About El Karama Lodge
With a name meaning 'treasured possession' or 'answer to prayer' in Arabic, El Karama, as it's usually known, ...
... is a working cattle ranch and wildlife sanctuary on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in the Laikipia region north of Mount Kenya. It was named for purely sentimental reasons by its owners, the Grant family, who still run the ranch and manage the lodge: a small, high-quality retreat and the only lodge on the ranch.
Our first stay at El Karama was a revelation: we'd known about this ranch-stay for years but never been there before. The welcome was one of the warmest we've experienced in Kenya; the food was wonderful; and the wildlife can be very good. We loved the genuine, low-key hosting, the flexible approach to guests' requirements and the warm and friendly staff. We've been back several times since, and happily nothing's changed: in fact El Karama is better than ever.
Our view
Our first stay at El Karama was a revelation: we'd known about this ranch-stay for years but never been there before. The welcome was one of the warmest we've experienced in Kenya; the food was wonderful; and the wildlife can be very good. We loved the genuine, low-key hosting, the flexible approach to guests' requirements and the warm and friendly staff. We've been back several times since, and happily nothing's changed: in fact El Karama is better than ever.
Kenya expert
Accommodation
10 units
Children
Great for all ages.
Open
Closed in May subject to weather
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of El Karama Lodge
17 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 135 pictures and 1 videos of El Karama Lodge to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting El Karama Lodge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Wahlberg's Eagle Fly-in Safari
6 days • 2 locations • 1 country
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT
A great value safari in Laikipia and the Maasai Mara that provides an immersive, authentic bush camp experience with activities for families of all ages.
Visiting Laikipia, Mara Conservancies
US$5,680 - US$6,450 per person
El Karama Lodge: Our full report
With a name meaning 'treasured possession' or 'answer to prayer' in Arabic, El Karama, as it's usually known, ...
... is a working cattle ranch and wildlife sanctuary on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in the Laikipia region north of Mount Kenya. It was named for purely sentimental reasons by its owners, the Grant family, who still run the ranch and manage the lodge: a small, high-quality retreat and the only lodge on the ranch.
As soon as you turn off the gravel road that runs north from Nanyuki and enter El Karama Ranch, you're aware of being in big game country: giraffe amble through the bush, impala leap across the road and the unmistakable shapes of elephants are clustered on the horizon.
Once at the lodge there's a light electric barrier to deter elephants and buffalo. You pass the gallery where Lavinia Grant's paintings are displayed, before parking just above the river if staying in the Hobbit House, Bandas, or River Cottages, where last night's hippo footprints may well be visible in the sand. If staying at Nilotica Private House, a separate entrance driveway leads you to a private entrance and parking at the other end of camp.
Most of El Karama Lodge's buildings and structures use reclaimed dead wood (often knocked over by elephants) from around the ranch, to create attractive, steeply pitched thatched roofs. There's a dining area and lounge, with a lawn leading down to the river. This is a fine spot to sit and watch animals on the hillside on the opposite bank, and there's a light electric fence along the El Karama side of the river to deter roaming beasts from enter the lodge area.
El Karama built a swimming pool in 2014 which uses advanced technology to keep the water clean. No chlorine or salt is used to clean the water, instead a de-ionizing unit kills bacteria and prevents algae growing. This means that the water is completely fresh, so birds and tortoises often use it as a watering hole. Despite the pool, and steady progress with cosmetic improvements, El Karama isn't a fancy place, and doesn't set out to be: you need to be prepared to acquaint yourself with the odd bug, bits of loose thatch and muddy paths if it rains.
The guest accommodation at El Karama consists of four bandas downstream from the central areas and two cottages upstream.
- Of the cottages, one is called Upstream and the other, (a basic unit which is not en-suite), Rondavel. We have previously stayed in Upstream Cottage, and found it comfortably quirky: kids will love the round windows and slightly Hobbit-like deadwood architecture, incorporating twisting logs and branches into staircases and bannisters. The cottage consists of an open-plan double, with a twin off to one-side and the bathroom off to the other. Staircases on either side lead up to lofts/first-floor bunkrooms with extra beds.
