Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya is a unique blend of safari thrills and conservation excellence. Located in Laikipia County, it’s home to rare wildlife like the last northern white rhinos, offering visitors a chance to experience safaris with purpose. Here are the most popular attractions in Ol Pejeta.

1. Endangered Species Enclosure

Why visit: Get up close with the world’s last two northern white rhinos in a protected space.

Highlights: – Learn about IVF conservation – View rare rhino subspecies – Personal guided experience

Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM (guided slots)

Entry: Included in park fee; guided tour extra (~₹5,000)

 

2. Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Why visit: Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary, home to rescued chimps from across Africa.

Highlights: – 40+ rescued chimps – Educational talks – Close observation of their habitat

Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry: Included in conservancy ticket

 

3. Big Five Game Drives

Why visit: Enjoy a classic African safari experience with lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos.

Highlights: – Fewer crowds – Early morning and sunset safaris – Great photography chances

Timing: 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM & 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Entry: ₹5,000–₹8,000 per person (with guide)

 

4. Lion Tracking Experience

Why visit: Track lions using radio collars alongside expert rangers in the field.

Highlights: – Real conservation data collection – Learn lion behavior – Support tracking projects

Timing: 6:30 AM or 3:30 PM

Entry: ~₹5,000–₹6,000 per person

 

5. Anti-Poaching Dog Unit Visit

Why visit: Watch sniffer dogs in action and learn how they protect wildlife.

Highlights: – Demonstrations – Hide-and-seek with trained dogs – Meet handlers

Timing: Mornings only

Entry: ₹5,000–₹6,000 per person

 

6. Night Game Drive

Why visit: Explore the conservancy after dark and spot elusive nocturnal species.

Highlights: – Hyenas, servals, and bush babies – Starry skies – Rare nighttime photos

Timing: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Entry: ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person

 

7. Horseback Safari with Rhinos

Why visit: Ride alongside zebras and rhinos in predator-free zones for a quiet safari.

Highlights: – Peaceful animal encounters – Guided rides – Scenic open plains

Timing: Morning or evening

Entry: ₹6,000–₹8,000 per person

 

8. Guided Bush Walks

Why visit: Walk with a ranger and learn about animal tracks, plants, and birdlife.

Highlights: – Close nature immersion – Birdwatching – Great for families

Timing: 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM

Entry: ₹2,000–₹3,000 per person

 

9. Hippo Hide & River Trail

Why visit: Safely view hippos from a concealed hide and enjoy a nature trail by the river.

Highlights: – See hippos resting – Peaceful environment – Picnic spots nearby

Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Entry: Included in general entry fee

 

10. Community & Conservation Visits

Why visit: See how Ol Pejeta supports local communities through integrated conservation.

Highlights: – School and farm visits – Women’s cooperatives – Learn about co-existing with wildlife

Timing: 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM

Entry: ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person

 

Feature Image Credit- Photo by Cindy Stolk on Unsplash