What is Ol Pejeta Conservancy known for?

Ol Pejeta is East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary and home to the world’s last two northern white rhinos. It’s also the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees.🔹 It combines Big Five game viewing with conservation education, making it unique and meaningful.

How far is Ol Pejeta from Nairobi, and is a day tour possible?

Distance: ~220 km from Nairobi (3.5–4.5 hours by road).A day trip is possible but requires early departure (around 5:30 AM) and return by 8:00 PM. Tip: Private car or safari van is best; SGR + road transfers are not ideal for same-day return.

What animals can I see at Ol Pejeta?

You can spot: All Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos Endangered species like Grevy’s zebras and Jackson’s hartebeest Chimpanzees at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary Cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and hundreds of bird species

Is a guide provided on Ol Pejeta day trips?

Yes. All tours include a professional safari guide or ranger knowledgeable about: Animal tracking Conservation facts Photography tipsSome tours also offer interactive activities like rhino feeding or lion tracking (with advance booking).

Is Ol Pejeta suitable for children or elderly visitors?

It’s very family-friendly. Flat terrain is good for game drives Educational stops like the Morani Center and chimp sanctuary appeal to children Proper washroom and rest areas available

Ol pejeta Conservancy Day Tour | 1 Day Inspiring Safari

Experience a full day of wildlife conservation, chimpanzee encounters, and Big Five game viewing at Ol Pejeta Conservancy—Kenya’s leading conservation haven just a few hours from Nairobi.

Why Choose This Package?

🦍 Visit the Only Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Kenya – Get up close with rescued chimpanzees and learn their incredible stories of survival.
🦏 See the Last Northern White Rhinos – Witness one of the world’s rarest animal conservation efforts firsthand.
🦁 Big Five Game Drives – Enjoy guided game drives with chances to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and leopards.
📚 Conservation Education – Visit the Rhino Information Centre and learn about cutting-edge anti-poaching strategies.
🧺 Scenic Picnic Lunch – Savor a meal in the heart of the wilderness surrounded by the beauty of Laikipia.
🚘 Perfect for a Day Trip – Just a few hours from Nairobi—ideal for travelers short on time but big on adventure.
📸 Wildlife Photography Paradise – Capture rare species and dramatic landscapes in one of Kenya’s most beautiful conservancies.
🛡️ Support Real Conservation Work – Your visit directly contributes to wildlife protection and community development.

Overview

Highlight Description

Itinerary

Included Excursions

Cost

Trip Location

Map

Things To Do

Preparation Tips

FAQs

Trip Description

Ol pejeta Conservancy Day Tour

Kickstart your Ol pejeta Conservancy day tour adventure at 6:00 AM with a scenic drive from Nairobi to the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy, located in Laikipia County. Arrive by 9:30 AM to a warm welcome and tour briefing from your expert guide.

Begin your morning with an exciting game drive at 10:00 AM, spotting a range of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, antelopes, and—if you’re lucky—members of the Big Five. Then, at 11:30 AM, enjoy a rare treat with a guided visit to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary—the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees living in a safe and semi-wild habitat.

At 1:00 PM, take a break and enjoy a picnic lunch within the conservancy, surrounded by nature and fresh air. Continue your exploration with an afternoon game drive at 2:00 PM, where you’ll visit the secure enclosure housing the world’s last remaining northern white rhinos. Learn about the heroic conservation efforts dedicated to their survival.

By 3:30 PM, deepen your knowledge with a visit to the Rhino Information Centre, where you’ll gain fascinating insights into black rhino conservation and anti-poaching efforts.

Conclude your Ol pejeta Conservancy day tour with a relaxed drive through the conservancy at 4:30 PM, soaking in the beautiful scenery and seeking out any animals you may have missed. Depart Ol Pejeta by 5:30 PM and return to Nairobi by 8:30 PM, ending your Ol pejeta Conservancy day tour with lasting memories of this exceptional conservation experience. For more details on this park visit K.W.S. Explore the beauty of Kenya with our Kenya Travel Guide—your ultimate resource for top destinations, safari adventures, travel tips, and must-visit attractions!

