Absolutely! Laikipia County in Kenya is indeed a remarkable destination with its diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures. Here’s a curated list of some of the best places to visit in Laikipia County:
Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy stands as a premier destination in Kenya located along Nyeri_Nyahururu road 72km from Nyahururu town. It notably shelters the last two Northern White Rhinos globally, accentuating its conservation significance. Don’t miss the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the sole sanctuary of its kind in Kenya. The reserve’s varied landscapes, from open plains to acacia forests, harbor many species including black rhinos, elephants, lions, and an array of antelopes and birds. Activities like game drives, walking safaris, and horseback riding immerse visitors in the untamed beauty of the Laikipia Plateau. With only three camps, encounters with other vehicles are rare, ensuring an authentic wilderness experience. The entry fees are ksh.2,000 for adults and ksh.1,000 for every child.
Thompson’s Falls
Thomson’s Falls, situated in Nyahururu town, is a captivating waterfall drawing visitors worldwide. Plummeting 74 meters, it lies just a few kilometers from Lake Ol Bolossat, fed by the Aberdare Mountain Range. Tourists can marvel at the falls from above or venture down a trail to the bottom of the ravine for a closer view. Upstream, a notable attraction is one of Kenya’s highest hippo pools. The falls gained fame appearing in the TV movie “The Man in The Brown Suit,” released around 1988. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a children’s play area, scenic viewpoints, and a nearby craft village. With its picturesque setting, Thomson’s Falls offers an idyllic spot for picnics, as well as prime opportunities for bird-watching.
Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy
Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy stands as a bastion for preserving the region’s pristine wilderness and its diverse wildlife. Notably, the conservancy is dedicated to safeguarding the critically endangered mountain bongo, a species of antelope teetering on the brink of extinction. The conservancy is also home to a plethora of wildlife including elephants, leopards, buffalo, and giant forest hogs. The conservancy’s commitment to conservation extends to breeding programs for rare species like the white zebra and the mountain bongo, as well as efforts to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned and abandoned wild animals. Visitors are warmly welcomed to explore the animal orphanage, where they can interact with and learn about the local wildlife. Here, one may encounter cheetahs, leopards, pygmy hippos, and other indigenous animals, providing a rare opportunity to observe the elusive mountain bongo in its natural habitat.
Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy
The Conservancy is Kenya’s second-largest rhino sanctuary and boasts the unique distinction of housing Africa’s sole grizzly bear, Potap, a gift from Russia. At 19 years old, Potap enriches the conservancy’s diverse wildlife population, which includes 55 black and 25 white rhinos, 400 elephants, 5 large carnivore species, 3 primates, 22 ungulate species, and 310 bird species. Visitors revel in the untouched natural beauty, enjoying activities like game drives, horseback riding, and walking with baboons. Cultural enrichment awaits at the Twala Cultural Centre, making the conservancy an extraordinary destination for wildlife enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. It is located 164km from Nyahururu town along Laikipia road.
Solio Ranch Conservancy
Solio Ranch along Nyeri_Nyahururu road stands as Kenya’s oldest rhino sanctuary, a privately owned wildlife preserve committed to the conservation of these majestic creatures. Solio Game Reserve originated when the owner of the Solio cattle ranch decided to fence off a substantial portion of land for conservation purposes. Central to its mission is the protection and breeding of black rhinos in Kenya. The success of Solio’s rhino breeding program has been remarkable, contributing significantly to restocking game reserves across Africa. Alongside rhinos, visitors to Solio Ranch can encounter a variety of other wildlife, including gazelles, giraffes, lions, hyenas, and buffaloes, enriching the safari experience with diverse encounters.
