The Laikipia Plateau : The Laikipia Plateau, a picturesque mid-altitude retreat at the foot of snow-capped Mount Kenya, was formerly ranch and community land before being turned into private game reserves. This patchwork of conservancies provides a unique chance to see Kenya’s Big Five and take in some of the nation’s best conservation initiatives.
Numerous endangered species can be found on the Laikipia Plateau, which serves as an ecological transition between the central highlands and the northern deserts. It is a bastion for wildlife protection, home to more than half of Kenya’s black rhinos and half of the world’s Grevy’s zebras. Visit this hotspot for rich biodiversity to see reticulated giraffes, Somali ostriches, Beisa oryx, larger and lesser kudu, gerenuk, and more. Sanctuary and Conservancy The plateau, which is separated into large animal conservancies including Lewa Wilderness Conservancy, Il N’gwesi Group Ranch, and Borana Ranch, provides a variety of unique experiences. Within the boundaries of immaculate conservancies, take part in guided walks, night drives, guided wildlife drives, and horses adventures.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Discover the 365 square kilometres Ol Pejeta, the most accessible and hospitable conservation area for day visitors to Laikipia. It is well-known for its rhino sanctuaries and is home to a variety of animals, such as reticulated giraffes, elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards. To give your wildlife journey more cultural richness, take part in lion tracking and traditional village visits.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
The 263 square kilometres Lewa Wildlife Conservancy was created in 1983 and serves as a crucial habitat for black and white rhinos and the Endangered Grevy’s zebra. Participate in lion tracking exercises and see an African wild dog pack that is semi-resident. An exceptional chance to witness these endearing primates is provided by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary Sweetwaters in Lewa.
Northern Laikipia Plateau
Explore Northern Laikipia, which is known for its denser bush and lesser wildlife numbers, for a more remote experience. These lodges offer an excellent bush retreat with an emphasis on walking safaris. The annual Camel Derby, held in Maralal, the capital of the Samburu tribe, draws tourists looking for cultural experiences. Experiences with Wildlife and Culture The Big Five can be easily seen on the Laikipia Plateau, which offers unparalleled wildlife viewing. Take night time drives to get a look at nocturnal animals. Savour the distinct excitement of bird gazing and camelback safaris. Quad biking, as well as cultural interactions with Samburu and Maasai people.
Although you may visit Laikipia Plateau at any time of year, the best time to see wildlife is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. Reduced precipitation from December to February, the end and start of the year, is also advantageous.
Accommodation in Laikipia
Arrival and Lodging Lewa Downs, Nanyuki, and Loisaba are the three primary airports that provide access to the Laikipia Plateau. Flying in from Nairobi and connecting to the Mara is a popular route. An alternative is to drive six hours from Nairobi. A range of lodging options are available, ranging from luxurious lodges like Lewa Safari Camp, Loisaba Tented Camp, and Ol Pejeta Bush Camp to communal homestays.
Activities at Laikipia Plateau
Everyone can find something to enjoy at Laikipia Plateau. Visitors can engage in activities in Laikipia Plateau. From wildlife regions like Lewa Downs and Borana, which serve as refuges for the endangered black rhino, to ranches and conservancies farther north that prioritise adventure and community-based pursuits like walking safaris, horseback riding, and camelback riding. Get the world at your fingertips by travelling to Laikipia for a completely unique Kenyan experience.
Horseback riding
Many of the former livestock ranches have been transformed into luxurious safari lodges where visitors may go horseback riding, take a Maasai hill walk, and discover the conservation initiatives that have made Laikipia famous. Immersion travel is what Laikipia is all about. Kids can camp, fish, and go tubing on the rivers. The day is very much centred around the relaxed atmosphere.
Birdwatching
Given the variety of bird species found in the plateau’s plain, you could as well choose to go bird watching in order to see some of the rare species. It is a birding safari in kenya destination with nearly 350 different bird species will be visible and audible to avid bird watchers. One of the main things to do on Laikipia Plateau is birdwatching.
Helicopter safari
A visit to Mount Kenya is especially advised, although Original Travel can also set up a helicopter trip between lodges or down to the shore if you’re feeling extremely pressed for time. If you take a helicopter, you will land at one of the numerous breathtaking lakes and tarns that blanket the upper slopes. The peaks that remain are the lava plugs of the eroded volcano. You can fly-fish for rainbow trout from the lakefront for a few hours, and a delectable picnic breakfast is provided. You will be on the mountain by 0730hrs because trips are planned early in the morning to give you the best chance to see the peak. A flight to Ol Lolokwe, the sacred peak of the Samburu people of Northern Kenya, is even more daring.
Maasai Culture
Immerse yourself in Masai culture and enjoy a wonderful cultural experience by visiting the manyattas and taking a tour around the local communities to get a sense of authentic African culture and lifestyle. Fascinating cultural variety among the Samburu and Maasai. A trip to the little town of Maralal, the unofficial capital of this fascinating tribe, is the greatest way to fully experience the Samburu people’s unique culture, customs, and vibrant way of life. A great evening is guaranteed with the delectable regional cuisine, the roaring bonfire on chilly evenings, and the captivating Maasai dancers.
Game drive safaris
You could also go on a game safari, where you would still see wildlife like black rhinos, nearly half of Kenya’s population, about 2000 elephants that migrate between Mount Kenya and Samburu, passing through Laikipia en route, an increasing number of wild dogs, and the stunning Grevy’s Zebra. The northern sector of Laikipia is by far the most isolated part of the Plateau for an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience. This area is home to numerous northern game species, including the reticulated giraffe, Jackson’s hartebeest, Grevy’s Zebra, and gerenuk.
There are increasing populations of leopards, lions, rhinos, elephants, and many other game species, and it is the only place where the number of wild canines is increasing. This is largely due to the Laikipia community’s and the Laikipia Wildlife Forum’s (LWF) innovative dedication, which was founded to advance conservation throughout the district’s private reserves. This region is known for its denser wildness and opportunities for walking exploration; seeing lions, elephants, and other large animals without a car is really thrilling and undoubtedly a highlight.
Walking safaris
Walking with local armed guides to see wildlife offers a close-up encounter with plants and animals as well as the wildlife. Lewa is a very unique safari destination because it offers the opportunity to go on a walking safari. You can choose to drive, walk, or bike to a remote location, or you can sit quietly and watch elephants, impala, waterbuck, and many other animals come to drink water in the surrounding marsh. The Big Five are all there, but populations are relatively low because the bush is thicker and scrubbier here than it is in the South.
Education tours
A interesting look into how the conservancy is run is offered by educational excursions that focus on the history and daily activities of the region. Get the most out of your trip by learning about the local way of life, the people that live there, and how nature and humans coexist.
Hiking
Those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventure can choose from a variety of hiking locations and ranges. You can include this in your safari here and go hiking to get a fantastic overview of the pastures from afar.
Bike safaris
You will still learn something new as you bike around on your two-wheel drive, regardless of whether you want to try it on a mountain or on a plain. Enjoy your comfort and your own pace, and take advantage of the opportunity to ride through the countryside while you’re completely at ease.
