Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari – Rhinos, Chimpanzees & Wildlife

Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Kenya's most important wildlife conservation destinations. Located near Nanyuki in Laikipia County, the conservancy combines exciting safari experiences with meaningful conservation work.

Ol Pejeta is particularly famous for its rhino conservation programme. It protects the world's last two northern white rhinos, as well as significant populations of black and southern white rhinos. It is also home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Kenya's only sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees.

Beyond its conservation stories, Ol Pejeta offers classic African safari experiences. Its open grasslands, riverine habitats and wooded areas support elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and numerous other species.

For travellers looking for a destination that combines wildlife encounters, learning and beautiful scenery, Ol Pejeta is an excellent addition to a Kenya safari itinerary.

Things to do in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

1. Enjoy a wildlife game drive

Explore the conservancy's varied landscapes on a game drive in search of its impressive wildlife. You may encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, lions, cheetahs and other animals.

Ol Pejeta is also recognised for its rhino conservation work, making it an especially rewarding destination for visitors interested in these magnificent animals.

Game drives can be arranged during the day, while guided night drives offer a different opportunity to explore the conservancy and look for nocturnal wildlife.

2. Visit the northern white rhinos

One of the most moving experiences at Ol Pejeta is learning about the world's last two northern white rhinos, Najin and Fatu.

These rhinos live in a protected enclosure, where dedicated teams provide round-the-clock security and care. Visitors can arrange a guided experience to learn about their history, the challenges facing the species and ongoing scientific efforts to save it from extinction.

This is a special conservation experience, not simply a wildlife viewing stop. Advance booking and adherence to the conservancy's visitor guidelines are important.

3. Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary provides a safe home for rescued and orphaned chimpanzees that cannot return to the wild.

During a visit, you can learn about the individual chimpanzees, their backgrounds and the care they receive. It is an educational experience that gives visitors a deeper appreciation of primate conservation and animal welfare.

The sanctuary is particularly interesting for families and anyone who enjoys learning about wildlife beyond the usual safari experience.

4. Learn about Baraka the black rhino

Baraka is a well-known black rhino at Ol Pejeta. Having lost his sight, he receives special care and lives in a protected environment.

Visitors can learn about his story and the challenges rhinos face in the wild. Depending on current arrangements, visitors may be able to participate in a supervised feeding experience.

It is a lovely opportunity to understand the individual animals behind the conservancy's wider conservation work.

5. Take part in a guided conservation experience

Ol Pejeta offers selected experiences that allow visitors to learn directly from the people involved in protecting its wildlife.

Depending on availability, activities may include rhino monitoring and identification, lion tracking, guided nature walks and conservation talks. These experiences offer a closer look at the work involved in protecting wildlife and managing a large conservancy.

6. Enjoy birdwatching and nature photography

Ol Pejeta's mix of grasslands, wetlands and riverine habitats makes it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers and photographers.

Bring your binoculars and camera as you explore the conservancy. The changing landscapes, wildlife encounters and views of Mount Kenya provide plenty of opportunities for memorable photographs.

What makes Ol Pejeta Conservancy special?

Ol Pejeta stands out because conservation is at the heart of the visitor experience. A safari here is not only about seeing animals; it is also an opportunity to understand the work involved in protecting endangered species.

The northern white rhino story is particularly significant. Najin and Fatu represent the last two living members of their subspecies, and their protection has become an important part of international conservation efforts.

The combination of rhino conservation, rescued chimpanzees, Big Five wildlife and the beautiful Laikipia landscape makes Ol Pejeta a destination with something meaningful to offer different types of travellers.

Best time to visit Ol Pejeta

Ol Pejeta is a year-round safari destination, although the seasons can influence wildlife viewing and scenery.

• June to October: The dry season generally offers good wildlife-viewing conditions, with animals often easier to spot around water sources.

• January to March: Another relatively dry period, suitable for game drives and outdoor activities.

• April to May: The long rains bring greener landscapes, although some roads may become muddy.

• November to December: Short rains can refresh the scenery and create attractive conditions for nature photography.

For easier wildlife viewing, consider the drier months. If you enjoy lush landscapes and fewer visitors, the green season can also be rewarding.

Getting to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta is located approximately 220 km from Nairobi, near Nanyuki.

• From Nairobi by road: The journey takes approximately four hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Travel through Nanyuki towards the conservancy.

• From Nanyuki: The conservancy is a short drive from Nanyuki town.

• By air: Scheduled flights to Nanyuki Airstrip are available, followed by a road transfer to the conservancy.

The road journey is a lovely opportunity to enjoy Kenya's central highlands and views of Mount Kenya along the way.

Accommodation at Ol Pejeta

Visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options, from luxury tented camps to comfortable safari lodges and campsites.

Some options include:

• Sweetwaters Serena Camp: A well-known safari camp within the conservancy.

• Sanctuary Tambarare: A luxury tented camp offering a comfortable wilderness stay.

• Ol Pejeta Bush Camp: A safari camp offering an intimate experience in the conservancy.

• Porini Rhino Camp: A tented safari camp with a focus on wildlife and conservation.

• Lodges around Nanyuki: An alternative for visitors who prefer to stay outside the conservancy.

Confirm accommodation availability, location, meal arrangements and current rates before booking.

Combine Ol Pejeta with other destinations

Ol Pejeta works beautifully as part of a central and northern Kenya safari.

• Mount Kenya: Combine your wildlife experience with mountain scenery, nature walks or a trekking adventure.

• Samburu National Reserve: Discover northern Kenya's unique wildlife and semi-arid landscapes.

• Solio Ranch: Add another memorable rhino conservation experience.

• Lake Nakuru National Park: Explore the Rift Valley and another important rhino sanctuary.

• Maasai Mara National Reserve: Extend your journey with classic savannah wildlife viewing.

Plan your Ol Pejeta safari with Unlimited Safaris Collections

From meeting the last northern white rhinos to exploring the conservancy's beautiful landscapes, Ol Pejeta offers a safari experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.

At Unlimited Safaris Collections, we can help you plan a visit that brings together wildlife viewing, conservation experiences and comfortable accommodation.

Get in touch with us to start planning your Ol Pejeta Conservancy safari.