Top 10 Conservancies in Kenya

Top 10 Conservancies in Kenya: Ultimate Safari Destinations

Kenya is home to some of Africa’s most diverse wildlife and protected areas, making it a top destination for safari enthusiasts. Surprisingly, about 70% of Kenya’s wildlife lives outside national parks and reserves, highlighting the importance of private and community-managed conservancies. These conservancies provide unique safari experiences, support conservation efforts, and engage local communities in wildlife protection.

With over 100 conservancies covering more than 60,000 km² (23,000 mi²), choosing the perfect destination can be overwhelming. To simplify your planning, here are the top 10 conservancies in Kenya that combine wildlife, landscapes, and unforgettable safari experiences.

1. Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Located in central Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is famous for being home to the last two northern white rhinos in the world. Although both are female, making the species functionally extinct, Ol Pejeta remains a key wildlife conservation hub. Visitors can also explore the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which houses about 40 rescued chimps.

2. Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary

The Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary spans approximately 100 km² (39 mi²) and borders Tsavo West National Park. It’s a biodiversity hotspot with forests, mountains, rivers, and grasslands. Visitors can enjoy conservation initiatives, specialized bird-watching safaris, and traditional game drives.

3. Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy, located northwest of the Masai Mara National Reserve, features gently sloping grasslands teeming with wildlife. The Mara River, famous for the wildebeest migration crossings, marks the conservancy’s western boundary. This is the perfect location to witness Africa’s iconic landscapes and wildlife.

4. Mara Naboisho Conservancy

Spanning 200 km² (77 mi²), Mara Naboisho Conservancy is known for its dense lion population and thriving elephant herds. Visitors can enjoy walking safaris, bush camping, and immersive experiences not available in neighboring national reserves. The conservancy also supports strong community development initiatives.

5. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Lewa Conservancy, Kenya’s oldest and most famous private conservancy, was transformed from a cattle ranch into a wildlife sanctuary. Home to all Big Five species, with Mount Kenya as a backdrop, Lewa is a model for sustainable wildlife conservation.

6. Sera Conservancy

Sera Conservancy, in northern Kenya, is unique for black rhino tracking on foot—an experience you can’t find elsewhere in Kenya. After poachers nearly wiped out black rhinos, this conservancy has successfully reintroduced them, making it a critical site for rhino conservation.

7. Namunyak Conservancy

The Namunyak Conservancy covers northern Kenya’s scrublands and Matthews Range “sky islands”. Rich in elephants and other wildlife, it combines semi-desert and forested habitats, offering a unique off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

8. Nashulai Maasai Conservancy

Kenya’s first Maasai-run conservancy, Nashulai, borders the Masai Mara National Reserve. Here, locals live alongside wildlife, providing authentic community-based safari experiences. Activities include walking safaris, wildlife viewing, and specialized bird-watching tours.

9. Ol Kinyei Conservancy

Founded by Gamewatchers Safaris, Porini Camps, and local landowners, Ol Kinyei Conservancy is known for its innovative community-wildlife model. Visitors can spot buffalo, giraffes, wildebeest, and lions, with accommodation options ranging from luxury to mid-range.

10. Borana Conservancy

Borana Conservancy covers 130 km² (50 mi²) and is home to elephants, black rhinos, and diverse wildlife. Originally a private cattle ranch, Borana emphasizes community development, funding health and education initiatives alongside wildlife conservation.

Planning Your Kenya Safari

Whether you’re looking for luxury safari lodges, walking safaris, or rhino tracking adventures, Kenya’s top conservancies offer something for every wildlife enthusiast. To explore more about Kenya safari destinations, check out our guides on Masai Mara Safaris and Kenya Wildlife Conservation.