Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a premier safari destination located in Laikipia County, Kenya, and offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style—from eco-friendly campsites to luxurious tented lodges nestled in the African bush. Whether you’re visiting for wildlife viewing, conservation experiences, or a family holiday, there’s a place for you to stay that’s close to the action.
This guide covers all the key accommodation types available within and around Ol Pejeta Conservancy, including budget, mid-range, luxury, and special experiences.
🧭 Quick Overview: Accommodation Categories
| Category | Examples | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | The Stables, Campsites | Backpackers, solo travelers, students |
| Mid-Range | Kongoni Camp, Pelican House | Families, couples, small groups |
| Luxury | Sweetwaters Serena Camp, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp | Honeymooners, high-end travelers |
| Exclusive Use | Kifaru House, Mutara Camp | Private groups, family reunions, VIPs |
| Special Interest | Research Cottages, Eco-camps | Conservationists, researchers, photographers |
🏕️ 1. Budget & Camping Options
🛏 The Stables
- Located inside the conservancy
- Former staff quarters converted into simple dorm-style rooms
- Shared bathrooms and dining area
- Ideal for students, volunteers, and travelers on a tight budget
Price range: $35–$60 per night per person
Good to know: Meals available; very social, backpacker-friendly vibe
⛺ Public Campsites
Ol Pejeta offers designated self-catering campsites for adventurous travelers.
- Pitch-your-own tent or bring a roof tent
- Firewood and water available on request
- Basic latrines and sometimes showers
Popular Sites: Ewaso Campsite, Hippo Hide Campsite
Price: ~$30 per adult, camping gear not provided
Ideal for: 4×4 travelers, overlanders, nature lovers
🛌 2. Mid-Range Lodges & Guesthouses
🏡 Pelican House
- A beautiful self-catering private house
- Sleeps up to 12 people in spacious, homely rooms
- Large living area, garden, and indoor fireplace
- Located within the conservancy
Ideal for: Families, groups, extended stays
Price: ~$300–$500 per night (entire house)
🦓 Kongoni Camp
- Located just outside Ol Pejeta, in Nanyuki
- Offers cottages and rooms with en-suite bathrooms
- On-site restaurant, WiFi, and swimming pool
- Easy access to both Ol Pejeta and Mount Kenya
Ideal for: Travelers who want to stay near but not inside the conservancy
Price: ~$80–$120 per night
🏕️ 3. Luxury Lodges and Camps
🐘 Ol Pejeta Bush Camp (Asilia Africa) – Authentic Safari & Conservation Focus
Category: Eco-luxury tented camp
Location: On the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Description:
Operated by Asilia Africa, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp combines authentic East African safari tradition with deep conservation purpose. With just seven en-suite tents (including a family tent), the camp offers solar power, sustainable design, and proximity to Ol Pejeta’s key conservation sites — including the northern white rhino enclosure.
Highlights:
- Conservation-centered safaris with expert Asilia guides
- Walking safaris, game drives, and visits to the chimpanzee sanctuary
- Carbon-neutral operations, solar power, and zero single-use plastics
- Ideal for those who want to engage with the conservancy’s rhino protection efforts
Ideal For: Conscious travelers, families, and eco-tourism enthusiasts
🏞️ Mutara Camp – Boutique Cliff-Top Luxury
Category: High-end boutique lodge
Location: On the border of Ol Pejeta, inside the 20,000-acre Mutara Conservancy
Description:
Mutara Camp offers panoramic cliff-top views across the Laikipia plains and direct access to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. As the only lodge in Mutara Conservancy, it provides complete seclusion. The camp features luxury canvas tents with hardwood decks, four-poster beds, soaking tubs, and glass-fronted verandas.
Highlights:
- Only 15 luxury tents, each with stunning views
- Infinity pool, fine dining restaurant, and bar
- Close proximity (15–20 minutes) to Ol Pejeta’s main gate
- Perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and exclusivity
Ideal For: Honeymooners, high-end travelers, and conservation enthusiasts
🌿 Kicheche Laikipia Camp – Luxury, Intimate & Immersive
Category: High-end, intimate tented camp
Location: Wilderness zone at the foot of an indigenous forest, overlooking a wildlife waterhole
Description:
Kicheche Laikipia Camp is an award-winning, eco-luxury tented camp tucked in the remote wilderness zone of Ol Pejeta. With only six spacious tents, including one custom-designed family suite, the camp offers personalized service, privacy, and world-class guiding. Each tent features en-suite bathrooms, solar-powered hot showers, and verandas with panoramic views of Mount Kenya.
