A practical, safety-first guide to entry rules, driving regulations, wildlife etiquette, photography policy, and activity-specific restrictions—so you can enjoy Ol Pejeta responsibly and avoid penalties.
Ol Pejeta is a private conservancy, not a Kenya Wildlife Service national park. That’s why it can offer experiences like night game drives—but it also enforces strict visitor rules to protect rhinos, other wildlife, staff, and guests, and to keep security tight.
Below are the core rules you should plan around, with the most important “non-negotiables” called out clearly.
1) Ol Pejeta Conservancy Entry rules and gate regulations
Gate hours and permitted gates
- Entry and exit are strictly through Rongai and Serat gates during 7:00 am to 7:00 pm daily.
- Treat 7:00 pm as a hard operational cut-off for self-drivers—Ol Pejeta’s visitor products and tariffs are built around day access ending at 7:00 pm.
Cashless entry
- Ol Pejeta gates are cashless—tickets are booked online via their booking platform.
Proof of residency / category verification
- You must show proof for your category (EA citizen/resident/non-resident) such as ID, passport, or relevant residency documents.
“Single entrance / 24-hour” logic
- The tariff guide describes the daily entrance fee as a single entrance fee for day trippers and 24 hours for overnights.
2) Ol Pejeta Self-Driving Rules (the biggest enforcement area)
Speed limit
- Strict maximum speed limit: 40 kph.
Off-road driving
- Off-road driving is strictly prohibited, unless explicitly approved by management (e.g., special operations/authorized filming). Stay on designated roads/tracks.
Stay on tracks and drive predictably
- Obey all conservancy signage and ranger instructions. Conservancy rules are built around minimizing disturbance and collision risk—especially around rhinos and predators. (Ol Pejeta highlights rule compliance as part of its “code of conduct” messaging.)
3) Ol Pejeta Wildlife viewing etiquette and visitor conduct
These rules protect animal welfare and reduce risk of incidents:
- Do not litter (including cigarette butts).
- Follow any ranger instructions at sightings—Ol Pejeta’s operations place strong emphasis on structured, low-disturbance viewing to protect sensitive species.
Practical best practice (what rangers will expect):
- Don’t crowd wildlife; keep enough distance for animals to move naturally.
- Don’t block roads or tracks.
- Keep noise low; don’t shout to “call” animals closer.
- Never attempt to feed wildlife.
(These are standard conservancy field rules, and Ol Pejeta’s formal code-of-conduct summaries focus on the same safety/ecosystem protection outcomes.)
4) Ol Pejeta Rules for Night game drives and after-hours restrictions
Ol Pejeta can offer night drives because it’s private—but night access is controlled tightly.
Night game drive rules
- Night game drives are only permitted with accredited Ol Pejeta staff; private vehicles are not permitted on night game drives.
- Night drives run as scheduled experiences (e.g., 7:00–9:00 pm and 9:00–11:00 pm options appear in Ol Pejeta’s official tariff guide).
“Stay in the vehicle”
- Ol Pejeta’s own booking listing for a night game drive states guests are required to remain in the vehicle during the activity.
5) Olpejeta Conservancy Regulations for Walking, hiking, and “out of vehicle” rules
Because Ol Pejeta is a rhino stronghold and includes dangerous game:
- Do not get out of your vehicle except in designated areas (camps, approved viewing/visitor facilities, sanctioned activities).
- Any walking experiences (e.g., guided bush walks / nature trails) should be done only where explicitly offered and with authorized guides (these are listed as bookable experiences in Ol Pejeta’s tariff materials).
6) Olpejeta Conservancy Rules on Photography, filming, and drone regulations
If you’re filming professionally or using special equipment, Ol Pejeta applies additional restrictions.
Drones
- Ol Pejeta’s filming guidance states:
- No drones within the Northern White Rhino enclosure or Baraka enclosure.
- Drone use is described as prohibited in Kenya unless properly licensed by the relevant authority, and any licensed use carries liability requirements.
Filming movement rules
- Off-road driving is not allowed during filming.
- Film crews must be accompanied by an Ol Pejeta ranger while filming in the open conservancy areas described in the filming pack.
- There are also limitations on how many crew can be out of the vehicle in sensitive areas (e.g., Northern White Rhino enclosure).
7) Activity-specific rules (the ones visitors miss)
These often catch people out because they feel like “extras,” but they’re tightly regulated:
- Lion tracking / night game drives: Ol Pejeta notes shared vehicles are provided for these experiences (not private vehicles).
