Laikipia, Kenya: The Underrated Safari Destination You Need to Know About

Everyone knows that Kenya is one of the best African safari destinations in the world. Names like Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru….all ring a bell, but have you heard about Laikipia? 

Indeed, this region in Kenya is a hidden gem that few know about yet allows visitors to truly experience a luxury African safari in all its splendor. It’s more or less the size of Wales and with very few visitors roaming around, it’s clear why this area should be on everyone’s radar if you’re looking to avoid the crowds yet still want to experience some of the best wildlife sightings. 

It wasn’t always like this, though, as the region used to have huge farms and ranches, however, through many conservation initiatives and investments, Laikipia has become one of the most unique and exclusive areas to visit. 

How to get there?

Laikipia is easily accessible with a short flight from either the capital, Nairobi or directly from other destinations within Kenya like Masai Mara, and Amboseli, which allows you to save time and create the perfect itinerary.

What to do?

Of course, there’s the obvious wildlife which you certainly don’t want to miss out on and this can be done in various ways. From the traditional game drive to walking safaris (this is truly among our favorite activities) and even camel safaris, it’s all possible in Laikipia and certainly something you don’t always find in other areas in Kenya or even Africa in general.

By the way, did you know that half of Kenya’s black rhinos are located in Laikipia, and that the region is also the second most important area for wild dogs in the whole of Africa? This is just to give a few examples of how much the wildlife flourishes over here. 

If you like some motorised action, then a scenic biplane flight is a great way to get a bird’s-eye view over this wonderful slice of African wilderness. 

Or take an epic helicopter ride to see some of the most amazing sights in northern Kenya. Depending on the option you take, you can make several stops to take it all in and have some truly unique experiences like a picnic on the mountaintop, rainbow trout fishing, feeding orphan elephants,….. There’s an endless array of options to choose from. It’s a luxury African safari after all.

It’s a given that you equally have to experience and learn from the Maasai and Samburu tribes, which have been roaming this area for centuries and know the land better than anyone else.

The “singing wells,” as they like to call them are surely one of the most amazing and authentic experiences to have in Kenya and only found in this part of the country. It’s where the Maasai and Samburu dig deep into the lagha (dried riverbed) to reach the water. Once found they form a human chain and sing a beautiful song that acts as a signal to their cows to come over for a nice drink. 

While this is only during the dry season, you’ll quickly discover there are many year-round activities that can be had with the Maasai and Samburu, going from traditional village visits to beading workshops, archery lessons and even kids will have an amazing time if you decide to bring them along as they can learn local bush crafts and life lessons. Truly a special feeling to connect with these tribes while getting a glimpse of what their lives look like.

Another unique wildlife experience is visiting the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which houses the last 2 remaining northern white rhinos. While loads of efforts are being made to save the species, it’s never guaranteed and being able to observe the most rare animals in the world right now is certainly an experience you don’t want to miss out on. 

When to go?

First and foremost, it’s a year-round destination where every season has its advantages. 

July to October is the long, cool, and dry season. January and February are equally dry, yet temperatures are higher. During these dry seasons, the wildlife is gathering more often around the water sources which are limited in number during this time.

November and December is when the short rainy season is while the long rains arrive from April till June. In this time, there are many wetlands to be found in the Laikipia area, which show an abundance of animal activity. 

Where to stay?

Even though it’s not overrun by tourists yet, there is a fair amount of lodges available when visiting the Laikipia area. 

Segera retreat is regarded as one of the best if you’re looking for a luxury African safari and with a variety of accommodation options, there will always be one that suits your taste and needs perfectly. Lewa House is another really great option and so is Asilia Ol Pejeta bush camp, not to mention Governors Mugle and Elewana Kifaru House. 

There’s really an array of choices for a couple who’s looking to indulge in their next luxury African safari. 

What’s to come?

As if all the above isn’t convincing enough, there are of course new developments on the horizon. One of them is the upcoming opening of the andBeyond Suyian Lodge later this year which promises to become one of the stand-out accommodations of the whole region. With a well-known safari brand like andBeyond that shouldn’t come as a big surprise yet it just validates that everyone wants to make sure they can offer a slide of Laikipia to their clients because it’s just so special! 

So, if you’re looking to plan a luxury African safari, make sure to include Laikipia as it’s certainly one of the best places to go in Africa.