Laikipia Plateau

Exploring the Incredible Laikipia Plateau . Luxury Africa Safaris . Exclusive off-the-beaten-track Experiences

What better way to explore one of Kenya’s rugged northern wildernesses than on an exclusive and unforgettable Laikipia Plateau luxury safari? Although lesser known, this region is one of Kenya’s most prolific wildlife areas and is home to some of the world’s endangered species. Visitors who traverse this incredible landscape often find themselves overwhelmed by its wonders. In this guide, discover why you need to visit the Laikipia Plateau.

Laikipia Plateau, at a Glance

Situated on Kenya’s central highlands, the Laikipia Plateau stretches wild and wide: from the northwestern foothills of Mount Kenya—an ancient volcano crowned with glaciers and moorlands—to the shores of Lake Baringo at the edge of the Great Rift Valley, covering a stunning 3,668 square miles (9,500 square km). It sits within Laikipia County, bordered by the major urban centers of Nanyuki to the southeast and Nyahururu to the southwest.

“Laikipia” means “treeless plain” in the Maa language spoken by the Maasai people. Here, endangered species regularly roam alongside Boran cattle and camels across the untamed wilderness unlike any other region in Africa.

Most of the plateau lies impressively above the equator at an average, pleasantly cooling altitude of 6,500 feet, ideal for safaris year-round. It transitions from fertile, rolling ranchlands near the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya and the Aberdare Range to the harsh, semi-arid terrains of the Samburu and the Northern Frontier District. The Aberdare Mountains anchor the southwest, while the imposing Mount Kenya rises to the northeast, overlooking the Ewaso Ng’iro River as it flows northeast.

Once a patchwork of colonial cattle ranches and commercial farms, the region has reimagined itself as one of East Africa’s most progressive conservation landscapes. Conscious efforts have been made over time to create a safe haven for communities and wildlife to thrive.

Today, innovative wildlife conservancies serve as a testament to conservation successes, allowing nature, culture, and tourism to coexist harmoniously. Many beaten dirt roads crisscross the conservancies for easy access to attractions across the plateau.

Wildlife in the Laikipia Plateau

Laikipia’s wildlife is diverse, boasting an incredible mammal population in Kenya, that rivals even the wildlife-rich Masai Mara. It’s home to some of East Africa’s most endangered species, including black rhinos, Grevy’s zebra, and an extremely rare population of wild dogs, which is burgeoning.

The Big Five are all present as are the northern Kenyan wildlife, including the gerenuk, oryx, serval, Jackson’s hartebeest, and reticulated giraffe. Others include the cheetah, eland, Grant’s gazelle, impala, plains zebra, vervet monkeys, baboons, hippos, bat-eared fox, silver-backed jackal, and the wily and surprisingly likeable hyena.

Visitors are often thrilled by the rarity of wildlife found here. You’ll also spot Giza, a famous melanistic wild female black leopard in the acacia-dotted bushlands.

Tourism in the Laikipia Plateau

Laikipia Plateau Landscape

The Laikipia Plateau features one of Kenya’s most successful conservation successes, with many landowners turning cattle ranches into wildlife conservancies. For instance;

Ol Pejeta, a 360-km² not-for-profit wildlife conservancy, is home to an incredible population of the critically endangered black rhino, the world’s last two remaining northern white rhinos and chimpanzees. The sanctuary is open to day visitors, offering classic safaris in a pristine setting.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, another incredible sanctuary founded in the 1970s, is globally recognized for black and white rhino conservation and also boasts some of the most spectacular views in northern Kenya.
Il Ngwesi Group Ranch, a pioneering 16,500-hectare community-owned and managed wildlife conservancy and eco-lodge, is one of the first and most successful community-owned ecotourism initiatives fully managed by the local Maasai people.
Loisaba Conservancy, a 57,000-acre private reserve in Northern Laikipia, offers an unparalleled safari experience amidst untamed beauty in the heart of Kenya’s wilderness.

Laikipia may not be as renowned as the Masai Mara or Amboseli, but it is just as rewarding for seasoned travelers looking for something a little off-the-beaten-path yet exclusive, delivering unparalleled wilderness experiences.

Visitor numbers are carefully controlled and the presence of endangered species like rhino, wild dog, and Grevy’s zebra mean huge amounts of money and security are poured into their protection.

All in all, Laikipia is truly one of Kenya’s best-kept secrets, from its vast and unique biodiversity to its geology and landscapes. What else should you expect from this rather unique, exceptional and idyllic region on a safari?

Activities in Laikipia Plateau

While planning a Laikipia Plateau safari, expect low visitor numbers, limited accommodation, and a more exclusive experience. Activities here include;

Game drives: Embark on both morning and evening game drives with expert guides to spot several unique and endangered species, including the black rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes and African painted dogs, as well as the Big Five.
Walking safaris: Enjoy a walking safari through the Laikipia’s varied landscape for a more intimate and immersive experience.
Horseback riding, and camel treks: Ride quietly across the plains on a horseback or camel caravan as you approach giraffes and zebras in areas like Loisaba Conservancy and Borana.
Community and conservation visits: Engage with the pastoralist communities that help protect these vital habitats and learn about conservation efforts.

Best time to visit Laikipia Plateau

The best time to visit Laikipia Plateau is during the dry season between July and October. These months offer excellent wildlife viewing year-round, though the plateau can be visited throughout the year.