- Chimpanzee Sanctuary / visitor centres / nature trail: These have set opening times (and you should follow site instructions and stay within designated visitor areas).
8) Compliance, enforcement, and why it matters
Ol Pejeta’s rules are not “suggestions.” They exist because the conservancy is:
- A major rhino security landscape (including high-profile conservation assets),
- A mixed-use system balancing wildlife, tourism, and operations,
- Responsible for visitor safety in a place with black rhinos, elephants, buffalo, predators, and other dangerous wildlife.
Expect ranger enforcement, particularly around:
- Speeding,
- Off-road driving,
- After-hours movement,
- Unapproved stopping/behavior near sensitive animals,
- Filming/drone activity.
(These are exactly the behavior categories repeatedly highlighted in Ol Pejeta’s official conduct summaries and operational documents.)
Quick checklist before you go
- Book entry online (cashless gates) and carry your proof of residency category.
- Plan your day around 7:00 am–7:00 pm gate hours (Rongai/Serat).
- Drive ≤ 40 kph at all times.
- No off-road driving.
- If doing a night drive, book the official experience—no private vehicles, stay in the vehicle.
- Drones/filming: assume restricted unless you have formal permissions and comply with Ol Pejeta’s filming pack.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Rules & Regulations (Quick Reference)
| Category | Rule / Requirement | What It Means for Visitors |
|---|---|---|
| Entry & Gates | Gates: Rongai & Serat only | Use only these official gates for entry/exit |
| Gate hours: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm | Day access ends at 7:00 pm for self-drivers | |
| Cashless entry | Book and pay online before arrival | |
| ID required | Bring passport/ID for your resident category | |
| Tickets | Day ticket = single entry / Overnights = 24 hrs | Don’t exit and re-enter on a day ticket |
| Driving Rules | Speed limit: 40 km/h max | Strictly enforced by rangers |
| No off-road driving | Stay on designated tracks at all times | |
| Follow ranger instructions | Especially near rhinos and predators | |
| Wildlife Etiquette | Do not litter or feed animals | Includes cigarette butts and food scraps |
| Keep distance & don’t crowd sightings | Allow animals space to move naturally | |
| No loud noise or harassment of wildlife | No shouting, revving, or chasing animals | |
| Out of Vehicle | Only in designated areas | Camps, visitor centres, approved sites |
| Guided walks only where authorized | Never walk unaccompanied in the bush | |
| Night Game Drives | Only with Ol Pejeta vehicles & guides | Private vehicles not allowed at night |
| Stay in the vehicle | Mandatory during night drives | |
| Fixed time slots (e.g., 7–9 pm, 9–11 pm) | Must be pre-booked | |
| Photography & Filming | Drones restricted / require special permission | Generally not allowed; sensitive zones strictly off-limits |
| No drones in Northern White Rhino & Baraka enclosures | Absolute restriction | |
| Off-road driving not allowed for filming | Film crews must stay on tracks | |
| Ranger escort required for filming | Applies to professional shoots | |
| Special Activities | Lion tracking, night drives = shared vehicles | You don’t use your own car |
| Chimpanzee sanctuary & trails have set hours | Follow posted times and staff instructions | |
| Security & Compliance | Rules strictly enforced | Fines, removal, or bans possible for violations |
| Core Purpose | Rhino & wildlife protection first | These rules exist for safety and conservation |
🚫 Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid at Ol Pejeta Conservancy
- Arriving without pre-booking your entry
Ol Pejeta operates a cashless, pre-booked entry system. Turning up expecting to pay at the gate is one of the most common—and avoidable—mistakes. - Underestimating gate times and driving distances
Gate hours are strict. Don’t plan a tight schedule that leaves you racing the clock at the end of the day—build in buffer time. - Driving too fast inside the conservancy
The 40 km/h speed limit is enforced for safety and wildlife protection. Speeding doesn’t improve sightings—and it can get you into trouble. - Assuming you can self-drive at night
Night game drives are guided, controlled activities. You cannot freely drive around after dark in your own vehicle. - Expecting off-road driving for better photos
Off-road driving is prohibited. Ol Pejeta prioritizes habitat protection and animal welfare over close-up positioning. - Getting out of your vehicle in non-designated areas
This is dangerous and against the rules. Only exit your vehicle in approved areas or guided activities. - Not understanding the difference between Ol Pejeta and national parks
Ol Pejeta is a private conservancy with its own rules, systems, and enforcement style—don’t expect the same flexibility as some public parks. - Planning without checking what your lodge includes
Some accommodations include conservancy fees; others don’t. Always confirm this to avoid surprise costs at the gate. - Treating Ol Pejeta like a “drive-anywhere safari park”
This is a high-security rhino conservation area. The rules exist to protect critically endangered wildlife and ensure visitor safety—respect them, and your experience will be far better. - Ignoring cancellation and change policies
Ol Pejeta has a structured cancellation policy. If your plans are uncertain, check the terms before paying.