- The four bandas at El Karama are part-solid walled, part-canvas, part-mosquito screen and part-thatch, with zip-up canvas flaps at the front, and set on solid plinths. The beds, which are adequate but not particularly large or comfortable, have mosquito nets hanging on lines. There are directors' chairs and wicker armchairs with cushions. With polished concrete and stone floors, partly covered with rush matting and rugs, solid tree-trunk support posts for the thatched roofs and good-sized verandas, the bandas are attractive, substantial structures, though not especially large.
- The half-solid-walled bathrooms (thatched walls and flap-covered mosquito screen makes up the rest of the bathroom walls) are accessed through a screened doorway (no door). They have flush loos, plumbed-in hot and cold water and rustic stone shower-bathtub combos. The showers have a good flow, but you sometimes need to be patient for the hot water to reach you. Kuni (wood-fired) boosters heat the water in cloudy weather, when solar power is insufficient.
- El Karama harvests rainwater and provides filtered drinking water in attractive, beaded bottles rather than in plastic bottles. Water for the bathrooms comes from the river with a solar-powered pump, and is fed to settling tanks to clarify it.
These rooms can be booked as normal individually, or on an exclusive basis with use of a private vehicle for activities. The river cottages have their own separate living and dining area, allowing for a completely private and flexible stay down here away from the main lodge.
El Karama can be bursting with wildlife, and the main activities at the lodge are game drives, day and night (one open game vehicle is available), and game walks. Fly-camping (usually done as the middle night of a three- or five-night stay) is done using tensile tents, raised above the ground and strung between trees to provide a comfortable night. There is also the option to fly-camp with bell tents, for those who are less mobile.
On a previous stay we had some remarkable game sightings. A leopard had walked through camp three nights before we were there, and we saw an aardvark on our first evening, while getting a phone signal, just yards from the lodge barrier. The next morning, within minutes of setting off to drive to the starting point for our game walk with Joseph Kalau, the gun-toting head guide, (he carries a .458 rifle) we were watching a pair of lions, then a large herd of elephants. The highlight of the walk was a gradual approach to a large herd of reticulated giraffe, framed by Mount Kenya.
On subsequent visits we have not seen quite so much wildlife, although we still had some wonderful sightings. These have included elephant and buffalo as well as more unusual species such as the long-necked gerenuk antelope and grevy’s zebra. We still feel that the ranch is a good wildlife location, although it is worth noting that animals are not as prolific as in the Maasai Mara.
We feel that El Karama is particularly good for adventurous families with younger children. The main area is fenced and comparatively safe and children are likely to enjoy the large pool. The lodge also has an excellent ‘bush school’ which runs all sorts of child friendly activities such as farm visits, paw print cast making, short walks and wildlife tracking, baking in the kitchen and making models out of termite clay.
The main lodge vehicle is a restored vintage land cruiser that has been converted to be an open game-drive vehicle. It runs on petrol, making it quieter than modern diesel vehicles. It has a metal roll cage, canvas top and sides in case of rain, and a windscreen that can be collapsed for photography. There are seats for guests and the guide at the front in the open cab and two bench seats for three passengers each. El Karama also has a two Toyota Hiluxes, with three rows of seats and a cab.
As well as drives and walks around El Karama ranch, you can also do a full-day excursion to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which is south of El Karama. Ol Pejeta is known for its high rhino population and the chances of seeing them here are good.
For excursions to even further afield, scenic flights and helicopter rides can be arranged. Previous guests have enjoyed adventurous mornings flying to Mt Kenya in a chopper for breakfast, then spending the morning fishing. There are substantial additional costs for this kind of activity, but easily one that could be a real highlight of a trip.
It's also possible to do guided drives and walks around the farm facilities and to learn about dairy herding on a Kenyan ranch. The Grants herd exclusively Sahiwal dairy cattle from Pakistan – the only herd of this breed in Kenya. Farm tours look at the farm and its activities, which vary through the day and through the week. The dairy is on view, as are the nighttime stockades (bomas) They aim to offer a model for sustainable management of agricultural activities alongside wildlife, demonstrating how holistic management and attention to grazing techniques can enable livestock and humans to live alongside wildlife with minimal conflict.
Back at the lodge, yoga sessions are available with local teachers, and – with advance notice – massages can be organised. Both options are at a modest extra cost.
