Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy Kenya: Safaris, Fees & Accommodation

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a 90,000-acre wildlife conservancy in Laikipia County, central Kenya. It is best known as the home of the world’s last two northern white rhinos, the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Located near Nanyuki, between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range, Ol Pejeta combines Big Five game viewing with some of Kenya’s most important wildlife conservation experiences.

Visitors can enjoy game drives, see rescued chimpanzees, meet the last two northern white rhinos, track lions, join rhino-monitoring activities and stay at safari camps surrounded by wildlife.

Ol Pejeta is approximately 220 kilometres from Nairobi, with the road journey taking about four hours. It can be visited on a day trip, although we recommend staying for at least one or two nights.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy at a Glance

Where Is Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is in Laikipia County, near Nanyuki in central Kenya. It lies on a plateau between Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range.

The conservancy is approximately:

• 220 kilometres from Nairobi

• Four hours from Nairobi by road

• 30–45 minutes from Nanyuki

• A short road transfer from Nanyuki Airstrip

Its location makes Ol Pejeta suitable for a short safari from Nairobi or part of a longer Kenya itinerary covering Mount Kenya, Samburu, Meru, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara.

Is Ol Pejeta a National Park?

No. Ol Pejeta is a privately managed wildlife conservancy rather than a national park.

Travellers sometimes refer to it as Ol Pejeta Park, but its correct name is Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Unlike a conventional national park, Ol Pejeta combines wildlife protection, tourism, livestock management and community development. Income generated from tourism and other commercial activities supports the conservancy’s wildlife, habitat and local community programmes.

This conservation model allows visitors to enjoy a safari while learning how wildlife, livestock and neighbouring communities can share the same landscape.

Why Is Ol Pejeta Conservancy Famous?

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is famous for its work protecting endangered wildlife, particularly rhinos and chimpanzees.

Its main highlights include:

• The world’s last two known northern white rhinos

• East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary

• The only place in Kenya where visitors can see chimpanzees

• All members of the Big Five

• Excellent black and white rhino sightings

• Day and night game drives

• Lion tracking and rhino-monitoring experiences

• Views of Mount Kenya on clear days

• Wildlife conservation and community development programmes

Ol Pejeta is particularly rewarding for travellers who want to understand wildlife conservation rather than only view animals from a safari vehicle.

The Last Two Northern White Rhinos

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to Najin and Fatu, the world’s last two known northern white rhinos.

Both rhinos are female, meaning the subspecies can no longer reproduce naturally. Scientists are using advanced assisted reproduction methods in an attempt to prevent the northern white rhino from disappearing completely.

Najin and Fatu live in a specially protected enclosure and receive continuous care from experienced keepers and conservation teams.

Visitors can book a guided experience to meet them and learn about:

• The history of the northern white rhino

• The causes of its decline

• How Najin and Fatu are protected

• The scientific programme attempting to save the subspecies

• The wider challenges facing rhino conservation

The northern white rhino experience is booked separately and is not automatically included in the standard conservancy entrance fee.

Black Rhinos at Ol Pejeta

Ol Pejeta is one of the most important black rhino conservation areas in Africa. It protects a significant population of critically endangered eastern black rhinos and is recognised as the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa.

Black rhinos are mainly browsers that feed on leaves, branches and bushes. They are usually solitary and can be more difficult to find than southern white rhinos.

Ol Pejeta protects its rhinos through:

• Armed anti-poaching teams

• Continuous wildlife monitoring

• Veterinary care

• Habitat management

• Individual rhino identification

• Surveillance and conservation technology

• Cooperation with neighbouring communities

Visitors who want a deeper experience can book rhino monitoring and identification with the conservancy’s wildlife team.

Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is one of the main attractions in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

The sanctuary provides lifelong care for chimpanzees rescued from traumatic situations, including the illegal wildlife trade and unsuitable captivity.

Chimpanzees are not indigenous to Kenya. The chimpanzees at Sweetwaters were rescued from other African countries and cannot safely be returned to the wild. The sanctuary gives them a secure environment where they can live in social groups and receive professional care.

Visitors observe the chimpanzees from designated viewing areas separated from the sanctuary by the Ewaso Nyiro River. Feeding time can be particularly interesting because the chimpanzees are often more active.

