Laikipia

Overview

An unforgettable journey awaits you in Laikipia where luxury intersects with wildlife and natural beauty. Set against the backdrop of Kenya’s stunning landscapes, this part of Kenya is a well-kept secret that offers the high-end traveler a bespoke safari experience. Nestled between the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley, this captivating region is an exclusive paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Laikipia’s pristine wilderness sprawls over nearly 9,500 square kilometers. Not only is this area home to the second-largest population of elephants in Kenya, but it also boasts more than half of Kenya’s black rhinos, the country’s most threatened species. Here, wildlife roams freely in the wide-open savannahs, teeming wetlands, and scenic hills.

Laikipia Map

A Wildlife Haven

Imagine witnessing the majesty of nature unfold as you embark on game drives in luxurious, custom-built safari vehicles. Laikipia is a wildlife haven, hosting unique species not commonly seen in other parts of Kenya. Spot the graceful reticulated giraffe, the endangered African wild dog, and the majestic Grevy’s zebra. Look out for the charismatic Beisa oryx, Jackson’s hartebeest, and the gerenuk – a long-necked antelope that stands on its hind legs to feed. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the chance to join night drives and observe nocturnal animals like the aardvark, bat-eared foxes, and the mysterious leopard in action. The special location of Laikipia, with its combination of woodland, bush, and grassland, attracts a diverse array of bird species, making it an excellent destination for bird-watching as well.

Accommodation

Not to be overshadowed by the breathtaking wildlife, luxury accommodation is a distinct feature of Laikipia. From elegant colonial ranch houses to eco-friendly lodges, Laikipia ensures you bask in comfort without compromising the immersive safari experience. These lodges typically offer high-end amenities, such as private plunge pools, gourmet dining experiences, and personalized service, all while respecting the surrounding environment.

Our top picks

Ol Pejeta main area Mount Kenya sunrise
Asilia Africa Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp -Double Vanity
Asilia-Ol-Pejeta-Bush Camp - Family Room - Twin set-up with view into lounge and main bedroom
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - Family Tent Exterior
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - Family tent layout - main room, lounge, twin set up
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - Family tent
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - Guest enjoying sundowner snacks
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - Guest tent exterior
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - Guest tent with veranda
Asilia Ol Pejeta Bush Camp - lounge area with fire

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp

Guarded by the snowy tips of the mighty Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is located in Laikipia Province.

HIGHLIGHTS

Night Drives

Riding Safari

Cultural Visits

Big Cats

Interior view of a tent at Lewa highlighting the bedroom and veranda
Early morning refreshments have been served on the private veranda at Lewa
An alighted pathway leading to moon viewings at Lewa at night
Internal view of the twin room inside the family tent at Lewa with the private deck in the foreground
A freshly made double bed inside the family tent at Lewa
The private deck outside of the family tent at Lewa
Internal image of one of the en suite bathrooms at Lewa
Internal view of the double bed inside one of the bedrooms at Lewa

Lewa House

Situated in the very heart of Laikipia, overlooking the northern slopes of Mount Kenya.

HIGHLIGHTS

Big 5

Night Drives

Fishing

Cultural Visits

Interior shot of the double sinks in one of the ensuite bathrooms at Loisaba Tented Camp
Interior view of the ensuite bathroom inside the double tent at Loisaba
The view from the deck at Loisaba Tented Camp with a bottle of red wine waiting to be enjoyed
Wide angle interior view of the double tent at Loisaba Tented Camp
Internal view of the living area at Loisaba Tented Camp with an inviting chair and freshly made coffee on the table
A wide angle view of the inside of the double tent at Loisaba Tented Camp showing the double bed and living area
Aerial view of Loisaba Tented Camp emphasising the camp's unique location
Exterior view of the family tent at Loisaba Tented Camp just after sunset beautifully lit up
Aerial view of the exterior of Loisaba Tented Camp as the sun begins to rise
Interior image of the spacious double bed within a luxury tent at Loisaba Tented Camp

Loisaba Tented Camp

Its prime location and strategic design make the camp as open as possible, giving guests a full viewing spectrum of their surroundings.

HIGHLIGHTS

Night Drives

Fishing

Riding Safari

Cultural Visits

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Enhance Your Safari Experience

To further enhance your safari experience, Laikipia offers a wide range of activities. Indulge in a guided bush walk with a local Samburu or Maasai warrior, try your hand at horse riding, or even experience a camel safari. For the more adventurous, the scenic landscapes of Laikipia provide excellent opportunities for mountain biking and rock climbing.

