2-days Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Embark on an unforgettable 2-day safari to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a renowned wildlife sanctuary offering a unique blend of Big Five encounters and conservation efforts. Witness the majestic lions, graceful giraffes, endangered black rhinos, and elusive leopards in their natural habitat. Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a haven for rescued chimpanzees, and learn about their rehabilitation journey. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Laikipia Plateau, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Day 1: Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Day 2: Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Nairobi
Activities:
* Multiple game drives to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
* Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
* Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Laikipia Plateau.
Optional activities: Lion tracking experience, a visit to the Morani Information Center, or a guided bush walk (additional cost).
Optional Travel Upgrade:
Travel Between Parks with Light Aircraft: For a seamless and time-efficient experience, consider upgrading your transportation with a scenic light aircraft flight. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Kenyan landscape and significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to maximize your time on safari.
Wildlife & Conservation Highlights:
Ol Pejeta Conservancy: The Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes), chimpanzees, giraffes, zebras, impalas, elands, oryx, and a variety of bird species including ostriches, eagles, and vultures.
Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary: A haven for rescued chimpanzees, offering a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating primates up close.
Laikipia Plateau: Scenic landscapes, rolling hills, and acacia-dotted plains.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy (Approx. 3-4 hours drive)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Departure from Nairobi: Your professional driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel/residence in Nairobi. Ensure you have had breakfast and are ready for departure. A brief welcome and safari briefing will be conducted during the initial part of the drive.
- Mid-morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Scenic Drive to Nanyuki: The drive takes you north, passing through diverse landscapes. You'll traverse agricultural areas, and pineapple plantations, and enjoy scenic views of Mount Kenya (weather permitting). This drive provides a good introduction to the Kenyan countryside.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lunch in Nanyuki: You will stop for lunch in Nanyuki town, a common gateway to Mount Kenya and the northern conservancies. There are various restaurants available, offering local and international cuisine. Your guide can recommend a suitable option based on your preferences.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Drive to Ol Pejeta Conservancy: After lunch, continue the short drive to the entrance of Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Afternoon Game Drive and Conservancy Exploration: Enter Ol Pejeta and begin your first game drive. This conservancy is known for its conservation efforts, particularly with rhinos (both black and white). It's also home to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary and offers excellent opportunities to see the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and other wildlife like wild dogs, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species. Depending on your interests and time, you can prioritize certain areas or species.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Check-in and Relaxation: Check in to your chosen accommodation in or near Ol Pejeta. Allow time to freshen up and relax after the game drive.
- Evening (7:00 PM Onwards): Dinner and Overnight: Enjoy dinner at your lodge/camp. Depending on the property, you might have the opportunity for some stargazing or relaxation around a campfire.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Luxury: Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
- Mid-Range/Budget-Friendly: Several options are available outside the conservancy, offering a range of price points.
Day 2: Ol Pejeta Conservancy to Nairobi (Approx. 3-4 hours drive)
- Morning (6:30 AM - 7:00 AM): Early Morning Activity: Enjoy an early morning activity in Ol Pejeta. This could be:
- Game Drive: Focusing on specific wildlife, such as rhino tracking (if available and pre-arranged). Early mornings are excellent for predator sightings.
- Visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary: A chance to learn about these rescued primates. This usually involves a guided walk within the sanctuary.
- Guided Bush Walk: An opportunity to experience the conservancy on foot with a trained guide (pre-booking essential).
- Visit the Endangered Species Boma: Where you can learn about the conservation of endangered species like the northern white rhino.
- Breakfast (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Breakfast at the Lodge/Camp: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation.
- Late Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Final Activities and Check-out: Depending on the chosen morning activity and your departure time, you might have time for a short final game drive or other activities. Check out of your accommodation.
- Late Morning/Afternoon (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM): Drive back to Nairobi: Begin the drive back to Nairobi. A brief stop for lunch can be arranged en route if needed.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Arrival in Nairobi and Drop-off: Arrive back in Nairobi and your driver/guide will drop you off at your hotel/residence.
Important Notes:
- This is a sample itinerary and can be customized.
- Driving times are estimates and depend on road conditions and traffic, especially in Nairobi.
- It is highly recommended to book your safari well in advance, especially if you have specific activity requests (like rhino tracking or bush walks).
- Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather, including warm layers (especially for early mornings and evenings), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.