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Location
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is located in Kenya’s central region in Laikipia county. Situated on the equator, the conservancy lies between Mount Kenya and Aberdares.
Size
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is approximately 224 square miles in size.
History
Ol Pejeta Conservancy was originally a cattle farm in the 1940s, owned by Lord Delamare, an influential British settler. Once elephant hunting was declared illegal in 1973 and the Sweetwaters Game Reserve was established in 1988, a sanctuary was created for the protection of many animals, including the black rhino. Ol Pejeta was established 2003 as the community and wildlife non-profit conservancy destination.
Entrance Fees & Permits
Entrance fee pricing fluctuates depending on when guests are visiting. From January to July, entrance fees are USD90 per adult, per day and USD55 per child under 12 years old, per day. During the peak season of July and August, entrance fees are USD110 per person.
Hours of Operation
Ol Pejeta Conservancy is open daily between 7am and 7pm.
By Road
Traveling by road from Nairobi, the journey to Ol Pejeta Conservancy is via the A2 and takes approximately four hours. The distance covered is 138 miles, of which the last 8 miles are on a dirt road. During the rainy season between October and May access will only be possible by 4×4 vehicles.
By Air
There are daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Nanyuki Airstrip, the flight time is one hour. From the airstrip, the drive to Ol Pejeta takes 45 minutes. Charter flights are available if clients prefer.
Weather & Climate
The climate in Ol Pejeta is fairly consistent throughout the year, with moderate temperatures around the mid-seventies during the day. The dry season runs from June to September, with a slight chance of rain falling in August. The heavy or long rains fall from March to May, temperatures known to fall to around 50F later in the season.
Avoiding Crowds
Guests looking for a quieter experience in Ol Pejeta Conservancy should consider traveling in the off-peak months falling between November and the end of May. Heavy rains, however, fall from March through mid-May, creating muddy conditions which may not be ideal for game drives and other safari activities.
Value for Money
Accommodation options in Ol Pejeta vary from basic camping options to luxury and intimate lodges and camps. Offering fluctuation in pricing and something to suit every budget. With pricing ranging from USD 200 per person sharing per night to high-end options with a price tag of approximately USD 950 per person sharing, per night, spending time in or just outside this small conservancy definitely offers a value for money safari experience.
Read more on the Best time to visit Kenya.
Popular Wildlife Sightings in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta is home to the “Big Five”: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo, as well as grazing favorites such as giraffe, zebra and the Jackson’s hartebeest. Guests can visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and learn about these fascinating animals as well as the efforts being taken to protect them. On a night drive, keep a look out for the “zorilla”, also known as the “African Polecat”, and if fortunate, the chance to see a leopard on the prowl.
The Terrain
The terrain of Ol Pejeta Conservancy ranges from pockets of open savannah to marshlands and to thick bush made up of acacias with yellowy-green fever trees.
Game Drives
Early morning and late afternoon game drives are the best times to experience a safari in Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The crisp mornings bring the animals out to explore while sunset sets the scene for what could be a dramatic predator vs prey showdown. Night drives are offered in Ol Pejeta Conservancy which is an exciting opportunity for guests to see nocturnal favorites such as aardvark, white-tailed mongoose and bat eared fox..
Guided Walking Safaris
Qualified guides will take visitors on safari walks through Ol Pejeta Conservancy, along nature trails that wind across the savannah and beside ravines and rivers. Capture the views and keep an eye out for predators and prey roaming nearby.
| Lodge or Hotel | Distance to park entrance (in miles) |
| Sweetwaters Serena Tented Camp | 1.8 miles from the Rongai Gate, driving in a westerly direction from gate to lodge |
| Ol Pejeta Bushcamp | The Camp lies on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and is a 45-minute drive from the Kamok Airstrip |
| Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages | |
| Porini Rhino Camp | 22 miles from the Rongai Gate, driving in a westerly direction from gate to lodge |
Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Visit the heartwarming Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and gain an understanding of the conservation methods in place to rehabilitate and protect these fascinating animals.
Endangered Species Boma
Spend time in the presence of beautiful and endangered animals such as white and black rhinos and other species such as the Jackson Hartebeest and Greyv’s Zebra. Learn interesting facts about the animals as well as all conservation efforts taking place.
Mount Kenya
As you set out on game drives or wildlife walks you will notice the majestic Mount Kenya overlooking the conservancy. Combinations of hiking Mount Kenya and enjoying a safari in Ol Pejeta Conservancy is possible, or guests can simply enjoy the view of Africa’s second highest mountain.
