Laikipia Safari
Preserving Local Community and Conservation
The vast Laikipia Plateau stretches from the slopes of Mount Kenya to the rim of the Great Rift Valley and is set against the edge of Kenya’s Northern Frontier. This unique landscape is dedicated to both conservation and community, allowing the local pastoral people a place to exist in their natural state as well as to contribute to their own traditional lands in terms of wildlife protection and biodiversity.
Laikipia is made up mostly of conservancies and ranches which are knitted together along with the cattle ranches and farms in the region. The conservancies, which include Loisaba, Ol Pejeta, Solio Ranch, Ol Lentille and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, have a variety of outreach programs for the local people in their communities, as well as some significant wildlife protection initiatives.
Endangered black and white rhino, Grevy’s zebra, northern elephant herds and large predators such as lion, leopard, cheetah and hyena, are some of the animals that enjoy the protection and conservation of the local conservancies in Laikipia. Visiting one of the lodges or tented camps here will allow you the opportunity to learn more about what is being done to preserve Kenya’s wildlife, as well as to see how the local farming and ranching communities play their part in conservation.
We recommend combining a trip to Laikipia with a Masai Mara safari, as you will truly experience two very different safaris in one trip. Laikipia is also close to Mount Kenya National Park and Shaba National Reserve, which is famous for being the setting of the book and film Born Free featuring Joy Adamson and the lioness Elsa.
Best Time to Visit Laikipia
The best time to visit Laikipia is during the dry season (June to September) when the game-viewing is at its optimum. However, do note that June to October and December through March are considered peak season, and you will need to book in advance to secure your spot to the area.
highlights
Look out for rare animal species, such as Grevy’s zebra and the endangered black rhino.
Stay in one of the community-run tented camps and experience an authentic way of life on safari.
Learn about the various wildlife protection initiatives in the area and get involved.