A visit to the public viewing area is included in the normal Ol Pejeta experience, subject to the sanctuary’s opening hours. A more detailed behind-the-scenes chimpanzee experience can be booked separately.

Animals in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta supports a wide variety of animals across open grasslands, wooded areas, wetlands and riverine habitats.

Wildlife found in the conservancy includes:

• Black rhinos

• Southern white rhinos

• Northern white rhinos

• Lions

• Leopards

• Elephants

• African buffaloes

• Cheetahs

• Spotted hyenas

• African wild dogs

• Grevy’s zebras

• Plains zebras

• Reticulated giraffes

• Jackson’s hartebeests

• Elands

• Waterbucks

• Impalas

• Warthogs

• Baboons

• Hippos

Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but Ol Pejeta’s open terrain and resident animal populations make it a productive safari destination.

Can You See the Big Five at Ol Pejeta?

Yes. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to all members of the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo.

Rhinos are normally the most dependable Big Five sighting. Elephants, buffaloes and lions are also regularly encountered, while leopards are present but more elusive.

Early morning and late afternoon game drives provide some of the best wildlife-viewing opportunities because temperatures are cooler and many animals are more active.

Things to Do in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Go on a Game Drive

Game drives are the main way to explore Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Visitors can enter using a suitable private vehicle, hire a conservancy vehicle or book a complete safari package with a professional driver-guide.

A full-day game drive provides enough time to visit different wildlife areas, the chimpanzee sanctuary, Morani Information Centre and selected conservation attractions.

Morning game drives are good for predators and active wildlife. Afternoon game drives offer another opportunity to find animals before watching the sun set over the Laikipia plains.

Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Visit the sanctuary to see rescued chimpanzees and learn about the threats facing chimpanzee populations elsewhere in Africa.

Check the current opening and feeding times before planning your route through the conservancy.

Meet the Northern White Rhinos

Meet Najin and Fatu in their protected enclosure and learn about the international efforts to save the northern white rhino.

This is a separately priced experience, and advance booking is strongly recommended.

Meet Baraka the Blind Black Rhino

Baraka is a black rhino who lost his sight following an injury and cataracts. Because he cannot survive independently in the wild, he lives in a secure enclosure near the Morani Information Centre.

A visit provides an opportunity to learn about black rhinos, their behaviour and the threats facing the species.

Join a Lion-Tracking Experience

Join Ol Pejeta’s conservation team as they use tracking equipment to locate radio-collared lions.

The experience explains how researchers monitor lion movements, territories, behaviour and population health. Lion tracking depends on availability, field conditions and minimum participant numbers.

Take Part in Rhino Monitoring

Accompany the rhino-monitoring team and learn how individual rhinos are identified and recorded.

Rangers use physical characteristics such as ear notches, horn shapes, body features and home ranges to distinguish one rhino from another.

Take a Night Game Drive

A night game drive allows visitors to experience the conservancy after dark.

Possible sightings include:

• Hyenas

• Jackals

• Bat-eared foxes

• Porcupines

• Aardvarks

• Bush babies

• Other nocturnal animals

Night game drives are conducted in authorised vehicles and are mainly suitable for guests staying overnight inside the conservancy.

Go on a Guided Bush or Bird Walk

Explore selected parts of Ol Pejeta on foot with an experienced ranger.

A guided walk focuses on animal tracks, plants, insects, birds and other smaller details that are easily missed during a vehicle-based safari.

Experience the K9 Unit

Ol Pejeta’s dog-tracking activity introduces visitors to the bloodhounds used by the conservancy’s security teams.

Participants can hide and allow the dogs to demonstrate how their scent-tracking skills are used in conservation and security operations.

Visit the Hippo Hide

The Hippo Hide trail leads towards the Ewaso Nyiro River, where visitors may see hippos and other wildlife from a designated viewing area.

Water levels, vegetation and animal movements can affect what is visible during a visit.

Learn About Livestock and Wildlife Integration

Ol Pejeta remains a working cattle ranch as well as a wildlife conservancy.

Its livestock-wildlife integration programme uses carefully managed cattle grazing to improve grassland health, support biodiversity and generate income for conservation.

This programme demonstrates how livestock and wildlife can coexist when grazing and land use are professionally managed.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy Park Fees for 2026

The official Ol Pejeta Conservancy entrance fees for 2026 are:

The child rate applies to children aged 3–11 years.

