In the rolling plains of Laikipia County, between the foothills of Mount Kenya and the open savannahs of northern Kenya, lies one of Africa’s most inspiring wildlife stories – Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Once a colonial cattle ranch, this 90,000-acre stretch of land has transformed into East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary, a hub for conservation innovation, and a place where people and wildlife coexist.

But to understand what makes Ol Pejeta special, you must go back to its roots — and to the people who have called this land home for centuries.

Long before fences, gates, and ranger stations, the Laikipia region was inhabited by the Maasai and Pokot people. These pastoralist communities lived in harmony with wildlife, guided by rich traditions that revered nature, respected migratory patterns, and understood the rhythms of the land.

Today, Ol Pejeta works closely with the local communities making them beneficiaries of tourism revenue and also active partners in conservation.

This community-based conservation model is a pillar of the conservancy’s success — one that prioritizes education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods.

What Makes Ol Pejeta Conservancy Stand Out?

1. The Last Two Northern White Rhinos on Earth

Ol Pejeta is the only place in the world where you can see Najin and Fatu, the last two northern white rhinos. After decades of poaching decimated their population, Ol Pejeta became their final refuge. Although they can no longer breed naturally, groundbreaking IVF and genetic technology is giving hope for the subspecies' survival.

1. East Africa’s Largest Black Rhino Sanctuary

With over 150 black rhinos, Ol Pejeta boasts the largest protected black rhino population in East Africa. Thanks to rigorous anti-poaching measures, advanced tracking, and secure habitats, the rhino population is steadily growing.

1. Home of the Big Five

While known for rhinos, Ol Pejeta is home to all of Africa’s Big Five: elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, and buffalo. Safari seekers can also enjoy sightings of:

1. Grevy’s zebra
2. African wild dogs
3. Cheetahs
4. Jackson’s hartebeest
5. Over 300 bird species

Unlike crowded parks, game drives here are uncrowded, exclusive, and incredibly rewarding.

1. Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary – The Only One in Kenya

Founded in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, this sanctuary offers a second chance to rescued chimpanzees from Central Africa. Visitors can learn about chimpanzee behavior, conservation challenges, and rehabilitation efforts — a rare treat outside of West or Central Africa.

1. Technology-Powered Conservation

Ol Pejeta isn’t just about wildlife — it’s about innovation. The conservancy uses:

1. GPS tracking collars
2. Camera traps
3. Drones and AI-powered surveillance
4. Digital fence monitoring systems

This modern approach to conservation is setting the pace for protected areas across Africa.

Here’s what safari seekers can expect when visiting Ol Pejeta:

✅ Day and Night Game Drives

Track lions at dawn, watch elephants at sunset, or spot nocturnal predators under the stars.

✅ Walking Safaris

Accompanied by armed rangers, walk through the conservancy on foot for an immersive experience.

✅ Lion Tracking

Join researchers to track collared lions and contribute to citizen science.

✅ Visit the Rhino Cemetery

A somber, moving tribute to rhinos lost to poaching — and a reminder of what’s at stake.

✅ Behind-the-Scenes Conservation Tours

1. Meet rangers, tour the canine anti-poaching unit, and understand what it takes to protect wildlife daily.