Geographics
- Location
- Laikipia, Kenya
- Ideal length of stay
- 3–4 days
- Directions
- The transfer from Nanyuki Airport takes about an hour to an hour and a half, two-thirds of it on earth roads and the last part on the El Karama access road. It’s also possible to charter a flight into El Karama’s own airstrip, just a 5 minute drive from the lodge.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- The theme at El Karama is 'hearty rustic' meals: homemade, organic and delicious; much of the produce comes from their own kitchen garden. They are very proud of the kitchen that was built in 2016 and guests are always welcome to join the chef. The menus are thoughtfully and creatively put together, the dishes beautifully presented.
Generally guests go out for an early game drive or game walk, coming back for breakfast around 09:00. Lunch is usually around 13:00 and dinner about 20:00. Lunch is usually served at the poolside, breakfast and dinner in the main dining area, where a fire is often lit in the evening.
During our last visit, we had delicious buffet lunches of pulled lamb and bbq-ed beef, spinach and feta parcel pastries, fresh salads made with produce from the vegetable gardens and home-made bread.
Dinner is typically three courses. We started with vegetable soup; this was followed by roast chicken which was accompanied by roast potatoes, cabbage and spinach; for dessert we tucked in to crème caramel. Everything was delicious!
Coffee, tea, and herbal and fruit infusions are available on a help-yourself basis in the lounge area throughout the day. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- On request – no extra charge
- Drinks included
- Filtered water and house drinks are included
Special interests
- Family holidays
- El Karama is a fantastic family safari choice. Owner-managed by parents with a young family, it offers a relaxed vibe, bush camping adventures, a pool, and daily Bush School sessions, making it ideal for children of all ages to explore and learn in Kenya’s wild.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Kenya
- Honeymoons
- The exclusive-use River Cottages provide a private retreat for honeymooners, with a romantic river-front location, outdoor bathtub and private meals and guiding. The bush spa offers a chance to indulge in relaxing treatments.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Kenya
- Cultural Experiences
- Experience life on a working cattle ranch by exploring El Karama's ranch, dairy, and vast vegetable garden. This experience shares insights on the successful coexistence of wildlife conservation, farming, tourism and local communities.
- See ideas for Cultural Experiences in Kenya
- Walking safaris
- There are two guides certified to lead the walking safaris and enough big game around camp to have the chance of an exciting on-foot sighting, whilst walking from lodge to ranch shares insight into the coexistence of livestock and wild animals.
- See ideas for Walking safaris in Kenya
- Wellbeing
- From the river-side bush spa to the well-equipped bush gym and healthy, fresh, and local produce, there are many ways to enjoy a wellness experience at El Karama. Sunrise or sunset yoga can also be arranged out in the bush with local instructors.
- See ideas for Wellbeing in Kenya
- Walking
- Two armed guides can take the walking safaris at El Karama. They usually begin in the early morning (light allowing) before the heat of the day sets in. Focusing on tracks, scat, and burrows, the walks offer a fantastic new immersion in nature.
- See ideas for Walking in Kenya
- Private villas & houses
- Nilotica Private House, featuring four suites with an ideal maximum capacity of 10, comes with a private pool, dining room and lounge, firepit, and covered decking area overlooking the river, as well as a private vehicle and guide.
- See ideas for Private villas & houses in Kenya
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are very welcome, and the owners have young children
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- Aside from the pool, El Karama is a good place for kids them to let off steam and generally be themselves, though toddlers will need supervision at all times. The lodge has an excellent ‘Bush School’ programme, running from 10:00-12:30 each day, to keep young ones occupied while parents are out on game drives (or they can join too!). Activities include farm visits, hand line fishing, paw print cast making, wildlife tracking and short walks, cooking, painting, sculpting in termite clay, and helping in the lodge's vegetable gardens and with their pet rabbits.
Meals can be adapted to children’s needs, both in terms of menu and timings. The lodge can arrange for meals to be had separately from the adults if wished.
One ayah (nanny) is available and a member of staff can be organised for baby listening, but there are no professionally qualified childcare staff. - Equipment
- Every dining room (for the Hobbit House, Bandas, River Cottages, and Nilotica) has a highchair and a cot can be provided upon request.
- Generally recommended for children
- We think El Karama is great for children; the Kenyan owners are very inclusive and informal and have their own young family. A lot of thought and attention has gone into making family stays here as inclusive, engaging and all round enjoyable as possible. But we do recognise that their familiarity with the bush will not extend to most guests, and animals – some potentially dangerous – do enter camp from time to time, so parental supervision and awareness will be required at all times.