When to Visit

Now, when should you pack your bags for this amazing journey? Laikipia enjoys a moderate climate year-round due to its elevation, but the most popular time to visit is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. These periods provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals gather around watering holes, making them easier to spot.

What to Expect

Laikipia offers is a blend of wild adventure and comfort in one of the world’s most remarkable natural settings. As you explore this untamed wilderness, you’ll encounter rare and magnificent wildlife, stay in some of the world’s most exclusive lodges, and experience the vibrant local culture, all in the lap of luxury. When it comes to experiencing a high-end safari in Kenya, there’s no destination quite like Laikipia.

Experiences

Immerse yourself in the heart of Africa with a diverse range of experiences. Witness the grandeur of wildlife on safari drives, marvel at the kaleidoscope of birdlife, delve deep into rich cultural tours, and feel the pulse of the wild underfoot on guided bush walks. Adventure beckons.

A vehicle embarks on a night drive at sunset with hazy mountains in the background

Night Drives

When night falls, nature awakens and conditions are ideal for observing nocturnal creatures, such as leopards and bush babies, in their nightly escapades.

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A serene leopard rests and gazes intensely into the distance

The Big 5

The African elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhino make up the “Big Five,” once deemed the toughest challenges for Africa’s early big game hunters, are the most famous of Africa’s great beasts.

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A group of guests embark on a walking safari with their knowledgable guide

Walking Safari

Guided walking safaris provide true immersion with nature, bringing you into close contact and connecting with the animals around you.

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Two young lion cubs at play

Big Cats

Discovering Africa’s big cats – cheetah, leopard, and lion, is one of the truly magical experiences of a safari in Laikipia.

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Birdwatching

With hundreds of species to discover, including both common and rare birds, enjoy Laikipia’s immense variety in a multitude of habitats.

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A group of guests head out on horseback for a riding safari

Riding Safari

Horseback and camel riding safaris offer an exhilarating blend with nature, providing an unrivalled viewpoint that blends riders into the surroundings for more intimate wildlife encounters.

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Hikes

The Laikipia Plateau offers everything needed for a first-rate walking destination, with ideal temperatures for on-foot exploration.

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Fishing

Fishing with a spinning rod is a delightful and purposeful way to enjoy the nearby rivers, where you are joined by wildlife during a peaceful afternoon.

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A Maasai villager stands and gazes afar, with cloud covered hills in the background

Cultural Tours

Visitors with a cultural interest can engage with local communities, gaining first hand insight into their authentic lifestyles.

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A group of guests enjoy an evening drink against a stunning dusk backdrop

Plan your Safari

Each lodge has its own activities. Our Personal Travel Designers can talk you through them.

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Seasons

Why travel at this time

The short rainy season brings life back to the hills and valleys of Laikipia. Outside of peak holidays, rates are generally more affordable and fewer crowds means for more exclusive opportunities with the wildlife. In December, Wildebeest and antelope species will begin calving, bringing the next generation of their species into the world!

Climate

Temperatures cool down from the end of the dry season and rainfall begins to increase for a couple of months.

Low Temp: 10.3°C / 51°F
High Temp: 24.5°C / 76°F
96mm / 3.8in (pm)

Why travel at this time

This is a great time to visit where rates are more affordable and the weather tends to be more dry. The rains have brought greenery to the area, transforming the landscape into a wild paradise of flora and fauna. Calving continues up until the end of February.

Climate

Temperatures continue to increase as rainfall becomes infrequent. February is often the hottest month, averaging 28C during the day time.

Low Temp: 9.5°C / 41°F
High Temp: 26.4°C / 79°F
45mm / 1.8in (pm)

Why travel at this time

The camps that stay open during this season usually offer very competitive rates. Crowds are at a minimum and the landscape turns into a lush, green oasis.

Climate

The long rains arrive in Laikipia for the year, with the majority falling in April and May. The average temperature begins to cool down from its peak in March.

Low Temp: 11°C / 52°F
High Temp: 25.5°C / 78°F
125mm / 4.9in (pm)

Why travel at this time

This is the most popular time of the year to travel due to the consistently dry weather. Bushes and grass start to die down and animals begin to congregate around water sources, making viewings more frequent and easy. The climate becomes very pleasant, with cooler, dry days.

Climate

Jun-Sept is the driest time of the year. In Laikipia there is still occasional showers through the dry season, but much less consistent rain. Temperatures cool down until July, when they starting picking back up again. October can still be quite a wet month, so it’s worth traveling before then.

Low Temp: 10.5°C / 51°F
High Temp: 24.2°C / 76°F
80mm / 3.1in (pm)

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