Consider visiting Ol Pejeta Conservancy just before or after peak safari season in Kenya, late May and the month of June as well as September and October offering outstanding game viewing without the crowds. The peak months of July and August will present cool, dry days which offer optimal/optimum game viewing conditions.
With accommodation options located inside the conservancy and others a short distance away from the gates of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, safari package pricing ranges from approximately USD200 to USD800 per person sharing, per night. The packages are inclusive of safari experiences and can include either selected or all meals depending on where guests are staying.
The drive from Nairobi is 138 miles and takes approximately four hours, safari-goers traveling along the A2 highway. Part of the journey, around 8 miles, is on a dirt road so 4×4 vehicles are required for this.
The conservation efforts in place, the overall priority to protect various endangered species, and the dramatic setting with Mount Kenya as a backdrop are some of the reasons enjoying a safari in Ol Pejeta Conservancy is special. Wonderful wildlife sightings await with the exciting opportunity to enjoy a night game drive are further experiences that make visiting Ol Pejeta special.
Besides the “Big Five”, (which are lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) there are protected animals such as Jackson’s hartebeest,Grevy’s zebra, and a chimpanzee sanctuary that is not to be missed. The conservancy offers the chance to spot unique nocturnal animals such as the African polecat and zorilla.
The gates of Ol Pejeta Conservancy are open daily between 7am to 7pm.
It is necessary to pre-book your safari experience at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. While there are a variety of accommodation options, availability can be scarce and with many activities in the area, it is best to have your stay pre booked.
Open-vehicle or enclosed 4×4 game drives are the most popular way to experience Ol Pejeta Conservancy. There are also options to enjoy a mountain biking or horseback riding experience in select, predator-free areas of the conservancy. Visitors can also enjoy guided bush walks in the conservancy.
The popular Serena Sweetwaters offers around 56 rooms and a wonderful location in the conservancy. Luxury can be felt in every aspect at Asilia’s Ol Pejeta Bush Camp with a classic and intimate camping experience at Kicheche Laikipia Camp with only six tents located in this idyllic setting.
There are no stand-alone restaurants located in or near the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Meals will be enjoyed by the guests at the specific lodges and camps they are staying at.
Guests can enjoy a visit to the Rhino Boma and Sweetwater Chimpanzee Sanctuary, to observe heartwarming conservation and protection methods and spend time with these incredible animals. Guests can enjoy the view of Mount Kenya and for active visitors, kayaking, bush walks, mountain biking, and horseback riding adventures are offered in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Most accessible and yet wild and natural, Nairobi national park is just a breath and sight away from the bustling Kenya capital -Nairobi city
Established in 1946 and Kenya’s first the Nairobi National park is made up of wide open grass savannah plains.Its scattered acacia bush is host to a wide variety of wildlife including the endangered black rhino, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, giraffes,bushbuck,hippopotamus and diverse birdlife with over 400 species recorded.
All these and much more to see at only 7 Kilometres from your city hotel and against the backdrop of Nairobi.
Tour provides insights and offers a great experience from the history of Karen Blixen, human –Elephant care, rehabilitation and conservation at the David Sheldrick orphanage, Giraffe centre and a visit to Kazuri beads centre where you meet Kenyan women at work in a self help bead factory.…a chance to buy yourself a local gift.
A 5-6 hours Nairobi tour visiting the Giraffe center and David Sheldrick to view baby elephants.
Start the day tour by visiting the most accessible and yet wild and natural, Nairobi national park just a breath and sight away from the bustling Kenya capital – Nairobi city.
Stop at the David sheldrick elephant orphanage to watch in close up the nurture and feeding of orphaned elephants.
Feed giraffes at the nearby giraffe center and call at the Karex Blixen Museum
Book for your transfer from Nairobi airport to your hotel or residence.
Amboseli day tour to see wildlife including vast elephant herds & views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Out of Nairobi Full Day Trip
Tour includes:A scenery & wildlife safari tour stopping at the Ol Pejeta Wildlife Game Sanctuary for one day.
Out of Nairobi Full Day Trip
Tour includes:Lake Nakuru day excursion with views of the magnificent rift valley escarpment, flamingos and other birds including endangered Rhino,Giraffe,Zebra,Warthog,Lion,Leopard and more animal species.
Out of Nairobi Full Day Trip
Tour includes:A Nairobi city break trip including boat ride, viewing of hippos, birdlife, guided walking safari, bicycle ride, hike and small game viewing.
