Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia, central Kenya, is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, with more than 100 black rhinos. It also protects Najin and Fatu, the last two northern white rhinos, and the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a refuge for rescued chimps. The Big Five are all present, and the conservancy is about four hours from Nairobi near Nanyuki.
Key takeaways
- East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary.
- Home to the last two northern white rhinos.
- Kenya’s only chimpanzees, at Sweetwaters.
- Big Five beneath Mount Kenya.
Ol Pejeta lies on the Laikipia plateau, between the Aberdares and Mount Kenya. It is a working conservancy that combines wildlife, cattle ranching and community projects.
Rhinos
Ol Pejeta protects more than 100 black rhinos, and many white rhinos. Its most famous residents are Najin and Fatu, the last two northern white rhinos. Scientists are working on assisted reproduction to save the subspecies. Visitors can learn about the project at the conservancy and, on some tours, meet the rhinos’ keepers.
Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Chimps are not native to Kenya. Sweetwaters provides a home for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees from across Africa, and you can watch them from viewing platforms. To see wild chimps, travel to Kibale in Uganda.
The Big Five and more
Lions, leopards, elephants and buffalo are seen on game drives, along with Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. Night drives, lion tracking, walks and the equator crossing at Nanyuki add variety.
When to go
The dry seasons, June to October and January to March, are best. Laikipia is at altitude, so nights are cool year-round.
Good to know
- Conservancy fees are paid per day and fund conservation.
- Bring a warm layer for evenings.
- Combine with Samburu and Lake Nakuru.
- Lodges range from tented camps to family cottages.
Who it suits
Ol Pejeta suits families, first-time visitors and anyone interested in conservation. It is one of Kenya’s best places to see rhinos and learn about the work behind protecting them.
Activities
- Game drives by day and at night.
- Lion tracking with the conservancy’s research team.
- Meeting the northern white rhinos and their keepers.
- Behind-the-scenes visits to the dog unit that helps protect the rhinos.
- Walks and cycling in selected areas.
Combine it with
Ol Pejeta works well with Samburu to the north and Lake Nakuru to the west, or as a short trip from Nairobi, about four hours by road or a short flight to Nanyuki.
From cattle ranch to conservancy
Ol Pejeta was once a cattle ranch. Today it covers about 360 km² and combines wildlife conservation with cattle ranching, showing that livestock and wildlife can share land. Income from tourism and cattle funds conservation, schools, health clinics and community projects in the surrounding area.
Where to stay
Accommodation ranges from luxury tented camps to family-friendly cottages and a campsite. Many camps have views of Mount Kenya.
Getting there
Ol Pejeta is near Nanyuki, about four hours by road from Nairobi, or a short flight to Nanyuki airstrip. It combines well with Samburu, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara.
Responsible travel
Ol Pejeta’s activities, such as meeting the rhino keepers or visiting the dog unit, directly fund conservation. Booking these activities is a good way to support the work.
Activities in more detail
- Lion tracking: join researchers using radio telemetry to find lions, learning about their behaviour and the conflict with livestock.
- Night game drives: look for nocturnal animals such as aardvarks, porcupines and leopards.
- The Morani information centre: learn about the history of the conservancy.
- The equator: cross the equator line at Nanyuki and watch a demonstration of the Coriolis effect.
- Bush walks with an armed ranger.
Best time to visit
The dry seasons, from June to October and from January to March, give the best game viewing.
Who it suits
Ol Pejeta suits families, first-time visitors and anyone interested in conservation. It is easy to reach from Nairobi, offers many activities beyond game drives, and gives one of the best chances in Kenya to see rhinos. It is also a good choice for travellers who want to learn about the challenges of protecting endangered species, from anti-poaching to science.
Plan it
We can add Ol Pejeta to any Kenya trip, such as our 4-day Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru safari. Ask us for tailor-made pricing. See also rhinos of Lake Nakuru.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see the northern white rhinos?
Yes, they live in a guarded enclosure, and visits can be arranged.
Are the chimps wild?
No. Sweetwaters is a sanctuary for rescued chimps.
How long should I stay?
Two nights give time for game drives and conservation activities.
Is Ol Pejeta good for families?
Yes. It is easy to reach and has many activities for children.
Can I see the Big Five at Ol Pejeta?
Yes. Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos all live in the conservancy.
Written by our Kampala-based planners and guides, who arrange these trips every season. Prices and rules are checked before every quote.