- Notes
- El Karama always briefs parents about supervision.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from El Karama Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at El Karama Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
80% success
80% success
75% success
75% success
60% success
40% success
25% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is 24 hour power throughout the lodge and guests can charge electronic products in the rooms.
- Communications
- El Karama has free WiFi throughout all accommodation and communal areas, although this is localised and guests can request for this to be disabled if they would prefer to be off-grid.
- TV & radio
- There is a TV in the staff area that guests can request to use for important sport fixtures.
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Rain water is collected, boiled and filtered and then used for showers. Clean drinking water is also supplied.
Sustainability
Inspiring guests through a “True Labour of Love”
As a family-owned business, El Karama lodge has been growing as a passionate team since 2006 without any investment, which the owners explain as a “True Labour of Love”. With the believe that guests can contribute to the health of the natural surroundings if they are engaged and inspired, the lodge has created several opportunities that will allow visitors to give back more than they take away from the environment.
One example is the lodge’s own tree nursery, used to protect the Acacia nilotica and other indigenous plants from the elephants. With four trees per month lost as a result of elephant damage, El Karama aims to plant double the number monthly. This will be done during the rainy season as the water helps establish the seedlings and will be initially done within fenced environments acting as exclusion zones. Guests are too invited to join the conservation efforts and make a valuable contribute towards reducing deforestation. They can help the staff ‘plant, propagate and re-locate tree seedlings or take a tour of the garden. Apart from showing guests how the lodge grows its own vegetables without any pesticides or chemicals, El Karama hopes to inspire tourists to take some of the conservation ideas home with them.
The lodge was granted with the prestigious Eco Warrior award of 2017 for responsible practice.
See more great sustainability projects in Kenya
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There’s a first-aid kit in the kitchen and office, and all staff usually have annual first-aid training. The nearest hospital is Nanyuki Cottage hospital. The Flying Doctors service could reach El Karama airstrip in 10 minutes.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- The lodge itself has a night watch and the ranch has a 12-strong wildlife protection unit who have had paramilitary and security training. Plus there are two NPR (National Police Reserve) officers stationed at the lodge.
- Fire safety
- There are fire buckets at the bandas. All core staff members are trained in basic fire fighting.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service is included.
- Money
- Every room has a private safe.
- Accepted payment on location
- Cash payments are preferred in Kenyan shillings, but any major currency is accepted, including US dollars, euros, and pounds sterling. Credit cards are accepted.
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El Karama Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of El Karama Lodge.
Excursions from El Karama Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at El Karama Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Anti-poaching Dogs Display
Approx. one hour
Interact with the dog keepers and learn about what it takes to look after the specially trained canine team. Guests are encouraged to try and evade the sniffer dogs, not only is this great fun, but it helps to offer genuine training for the dogs.
More about Anti-poaching Dogs Display
Northern White Rhinos visit
One hour, usually as part of your drive
Visit the Endangered Species Enclosure at Ol Pejeta Conservancy for a close encounter with the last two remaining northern white rhinos. You can visit either by game drive vehicle or visit on horseback if you're an experienced rider. Other rare species include Jackson's hartebeests and Grevy's zebras.
More about Northern White RhinosOther lodges in Laikipia
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Kicheche Laikipia
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Laikipia Wilderness
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Lewa Safari Camp
Lewa Safari Camp is a comfortable and homely tented lodge, located in the Lewa Conservancy and offering a relatively exclusive safari away from mass tourism.
Lewa Wilderness
Lewa Wilderness is a comfortable, fenced safari lodge with nine cottages, great views and a huge range of activities.
Sosian
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Il Ngwesi Eco-Lodge
The community-owned Il Ngwesi Eco-Lodge sits atop a small hill in the remote Il Ngwesi Group Ranch, a two-hour drive north of Lewa Conservancy in north-eastern Laikipia.
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp is a simple camp, with comfortable tents, delivering an authentic wilderness experience backed up by good food and guiding.
Porini Rhino Camp
Porini Rhino Camp is a small, simple, well established tented camp, with a keen focus on sustainable and low-impact tourism.
Borana
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Sirikoi
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Kifaru House
Kifaru House is a small, stylish safari lodge in the Lewa Conservancy, with beautiful views across the landscape.
