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The Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Updated: Dec 9, 2024


ol pejeta conservancy

In this section we will look at

1.)About Ol-Pejeta Conservancy

2.)History of Ol-Pejeta

3.)Ol-Pejeta Map

4.)FAQ about Ol-Pejeta

5.)List of Ol-Pejeta Conservancy Activities

6.)Ol-Pejeta Annual Fees

8.)Ol-Pejeta Contacts

9.)Ol-Pejeta Store

9.9)Ol-Pejeta Camping Fees

10.)List of Camps at Ol-Pejeta Conservancy

11.)List of Lodges at Ol-Pejeta Conservancy

12.)Unique Features at The Ol-Pejeta Conservancy

13.)Research and Innovation at The Ol-Pejeta Conservancy

14.)Challenges Facing Ol-Pejeta Conservancy


Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Kenya’s leading private wildlife conservancies and a not-for-profit organization. Located in the Laikipia County on the foothills of Mount Kenya and Aberfare ranges , the conservancy spans approximately 90,000 acres. Renowned for its exceptional wildlife conservation efforts.


Black rhino at olpejeta conservancy

Ol Pejeta combines sustainable tourism, community engagement, and cutting-edge wildlife protection initiatives.Ol Pejeta is particularly famous for being the home of the last two northern white rhinos in the world, Najin and Fatu. These rhinos are under constant 24/7 armed guard, reflecting the conservancy’s commitment to protecting critically endangered species.



olpejeta conservancy

The area that is now Ol Pejeta was initially a cattle ranch during colonial times. In 1988, the land was converted into a wildlife sanctuary by investors who recognized the need for wildlife protection amid declining animal populations due to poaching and habitat loss. Since then, Ol Pejeta has evolved into a global model for conservation


The map of Ol Pejeta highlights its major features, which include Entrance Main Gate which is the primary access point for visitors entering the conservancy. Rongai Gate an additional entrance, often used for access from nearby towns. and Murera Gate another key gate located on the opposite end of the conservancy.

olpejeta map

Wildlife Habitats and Sanctuaries such as Northern White Rhino Sanctuary which is a secure enclosure for the world’s last northern white rhinos, Najin and Fatu, Black Rhino Sanctuary One of the largest protected areas for black rhinos in East Africa. Chimpanzee Sanctuary Managed in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, this sanctuary houses rescued chimpanzees. Big Five Viewing Areas Dedicated zones where visitors can spot lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.

ol pejeta map

Rivers and Water Features such as Ewaso Nyiro River which is a major waterway running through the conservancy, attracting wildlife and providing scenic picnic spots. Seasonal Waterholes that are Scattered throughout the conservancy, these attract animals during the dry season.

ol pejeta  conservancy map

Image of The ol pejeta conservancy map


As of 2024, the conservancy charges different fees for visitors based on residency and activity. These fees may change, so it’s advisable to confirm on their official website.


East African Citizen

2000 Ksh

East African Child

1000Ksh

East African Student

500Ksh

East African Resident Adult

3500Ksh

East African Resident Child

1750Ksh

East Afrian Resident Student

500Ksh

Non-Resident Adult

110USD

Non-Resident Child

55USD

Non-Resident Student

32USD

Ol Pejeta is a leader in Rhino conservation as it Houses the largest population of black rhinos in East Africa (over 150).



Up to 6 seats

1000Ksh

Up to 7-14 seats

5000Ksh

15 and More seats

12,000Ksh




  • Game Drives: Guided tours at an extra cost.

  • Chimpanzee Sanctuary Visits: Included in entry fees.

  • Lion Tracking: Approx. USD 40 per person.

  • Night Game Drives: Approx. USD 150 per group.


Ol-Pejeta Annual Fees

With an annual fee, this membership scheme allows you to enjoy UNLIMITED entry into the conservancy for a year and also grants you the opportunity to join an amazing community that is having a real impact on wildlife conservation and contributing to the livelihood development in Kenya. Go wild with spontaneous weekends and save money on half-term adventures with the family

Citizens

Individual (1 adult, 1 vehicle)

Ksh12,500

Couple (2 adults, 1 vehicle)

Ksh 20,000

Family (2 adults, 2 children, 1 vehicle)

Ksh 27,000

Additional child

Ksh 2,400


Individual (1 adult, 1 vehicle)

Ksh 17,000

Couple (2 adults, 1 vehicle)

Ksh 30,000

Family (2 adults, 2 children, 1 vehicle)

Ksh 42,000

Additional child

Ksh 4,800




Sanctuary Tambarare camp at Olpejeta

Image of Sanctuary Tambarare camp at Olpejeta

How many gates does OL-Pejeta Conservancy have

The Ol-Pejeta Conservancy has three main gates for entry and exit Serat Gate which is the (Main Gate) acts as the primary entrance, offering access to most of the conservancy’s central areas and accommodations ,Rongai Gate Located on the western side of the conservancy, often used by visitors coming from Nanyuki or nearby areas, Kamok Gate and HQ gate


Who owns OL -Pejeta conservancy

Ol-Pejeta Conservancy is owned by the Fauna & Flora International (FFI), a UK-based wildlife conservation charity.

