This itinerary heads north of Nairobi into Kenya’s arid Samburu ecosystem and the private conservancies of Laikipia, including Ol Pejeta — genuinely different terrain, wildlife and pace from the more visited southern circuit, with the added benefit of off-road driving and night game drives that public reserves don’t permit.
Detailed Itinerary
Nairobi to Samburu National Reserve
A drive north across the equator to Samburu, arriving with time for an afternoon game drive.
Full Day Samburu Game Drives
Exploring the Ewaso Nyiro riverbanks for the region’s distinctive “special five” — Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich — alongside elephant and predators.
As above
Transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy
A drive south to Ol Pejeta, a private conservancy on the equator known for its rhino sanctuary and chimpanzee sanctuary.
Ol Pejeta Rhino Tracking and Night Game Drive
A dedicated visit to Ol Pejeta’s rhino sanctuary, home to the last two northern white rhinos on Earth under close protection, plus an evening night game drive — a private-conservancy activity not permitted in public reserves.
As above
Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Bush Walk
A visit to Ol Pejeta’s chimpanzee sanctuary, a rehabilitation centre for rescued chimps, plus an optional guided bush walk with an armed ranger.
As above
Full Day Game Drives
A further full day exploring the conservancy’s varied terrain for lion, leopard and the Big Five in a genuinely uncrowded setting.
As above
Return to Nairobi
Morning game drive before the return transfer to Nairobi, timed against your onward flight.
Permits & Costs
| Samburu park entry | ~$70 per person per day |
| Ol Pejeta conservancy fee | ~$90 per person per day |
| Night game drive | Included in tour price |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers wanting a quieter, more exclusive experience with activities not permitted in Kenya’s public reserves — off-road driving, night drives and guided walks.
Tour Includes
- Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof hatch
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Conservancy fees & activities
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I really see the last northern white rhinos?
Yes — Ol Pejeta hosts the two remaining northern white rhinos under 24-hour protection, viewable at a respectful distance with a specialist ranger.
Why can private conservancies do night drives when public parks can’t?
Public reserves like the Mara operate under national park rules restricting activity to daylight hours; private conservancies set their own rules, permitting night drives, off-road driving and walking safaris.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm lodges within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.