced-in area with its access gate in the shadow of Mt Kenya. The camp has 15 large tents, and each can be easily adjustable to fit 2 to 12 guests depending on group circumstances. All 15 tents can house 180 guests at any given time.
In the Rift Valley Adventures Camp, there is a large lounge area with a flat-screen TV for educational videos/ presentations, a large dining area as well an outdoor dining area, a large fireplace barbeque facility, a pizza oven, and a well-stocked bar.
Ol Pejeta House
Ol Pejeta House is a luxury private lodge originally home to Saudia Arabian multi-millionaire, Adnan Khashoggi. The lodge is located at the center of the 110,000-acre Ol Pejeta Conservancy, within the pristine calm of Sweetwaters Sanctuary.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy lies on the Laikipia plains 17 km from Nanyuki town and 217 km from Nairobi. Transfers by road from Nairobi take approximately 3.5 hours. Scheduled flight from Nairobi land at the Nanyuki airstrip, which is a 45-minute drive away from the conservancy.
Ol Pejeta is a renowned conservancy – from the pioneering conservation projects that have made it famous to spectacular sightings of black and white rhinos, the Big 5, and the world’s last two remaining northern white rhinos.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Camping | Campsites
Ewaso Campsite
Ewaso Campsite is hidden away behind bushy vegetation and acacia trees, making it the perfect spot from which to watch wildlife without disturbing them. As its name suggests, the campsite is situated on the banks of the mighty Ewaso Nyiro River.
The Ewaso Nyiro is Kenya’s third longest river and runs from Laikipia up through northern Kenya towards Somalia. The banks of this river are home to a rich variety of bird and mammal species, and this particular area is a favorite with elephants and antelopes.
Hippo Hide Campsite
Hippo Hide Campsite is situated on the banks of the mighty Ewaso Nyiro River. The Ewaso Nyiro is Kenya’s third longest river and runs from Laikipia up through northern Kenya towards Somalia. The banks of this river are home to a rich variety of bird and mammal species. The Hippo Hide campsite is located close to the Hippo Hide walkway – a nature trail that offers visitors the chance to see hippos wallowing in the shallow waters below.
Mbogo Campsite
Mbogo (Agikuyu name for buffalo) campsite is the ultimate ‘campers castle on a hill’. This campsite brings the aesthetics with a lush marsh patch and a backdrop of rippling plains. It’s the perfect spot for sundowners and the coveted golden hour selfie. With its glowing campfires after hours, and open inky black skies, Mbogo campsite is a camper’s paradise.
The campsite is situated East of the conservancy – visitors to this campsite will find peace and solitude to rejuvenate the soul. Site rental includes exclusive use of campsite, firewood, water bowser, and toilet facilities.
Murera Donga Campsite
Murera Donga is a secluded campsite surrounded by beautiful acacia trees. It is situated next to the marsh area in the Conservancy. The marsh supports a substantial amount of aquatic species, birds, insects, and herbivores such as waterbuck and elephant. The lush vegetation that surrounds it attracts wildlife throughout the year, and the open grasslands right next to it provide a scenic backdrop.
Ol Lerai Campsite
Ol Lerai campsite is nestled on a riverbank, a fantastic habitat for a variety of bird and mammal species. Keen anglers will enjoy the campsite’s secret island, which provides several peaceful fishing spots.
The island is also perfect for enjoying a cold drink with friends and family after a long day of safari and adventure. Elephants frequently visit this area of the riverbank; their antics and majestic presence can be enjoyed right from the comfort of your tent.
Spoonbill Public Campsite
Spoonbill Campsite is situated along the Grant Plain overlooking the Spoonbill Dam. The dam is frequently visited by a variety of wildlife, and spoonbill birds, especially in the dry season. Spoonbills are tall white waterbirds with long broad black bills and black legs. They fly with necks and legs extended. In the water, they feed with elegant sideward sweeps of their bill. In the breeding season, adults show some yellow on their chest and bill tip.
