Stay Longer, Stay Remoter: Laikipia Safari
A safari to Laikipia is not about rushing from one wildlife sighting to the next, but rather, game viewing in a more immersive and active way. From walking safaris, to mountain biking, horse and camel rides, to meeting with rhino researchers and anti-poaching units, and even scenic flights aboard helicopters or bi-planes, a Laikipia safari will expand your perspective about what an African safari truly is.
For those looking to go on safari sooner rather than later, Laikipia is an exceptional destination. December to March is the dry season, which means clear skies, cooler temperatures and stellar game-viewing. Equally important, Kenya requires a negative PCR Covid-19 test result within 96 hours of arrival. Additionally, safariers come from the United States can fly directly into Nairobi from New York on Kenya Airways.
As a matter of fact, AAC clients recently returned from such a safari. See what our clients Darlene and Mark Knott had to see about their September Laikipia safari.
Laikipia: Overview
Rather than being a single national park or reserve, Laikipia is a region composed of numerous privately-owned ranches and conservancies. In short, cattle share the land with many of Africa’s most iconic wildlife species, providing sustainable solutions for both wildlife and locals. As a result, the safari experience within private conservancies is more “exclusive” and the variety of available activities greater.
With that in mind, take a look at this photo gallery to see what the Laikipia safari experience means.
AAC’s Favorite Camps & Lodges in Laikipia
Solio Lodge
- Location: Solio Ranch and Wildlife Sanctuary
- # of Rooms: 4 luxury cottages & 1 family cottage (with 2 en-suite bedrooms)
- Available Activities: day & night game drives; guided walks; school & community visits; scenic helicopter ride; massages; mountain biking; horseback riding; visit a coffee plantation; birdwatching; fishing
In Laikipia’s far south, lies the 19,000-acre Solio Ranch and Wildlife Sanctuary. Solio boasts an astonishing population of both black and white rhinos, and it arguably offers the best game viewing experience in the whole Laikipia region. In recent years, African Wild Dogs have been reintroduced. Nestled within the ranch’s boundaries is Solio Lodge, one of Kenya’s most luxurious lodges. This intimate lodge’s rooms are surrounded by glass panes and are very spacious, with en-suite bathrooms and a private lounge equipped with a fireplace. After a long day enjoying the many activities on hand, you can even enjoy an in-room massage!
Loisaba Tented Camp
- Location: Loisaba Conservancy
- # of Rooms: 12 luxury tents
- Available Activities: day & night game drives; guided walks; meet the Loisaba Conservancy anti-poaching unit; mountain biking; horseback riding; fishing
Loisaba Tented Camp is located in the Loisaba Conservancy, a 65,000 acre ranch located in northern Laikipia. As can be seen, the camp is perched on the edge of the Rift Valley escarpment, with breathtaking views of the plains below. The camp’s 12 tents are all en-suite, have polished wood floors and expansive verandas to take in the spectacular views. For family groups, 6 of the tents can combine to form 3 two-bedroom family tents. Uniquely, a notable activity is spending time with Loisaba’s anti-poaching unit and their dogs. Lastly, the main area has a beautiful infinity pool, ideal for cooling off after an active day!
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
- Location: Ol Pejeta Ranch
- # of Rooms: 6 tented suites & 1 family tented suite
- Available Activities: day & night game drives; guided walks; lion tracking
Slightly north of Solio lies the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. By and large, if you consider yourself to be a price-conscious safarier, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp offers a rustic, yet comfortable way to experience Laikipia. The 7 tented suites are all en-suite, with flush toilets and hot-water bucket showers. Furthermore, guests are able to meet with conservation researchers and visit the nearby Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
Sirikoi
- Location: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- # of Rooms: 4 luxury tents, 1 two-bedroom Cottage & 1 three-bedroom House
- Available Activities: day & night game drives; guided walks; school & community visits; scenic helicopter ride; massages; mountain biking; horseback riding; visit a coffee plantation; birdwatching; fishing
Moving further north, you reach Sirikoi, a luxurious lodge located within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. While on safari, you will be able to enjoy fantastic views of the nearby Mt Kenya. The lodge overlooks a natural waterhole that attracts local wildlife. For families or small groups looking for an even more exclusive experience, there are two villas, each with an assigned private guide, vehicle and staff. Otherwise, the camp has merely 4 tented suites, and the spacious living and dining area includes a swimming pool and a great deck with a fireplace.
Lewa Wilderness Lodge
- Location: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- # of Rooms: 9 thatched cottages
- Available Activities: day & night game drives; guided walks; school & community visits; scenic helicopter ride; massages; mountain biking; horseback riding; visit a coffee plantation; birdwatching; fishing
Our last featured Laikipia property offers an incredible array of activities. Along with horseback riding, camel rides and walks, guests at Lewa Wilderness can ride on a bi-plane as it twists and turns over Laikipia’s landscape! Equally important, the camp exudes a rustic, down-to-earth charm, from its uniquely decorated thatched cottages to the home-style meals made from garden ingredients.
Sample Itineraries Featuring the Laikipia Region
Given these points, AAC would like to share two itineraries with you that showcase how Laikipia can be incorporated into your next safari. If you’re interested in either of these itineraries, or wanted to customize your own itinerary featuring Laikipia, fill out our Safari Questionnaire below!
12-DAY CLASSIC KENYA FLYING SAFARI
11-DAY CONSERVATION SAFARI TO KENYA