Explore the heart of Kenya with our Nairobi Day Tours and venture deeper into the wild with our unforgettable Kenya Safaris — the perfect blend of city charm and thrilling wildlife adventures!

Discover the wild wonders of Ol Pejeta Conservancy Kenya with our immersive Ol Pejeta Conservancy Day Tour, perfect for wildlife lovers and conservation enthusiasts. Located in Laikipia County, this renowned sanctuary is home to the last two northern white rhinos, the Big Five, and a chimpanzee rescue center, offering a unique and meaningful safari experience. Our expertly organized Ol Pejeta Conservancy Tours provides a full day of adventure and education, making it one of the most rewarding day trips from Nairobi. As part of the best day trips in Kenya, this tour combines wildlife conservation, scenic views of Mount Kenya, and unforgettable moments in nature—all in a single extraordinary day.

Trip Highlights

🦍 1. Chimpanzee Sanctuary Visit & Wildlife Education
🦏 2. Endangered Species & Northern White Rhinos
🚙 3. Big Five Game Drive & Scenic Safari
🦏 4. Black Rhino Sanctuary & Anti-Poaching Education

Highlight Description

🦍 1. Chimpanzee Sanctuary Visit & Wildlife Education

🦍 Kenya’s Only Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Step inside the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya where rescued chimpanzees live in semi-wild enclosures. These primates have been saved from the illegal pet trade and abusive circuses, and now thrive in a protected environment that mimics their natural forest home.
🎓 Insightful Conservation Experience: Gain deeper knowledge about chimpanzee rescue and rehabilitation through engaging stories and guided talks. Learn how Ol Pejeta collaborates with the Jane Goodall Institute to ensure long-term welfare for the chimpanzees — ideal for wildlife lovers and budding conservationists.
📸 Up-Close Observation: Watch as the chimps swing, play, and socialize — perfect for photography enthusiasts and families with curious children. The tour offers rare chances to see these intelligent primates in action.

🦏 2. Endangered Species & Northern White Rhinos

🦏 Meet the Last Northern White Rhinos: Witness a historic conservation moment by visiting the only two remaining northern white rhinos on Earth. These gentle giants are under 24/7 armed protection at Ol Pejeta — a powerful symbol of the urgent fight against extinction.
📢 Interactive Conservation Talks: Join guided presentations by expert rangers who share real-time updates on global conservation efforts, anti-poaching strategies, and groundbreaking scientific methods like IVF being explored to save this species.
❤️ Emotional & Eye-Opening: This experience offers more than a sighting — it’s a heartfelt connection to nature’s fragility and the people working tirelessly to protect it.

🚙 3. Big Five Game Drive & Scenic Safari

🦁 Thrilling Big Five Safaris: Embark on an action-packed game drive across diverse terrains — from savannah plains to bushy thickets. Spot the legendary Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and both black and white rhinos in their natural habitats.
🦓 Diverse Wildlife Encounters: The conservancy is home to a wide variety of animals including zebras, giraffes, antelopes, warthogs, and an abundance of birdlife — perfect for bird watchers and wildlife photographers.
🌄 Breathtaking Landscapes: Enjoy sweeping views of Mount Kenya and rolling grasslands that create the perfect backdrop for wildlife encounters. Sunrise and sunset drives offer golden lighting and incredible photo opportunities.

🦏 4. Black Rhino Sanctuary & Anti-Poaching Education

🦏 East Africa’s Largest Black Rhino Sanctuary: Visit one of the most successful black rhino conservation sites in the world. With over 100 individuals, Ol Pejeta plays a pivotal role in protecting this critically endangered species.
👮‍♂️ Meet the Rangers: Interact with dedicated rangers and learn about daily operations, anti-poaching tactics, and community engagement programs that keep these animals safe.
✅ Hands-On Learning: Enjoy interactive sessions with conservationists, perfect for school groups, wildlife enthusiasts, and responsible travelers looking to deepen their understanding of sustainable tourism.