Vehicle Entry Fees

A single entrance fee covers a day visit or 24 hours for guests staying overnight.

Accommodation, vehicle hire and separately booked conservation activities are not included in the standard entrance fee.

Ol Pejeta’s gates are cashless. East African citizens and residents must carry valid identification or proof of residency.

Park fees and activity prices can change without notice. Confirm the applicable rates before completing your booking.

How Much Is a Guide Around Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

The following guiding and vehicle charges apply under the official 2026 tariff:

An armed ranger may be required for camping, guided walks and activities conducted outside a safari vehicle.

If you book a complete Ol Pejeta safari package, your private vehicle and driver-guide may already be included. Check the package inclusions before paying separately for a guide or conservancy vehicle.

Ol Pejeta Conservation Experience Prices for 2026

The published 2026 prices for selected conservation experiences include:

Some activities require advance booking, minimum participant numbers or shared transport.

Activities may be changed or cancelled because of weather, availability or animal welfare considerations. Confirm the current schedule and final price before travelling.

Accommodation in Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta accommodation ranges from luxury safari camps to family cottages, self-catering houses, campsites and simpler full-board rooms.

Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Sweetwaters Serena Camp is one of the best-known hotels in Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

It offers tented accommodation, a restaurant, swimming pool and views over a waterhole frequently visited by wildlife.

Its convenient location makes it suitable for families, couples and first-time safari travellers who want easy access to the chimpanzee sanctuary and Morani Information Centre.

Kicheche Laikipia Camp

Kicheche Laikipia Camp is a small tented camp in the conservancy’s wilderness area.

It offers an intimate atmosphere, personalised service and excellent guiding. The camp overlooks a waterhole and is suitable for travellers seeking a quiet, traditional safari experience.

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is an intimate tented camp overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.

The camp focuses on professionally guided wildlife experiences, conservation and a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

Porini Rhino Camp

Porini Rhino Camp is a small eco-camp in a secluded section of Ol Pejeta.

It is a good choice for travellers interested in wildlife viewing, guided walks and a low-impact safari experience.

Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages

Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages provide private accommodation with personalised service.

They are particularly suitable for families, small groups and travellers who want privacy and flexible safari arrangements.

Sanctuary Tambarare

Sanctuary Tambarare offers an upscale tented safari experience surrounded by Ol Pejeta’s open plains.

It is suitable for travellers looking for luxury accommodation, personalised service and easy access to game drives.

The River Camp

The River Camp combines luxurious tented accommodation with views of the surrounding wilderness and Mount Kenya.

Pelican House

Pelican House is a private cottage overlooking Pelican Dam.

It can be booked on a self-catering or catered basis and works well for families and private groups who want the flexibility of an exclusive-use house.

The Stables

The Stables provides simpler and more affordable accommodation inside Ol Pejeta.

It is suitable for budget-conscious travellers, students and guests who prefer to spend more on conservation activities than luxury accommodation.

Camping in Ol Pejeta

Ol Pejeta has designated wilderness campsites near selected waterholes and wildlife areas.

An armed ranger is mandatory for camping inside the conservancy. Campers should also arrange their food, equipment and other supplies before entering unless these are included in their booking.

Hotels Near Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Hotels near Ol Pejeta Conservancy are mainly found around Nanyuki and along the roads leading towards the conservancy.

Staying outside Ol Pejeta may be more affordable, but visitors must allow enough time to travel between their hotel and the entrance gate.

Hotels near Ol Pejeta are suitable for:

• Resident weekend getaways

• Travellers combining Nanyuki and Ol Pejeta

• Guests looking for affordable accommodation

• Business travellers adding a day safari

• Visitors who want access to Nanyuki’s restaurants and shops

• Travellers continuing towards Mount Kenya or northern Kenya

Jambo Mutara is an ideal property near Ol Pajeta. 

Staying inside the conservancy provides easier access to early morning and late afternoon wildlife viewing. Staying in Nanyuki usually offers more accommodation choices and greater access to town facilities.

How to Get to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Nairobi to Ol Pejeta by Road

The distance from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy is approximately 220 kilometres.

The journey normally takes around four hours, although Nairobi traffic, road conditions and stops along the way can increase the travel time.