How big is OL-Pejeta conservancy

Ol-Pejeta covers approximately 90,000 acres (364 square kilometers), making it one of Kenya's largest privately managed conservancies.

Why is Ol-Pejeta Conservancy Famous?

olpejeta conservancy gravesite

A. Home to the Last Northern White Rhinos
  • Ol Pejeta is globally recognized as the home of the last two remaining northern white rhinos, Najin and Fatu, protected 24/7 by armed rangers.

B. Big Five Game Reserve
  • The conservancy is one of the few places in Kenya where visitors can spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) in a single game drive.

C. Chimpanzee Sanctuary
  • Hosts the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya, a refuge for rescued chimpanzees, established in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute.


olpejeta conservancy

Image of olpejeta conservancy

D. Pioneering Conservation Efforts
  • Anti-poaching strategies: Using advanced technologies like drones and tracker dogs.

E. Community and Sustainability
  • Supports surrounding communities with healthcare, education, and water projects, funded through tourism revenues.

  • Focuses on sustainable tourism and livestock-wildlife integration.



Ol Pejeta Conservancy Activities


Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Image of Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Game Drives

Day and night drives allow visitors to explore its rich biodiversity.

Conservation Experiences

Visitors can engage in activities like rhino conservation tours and lion tracking.

Walking Safaris

Guided walks to observe wildlife up close.

Cycling Safaris

A unique way to explore the conservancy on two wheels.

Cultural Tours

Interactions with local communities to learn about their way of life.

Family-Friendly Activities

Kid-friendly programs and picnic spots make it ideal for families.




1.)Strict speed limit of 40 kph
2.)Do not discard litter or cigarette butts
3.)Off-road driving is strictly prohibited (unless approved by management). Keep to designated roads or tracks
4.)Beware of dangerous wildlife and do not get out of the car unless in a designated area. Remember you are food
5.)Wildlife always has right of way. Do not chase, follow or harass animals
6.)Do not feed wildlife from your car, in the wild or at your camp or lodge
7.)Do not sit or stand on vehicle's roof at any time
8.)Collection of firewood is prohibited
9.)Please do not damage or remove any flora or fauna, including bones and plants
10.)No driving in the Conservancy is allowed after 7pm
11.)No firearms, spears, bows and arrows of any kind are to be carried within the Conservancy
12.0Please ensure that you obtain an official receipt
13.)No use of private drones unless authorised

Olpejeta Contacts

+254707187141

+254705911021

+254710912324


Ol Pejeta Conservancy Store

olpejeta tote bag

Image of the Olpejeta tote bag

The Ol Pejeta Conservancy Store is an online and physical outlet that supports the conservancy’s conservation and community programs through the sale of merchandise. The store offers a variety of products, all tied to the themes of wildlife conservation, eco-conscious living, and the unique identity of Ol Pejeta.

  • Clothing and Apparel

  • Souvenirs and Accessories


Olpejeta conservancy lion

Olpejeta conservancy lion piece jigsaw

  • Art and Home Décor

  • Books and Educational Materials

  • Eco-Friendly Products


  • Camping per adult per night Ksh 3,500

  • Camping per child per night Ksh 1,750

  • Armed guide per night Ksh 5,000

List of Camps at Ol-Pejeta Conservancy
SPOONBILL CAMPSITE

Spoonbill campsite is situated along the grant plain overlooking the Spoonbill dam. The dam is frequently visited by a variety of wildlife, and spoonbill birds, especially in the dry season. Spoonbill is a public campsite and thus booking of the facility will not be exclusive


HIPPO HIDE CAMPSITE

HIPPO HIDE CAMPSITE

Situated on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and located close to the Hippo Hide walk way, where you can walk along the river bank while viewing hippos in their natural habitat


SCOTT’S HIDE CAMPSITE

camp at Scott's Plain next to the hide overlooking a water hole favored by a diverse range of animals. It’s the perfect spot for sundowners and camping and you get to witness the captivating wildlife up close