💳 Payment Policy
| When You Book | Payment Required |
|---|---|
| Booking made within 7 days of arrival | 100% of total booking value payable immediately |
| Booking made at least 1 month before arrival | 30% deposit payable within 7 days of booking; balance payable at least 7 days before arrival |
❌ Cancellation Policy
| When You Cancel | Cancellation Charge |
|---|---|
| Cancellation made more than 60 days before arrival | 20% of total booking value |
| Cancellation made 60 – 31 days before arrival | 40% of total booking value |
| Cancellation made 30 – 8 days before arrival | 50% of total booking value |
| Cancellation made 7 days or less before arrival or No Show | 100% of total booking value |
📧 For further information or booking assistance:
Please email the reservations team at reservations@olpejetaconservancy.org
If you want, I can also:
- Convert this into a print-ready policy box,
- Add a plain-English explanation under each row, or
- Adapt it to match your Kambu Campers / partner booking terms for package safaris.
Rules for Filming and Photography at Ol Pejeta Conservancy: What You Need to Know
Ol Pejeta Conservancy welcomes photography and responsible filming, but it operates under stricter rules than most safari destinations because it is a high-security rhino conservation landscape, including the home of the last two Northern White Rhinos. As a result, filming and photography are governed by clear access controls, movement rules, and permitting requirements designed to protect wildlife, visitors, and sensitive conservation operations.
1) Casual Photography vs Professional Filming
- Casual photography (phones, standard cameras, personal use) is allowed for visitors during normal activities, provided you follow all conservancy rules (stay on tracks, respect wildlife distance, obey ranger instructions).
- Professional, commercial, or media filming (documentaries, TV, YouTube productions, brand shoots, monetized content, large camera rigs, or support crews) requires prior authorization from Ol Pejeta and is subject to specific conditions, fees, and supervision.
If your filming goes beyond simple holiday photography, you should assume formal permission is required.
2) Drones: Highly Restricted
- Drones are generally prohibited within Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
- They are strictly forbidden in sensitive areas, especially:
- The Northern White Rhino enclosure
- The Baraka (blind rhino) enclosure
- Any exceptional drone use requires:
- Proper Kenyan aviation authority licensing
- Written approval from Ol Pejeta
- Compliance with strict operational limits and supervision
This is primarily for security, animal welfare, and privacy reasons—particularly around rhino protection operations.
3) Movement and Driving Rules While Filming
Whether you are a visitor or an approved film crew:
- Off-road driving is not allowed for photography or filming.
- You must stay on designated tracks at all times.
- Film crews are typically required to be accompanied by an Ol Pejeta ranger or staff member while operating in the conservancy.
- In sensitive areas (especially around the Northern White Rhinos), there are limits on how many people can be out of the vehicle and how filming is conducted.
The guiding principle is simple: filming must never interfere with animal behavior, security operations, or habitat protection.
4) Wildlife Ethics and Distance Rules
- Do not approach animals more closely for the sake of a shot.
- Do not block animals’ paths or surround them with vehicles.
- Avoid:
- Loud noise
- Sudden movements
- Repeated repositioning that stresses animals
- Rangers and guides have the authority to end or reposition a shoot if animal welfare or safety is at risk.
At Ol Pejeta, animal welfare and security always override image-making.
5) Special Zones: Extra Sensitivity
Certain areas operate under enhanced restrictions, especially:
- Northern White Rhino area
- Baraka’s enclosure
- Security-sensitive rhino zones
In these areas:
- Access is controlled
- Filming is tightly managed
- Crew size, equipment, and movement may be limited or prohibited altogether
This reflects the global conservation significance and security risk profile of these animals.
6) Why the Rules Are Stricter Than in Many Parks
Ol Pejeta is not just a safari destination—it is:
- One of East Africa’s most important rhino strongholds
- A high-security conservation area
- A site of active scientific and anti-poaching operations
Filming rules exist to:
- Protect critically endangered species
- Avoid exposing security procedures
- Prevent stress or disturbance to sensitive animals
- Keep visitors, staff, and wildlife safe
7) Best Practice for Visitors and Creators
- If in doubt, ask before you film.
