Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a leading wildlife conservancy located in Laikipia County, Kenya, on the equator between the foothills of the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya. Covering over 90,000 acres, it is a model for sustainable conservation and community engagement, and is globally recognized for its innovative approaches to wildlife protection.

Key Features and Conservation Work

1. Home to the Last Two Northern White Rhinos

Ol Pejeta is famously home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos in the world, both females. Following the death of the last male, Sudan, in 2018, the conservancy has been at the forefront of cutting-edge efforts in assisted reproduction to save the subspecies from extinction.

2. Largest Black Rhino Sanctuary in East Africa

It also boasts the largest population of black rhinos in East Africa, providing secure habitat and 24/7 armed protection. The conservancy plays a vital role in the protection and breeding of this critically endangered species.

3. Big Five and More

Ol Pejeta is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, zebras, antelopes, and over 300 species of birds. The mix of savannah grasslands, bushland, and wetlands supports an impressive range of biodiversity.

4. Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Established in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, this is the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, providing a refuge for rescued and orphaned chimps from across Africa. It offers visitors the rare opportunity to observe chimpanzees in a natural, rehabilitative environment.

Activities for Visitors

• Game drives (day and night safaris)

• Guided bush walks and birdwatching

• Visits to the northern white rhinos and chimpanzee sanctuary

• Lion tracking and behind-the-scenes conservation tours

• Cycling safaris and horseback rides among wildlife

• Cultural visits to neighboring communities

• Volunteering and conservation internships

Sustainability and Community Impact

Ol Pejeta is a not-for-profit conservancy, reinvesting all revenue from tourism and donor support into conservation efforts and local community projects. These include health care, education, and sustainable agriculture initiatives that benefit surrounding communities, fostering a harmonious relationship between people and wildlife.

Accessibility

Located near Nanyuki town, Ol Pejeta is about a 3–4 hour drive from Nairobi or a short flight to the nearby Nanyuki airstrip. The conservancy has a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly camps to luxury lodges.

Best Time to Visit

Wildlife viewing is excellent year-round, but the dry seasons (June–October and January–March) are ideal for spotting animals more easily. The cool, highland climate makes it a comfortable destination regardless of the season.