Day 01 :

Ol Pejeta Conservancy Day Tour – Full-Day Wildlife & Conservation Adventure 🦏🌄

🌅 Morning: Journey to the Wild

🕕 06:00 AM – Hotel Pick-Up from Nairobi
Begin your day with an early morning pick-up from your Nairobi hotel. Sit back and relax as you embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive through central Kenya’s picturesque highlands and rural landscapes en route to Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

🕘 09:30 AM – Arrival & Safari Briefing
Arrive at the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Meet your expert safari guide for a warm welcome and a quick briefing on the day's adventure, conservation efforts, and safety protocols.

🌞 Mid-Morning: First Wildlife Encounter

🕙 10:00 AM – Game Drive Across the Plains
Set off on your first game drive through the conservancy’s vast savannahs. Keep your camera ready as you spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and possibly elusive predators like lions or cheetahs in their natural habitat.

🌤️ Late Morning: Chimpanzee Sanctuary Visit

🕦 11:30 AM – Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Visit the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees. Learn about their individual rescue stories and the incredible rehabilitation efforts by the sanctuary, a project supported by the Jane Goodall Institute.

☀️ Afternoon: Conservation & Big Five Tracking

🕛 01:00 PM – Picnic Lunch in the Wild
Enjoy a hearty picnic lunch at one of the scenic designated spots within the conservancy. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature, this tranquil break adds a magical touch to your safari experience.

🕑 02:00 PM – Big Five Safari & Rhino Sanctuary
Resume your game drive with a focus on tracking the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Visit the northern white rhino enclosure, home to the last two remaining northern white rhinos on Earth, and hear the inspiring story of their protection and the science behind ongoing conservation efforts.

🕞 03:30 PM – Rhino Education Centre
Delve deeper into conservation education at the Rhino Information Centre. Discover the challenges and successes of the black rhino breeding program and the role Ol Pejeta plays in species preservation across East Africa.

🌤️ Late Afternoon: Scenic Safari Finale

🕟 04:30 PM – Final Game Drive & Reflection
Enjoy a final game drive through the conservancy’s rich habitats. Take in panoramic views of Mount Kenya on the horizon while watching wildlife as the sun begins to dip.

🌇 Evening: Return to the City

🕠 05:30 PM – Depart for Nairobi
Say goodbye to Ol Pejeta and begin your journey back to Nairobi, enriched with memories of wildlife encounters and meaningful conservation experiences.

🕣 08:30 PM – Hotel Drop-Off in Nairobi
Arrive back at your hotel in Nairobi, bringing your unforgettable day tour to a close—full of thrilling wildlife, conservation awareness, and a deeper connection with Kenya’s natural heritage.

Included Excursions

This enriching full-day tour to Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers a powerful combination of wildlife safaris, conservation education, and close-up animal encounters, all within one of Kenya’s most pioneering wildlife sanctuaries. From breathtaking game drives to rare visits with rescued chimpanzees and endangered rhinos, each experience brings you closer to East Africa’s extraordinary biodiversity and conservation efforts.

🦁 Morning Safari Adventure

🚙 Guided Game Drive Across Ol Pejeta Plains – Begin your wildlife journey with a thrilling game drive led by a professional safari guide. Traverse open savannahs and acacia-dotted landscapes while spotting elephants, zebras, gazelles, giraffes, and potentially big cats like lions, leopards, or cheetahs in their natural habitat.
📸 Scenic Drive with Mount Kenya Views – Soak in the panoramic views of Mount Kenya as your vehicle navigates the conservancy’s diverse ecosystems. Perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture Kenya’s stunning highland landscapes.

🐒 Late Morning Conservation Encounters

🧠 Visit to Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary – Explore Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary, operated in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute. Learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of these primates and observe their social behavior in spacious natural enclosures.
📚 Chimpanzee Rescue Stories & Educational Briefing – Listen to heartwarming rescue stories that illustrate the sanctuary’s mission to protect primates from illegal trade and exploitation, all while promoting environmental education.