MURERA DONGA CAMPSITE

MURERA DONGA CAMPSITE

This secluded campsite surrounded by acacia trees is situated next to the marsh area in the Conservancy which due to the lush vegetation attracts wildlife throughout the year


OL LERAI CAMPSITE

Ol Lerai Campsite

Image of Ol Lerai Campsite at OL-Pejeta


Ol Lerai is located along the Ewaso Nyiro River and has the two unique features; a little island that’s a perfect for a sundowner and an extended river ideal for fishing.It is regularly frequented by herds of elephants and impala



SWEETWATERS SERENA CAMP

SWEETWATERS SERENA CAMP

Image of Sweetwaters Serena Camp Olpejeta

Located on the eastern side of Ol Pejeta, Sweetwaters Serena Camp offers 50 exquisitely designed tents that offer fantastic views of Mount Kenya and the watering hole


EWASO CAMPSITE

EWASO CAMPSITE

Image of Ewaso Campsite at olpejeta

Situated on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River and located close to the Hippo Hide walk way, where you can walk along the river bank while viewing hippos in their natural habitat


EWASO CAMPSITE olpejeta

Image of Ewaso Campsite at olpejeta

THE RIVER CAMP-ngobit campsite

THE RIVER CAMP-ngobit campsite

Image of The River Camp -ngobit campsite

A brand-new luxury camp operated by The Wilder Group. It sits on the banks of the Ngobit River in the Ol Pejeta wilderness and provides the ideal fusion of comfort, luxury, and natural elegance, guaranteeing some breathtaking views and experiences


KICHECHE LAIKIPIA CAMP

KICHECHE LAIKIPIA CAMP

Nestled at the foot of an indigenous forest overlooking a waterhole are six luxurious, custom-designed tents. The small lake offers the unique opportunity of canoeing


JAMBO MUTARA

 Jambo Mutara Camp

Image of Jambo Mutara Camp at Ol-Pejeta

Situated in an exclusive expanse of Mutara Conservancy Area, this boutique camp contains 12 spacious and private custom made rooms and two presidential and honeymoon suites in canvas


OL PEJETA BUSH CAMP

Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp

Image of Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp at The Ol-Pejeta

Situated on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, this small intimate camp accommodates a total of 12 guests and provides an opportunity for interactive conservation safaris


PORINI RHINO CAMP

Porini Rhino Camp

Image of Porini Rhino Camp at The Ol-Pejeta

Hidden in a secluded valley and overlooking a waterhole, this environmentally-friendly camp with high quality guides has seven spacious guest tents, each comfortably furnished with ensuite bathrooms



List of Lodges/Cottages at Ol-Pejeta Conservancy
OL PEJETA SAFARI COTTAGES

Ol-Pejeta Safari Cottages

Image of Ol-Pejeta Safari Cottages

These fully inclusive or self-catering cottages consist of 2, two bedroom units and 2, one bedroom units and aim to offer guests a private escape in a ‘home away from home’ bush environment




Unique Features at The Ol Pejeta Conservancy


Cattle Ranching Model

livestock farming at olpejeta

Image of livestock farming at olpejeta

Integrates livestock farming with wildlife conservation, demonstrating a sustainable land-use model.


Eco-Tourism

Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Image of Sweetwaters Serena Camp

Luxury accommodations like Sweetwater's Serena Camp and Ol Pejeta Bush Camp provide eco-conscious lodging.



Research and Innovation at The Olpejeta Conservancy

1. Conservation Research

Ol Pejeta collaborates with local and international researchers to study:

  • Wildlife behavior and migration patterns.

  • Ecosystem health and restoration.

2. Northern White Rhino Genetic Program

In partnership with organizations like the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Ol Pejeta is leading efforts to save the northern white rhino from extinction. This involves advanced reproductive technologies, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy.

The conservancy uses Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other digital tools to monitor wildlife, track poaching incidents, and plan land use efficiently.


Challenges Facing Ol Pejeta Conservancy

female black rhino ishirini

Gravesite of female black rhino Ishirini at Olpejeta

Funding and Resource Constraints

Maintaining high security, running community programs, and managing ecosystems require significant funding. Declines in tourism revenue, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, strain the conservancy’s budget.

Human-Wildlife Conflict

Despite efforts to mitigate conflicts, communities near Ol Pejeta occasionally suffer losses due to crop destruction and livestock predation.

Climate Change

Unpredictable weather patterns affect water availability and vegetation growth, impacting wildlife and livestock.

Poaching Threats

Although significantly reduced, poaching remains a concern, necessitating continuous vigilance.




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