There are several advantages to choosing conservancies for your safari, or at least including one or more in your itinerary, as opposed to visiting only National Parks. Wildlife conservancies are often privately owned or managed by local communities. This means that they make their own rules like allowing night game drives and may often be much cheaper to access than the national parks.
Here are some of our favorite conservancies to visit.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a pioneering force in conservation, renowned for its efforts in protecting endangered species. Visitors to Ol Pejeta can embark on game drives in search of the Big Five, including the last two remaining northern white rhinos on Earth. The conservancy is also home to rescued chimpanzees at the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, adding a unique dimension to the safari experience.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, located in northern Kenya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its successful conservation initiatives and community engagement. Here, visitors can traverse vast savannahs teeming with wildlife, including the endangered Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and black rhino. Game drives in Lewa offer a chance to witness predator-prey dynamics unfold against the backdrop of majestic Mount Kenya.
Conservancies within the Masai Mara
While the Maasai Mara National Reserve attracts throngs of visitors each year, its adjacent conservancies offer a more exclusive and intimate safari experience. Conservancies like Mara Naboisho, Olare Motorogi, and Mara North boast pristine wilderness and low visitor numbers, ensuring unobstructed views of wildlife and minimal human impact. Game drives in these conservancies reveal the full spectrum of Maasai Mara’s biodiversity, from prides of lions to herds of elephants on the move.
Samburu-Laikipia Conservancies
The Samburu-Laikipia region in northern Kenya is a mosaic of private conservancies renowned for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba conservancies are home to species adapted to arid environments, such as the reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, and Somali ostrich. Game drives in these conservancies offer a glimpse into the lives of these specialized creatures, set against the backdrop of rugged hills and meandering rivers.
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the shadow of the ancient Taita Hills, offers a unique blend of luxury and wildlife conservation. Managed by Sarova Hotels, this private sanctuary is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and big cats. Visitors can embark on guided game drives through the sanctuary’s varied landscapes, from open plains to acacia woodlands, and enjoy luxurious accommodation at Sarova Salt Lick Lodge or Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge.
Lumo Community Wildlife Sanctuary
Lumo Community Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a testament to the power of community-led conservation. Managed by the local community in partnership with conservation organizations, Lumo Sanctuary is a haven for wildlife and a source of pride for the surrounding communities. Here, visitors can explore the sanctuary’s diverse habitats, spot elephants, zebras, and buffaloes, and experience authentic cultural interactions with the Taita people. Accommodation options include Lumo Wildlife Safari Camp, offering comfortable tented accommodation with stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Adding a conservancy to your itinerary
Kenya’s wildlife conservancies represent a triumph of conservation efforts, where biodiversity thrives and local communities benefit from responsible tourism. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or embarking on your first African adventure, a game drive through these conservancies promises moments of wonder, connection, and appreciation for the natural world.
You will soon be able to add these conservancies and more to your Tukio itinerary!