🐘 Afternoon Big Five Highlights

🧺 Picnic Lunch in the Wild – Enjoy a tranquil picnic lunch at a designated scenic spot within the conservancy. Surrounded by grazing wildlife and serene vistas, this is the perfect moment to unwind and reconnect with nature.
🦏 Visit to the Endangered Northern White Rhino Enclosure – Witness a once-in-a-lifetime moment as you come face-to-face with Najin and Fatu, the last two northern white rhinos on Earth. Learn about global conservation efforts and scientific innovations aimed at reviving this subspecies.
🦛 Second Game Drive Featuring Big Five Tracking – Continue your safari with a targeted game drive to locate and learn about Africa’s iconic Big Five — lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant. Each sighting offers a deeper appreciation for the rich wildlife diversity Ol Pejeta protects.

📖 Late Afternoon Conservation Insight

🏫 Visit to Rhino Education Centre – Dive deeper into rhino conservation at this interactive education hub. Gain insights into anti-poaching strategies, black rhino breeding programs, and community-led wildlife protection across East Africa.
🌄 Final Safari Drive with Sunset Views – Conclude your adventure with a final game drive, as the golden hues of the setting sun wash over the conservancy. Capture unforgettable photos and reflect on your connection with nature.

🚐 Evening Return Journey

🛣️ Scenic Drive Back to Nairobi – Relax and reflect during your return journey through Kenya’s countryside. Your expert driver will ensure a comfortable ride back to the city after a day filled with awe and adventure.
🏨 Hotel Drop-Off in Nairobi – Arrive at your hotel in the evening with incredible memories, a newfound appreciation for conservation, and perhaps even a few stories to tell about your close encounters with Africa’s majestic wildlife.

Trip Location

Location: Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya

Located between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Ranges, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a renowned wildlife sanctuary in Laikipia, Kenya. It is celebrated for its cutting-edge conservation efforts, Big Five wildlife, and unique rhino protection programs, blending luxury safari experiences with purposeful travel.

🦏 Home of the last two northern white rhinos: Ol Pejeta is the only place on Earth where you can see the last two remaining northern white rhinos—Najin and Fatu—protected under 24/7 armed surveillance. This extraordinary conservation story makes the conservancy a global symbol of species preservation and a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
🦁 Big Five game viewing: The conservancy is one of the best places in East Africa to spot the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—in a non-crowded, private setting. Game drives, walking safaris, and night drives offer exceptional wildlife sightings in diverse habitats ranging from savannahs to acacia woodlands.
🧬 Rhino Sanctuary & Research: Beyond the northern white rhinos, Ol Pejeta is home to over 140 critically endangered black rhinos, making it East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary. Visitors can tour the rhino research centers, meet animal caregivers, and learn about genetic rescue missions and anti-poaching technologies.
🐕 Anti-poaching dog unit: Explore the conservancy’s K9 unit, where trained dogs help track poachers and protect wildlife. Live demonstrations give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at conservation in action, including scent-tracking and apprehension drills.
🦓 Rare species conservancy: Ol Pejeta also shelters endangered species like the Grevy’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, and African wild dogs. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary within the conservancy is the only place in Kenya where you can see rescued chimpanzees, making it a one-of-a-kind primate experience.
🎓 Community conservation model: A portion of tourism revenue supports education, health, and infrastructure in surrounding communities. Learn how sustainable tourism empowers local populations and supports co-existence between people and wildlife—a great example of ethical and responsible travel.
🏕️ Luxury and eco-friendly lodges: Stay at top-tier accommodations ranging from luxury tented camps to eco-lodges that overlook watering holes and game-rich plains. Options like Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Porini Rhino Camp, and Ol Pejeta Bush Camp offer intimate safari experiences and guided nature walks.
🚲 Unique safari activities: In addition to traditional game drives, Ol Pejeta offers cycling safaris, lion tracking, horseback safaris, jogging with rangers, and bush breakfasts—giving travelers a diverse and immersive experience in the wild.
📍 Easy access from Nairobi: Located about 3.5–4 hours’ drive or a 45-minute flight from Nairobi, Ol Pejeta is easily accessible for both short getaways and luxury safari extensions. Its blend of wildlife, conservation, and comfort makes it ideal for families, honeymooners, and nature lovers alike.

