Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers immersive wildlife and conservation experiences unlike any other in Kenya. Home to rare species like the last two northern white rhinos, this Laikipia gem combines safari adventure with purposeful travel. Here are the must-have experiences in Ol Pejeta.
1. Meet the Northern White Rhinos
Why visit: Visit the world’s last two northern white rhinos in a specially protected enclosure.
Highlights: – Exclusive guided encounter – Learn about extinction prevention – Photo opportunities with rangers
Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry: Included in conservancy fee; experience extra (~₹5,000)
2. Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Why visit: Kenya’s only chimp sanctuary, rescuing primates from across Africa.
Highlights: – 40+ rescued chimps – Educational talks – Safe viewing platforms
Timing: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry: Included in general conservancy entry
3. Big Five Game Drive
Why visit: Spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes in a single safari.
Highlights: – Fewer tourist crowds – High chances of sightings – Open plains and wooded tracks
Timing: 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM & 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Entry: ₹5,000–₹8,000 per person
4. Lion Tracking Safari
Why visit: Join researchers and track collared lions using telemetry equipment.
Highlights: – Participate in conservation – See lions up close – Learn behavior patterns
Timing: Morning or evening slots
Entry: ₹5,000–₹6,000 per person
5. Visit the Anti-Poaching Dog Unit
Why visit: Watch trained sniffer dogs demonstrate their skills in protecting wildlife.
Highlights: – Meet handlers – Hide-and-seek demos – Learn anti-poaching techniques
Timing: Morning visits recommended
Entry: ₹5,000–₹6,000 per person
6. Night Game Drive
Why visit: Discover elusive nocturnal animals under the stars.
Highlights: – Hyenas, aardvarks, servals – Clear skies and moonlit scenes – Use of spotlights and guides
Timing: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person
7. Horseback Safari with Rhinos
Why visit: Ride beside rhinos and antelopes in predator-free zones.
Highlights: – Peaceful, slow-paced ride – Zebra and giraffe sightings – Experienced guides
Timing: Morning or evening
Entry: ₹6,000–₹8,000 per person
8. Guided Nature Walks
Why visit: Walk through savannahs with a ranger and learn survival skills and animal tracking.
Highlights: – Birdwatching – Animal prints and plants – Bush knowledge sessions
Timing: 6:30 AM to 8:30 AM
Entry: ₹2,000–₹3,000 per person
9. Hippo Hide & River Trail
Why visit: Safely observe hippos from a concealed hide and enjoy a scenic riverside walk.
Highlights: – Riverine ecosystem – Picnic sites nearby – Birdlife spotting
Timing: Daylight hours
Entry: Included in general entry
10. Community and Conservation Tour
Why visit: Learn how Ol Pejeta supports local communities through schools, farming, and more.
Highlights: – Visit local schools and women’s groups – Understand co-existence models – Support grassroots impact
Timing: Mid-morning to early afternoon
Entry: ₹4,000–₹6,000 per person
Feature Image Credit- Photo by Cindy Stolk on Unsplash