Out of Nairobi Full Day Trip
Tour includes:Kongoni Camp is situated less than 2 km from Nanyuki Town northwest of Mt Kenya off the Meru road
These spacious tents combine the traditional ambiance of a safari camp with the comforts of home
The snow-capped spires of Mount Kenya offer a breath-taking backdrop for a truly unforgettable visit.
Boasting views of Mount Kenya, the new Morani Wing features 17 deluxe double, twin and triple tents, one of which is specially adapted for guests with mobility concerns.
The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry season (December– February and June - August) when conditions are especially good for trekking to view mountain gorillas. Game drives in the national parks are also fruitful during this time.
Wear neutral colored, lightweight clothing on your Uganda safari. Dress in layers and bring a warm sweater for morning and nighttime game drives. For gorilla trekking, bring a waterproof rain jacket, hiking boots, long socks, hiking pants, bug repellant, and a daypack. A sunhat and gardening gloves are also a good idea; the jungle is dense and thick.
Natural World Kenya Safaris offers Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda with basic accommodations starting at $96 per person, per day, plus the Uganda gorilla trekking permit which costs $700 per person per day (the permits are required, and those fees are non-negotiable.) Costs increase from there.
Natural World Safaris can provide basic, mid-range, and luxury trekking safaris and is eager to work with almost any budget.
Suggested tips range from $10 to $20 per person per day for a private guide and the same amount for your driver if that is a different person than your guide.
If you are on a guided safari or gorilla trek in Uganda, your chances of encountering problems are minimal. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions on your safari, particularly when traveling through urban areas or in regions close to the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The trek to spot gorillas can be strenuous. It could take anywhere from two to eight hours to find and observe the gorillas, depending on the time of year. Be prepared to hike for multiple hours through uneven terrain at high altitude. It is advisable to train before any gorilla trekking trip by walking uphill, or better yet, by taking day hikes.
When it comes to wildlife viewing, there are never any guarantees. There are no fences in the parks in Uganda and the gorillas are free to roam. However, our expert guides and gorilla trackers have years of experience taking guests to see these magnificent creatures. They know their favorite spots to congregate and work closely with park officials each day to provide the best possible chance of seeing gorillas in the wild.
Most mountain gorillas in Uganda live at between 4,900 to 7,500 feet. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the country’s mountain gorillas, has a high point of 8,550ft.
The best time to go on a gorilla trek in Rwanda is during the dry season (June - September) when conditions are best for trekking to view the country’s highlight: the fascinating mountain gorillas.
Wear neutral colored, lightweight clothing on your Rwanda gorilla trek. Dress in layers and don’t forget a sweater for chilly morning and nighttime game drives. For gorilla trekking, bring a waterproof rain jacket, broken-in hiking boots, long socks, hiking pants, bug repellant, and a daypack. A sun visor and protective gloves – such as gardening gloves - are also useful.
Natural World Kenya Safaris offers Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda with basic accommodations starting at $720 per person, per day, plus the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit which costs $1,500 per person per day (the permits are required, and those fees are non-negotiable.) Costs increase from there.
Natural World Safaris can provide basic, mid-range, and luxury trekking safaris and is eager to work with almost any budget.
Suggested tips for your guide are $25 per person, per day for a private guide and the same amount for your driver if that is a different person than your guide.
Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa, particularly if you are on a guided safari or gorilla trek. Your chances of encountering problems are minimal. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions on your safari, particularly when traveling through urban areas. Cross-border travel into the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Burundi is not safe, however, so steer clear of this.
The trek to spot gorillas can be strenuous. It could take anywhere from two to eight hours to find and observe the gorillas, depending on the time of year. Be prepared to hike for multiple hours through uneven terrain at high altitude. It is advisable to train before any gorilla trekking trip by walking uphill, or better yet, by taking day hikes.
When it comes to wildlife viewing, there are never any guarantees. There are no fences in the parks in Rwanda and the gorillas are free to roam. However, our expert guides and gorilla trackers have years of experience taking guests to see these magnificent creatures. They know their favorite spots to congregate and work closely with park officials each day to provide the best possible chance of seeing gorillas in the wild.
Most mountain gorillas in Rwanda live at between 8,000 to 13,000 feet. Volcanoes National Park has a high point of 15,000ft.
Contact us for more information
For more information about our safari excursions, or to book your dream safari trip with Natural World Kenya Safaris, simply get in touch with our friendly travel advisors. Give us a call on +254 704 001 122 or leave your details on our contact us page, and we'll reply as quickly as possible.
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