The Laikipia region of Kenya offers a real and pristine wilderness experience, off the beaten track.
Located north of Nairobi and Mount Kenya, Laikipia is regarded as the gateway to Kenya’s untamed northern frontier, where groundbreaking conservation efforts are thriving. This region boasts the second-highest wildlife densities in Kenya, following the Masai Mara, and is home to more endangered species than anywhere else in East Africa.As a leader in eco-tourism in Kenya, Laikipia is at the forefront of sustainable conservation, with community-driven initiatives protecting rare and endemic species like Grevy’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, and reticulated giraffe. Approximately half of Kenya’s black rhino population also resides here.
A Laikipia safari offers a unique blend of landscapes, from acacia-dotted savannahs and olive forests to the sweeping plains stretching from the Great Rift Valley to the Northern Frontier District. This diverse terrain supports a wide range of wildlife and is home to various ethnic communities, including Maasai, Kikuyu, Samburu, Borana, and Pokot.For an exclusive and immersive Laikipia safari camp experience, Governors' Mugie House offers luxurious accommodation, prime wildlife viewing, and a deep connection to Kenya’s incredible landscapes.
Grevy’s zebras are primarily found in northern Kenya, distinguishable by their narrow black-and-white stripes, white belly, and large, rounded ears. Unlike other zebra species, they can survive up to five days without water, making them perfectly adapted to Laikipia’s semi-arid environment. They are classified as Endangered by the IUCN Red List, with an estimated global population of just 2,800.
The striped hyena is the most widespread of all hyena species but remains elusive due to its low population density. They are smaller, more solitary, and shyer than their spotted hyena cousins, making sightings on a Laikipia safari a rare privilege. Recognizable by their black stripes, broad muzzle, and large ears, these hyenas are listed as Near Threatened by the...
The Beisa oryx, endemic to Northern Kenya, is known for its muscular build, long horns, and sandy-coloured coat. Both males and females share the same physical characteristics, making them difficult to distinguish. This species is currently listed as Endangered by the IUCN Red List.
One of the rarest antelopes in Kenya, Jackson’s hartebeest is a distinctive, long-legged and high-shouldered species with a narrow face. Habitat loss and predation have contributed to its declining population, but thanks to conservation efforts across the Laikipia region, around 700–1,000 individuals remain in the wild.
The reticulated giraffe is one of Kenya’s most recognizable wildlife species, famed for its liver-red coat with white polygonal markings. Found in limited regions across Kenya, its numbers have increased due to enhanced community and private land conservation efforts. Despite this progress, the species remains listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