Ol lentille Conservancy
Ol Lentille is a captivating private conservancy, nestled 75 kilometers north of Mount Kenya. Named after the prominent hill that dominates its landscape, Ol Lentille rests on the northern escarpment of the Laikipia Plateau. Collaborating closely with the local community, the conservancy, based on Kijabe Group Ranch, is dedicated to safeguarding the area’s wildlife. Visitors may witness klipspringers gracefully leaping among the rocks, while hyenas lurk in anticipation of a meal, and the elusive leopard may be spotted flickering high amidst the trees. Additionally, there’s a chance to encounter greater kudu and rare wild dogs within the conservancy’s boundaries. Beyond its diverse wildlife, Ol Lentille enchants with its breathtaking scenery. Rolling hills adorned with acacia and wild olive trees stretch as far as the eye can see, while fig and fever trees flourish in sandy riverbeds. On clear days, the ranch offers spectacular vistas, with Mount Kenya, the Matthews Mountains, and the Karisia Hills often visible from its elevated vantage points. Whether admiring the wildlife or soaking in the stunning landscapes, Ol Lentille promises an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness.
Loisaba Conservancy
Loisaba 101km from Nyahururu town is owned by the Loisaba Community Trust, committed to wildlife conservation and ecological preservation. Positioned on the western edge of a crucial elephant movement corridor, Loisaba strives to safeguard wildlife diversity and habitat while supporting sustainable livestock practices and enhancing local livelihoods. Visitors to Loisaba are offered a diverse array of activities, from thrilling game drives in custom-designed Land Rover vehicles to horse-riding, camel trekking, guided bush walks, fishing, and mountain biking. Cultural encounters with Samburu villages and visits to anti-poaching sniffer dogs add depth to the immersive experience, ensuring an unforgettable adventure in Kenya’s wilderness.
Sosian Lodge
Sosian Lodge epitomizes the fusion of luxury and wilderness, offering a distinctive and intimate bush experience. Surrounded by pristine landscapes, guests relish in exclusive wildlife encounters, encountering a plethora of species including elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, hippo, and giraffe, as well as rare treasures like wild dog, Grevy’s zebra, and Jackson’s hartebeest. Boasting over 250 bird species, Sosian also delights bird enthusiasts. The lodge is meticulously hosted by a seasoned team, ensuring a welcoming and relaxed ambiance. Each day is tailored to guests’ preferences, offering a variety of safari activities such as car, horseback, or walking safaris. From galloping alongside giraffes to tracking lions or quietly observing nature, Sosian promises unforgettable moments in the heart of the wilderness. The lodge is located 77 km from Nyahururu town along Nyahururu_Rumuruti Road.
Mugie Wildlife Conservancy
Located in the remote northwest of Laikipia, along Nyahururu_Rumuruti road, Mugie Ranch stands as a remarkable private ranch and game sanctuary teeming with diverse wildlife, including rare and endangered species. It serves as a serene haven for unwinding, particularly after months of strenuous activities. Tented camps provide comfortable accommodation amidst breathtaking surroundings, offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in game viewing, birdwatching, camping, and bush walks. For those seeking a luxurious wilderness retreat, Mutamaiyu House, Mugie’s exclusive lodge, awaits. With gracious and spacious accommodations, delectable home-cooked meals, and a plethora of activities, including game drives and cultural encounters, Mutamaiyu House promises an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Mugie Ranch.
Laikipia Plateu
Laikipia’s landscapes exhibit a striking blend of varied and dramatic scenery, epitomizing the quintessential African aesthetic. However, it’s the region’s vibrant array of wildlife that truly steals the spotlight, presenting a theatrical spectacle of nature’s finest. Laikipia serves as a haven for some of East Africa’s most endangered species, meticulously protected within its boundaries. Among them are the majestic black rhinos, the iconic Grevy’s zebra, and a notably rare population of wild dogs, revered for their exuberant and dynamic behavior. In addition to these rarities, Laikipia boasts the presence of the illustrious Big Five — lion, Cape buffalo, elephant, leopard, and both black and white rhinos — further enhancing its allure as a premier safari destination.
These are just a few highlights of the many incredible destinations that Laikipia County has to offer. Whether you’re interested in wildlife safaris, cultural encounters, or adventure activities, Laikipia promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness.
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