Why Travel Here
As a private conservancy, albeit one run not-for-profit, Ol Pejeta offers a different kind of wildlife experience to that of the larger national parks and reserves – albeit one that’s no less magical. Ol Pejeta is fenced, to ensure the security and wellbeing of some of the exceptionally rare creatures it protects.
Careful management of the conservancy has resulted in a game density that’s higher than anywhere else in Kenya, with predators particularly well represented. This means Ol Pejeta safaris can be exceptionally rewarding in terms of both numbers and varieties of species seen.
Ol Pejeta’s importance is underlined by the fact that it functions as the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, offering these harried creatures a place of safety and security. Visitors are also delighted when they discover that Ol Pejeta also houses a chimpanzee sanctuary – the only one of its kind in Kenya.
By visiting Ol Pejeta, guests make a direct financial contribution to two vital strands of the conservancy’s work: community outreach, to spread important conservation messages well beyond the boundaries of Ol Pejeta, and research into wildlife management best practices, so that this knowledge can be disseminated for the ultimate benefit of Kenyans, and the wildlife they have stewardship of.
On the map
Through The Year
Ol Pejeta may be positively disrupting conservation across Kenya and beyond, but it’s still subject to the classic four-season equatorial weather pattern. Not of course that this is a bad thing; as the weather changes, so the bush and the wildlife respond, making for different experiences at different times of year. That applies both to the weather, and to visitor numbers and availability in the lodges on the conservancy. All that remains, is to choose!
The long dry season is peak season at Ol Pejeta, and the most popular time to visit thanks to the dry, sunny weather, and the fact that as this season progresses, the vegetation tends to die back somewhat, facilitating even better sightings. As ephemeral water sources begin to dry up, animals are more likely to be found closer to reliable waterholes, and these concentrations can make for fascinating interactions as competition for liquid resources increases.
The short rains can be a time of great beauty at Ol Pejeta. With the raindrops keeping the dust on the ground, there’s a wonderful, clear quality to the light after each shower. With the fresh scent of petrichor in the air, everything feels new and revived. With fewer visitors at this time of year, the travellers that do come here often feel that they have their own private piece of Africa.
The shorter dry season sees Ol Pejeta change again, with November’s green flush faltering, and animals once again beginning to concentrate where water is surest. The roads begin to dry out again, making game drives perhaps a little less adventurous, but also smoother. Thanks to all the research carried out at Ol Pejeta, guides have an exceptional understanding of where best to look for game in each season, adding to the richness of the safari experience.
The long rains see Ol Pejeta turn green almost overnight, and stay that way for several months. With no dust in the air, the views across to the jagged peak of Mount Kenya are particularly clear, and the lush vegetation shows Ol Pejeta at its most fecund and attractive. Birding is brilliant during this season, thanks to the many migratory species arriving at Ol Pejeta, while the profusion of new animal life adds genuine joy.
Safari Trips To This Destination
Wings Over Kenya is the ultimate safari, offering luxury without compromise.
Kenya is the home of safari, where you can truly see it all. This comprehensive safari visits some of the country’s exceptional wildlife sanctuaries, including Amboseli, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara.
This 15-day extravaganza is our longest established, signature safari.
This 15-day extravaganza is our longest established, signature safari. It’s perfect for the first-time traveller to East Africa.
Kenya is the home of safari, where you can truly see it all. This comprehensive safari visits some of the country’s exceptional wildlife sanctuaries, including Amboseli, Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru and the Masai Mara.
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