Laikipia: walking safaris, camels and conservation
Kenya's highland plateau trades vehicle-bound game drives for walking, camels and genuine community-run conservation.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy · Laikipia safari · Kenya safari
To step out of the vehicle and into the wild, look closely at what Laikipia's individual conservancies offer. This isn't a national park, but a vast patchwork of private and community land north of Mount Kenya. Free from standard regulations, it has become Kenya's most adventurous safari region, built around activities the main reserves simply cannot allow.
Laikipia vs a standard park safari
| Factor | Laikipia | Typical national park |
|---|---|---|
| Activities allowed | Walking, camel treks, night drives | Vehicle game drives only, in most cases |
| Land ownership | Private/community conservancies | Government-managed reserve |
| Best paired with | Samburu | Mara or Amboseli |
Highlights
- Safari beyond the vehicle
- The wildlife and conservation
- Who gets the most out of it
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Safari beyond the vehicle
Because this is private land rather than a national reserve, Laikipia offers diverse activities that aren't possible in the Mara. It's the best region for those seeking a more physical connection to the bush.
- Walking safaris accompanied by expert armed guides
- Camel-supported treks with nights spent under the stars
- Horseback riding alongside zebras and plains game
- Night drives and off-road access to sightings
02
The wildlife and conservation
Laikipia holds Kenya's second-largest elephant population and strong numbers of African wild dog. At Ol Pejeta Conservancy, you will find the world's last two northern white rhinos. Tourism revenue here is vital, funding local schools, water projects, and essential anti-poaching patrols across the plateau.
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Who gets the most out of it
Active travellers and families with teenagers tend to enjoy Laikipia most. We recommend three to four nights, which pairs naturally with a stay in Samburu to the north. It remains a firm favourite for repeat visitors looking for a deeper experience.
Dos
- Wear neutral colours — khaki, olive, sand
- Pack layers for cold early game drives
- Stay seated and keep voices low near animals
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen
Don'ts
- Don't wear bright colours, white or camouflage
- Don't feed or call to animals
- Don't leave the vehicle unless your guide says so
- Don't use drones — they need special permits
- Don't bring plastic bags (banned in Kenya and Tanzania)
What's usually included
- Accommodation in your chosen level
- Meals as listed in your itinerary
- Game drives with a professional guide
- Park and conservancy entry fees
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Your trip price, without guesswork
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Laikipia a sensible choice for a first safari?
Yes, especially for active travellers, though many first-timers combine it with the Maasai Mara for a classic big-herd experience.
When is the best time to visit Laikipia?
June to October and January to February are driest, though the plateau offers a worthwhile safari year-round.
