pejeta

Ol Pejeta, officially Ol Pejeta Conservancy, is a private wildlife sanctuary in north-central Kenya on the Laikipia Plateau in Laikipia County. The reserve covers about 90,000 acres (roughly 360 square kilometers) and lies along the equator between the towns of Nanyuki and Isiolo. Its landscape includes savannah, riverine woodland, and acacia-dotted habitats that support a wide range of wildlife.

The conservancy was established to protect endangered species and support sustainable livelihoods for neighboring communities. It is one of East Africa’s largest black rhinoceros sanctuaries and also supports significant populations of white rhino, elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Within Ol Pejeta, the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary serves as a rescue and care facility for confiscated chimpanzees and is a major visitor attraction.

Conservation is a central focus, backed by active anti-poaching patrols, canine units, and aerial surveillance, as well as collaborations with researchers and local communities. Tourism provides a key funding stream for conservation, with opportunities for guided game drives, night safaris, and visits to the chimpanzee sanctuary, alongside road or air transfers from regional hubs.

The conservancy emphasizes community development and education, aiming to balance wildlife protection with sustainable livelihoods for nearby populations. It also engages in scientific partnerships and conservation programs intended to improve the long-term survival prospects of endangered species in the region.