A high plateau north of Mount Kenya where private conservancies protect rhino, wild dog and rare northern species, and where you can walk, ride and sleep under the stars.
Laikipia is a vast plateau of savannah and bush north of Mount Kenya, made up largely of private ranches and conservancies rather than a single national park. Many of these properties have turned from cattle ranching to conservation, and together they hold some of Kenya’s most important populations of black rhino, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and African wild dog. Because the land is private, Laikipia offers activities that national parks often forbid, such as walking, horse riding, camel safaris and night drives.
It is a favourite with returning safari-goers who want quiet, space and variety rather than the crowded drives of the best-known reserves.
Quick FactsCentral Kenya, north of Mount Kenya and south of Samburu.
High plateau of acacia savannah, bush and seasonal rivers.
Black rhino, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog.
The dry seasons, roughly June to October and January to February, for the best wildlife viewing.
In a national park you must usually stay in the vehicle and stick to marked tracks. Laikipia’s private conservancies are free to offer more flexible, small-group experiences: guided bush walks, horseback safaris among zebra and giraffe, camel-supported fly camping, mountain biking and night drives to look for nocturnal animals. Lodges here are often small, family-run and community-linked, which makes for a personal stay.
The area also protects migration corridors for elephants moving between Mount Kenya and the northern rangelands, a key reason the conservancy model matters for the wider ecosystem.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a flagship Laikipia property, is home to the largest black rhino population in East Africa and cares for the last two northern white rhinos on Earth, both females, under armed guard. The conservancy also has a chimpanzee sanctuary. Other Laikipia properties protect Grevy’s zebra, one of Africa’s most endangered large mammals, and wild dog packs that roam widely. Wildlife sightings vary with season and luck, but the density of rare species makes Laikipia stand out.
Guided walks with a conservancy ranger teach you about tracks, plants and insects in a way a vehicle cannot. Horse riding among game is available at selected lodges and requires a reasonable level of riding experience. Camel safaris and mountain biking round out the options. See our walking safaris and expeditions page for how we plan on-foot adventures.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, on the northern edge of the plateau, is one of Kenya’s best-known conservation success stories and a base for rhino protection. Lewa and Ol Pejeta are the names travellers most often search for. An Ameera consultant can match you to the conservancy and camp that fit your interests, pace and budget.
A classic Kenya route links Laikipia or Samburu with the Maasai Mara, then adds a few beach days at Diani. Browse our 9-day Explore Kenya Wilderness safari, the Samburu page and the Diani Beach extension for ideas.
A typical day begins with a pre-dawn drive or walk, when wildlife is most active and the light is soft. After a late breakfast you rest through the heat, perhaps with a swim or a spa treatment, then head out again in the afternoon for horse riding, a bush walk or a sundowner on a viewpoint. After dinner, many conservancies offer a night drive, which can reveal aardvark, bushbabies, porcupine and genets that you would never see in daylight. This varied rhythm is what many guests remember most.
Many Laikipia properties are partly owned or supported by neighbouring communities, and revenue from tourism supports schools, clinics and anti-poaching teams. Ask your lodge how it works with local people, and consider visiting a community project to understand the connection between guests and conservation.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLaikipia is a plateau in central Kenya, north of Mount Kenya.
No. It is largely made up of private ranches and conservancies, which allows activities such as walking and horse riding.
The dry months of June to October and January to February are best for wildlife viewing.
Yes. Laikipia holds some of Kenya’s most important black rhino populations, and Ol Pejeta is home to the last northern white rhinos.
Yes. The two combine well, usually with a short flight between them.
Tell us whether you want to walk, ride or drive and we will shape the route.