The usual route passes through:

• Thika

• Karatina

• Nanyuki

• Ol Pejeta Conservancy

A private safari vehicle is the most convenient option because the same vehicle and driver-guide can be used for game drives after entering the conservancy.

Nanyuki to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

The journey from Nanyuki to Ol Pejeta Conservancy normally takes approximately 30–45 minutes.

The exact travel time depends on your starting point, entrance gate and road conditions.

Visitors staying in Nanyuki can leave in the morning, spend the day inside the conservancy and return before the gates close.

Flying to Ol Pejeta

Scheduled flights operate from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Nanyuki Airstrip.

A road transfer is then required from Nanyuki Airstrip to your camp, lodge or the conservancy.

Flying is suitable for travellers with limited time and guests combining Ol Pejeta with the Masai Mara or another fly-in safari destination.

Can You Visit Ol Pejeta on a Day Trip from Nairobi?

Yes. Ol Pejeta Conservancy can be visited on a day trip from Nairobi, but it will be a long day.

A typical Nairobi to Ol Pejeta day trip begins at approximately 5:00 am. Visitors arrive in the morning, spend most of the day on game drives and return to Nairobi in the evening.

A day trip can include:

• Morning game drive

• Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

• Morani Information Centre

• Baraka the black rhino

• Lunch inside the conservancy

• Afternoon game drive

The northern white rhino experience can be added if it is booked in advance and scheduled correctly.

Although a day trip is possible, staying overnight allows more time for game drives, conservation activities and wildlife viewing during the best early morning and late afternoon hours.

How Many Days Do You Need in Ol Pejeta?

One Day

One day is suitable for visitors staying in Nanyuki or travellers with limited time.

Focus on a game drive, Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Morani Information Centre and selected rhino areas.

One Night

A one-night safari allows you to enjoy an afternoon game drive on arrival and a morning game drive before departure.

It is a good option for a short safari or weekend getaway from Nairobi.

Two Nights

Two nights is the recommended duration for most travellers.

It provides enough time for several game drives, the chimpanzee sanctuary and at least one specialist conservation experience.

Three Nights

Three nights is suitable for photographers, families and wildlife enthusiasts who want a slower pace.

It allows time for night game drives, guided walks, rhino monitoring, lion tracking and longer wildlife-viewing sessions.

Sample Three-Day Ol Pejeta Safari

Day 1: Nairobi to Ol Pejeta

Leave Nairobi in the morning and drive through Kenya’s central highlands to Nanyuki.

Continue to Ol Pejeta Conservancy and check into your selected camp or lodge. Enjoy lunch followed by an afternoon game drive in search of rhinos, elephants, buffaloes and lions.

Return to the camp or lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Take an early morning game drive when wildlife is most active.

After breakfast, visit Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Morani Information Centre.

In the afternoon, choose a conservation activity such as meeting the northern white rhinos, lion tracking or rhino monitoring.

Finish the day with an evening game drive or book a night game drive.

Day 3: Ol Pejeta to Nairobi

Enjoy a final early morning game drive followed by breakfast at the camp or lodge.

Check out and drive back to Nairobi, arriving during the afternoon.

The safari can also continue to Mount Kenya, Samburu, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha or the Masai Mara.

Best Time to Visit Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a year-round safari destination.

The animals are resident, meaning visitors do not need to travel during a specific migration season.

January to February

January and February are generally warm and relatively dry.

Wildlife viewing is good, and clear mornings may provide beautiful views of Mount Kenya.

March to May

The long rains normally occur during this period.

The landscape becomes green, visitor numbers are lower and birdwatching can be excellent. Some tracks may become wet or muddy after heavy rain.

June to October

June to October is a popular period for safaris because conditions are generally cool and dry.

Wildlife can be easier to locate around water sources. Early mornings and evenings may be cold, particularly in July and August.

November to December

The short rains refresh the landscape and improve photographic conditions.

Wildlife remains present throughout the conservancy, while migratory birds add interest for birdwatchers.

What to Pack for Ol Pejeta

Bring:

• Neutral-coloured, comfortable clothing

• A warm jacket for early morning game drives

• A hat and sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Closed walking shoes

• Camera and spare batteries

• Binoculars

• Refillable water bottle

• Personal medication

• Passport or identification document

• Proof of citizenship or residency where applicable

• A rain jacket during wetter months

Avoid very bright clothing when joining walks or close-range conservation activities.