Highlights:
- Small and exclusive with only 12–14 guests at a time
- Guided game drives, nature walks, and night drives in Ol Pejeta’s private zone
- Strong commitment to sustainable tourism and community benefit
- Excellent photography opportunities at the camp’s active waterhole
Ideal For: Couples, photographers, and travelers seeking eco-luxury and exclusivity
🏡 Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages – Home Comfort in the Wild
Category: Mid-to-high-end boutique cottages
Location: Riverside woodland in Ol Pejeta’s private wilderness area
Description:
Built in 2017 by safari professionals Andy and Sonja Webb, the Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages combine privacy, rustic elegance, and first-class service. Each cottage is individually designed with spacious bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and open-air living spaces shaded by acacias. Guests enjoy home-cooked meals, guided game drives, and a family-friendly environment.
Highlights:
- Exclusive use cottages for families or small groups
- Fully catered, with private chef and personalized hosting
- Access to private wilderness areas for secluded game drives
- Stylish yet eco-friendly construction
Ideal For: Families, long-stay visitors, and private groups seeking flexibility
🦏 Porini Rhino Camp (Gamewatchers Safaris) – Conservation at Its Core
Category: Classic eco-camp
Location: Secluded valley under acacia trees, along a seasonal river inside Ol Pejeta
Description:
Porini Rhino Camp exemplifies responsible eco-tourism — it is solar-powered, low-impact, and dedicated to funding rhino protection. With only eight spacious guest tents, each positioned for privacy, guests enjoy an immersive, close-to-nature experience. The camp’s wildlife hide allows exceptional photography and wildlife observation right from camp.
Highlights:
- Located in the heart of Ol Pejeta’s rhino sanctuary
- Access to exclusive conservancy zones for guided drives and walks
- Community-owned and operated under Gamewatchers’ conservancy model
- Regular sightings of rhinos, elephants, lions, and leopards from the hide
Ideal For: Conservation-minded travelers and photographers
🌺 Sanctuary Tambarare (Sanctuary Retreats) – Luxury Meets Wilderness
Category: 5-star tented camp
Location: Set in a tranquil clearing with views of Mount Kenya
Description:
Sanctuary Tambarare offers ten luxurious tented suites blending refined design with wilderness charm. Guests enjoy elegant interiors, polished dining, and five-star service while remaining close to Ol Pejeta’s wildlife experiences. The camp balances indulgence with sustainability, using solar energy and supporting local community programs.
Highlights:
- 10 spacious canvas suites with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas
- Fine dining, curated wines, and spa treatments
- Horseback riding alongside rhinos and guided bush walks
- Managed by Sanctuary Retreats, known for boutique luxury
Ideal For: Luxury safari travelers, honeymooners, and international guests seeking top-tier service
🐾 Sweetwaters Serena Camp (Serena Hotels) – Classic Safari Comfort
Category: Upscale lodge
Location: Inside Ol Pejeta, overlooking Mount Kenya and a busy waterhole
Description:
Sweetwaters Serena Camp combines comfort and convenience. It features 50 en-suite tents arranged around the central waterhole — where guests can view wildlife from their verandas. The camp includes a restaurant, bar, pool, spa, and conference facilities.
Highlights:
- Ideal base for families or group safaris
- 24-hour electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot showers
- On-site restaurant, lounge, and swimming pool
- Guided drives, chimp sanctuary visits, and night safaris available
Ideal For: Families, couples, and first-time safari visitors
🌅 River Camp – Stylish Newcomer with Mount Kenya Views
Category: Boutique luxury camp
Location: Riverside site inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Description:
River Camp is one of Ol Pejeta’s newest properties, offering sophisticated interiors and panoramic views of Mount Kenya. Designed for comfort and modern elegance, it provides high-end amenities while maintaining an intimate bush atmosphere.