- Assume:
- Drones = not allowed
- Commercial filming = needs permission
- Bring:
- Telephoto lenses instead of trying to get closer
- A respectful, patient approach to wildlife photography
- Follow:
- Ranger instructions immediately
- All conservancy driving and conduct rules
8) Bottom Line
Ol Pejeta supports photography and storytelling—but on conservation terms, not production terms. If you respect the rules, you can still capture exceptional wildlife images, including some of the most meaningful rhino stories on Earth, while helping ensure these animals remain protected for the future.
⛺ Rules for Camping at Ol Pejeta
- All campsites must be booked in advance and are often offered on an exclusive basis.
- Campsites provide basic facilities (toilets, dustbins, fire pit, water bowser, firewood), but you must bring your own camping gear, food, and drinks (or arrange catering separately).
- During rainy seasons, some campsites are accessible only by 4WD.
- All campers must sign an indemnity form on entry.
- It is mandatory to camp with an armed ranger (charged per night) for safety.
- Do not leave food out and never feed wildlife—this is critical for safety.
- Conservancy entry fees and activities (night drives, lion tracking, bush walks) are not included and are paid/booked separately.
Bottom line: Camping at Ol Pejeta is a true wilderness experience—book ahead, be self-sufficient, follow food safety rules, and expect mandatory armed ranger for your protection and wildlife security.
If you want, I can also format this as a one-page “Visitor Rules” box or a printable checklist.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Visitor FAQs
Can I self-drive in Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
Yes. Self-drive is allowed during normal gate hours, but you must follow all conservancy rules, including the 40 km/h speed limit, staying on designated tracks, and obeying ranger instructions at all times. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited.
What time do Ol Pejeta gates open and close?
Ol Pejeta gates (Rongai and Serat) are open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Day visitors must plan to exit by 7:00 pm. Overnight guests operate within the 24-hour access window tied to their booking.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes. Entry is cashless and tickets must be booked online before arrival. You should also carry proof of your residency category (ID or passport) for verification at the gate.
Can I do a night game drive in my own vehicle?
No. Private vehicles are not allowed on night game drives. Night drives are only conducted in Ol Pejeta Conservancy vehicles with accredited guides, and guests must remain inside the vehicle throughout the activity.
Are drones allowed in Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
Generally, no. Drone use is highly restricted and requires special permission and licensing. Drones are strictly prohibited in sensitive areas such as the Northern White Rhino enclosure and the Baraka enclosure.
Can I get out of my car during a game drive?
Only in designated areas such as camps, visitor centres, or approved activity sites. Outside these areas, you must remain in your vehicle unless you are on an authorized guided walking activity.
What is the speed limit inside the conservancy?
The maximum speed limit is 40 km/h. This is strictly enforced to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
Is off-road driving allowed?
No. Off-road driving is strictly prohibited unless you are part of a special, authorized operation (such as permitted filming or management activities).
Can I see the Northern White Rhinos?
Yes, Ol Pejeta is home to the last two Northern White Rhinos, Najin and Fatu. Viewing is managed carefully for security and animal welfare, and access follows conservancy guidelines.
What animals can I expect to see in Ol Pejeta?
Ol Pejeta is famous for its black and white rhinos, as well as elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and many antelope species. It is one of the best places in Kenya to see rhinos reliably.
Are walking safaris allowed in Ol Pejeta?
Only in specific, approved areas and with authorized guides. You may not walk freely in the conservancy due to the presence of dangerous wildlife.
Can I visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary?
Yes. The Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary is open to visitors during set hours. You must follow staff instructions and stay within designated visitor areas.
Can I bring food and have a picnic?
You may use designated picnic areas only. Do not feed wildlife and do not leave any litter behind.
What happens if I break the rules?
Ol Pejeta enforces its regulations strictly. Violations can result in:
- Fines
- Removal from the conservancy
- Bans from future visits
- Or other penalties depending on the severity of the offence
Why are the rules so strict?
Ol Pejeta is a high-security rhino conservation area and home to dangerous wildlife. The rules exist to:
- Protect critically endangered species
- Keep visitors safe
- Maintain habitat integrity
- Support long-term conservation work
Is Ol Pejeta suitable for families and first-time safari visitors?
Yes. Ol Pejeta is one of the best conservancies in Kenya for first-time safari visitors and families, thanks to excellent wildlife viewing, strong security, good roads, and a wide range of guided activities.
Links:
- https://olpejetaconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Filming-and-Photography-Pack-1-3.pdf
- https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/OPC-Factsheet-Campsites-2025.pdf
- https://www.olpejetaconservancy.org/commercial-filming-photography-2/