Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Situated between the foot hills of the Aberdares and the magnificent snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya, the 90,000-acre private wilderness of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy boasts an astounding variety of wildlife, including all the members of the ‘Big Five' (the endangered black and white rhino, leopard, elephant, buffalo and lion).
Offering one of the highest wildlife densities in Kenya and a higher wildlife to acre ratio than any Kenyan national park, the conservancy offers sanctuary to a number of endangered species, most notably the rare Grevy's zebra and the Jackson's hartebeest. The largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, the conservancy also hosts the only sanctuary for chimpanzees in Kenya.

A non-profit organization devoted to the preservation of wilderness and wildlife, the conservancy charges fees for entry, the proceeds of which go towards the support of both the conservancy and the human community that surrounds it. Typically, these fees will be included within the rates charged to those staying overnight in one of the conservancy's accommodation options. Alternatively, and
The area is semi-arid and is best for cattle ranching as they are not very good for agricultural purposes. Earlier, it was a famous cattle ranch that was productive. There was a good water supply system and extensive fencing in the area. No wild life was there as the area was protected just for cattle breeding.

This Conservancy is spread over a huge area. It is strictly a wildlife conservancy. This Conservancy is located in central Kenya. The place has some of the breathtaking views as it is on the west of Nanyuki. The region falls between the lush green foothills of the Aberdares and Mount Kenya. This Conservancy is famous for wildlife conservation. It is a sanctuary for the great apes.

The Animals:
Ol Pejeta is perhaps the largest sanctuary for black rhinos in this part of Africa. The Conservancy successfully runs a cattle program that is well integrated with the wildlife present there. Among the other animals you can also see are:

African Civet       Bush Pig
Cheetah             Black & White Rhino
Giraffe             Giant Forest Hog
Aardvark            Grant’s Gazelle
Impala              Antelope
Hippo               Black Serval Cat
Patas Monkey        African Hunting Dog
Baboon              Chandler’s Reed Buck
Elephant            Reticulated Giraffe
Lion                Eland
Leopard             Waterbuck
Buffalo             Baboon
Suni                Side-striped jackal

Birds: With well over 500 recorded species of bird, Ol Pejeta is an ornithologist's paradise. Some of the bird species include:

Attractions and Activities:
You will never run out of things to do on Ol Pejeta. From game viewing, visiting rescued chimpanzees, to night drives and spending time with Morani the tame black rhino, you are sure to find something exciting to do.
Visit the Chimpanzees The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Home to over 42 chimpanzees, the sole objective of the sanctuary is to provide a safe, secure and permanent refuge for them. The Sanctuary is open from 9-10:30 and from 3:30 to 4:30p.m.
Game Viewing and Guided Bush Walks: Whether on foot or by car, explore Ol Pejeta's vast Savannah and view the “Big Five” and a host of other flora and fauna.

Night Game Drives:  Thanks to Ol Pejeta Conservancy’s private status it is able to offer the unique pleasure of night game drives.

Lion Tracking: Accompany their research teams to radio track the lion prides across the conservancy.

Bird Watching: With well over 500 recorded species of bird, Ol Pejeta is an ornithologist's paradise.

Game Viewing from Blinds: Long established hides and blinds are dotted around Ol Pejeta for the keen nature observers and photographers.

Camel Rides: Camel rides are available from Sweetwaters Tented Camp.

Community Visit: An opportunity to visit the surrounding communities and observe the tangible social benefits Ol Pejeta has created. Visitors can also get engaged at various levels to support community projects.

Visit the Cultural Manyatta: A unique insight into several of Kenya's pastoral communities, their history and rich and colorful culture and way of life

Getting There:
By Road: Just three hour's drive from Nairobi, the conservancy is open from 7am to 7pm and is accessed via its main gate, which is 8.7 miles after the equator turn off,  just before Nanyuki town.