Scott’s Hide Campsite
Get a chance to camp at Scott’s Plain next to the hide overlooking a water hole favored by a diverse range of animals. By using the hide as a hideout to spot animals, you can often see some fascinating behavior from both mammals and birds, who might act differently around vehicles and vocal people. When wild animals are completely unaware of human presence, it’s amazing what close encounters you can discover.
Note: For those who don’t want the hassle of cooking or bringing your food, Morani’s Restaurant will cater to all your food needs including ready-to-eat takeaway meals or frozen options that you can prepare at your campsite. More details on the campsites can be found below:
Ol Pejeta Campsites | Click Here
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Entry Fees
2024 Ol Pejeta Conservancy Entry Fees;
East African Citizen | East African Resident | Non-Resident | |
Adult | 2,000 Kenya Shillings | 3,500 Kenya Shillings | 110 US Dollars |
Child (3 – 11 Years) | 1,000 Kenya Shillings | 1,750 Kenya Shillings | 55 US Dollars |
Student | 500 Kenya Shillings | 500 Kenya Shillings | 32 US Dollars |
Vehicle Entry Fee |
|
No of Seats |
Fees |
Up To 6 Seats |
1,000 Kenya Shillings |
7 – 12 Seats |
2,500 Kenya Shillings |
15 and More Seats |
12,000 Kenya Shillings |
School Bus Prices |
|
Weekdays Fees |
Weekends Fee |
5,000 Kenya Shillings |
10,000 Kenya Shillings |
Notes;
* All rates are subject to change without notice
* East African Citizen: National identity card, valid passport
* East African Resident: Valid passport showing work permit or alien certificate
Conservation experiences
* Nature Trail Open daily from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (Free Entry)
* Dog Tracking – 70 US Dollars (Available once daily at 8:30 am)
* Shared vehicles are provided for Night Game Drives and Lion Tracking only
* Transport can be provided for other conservation experiences at an extra cost
* The activities are liable to change based on the health and welfare of the animals
* Baraka & Morani Information Centre- Open daily from 7:30 am – 6:00 pm (Free Entry)
* Morani’s Restaurant, Safari Dinner & Shops Open daily from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (Free Entry)
* Lion Tracking – 70 US Dollars (Available daily at 6:30 am – 8:30 am and 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm)
* Night Game Drive – 70 US Dollars (Available daily at 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm and 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm)
* Sweetwater’s Chimpanzee Sanctuary Open daily from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm | 2:00 pm– 4:30 pm (Free Entry)
* Livestock- Wildlife Integration – 70 US Dollars Available daily at 8:00 am and lasts for approximately two hours
* We recommend that you book experiences at least ONE DAY prior as they are subject to weather conditions and availability at the time of booking
* Meet the Northern White Rhinos- 70 US Dollars (Available daily at 8:30 am – 9:30 am | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm| 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm)
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Chimpanzee Sanctuary
The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary aims to provide a refuge for chimpanzees rescued from the black market and is the only place in Kenya where our closest living relatives can be seen. Visitors to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy have free access to the Sanctuary, which is open daily from 08:30 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 16:30.
The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary was established in 1993, with an agreement between the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and the Jane Goodall Institute. Over the last decade, the Sanctuary has provided a haven for the recovery and rehabilitation of chimpanzees rescued from traumatic situations; all victims of the illegal pet trade.
The Sanctuary is now home to 35 chimps, divided into two large groups. These groups live in vast natural enclosures separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River. At the chimpanzee visitor center, you can learn more about our chimps, and if one, in particular, steals your heart you can pledge to adopt him or her – helping Ol Pejeta to ensure they live out the rest of their days in peace and safety.
With 24-hour veterinary support and a stimulating quarantine enclosure, chimpanzees arriving at the Sanctuary are carefully nursed back to health. When they are ready, they are introduced into one of the two large groups at the Sanctuary, who live in vast natural enclosures separated by the Ewaso Nyiro River. The chimps have set feeding times, and return to their indoor enclosures at night – but other than that they spend their days exploring, climbing, socializing, and learning to be chimpanzees all over again.
Booking & Reservations Ol Pejeta Conservancy Contact
Mobile: +254-721-242-711
WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711
Reservations: +254 718-179-967
Email: info@africanspicesafaris.com
Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com