Highlights:
- Luxurious tented suites with en-suite bathrooms and verandas
- Scenic dining area with full-service bar and lounge
- Exceptional game-viewing access and walking safari options
- Ideal for guests looking for serenity and comfort with a touch of luxury
Ideal For: Couples, small groups, and photographers seeking new luxury experiences
🏕️ Comparison Table: Ol Pejeta Conservancy Accommodations
| Lodge / Camp | Category & Price Range (USD pppn) | Location / Setting | Accommodation Type & Capacity | Key Features & Facilities | Sustainability & Conservation | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kicheche Laikipia Camp | Luxury Eco-Camp (≈ $850–$1,000) | Wilderness zone, at foot of forest, overlooking waterhole | 6 tents (1 family suite) | Intimate camp; ensuite tents; solar power; superb guides; communal dining; waterhole viewing | Gold Eco-rated; low-impact solar camp; supports Ol Pejeta community and rhino protection | Photographers, eco-luxury travelers, couples |
| Mutara Camp | Boutique Luxury Lodge (≈ $650–$900) | Mutara Conservancy, bordering Ol Pejeta, on cliff-top | 15 luxury tents | Cliff-top views, infinity pool, fine dining, spa, panoramic decks | Supports Mutara & Ol Pejeta conservation; solar energy | Honeymooners, luxury travelers, small groups |
| Ol Pejeta Bush Camp (Asilia Africa) | Eco-Luxury Camp (≈ $550–$750) | Inside Ol Pejeta, Ewaso Nyiro River | 7 en-suite tents (1 family) | Guided walks, conservation activities, river views, private dining | Carbon neutral; community employment; conservation partnerships | Conscious travelers, families, conservation guests |
| Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages | Boutique Mid-High (≈ $400–$600) | Riverside woodland, central Ol Pejeta | 2–3 cottages (private use) | Private chef, eco-friendly cottages, open-air lounge, family-friendly | Locally staffed; eco-design; low-impact tourism | Families, small groups, long-stay guests |
| Porini Rhino Camp (Gamewatchers) | Classic Eco-Camp (≈ $500–$700) | Secluded valley, within Ol Pejeta | 8 spacious tents | Wildlife hide, guided walks, solar power, community-run conservancy model | Fully solar; community partnership; funds anti-poaching | Eco-travelers, rhino enthusiasts, photographers |
| Sanctuary Tambarare | 5★ Luxury Tented Camp (≈ $850–$1,100) | Tranquil clearing with Mt. Kenya views | 10 luxury tents | Spa, fine dining, horseback safaris, five-star hospitality | Operated by Sanctuary Retreats; supports local projects | Honeymooners, luxury safari travelers |
| Sweetwaters Serena Camp | Upscale Safari Lodge (≈ $350–$500) | Inside Ol Pejeta, near waterhole | 50 tents | Pool, restaurant, bar, spa, conference facilities, 24hr electricity | Long-term Ol Pejeta partner; local staff; sustainable sourcing | Families, group tours, first-time safari guests |
| River Camp | New Luxury Boutique Camp (≈ $600–$800) | Riverside location, Ol Pejeta | 8–10 luxury tents | Scenic river views, stylish interiors, full-service dining, modern design | Built with eco-principles, solar-powered | Couples, small groups, photographers |
| Pelican House | Mid-Range Self-Catering (≈ $80–$100) | Inside Ol Pejeta, overlooking Pelican Dam | Main house + garden suite (up to 8–12 pax) | Kitchen, open lounge, veranda, self or fully catered, Wi-Fi (generator) | Inside conservancy; promotes sustainable living; local staff | Families, groups, long stays, budget-conscious guests |
| Kongoni Camp | Mid-Range Lodge (≈ $100–$150) | Nanyuki town, 25–30 min from Ol Pejeta | 20+ rooms (standard to superior) | Pool, spa, restaurant, modern comforts, easy road access | Locally owned; employs community; sustainable tourism | Families, business travelers, comfort seekers |
| Kifaru House (Elewana) | Boutique Luxury Lodge (≈ $650–$900) | Lewa Conservancy (1.5–2 hrs from Ol Pejeta) | 5 thatched cottages (10–12 guests) | Infinity pool, fine dining, intimate hosting, private verandas | Carbon neutral; supports Lewa rhino conservation | High-end travelers combining Lewa & Ol Pejeta |
| Mutara House / Laikipia Homestays (optional addition) | Boutique & Private (≈ $300–$500) | Mutara / Laikipia edges | 2–4 bedroom cottages | Self-contained, private chef, flexible catering | Promotes community employment, eco design | Self-drive groups, families, slow travelers |
🦏 Quick Reference Summary
| Category | Examples | Avg. Rate (USD pppn) | Key Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra-Luxury (5★) | Sanctuary Tambarare, Kicheche Laikipia, Mutara Camp | $800–$1,100 | Exclusive, spa, fine dining, private guides |
| Luxury Eco-Lodges | Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Kifaru House | $600–$850 | Authentic safari, conservation immersion |
| Classic Mid-Range | Sweetwaters Serena, River Camp | $400–$600 | Full-service lodge, family-friendly |
| Boutique / Private Stays | Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages, Pelican House | $250–$500 | Secluded, private chef, ideal for groups |
| Affordable Mid-Range (Outside Gate) | Kongoni Camp | $100–$150 | Modern comfort, town proximity |
| Conservation Eco-Camps | Porini Rhino Camp | $500–$700 | Low-impact, strong conservation model |
🌍 Choosing the Right Stay
- For Luxury & Exclusivity: Sanctuary Tambarare or Kicheche Laikipia offer private, all-inclusive experiences with top-tier hospitality.