Things To Do In Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Additional Activities and Excursions

Enhance your Ol Pejeta Conservancy Day Tour with a selection of immersive wildlife encounters and conservation experiences available at an additional cost. These optional activities offer unique opportunities to deepen your connection with nature, support conservation efforts, and explore one of Kenya’s most innovative wildlife sanctuaries.

🦏 Northern White Rhino Sanctuary Visit – 35 USD per person
Step into history with a guided visit to the world’s last two northern white rhinos—Najin and Fatu. Hosted by a ranger from Ol Pejeta Conservancy, this once-in-a-lifetime experience offers insights into the cutting-edge conservation science, genetic rescue efforts, and emotional story of these critically endangered giants.
📸 Perfect for wildlife photography, conservation lovers, and rhino enthusiasts.

🐵 Chimpanzee Sanctuary Tour – 20 USD per person
Discover Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary, home to rescued and orphaned chimps saved from illegal trade. Operated in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, this educational tour explores chimpanzee behavior, family dynamics, and rehabilitation efforts.
🧠 Ideal for families, animal lovers, and those passionate about primate conservation.

🐘 Lion Tracking Experience – 45 USD per person
Join the Ol Pejeta research team for an unforgettable radio-collaring lion tracking expedition. Using telemetry equipment, follow the movements of pride leaders while learning about predator-prey dynamics, territorial behavior, and conservation strategies.
🧭 Great for adventure seekers, photographers, and conservationists at heart.

🐆 Endangered Species Enclosure Tour – 25 USD per person
Take a guided walk or drive through the special sanctuary that protects some of Africa’s most critically endangered species, including the Grevy’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, and the northern white rhino. Learn about habitat restoration, breeding programs, and anti-poaching initiatives.
🌿 Recommended for ecotourists, educators, and students.

🐎 Horseback Safari Around the Rhino Enclosure – 60 USD per person
Experience Ol Pejeta like never before on a guided horseback ride around the endangered species enclosure. Enjoy close views of rhinos, zebras, and giraffes while quietly traversing the grasslands—a serene and unforgettable way to view wildlife.
🐾 Perfect for equestrians, romantic travelers, and nature photographers.

🎯 Bush Skills & Wildlife Education for Kids – 15 USD per child
A specially designed children’s activity program where young explorers can learn essential bush skills—like animal tracking, birdwatching, and identifying scat. Led by experienced educators, this hands-on program nurtures curiosity and eco-awareness.
🎒 Ideal for families with children aged 6-12.

🍴 Lunch at Morani’s Restaurant – Meals priced individually
Take a break at Morani’s Café & Restaurant, located within Ol Pejeta. Enjoy a hearty meal or light snacks while overlooking the waterhole frequented by warthogs, buffaloes, and zebras. Their farm-to-table menu features vegetarian and African-inspired dishes.
🍽️ Great for foodies, slow travelers, and casual relaxation.

📸 Photography Hide Session – 30 USD per person
For keen wildlife photographers, book a session in Ol Pejeta’s sunken photography hide—strategically positioned near water sources. This quiet, camouflaged setup allows you to photograph elephants, buffaloes, and birds up close without disturbing their behavior.
📷 Tailored for photographers and nature lovers.

These optional activities offer a tailor-made Ol Pejeta safari experience, blending close-up wildlife encounters with powerful conservation messages and immersive cultural insights. Whether you’re visiting for photography, education, family bonding, or quiet reflection in nature—there’s something for every kind of traveler.