Among the most expensive destinations to go on a Kenyan safari is a visit to Ol Pejeta and we realized how limited affordable camping options are at this conservancy.
While this conservancy has 5 prestigious luxury lodges and campsites, we decided to focus on providing a glimpse into the world of camping at Ol Pejeta.
Camp or glamp at Ol Pejeta?
The cost of glamping at Ol Pejeta is available from as low as $463 per night per person during low season in April and as high as $633 per night per person during the high season in July.
Below is a list of all tented camps, lodges and homestays at Ol Pejeta;
- Kicheche Laikipia Camp
- Mutara Camp
- Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
- Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages
- Pelican House
- Porini Rhino Camp
- Sanctuary Tambarare
- Sweetwaters Serena Camp
- The Stables
The cost of camping at Ol Pejeta is available but you have to book in advance unlike KWS public campsites in other safari destinations in kenya. You’ll also need to pay a booking fee of Ksh 7,000 (valid for seven nights) and a camping fee of Ksh 1,000 per person per night. The campsites can be booked on an exclusive basis online at www.olpejetaconservancy.org, or by emailing reservations@olpejetaconservancy.org.
I couldn’t find info on the cost of camping at Ol Pejeta for non-residents but can check back later as I have reached out to them for rates.
So which option to choose?
Glamping is a great option if you want to sample the luxuries of camping without having to bring your own supplies. You’ll get all the basics provided, from tents and sleeping bags to chairs and cooking equipment, as well as all the creature comforts like hot water showers and flush toilets.
However, for some people this is too expensive or simply unnecessary, so they opt for the traditional camping option. It’s a great way to really get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. You’ll need to bring your own supplies, including tents and sleeping bags, as well as all your cooking equipment, but this is usually much cheaper than glamping.
Campsites at Ol Pejeta:
Ewaso Campsite:
The Ewaso campsite is the perfect spot to sit back and watch wildlife in their natural habitat, as it is hidden by bushes and acacia trees. As its name suggests, the campsite sits on banks of Ewaso Nyiro River. NTV Kenya featured the drying of this lake in a video about the impact of global warming on the communities here.
The Ewaso Nyiro River runs through Laikipia and northern Kenya towards Somalia– is the third longest river in Kenya. This particular area bank teems with a rich variety of birds and mammals; making it a popular destination for elephants and antelopes.
The Ewaso Campsite is the largest and most popular campground in Ol Pejeta. It has toilets and showers, as well as 24-hour security guards to ensure your safety. The campsite also offers basic services such as electricity and access to potable water. This makes it ideal for those who want to rough it out while still having access to some of the creature comforts.
Read someone’s experience camping at this campsite here.
Ewaso borders other campsites along the river bank -The Ol Lerai and Hippo Hide campsites. Murera Donga is located further north and is an ideal wilderness campsite in the larger western section of te conservancy. by a marsh further north.
Check out images from this campsite here.
Hippo Hide:
For those who like getting up close and personal with nature, Hippo Hide Campsite is perfect. It’s tucked away in an open meadow that offers a breathtaking view of the Ewaso Nyiro River and its resident wildlife, including hippos and plenty of birds.
Amenities:
- Toilets
- Water supplied by a water bowser
- Fire to make firewood
- Fireplaces
Get more details and make your booking here.
Ol Lerai Campsite:
This campsite is another great option for campers who want the best of both worlds – wilderness and creature comforts. Ol Lerai sits on the banks of Ewaso Nyiro River, just a few kilometres from the Hippo Hide Campsite.
Amenities:
- Water
- Toilets
- Firewood
Learn more about Ol Lerai Campsite here or get the location on Google Maps here.
Murera Donga Campsite:
This campground is the most remote campsite in the conservancy, so it’s ideal for those who want to escape from civilization and embrace nature at its best. It is located along the banks of Murera River, which is a tributary of the Ewaso Nyiro.
Read about visiting Murera Donga Campsite here or get directions here.
FAQs
Can I camp at Ol Pejeta Conservancy?
Yes, Ol Pejeta offers camping in five designated campsites – Ewaso, Hippo Hide, Ol Lerai, Murera Donga and Mbogo. Each campsite has its own amenities and features to give you the best camping experience.
Do I need to bring my own supplies?
All of Ol Pejeta’s campsites have water, toilets and firewood
I’m a beginner, where is the best place to camp?
The Ewaso campsite is best for beginners as it has all the amenities and features of a traditional camping experience. It also has 24-hour security guards to ensure your safety.