Laikipia

Introduction

An interesting fun fact about Laikipia: it is one of the few places in the world where you can see white and black rhinos living together in harmony while still offering habitat to half of Kenya’s Grevy's Zebra. Welcome to Laikipia, a hidden gem located in central Kenya. For travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, iconic safaris, and unique cultural experiences, among others, Laikipia is your ideal destination.

Known for its vast conservancies, it offers walking safaris, horseback riding, and game drives. The region boasts luxurious lodges and eco-friendly camps, making your stay memorable. Whether exploring Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, or the remote charm of Laikipia Plateau, you will surely have a thrilling experience.

Location

Located in central Kenya and accessible by road or air, it is approximately 200-250 km north of Nairobi, taking about 4-5 hours by road and 45 minutes by air from Wilson Airport. There are various airstrips within Laikipia, such as Lewa, Loisaba, and Nanyuki. Positioned between Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley, it is a gateway to Kenya’s thrilling safari.

Laikipia Conservancies

Offering unmatched safari adventures, Ol Jogi is located at the heart of Laikipia. Call it a private wildlife paradise! Hosting the Big Five, the black rhinos, and Grevy’s zebra. With its breathtaking landscapes, explore the vast savannahs, visit the rescue center, or have an exciting game drive. Discover conservation, luxury, and exploration all in one. 

Accommodations

  • Ol Jogi Private Lodge

Let luxury meet untamed wilderness. Loisaba Conservancy is home to elephants, lions, and rare wild dogs. Enjoy thrilling game drives, camel treks, and horseback safaris, and if seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, Loisaba promises unforgettable safari experiences and every moment will be worth it and worthwhile. But the real magic? Is sleeping under the stars on star beds with the African night sky being your ceiling.

Accommodations

  • Loisaba Tented Camp
  • Loisaba Star Beds
  • Loisaba Lodo Springs
  • Tawi Lodge

Where beauty meets endless wildlife. The Laikipia Plateau is nestled in the heart of Laikipia with breathtaking rolls of savannah, escarpments, and wildlife. Some of the animals that can be seen are the African wild dogs, Grey’s zebra, and black rhinos. Welcome to the Laikipia Plateau and stargaze at the endless starry skies and unspoiled beauty.

Accommodations

  • Ol Malo Lodge
  • Sabuk Lodge
  • Sosian Lodge
  • Ol Lentille Lodge 

“Where wildlife meets conservation excellence,” Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Nestled at the foot of Mount Kenya, this conservancy is a global champion in conservation. This extraordinary sanctuary is home to the last two northern white rhinos, giving guests a rare opportunity to see them.

Experience a thrilling safari with sightings of the Big Five and the conservation’s green landscapes. Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, offers guests an opportunity to see and learn more about chimpanzees. At Ol Pejeta, every moment tells a story of hope, resilience, and the wild beauty of Africa.

Accommodations

  • Ol Pejeta Bush Camp (Asilia Africa)
  • Sweetwaters Serena Camp
  • The Stables at Ol Pejeta
  • Kicheche Laikipia Camp

Being a UNESCO-listed destination, it is home to the endangered rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, and elephants. Lying at the foot of Mount Kenya, the conservancy is a haven where conservation , luxury, and adventure intertwine. Whether you have a game drive, explore on foot, or horseback ride, every moment is unforgettable, and the scenic landscapes are eye-catching.

Accommodations

  • Lewa Safari Camp (Elewana Collection)
  • Lewa Wilderness Lodge
  • Sirikoi Lodge
  • Kifaru House

Laikipia Airstrips

The typical time for landing at Sosian Airstrip is 10:00 AM, and the  departure time is 4:15 PM. The airstrip is 6,000 feet, making it one of Laikipia’s highest airstrips. Get ready to enjoy the breathtaking aerial views of Laikipia’s landscapes.

Perfectly timed for your safari schedule, the arrival time is 11:00 AM and the  departure time is 4:40 PM. Lewa Airstrip is 5,400 feet above sea level, sitting within Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and Lewa Safari Camp is just a few minutes away.

It is nestled 5,700 feet above sea level in the heart of the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, giving you full access to the Big Five and the endangered white rhinos. The airstrip is 5 minutes away from the luxury tented Sweetwaters Serena Camp. The arrival and departure times revolve around 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM.

Segera Airstrip lies at 5,600 feet above sea level, with arrival time being 11:30 AM and departure time 3:45 PM. The closest accommodation is the eco-luxury Segera Retreat, where art, conservation, and adventure blend seamlessly. 

Loisaba Airstrip is at an altitude of 5,600 feet, with Loisaba Tented Camp just minutes away. The typical arrival and departure times are 10:15 AM and 3:30 PM directly into the rich wilderness of Northern Kenya.  

At an altitude of 6,200 feet, Nanyuki airstrip is 10 minutes away from the world-class offering of views and luxury in Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club. Its casual departure time and arrival time is between 8:00 AM and 5:30 PM.

Ol Malo airstrip sits at an altitude of 5,700 feet, offering access to Ol Malo Lodge, which lies on the edge of the dramatic Laikipia Plateau, where camels roam free. Guests arriving at Ol Malo airstrip usually land at 10:45 AM, and departing flights are around 4:00 PM.

Arrival time of flights at Mugie airstrip is 11:15 AM, with departure being 3:30 PM. Mugie Airstrip rests at an altitude of 5,800 feet, offering a tranquil getaway to Enkorian’s Mugie Camp, located in a conservancy rich in wildlife.

Sabuk & Enasoit Airstrip is a private airstrip reserved for special charters, with arrival slots being flexible around 11:00 AM and departure times tailored to match your needs and preferences. This private airstrip is at an altitude of 6,100 feet,  connecting visitors directly to Sabuk Lodge and Enasoit Camp.

Laikipia Wildlife

Endangered and Threatened Species

Black rhinos, Grevy’s zebra, African wild dog, Pangolin, Cheetah

Iconic & Common Species

African elephant, Reticulated giraffe, Lion, leopard, buffalo, hippo

Rare & Unique Species

Striped hyena, Bat-eared Fox, and serval cats

Antelope species

Eland, Impala, bushbuck, and waterbuck

Bird species

Vulturine guineafowl, secretary bird, . Martial eagle, superb starling

Laikipia Common Activities

Horseback & Camel Safaris

Lion & wild dog tracking

Rhino tracking & conservation Experiences

Cycling & Running Safaris

Cultural & community visits

Day and night game drives

Walking Safaris

Birdwatching

Bush dining

Photography

Laikipia FAQs

Can I go on a horseback or walking safari in Laikipia?

Yes. Laikipia is one of the best places in Kenya for horseback and walking safaris, especially in private conservancies like Loisaba, Borana, and Ol Malo.

What conservation programs can I support or visit?

Ol Pejeta has cutting-edge anti-poaching dog units, wildlife corridors, and community outreach programs. Visitors can also donate or participate in wildlife monitoring experiences.

Is it possible to see chimpanzees in Laikipia?

Yes, uniquely so in Kenya. Ol Pejeta is home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimps.

How do conservancies differ from national parks?

Conservancies are privately or community-owned areas that focus on wildlife conservation and sustainability. They offer night safaris, walking safaris, and off-road game drives, which are not allowed in parks.

What makes Laikipia so unique?

It is a stronghold for endangered species like the black rhino, Grevy’s zebra, and African wild dog. Ol Pejeta Conservancy also holds Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.