- For Conservation & Authenticity: Porini Rhino Camp and Ol Pejeta Bush Camp provide direct access to rhino conservation areas and walking safaris.
- For Family Comfort: Sweetwaters Serena and Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages are spacious, reliable, and family-friendly.
- For Budget Flexibility: Pelican House and Kongoni Camp allow affordable stays while remaining close to Ol Pejeta’s wildlife experiences.
- For Combination Safaris: Kifaru House (Lewa) or Mutara Camp are ideal for travelers continuing across Laikipia’s conservancies.
🏡 Choosing the Right Accommodation in Ol Pejeta
| Category | Lodge/Camp | Style & Setting | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury / 5★ | Sanctuary Tambarare, Mutara Camp | High-end design, fine dining, spa | Honeymooners, luxury travelers |
| Eco-Luxury | Kicheche Laikipia, Ol Pejeta Bush Camp | Low-impact, authentic, intimate | Photographers, eco-travelers |
| Classic Safari Lodges | Sweetwaters Serena, River Camp | Comfort, views, full amenities | Families, groups |
| Mid-Range / Boutique | Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages, Pelican House | Home-style comfort, privacy | Families, self-drivers |
| Eco-Camps / Budget Safari | Porini Rhino Camp | Simple, sustainable, close to wildlife | Conservation guests |
👣 4. Research & Conservation Lodging
🧬 Research Cottages
- Simple but functional housing for researchers and interns
- Run in partnership with universities and NGOs
- Located within ranger or admin compounds
- Not generally open to tourists, but can be arranged for extended conservation stays
Contact: Ol Pejeta’s conservation department directly for long-term academic stays
📅 When to Book Accommodation
| Season | Months | Booking Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Peak Season | July–Oct, Dec–Feb | Book 4–6 months in advance |
| Mid Season | March, June, Nov | Easier to find availability, shoulder pricing |
| Low Season | April–May | Discounted rates, fewer tourists |
Tip: Some luxury camps offer resident rates, early bird discounts, or last-minute deals.
🧭 Choosing the Right Accommodation
| Traveler Type | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Budget traveler | The Stables, Campsites |
| Family or group | Pelican House, Kifaru House |
| Honeymooners | Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Mutara Camp |
| Ethical luxury | Sweetwaters Serena, Asilia’s Bush Camp |
| Researchers | Research Cottages |
| Overlanders | Public Campsites |
❤️ Why Stay Inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
- Early access to game drives and sunrise safaris
- Night game drives available for inside guests
- Close proximity to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Rhino Enclosures, and waterholes
- Contribution to conservation and community efforts—your stay helps fund anti-poaching, education, and habitat restoration
🔐 Tips for Booking
- Confirm if park fees are included in your rate (often they are not)
- Clarify meal plans: Full Board (all meals) is common, but not always standard
- Ask about safari activities: Some packages include daily game drives or conservation experiences
- For self-catering stays, confirm if cooking staff are provided or optional
- Don’t forget to pack warm layers—Ol Pejeta can be chilly at night!
🛎️ Final Thoughts: Stay with Purpose
Ol Pejeta offers not just a place to sleep—but a chance to immerse yourself in impactful conservation, extraordinary wildlife, and soulful landscapes. Whether you’re tracking rhinos, stargazing from a tent, or sipping coffee as elephants pass your porch, the right accommodation will shape your safari story.