Ol Pejeta or Masai Mara?

Ol Pejeta and the Masai Mara offer different safari experiences.

Choose Ol Pejeta if rhinos, chimpanzees and interactive conservation experiences are your main interests.

Choose the Masai Mara for expansive savannah landscapes, frequent predator sightings and the seasonal wildebeest migration.

For a more complete Kenya safari, combine Ol Pejeta and the Masai Mara in one itinerary.

Is Ol Pejeta Conservancy Worth Visiting?

Yes. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is worth visiting for its rhinos, Big Five wildlife, rescued chimpanzees and interactive conservation experiences.

It is particularly suitable for:

• First-time safari travellers

• Families with children

• Rhino enthusiasts

• Wildlife photographers

• Conservation-minded travellers

• Nairobi residents planning a weekend getaway

• Visitors combining Nanyuki and Mount Kenya

• Travellers who want more than a standard game drive

Ol Pejeta offers a different experience from Kenya’s national parks because visitors can see wildlife while learning how endangered animals and natural habitats are protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Ol Pejeta Conservancy located?

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is in Laikipia County near Nanyuki, central Kenya. It is approximately 220 kilometres north of Nairobi.

How big is Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

Ol Pejeta covers approximately 90,000 acres, equivalent to about 364 square kilometres.

What is Ol Pejeta famous for?

Ol Pejeta is famous for protecting the world’s last two northern white rhinos, operating East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary and hosting Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Is Ol Pejeta a national park?

No. Ol Pejeta is a privately managed wildlife conservancy rather than a national park.

Are there lions in Ol Pejeta?

Yes. Lions live in Ol Pejeta alongside leopards, cheetahs, hyenas and other predators.

Does Ol Pejeta have the Big Five?

Yes. Lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo are all found within Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Can you see chimpanzees in Ol Pejeta?

Yes. Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary at Ol Pejeta is the only place in Kenya where visitors can see chimpanzees.

How far is Ol Pejeta from Nairobi?

Ol Pejeta is approximately 220 kilometres from Nairobi. The journey normally takes around four hours by road.

How far is Ol Pejeta from Nanyuki?

The road transfer from Nanyuki normally takes approximately 30–45 minutes.

Can I drive myself around Ol Pejeta?

Yes. Visitors can enter using a suitable private vehicle after paying the applicable entrance and vehicle fees.

However, travelling with a professional safari guide can improve wildlife sightings and provide a better understanding of the conservancy.

What time does Ol Pejeta open?

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Do I need to book Ol Pejeta in advance?

Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends, public holidays and peak travel seasons.

Specialist activities such as lion tracking, northern white rhino visits, guided walks and night game drives should be reserved in advance.

Are Ol Pejeta entrance fees included in accommodation rates?

Not always. Some camps and lodges quote accommodation separately from conservancy entrance fees.

Ask for a complete quotation showing accommodation, entry fees, activities, meals and transport.

Who owns Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

Ol Pejeta is managed through a non-profit conservation structure. The land is held in trust for the Kenyan people, while revenue from tourism, agriculture and other commercial activities supports wildlife conservation and community development.

Is Ol Pejeta suitable for children?

Yes. Ol Pejeta is one of Kenya’s best family safari destinations.

Children can enjoy game drives, rhino sightings, the chimpanzee sanctuary and educational conservation experiences. Age restrictions may apply to guided walks, lion tracking and some specialist activities.

Book an Ol Pejeta Conservancy Safari

We arrange private Ol Pejeta safaris from Nairobi and Nanyuki, including transport, accommodation, conservancy fees and professionally guided game drives.

Your safari can include:

• Private transport in a 4×4 Land Cruiser

• Pick-up from Nairobi or Nanyuki

• One, two or three-night itineraries

• Accommodation inside or near Ol Pejeta

• Conservancy entrance fees

• Morning and afternoon game drives

• Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

• Northern white rhino experience

• Lion tracking or rhino monitoring

• Extensions to Mount Kenya, Samburu, Lake Nakuru or the Masai Mara

Share your travel dates, number of guests, residency status and preferred accommodation level. We will prepare a tailor-made Ol Pejeta Conservancy safari quotation.

Pic: The River Camp