Overview
Ol Pejeta Conservancy, set against the backdrop of Mt Kenya, is one of Africa’s premier wildlife reserves, renowned for its rhinos, Big Five sightings, chimpanzee sanctuary, and strong focus on conservation and community. Accommodations cater to every style—whether you want tented luxury, a family-friendly lodge, affordable cottages, or a private bush camp.
1. Luxury Tented Camps & Exclusive Retreats
For top-tier comfort, outstanding service, and immersive bush experiences, these are Ol Pejeta’s best:
- Ol Pejeta Bush Camp (Asilia Africa): Intimate, owner-managed luxury on the Ewaso Nyiro River. 7 spacious tents, gourmet food, excellent guiding, family-friendly, walking safaris.
- Sweetwaters Serena Camp: Large, well-appointed tented camp on a waterhole—deluxe and standard tents, pool, spa, great food, kids’ activities, Big Five views.
- The Stables at Ol Pejeta House: Exclusive-use historic manor, fine colonial interiors, private chef, pool, great for groups or families seeking privacy.
- Pelican House (Elewana Collection): Private villa, all-inclusive with chef, gardens, pool, great for families/groups, includes guided activities.
- Kicheche Laikipia Camp: Award-winning eco-camp, 6 luxurious tents, renowned guiding, wildlife right at camp, flexible for families.
- Sanctuary Tambarare: New luxury camp by Sanctuary Retreats, contemporary tents with all amenities, views over the plains, spa, bush dining.
2. Mid-Range Lodges & Tented Camps
Comfort, quality, and immersive nature—excellent value for couples, families, and groups.
- Porini Rhino Camp: Small eco-camp in a secluded part of Ol Pejeta, authentic tents, excellent guides, supports conservation, ideal for photographers.
- Mutara Camp: Located in the northern conservancy, spacious luxury tents, pool, walking safaris, private decks.
- Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages: Family-run, self-catering or full board, cozy and private, firelit lounges, chef on request, ideal for longer stays.
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge: Close to Ol Pejeta’s gate, comfortable chalets and tented rooms, lush gardens, good for families.
- Jungle Lodge Ol Pejeta: African-style chalets and tented rooms, relaxed atmosphere, restaurant, bar, birdlife.
3. Self-Catering Cottages & Villas
Perfect for independence, longer stays, and groups or families who want privacy and flexibility.
- Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages: Fully-equipped kitchens, can opt for self-cater or chef-prepared meals, kids’ activities, private grounds.
- Pelican House: Bookable as a private villa, full kitchen, staff/chef included.
- Acacia Villas: (Check availability) Spacious, modern, fully furnished, great for family groups.
- Ol Pejeta Guesthouse: Homely, affordable, great for small groups, communal kitchen.
- Airbnb Villas & Homes: Options in Nanyuki and along the approach roads, with self-catering kitchens.
4. Eco-Lodges & Conservation Stays
Low-impact, community-minded, and close to wildlife—ideal for green travelers and those wanting immersive bush experiences.
- Kicheche Laikipia Camp: Leading eco-camp, conservation focus, minimal footprint, solar power.
- Porini Rhino Camp: Conservancy-owned, solar lighting, supports local communities.
- Ol Pejeta Bush Camp: Responsible tourism, riverfront setting, guides with conservation knowledge.
- Sweetwaters Serena Camp: Green practices, water recycling, local staff employment.
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge: Eco-initiatives, supports local schools, nature walks.
5. Family & Group-Friendly Lodges
Large rooms, kids’ programs, safe grounds, flexible dining—perfect for families or larger groups.
- Sweetwaters Serena Camp: Pool, kids’ activities, connecting tents.
- Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages: Private, flexible for families, kids’ games.
- Pelican House: Large villa, pool, family meals, private grounds.
- Mutara Camp: Large family tents, wildlife walks.
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge: Spacious, child-friendly, family suites, gardens.
- Jungle Lodge Ol Pejeta: Family chalets, easy access to activities.
6. Budget & Adventure Options (Camping & Hostels)
For backpackers, overlanders, and those seeking adventure on a budget.
- Ol Pejeta Public Campsite: Managed by Ol Pejeta, basic facilities, secure, beautiful bush setting—bring your own gear.
- Porini Rhino Camp: (All-inclusive, but occasionally offers low-season specials for residents)
- Nanyuki Budget Hotels & Hostels: A range of affordable guesthouses, dorms, and hostels are available in nearby Nanyuki town for day trips.
- Rhino Watch Safari Lodge Camping: Offers affordable camping in the lodge grounds.
Ol Pejeta Accommodation Comparison Table
| Property/Category | Location | Type/Style | Price Range (pppn) | Key Features | Family Friendly | Pool | Eco/Ethical | Self-Cater Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ol Pejeta Bush Camp | Riverside | Luxury Tented Camp | $350–$800 | Owner-run, riverfront, guiding | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Sweetwaters Serena Camp | Waterhole | Luxury Tented Camp | $300–$650 | Pool, spa, kids’ club, waterhole | Yes | Yes | Some | No |
| Kicheche Laikipia Camp | West Ol Pejeta | Luxury Eco-Camp | $450–$900 | Award-winning, solar, conservation | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Sanctuary Tambarare | Central Plains | Luxury Tented Camp | $500–$1000 | New, spa, bush dining, top views | Yes | Yes | Some | No |
| Porini Rhino Camp | North Ol Pejeta | Mid-Range Eco-Camp | $300–$600 | Eco, solar, exclusive, walking | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Mutara Camp | North Boundary | Mid-Range Tented | $250–$400 | Private decks, walking, pool | Yes | Yes | Some | No |
| Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages | Main Gate Area | Cottages/Villas | $120–$400 | Private, self-cater/full board, chef | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Pelican House | Main Gate Area | Private Villa | $300–$700 (villa) | Full board, private, family-friendly | Yes | Yes | Some | Yes |
| Rhino Watch Safari Lodge | Near Main Gate | Lodge/Eco-Camp | $80–$200 | Chalets, tents, gardens, birding | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Jungle Lodge Ol Pejeta | Near Main Gate | Lodge/Chalets | $60–$120 | Affordable, family chalets, bar | Yes | No | Some | No |
| Ol Pejeta Public Campsite | Conservancy | Camping | $20–$40 | Basic, wild, secure, BYO gear | Yes | No | Yes | Yes (BYO) |
| Nanyuki Hostels/Guesthouses | Nanyuki Town | Hostel/Budget | $10–$40 | Budget, self-cater, day trip access | Yes | No | N |