Lewa House
Lewa House is a very comfortable, boutique safari lodge located on the Lewa Conservancy, north of Mount Kenya.
Solio Lodge
Solio Lodge is an exclusive and luxurious bush lodge set in the private Solio Game Ranch in southern Laikipia.
Loisaba Tented Camp
Loisaba Tented Camp is a luxury safari base of tented rooms, ranged along a ridge in the Loisaba Conservancy, facing Mount Kenya. The camp was completely rebuilt in 2016.
Tassia Lodge
Tassia offers a unique wilderness experience in a remote location: come here for cultural interaction, stunning views and something a bit different.
Loisaba Star Beds
Loisaba Starbeds is a simple camp of 4 rooms with pull-out, open-air 'star beds', located near a dam in the Loisaba Conservancy, in northwestern Laikipia.
Sweetwaters Serena
Sweetwaters Serena is a large, older tented camp – the largest camp in the Laikipia region – in the eastern part of the Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
Karisia Walking Safaris
Karisia Walking Safaris operates camel assisted, multi-day walking safaris from its main camp, Tumaren, set in a remote part of Laikipia.
Sandai
Sandai is a pretty, owner-run homestay, set between the Aberdare Range and Mount Kenya, offering a range of activities at extra cost.
Lodo Springs
Lodo Springs is a spectacularly located luxury lodge in a remote spot in the Loisaba Conservancy, sister lodge to Loisaba Tented Camp and Loisaba Star Beds.
Sanctuary at Ol Lentille
The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille is an unusual safari lodge in northern Laikipia, consisting of three exclusive villas, and offering a huge range of activities.
Governors' Mugie House
Governors' Mugie House – a substantial, luxury safari lodge – is one of only two properties in the Mugie Conservancy in northwestern Laikipia.
Thomsons Falls Lodge
Thomsons Falls Lodge is a simple hotel dating back to the colonial era, located above the falls of the same name, near the western Laikipia town of Nyahururu.
Ekorian's Mugie Camp
Ekorian's Mugie Camp is a pleasant, family-friendly safari camp in a remote location in northwestern Laikipia.
When to go to Laikipia
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit El Karama Lodge in Laikipia
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Laikipia in January
Clear, warm days and mild nights make this a popular time for safaris in Laikipia. It's excellent for game viewing in all the conservancies, where water sources attract diverse wildlife. The dry conditions make it easier to spot black rhinos, lions and leopards. Star bed sleep-out options at a number of lodges are particularly magical under the clear night skies.
After the New Year period, many camps and lodges treat January as mid-season, offering good value. The landscape retains some greenery, enhancing photography.
- Clear days ideal for safaris
- Excellent visibility for wildlife viewing
- Dry riverbeds attract wildlife to water sources
- Calving season for wildebeest and antelopes
- Palearctic migrant birds abundant
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in January
Laikipia in February
With the short dry season well established in Laikipia, wildlife gathers close to water points, making it an excellent time for safaris. Ol Pejeta and Lewa Wildlife Conservancies offer prime viewing opportunities for endangered species like black rhinos and Grevy's zebras. Solio Rhino Conservancy provides exceptional black rhino sightings during this period. The grass is grazed down, improving visibility across the region.
February is ideal for walking safaris, where you can appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem. The clear skies make stargazing from star beds an unforgettable experience. Cultural visits to local communities are particularly rewarding, as the pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities and interactions.
- Prime time for wildlife gathering near water
- Ideal conditions for walking safaris
- Palearctic migrant birds still present
- Low rainfall makes game drives rewarding
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Laikipia in March
As March progresses in Laikipia, the weather becomes increasingly hot and humid with more rain likely later in the month. Through most of the month, conditions are still good for game drives in most districts. As the month advances, the buildup to the rainy season becomes apparent.
This period can offer unique photographic opportunities as animals congregate around diminishing water sources. Accommodation costs decrease as the low season approaches.
- Early month offers great wildlife viewing
- Hot weather transitions to occasional rains
- Lower visitor numbers
- Lush vegetation begins to appear
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Laikipia in April
April usually sees established, serious rainfall in much of Laikipia, transforming the landscape. The southeast monsoon wind brings cooler temperatures and frequent downpours. While game viewing can be challenging due to lush vegetation, the green season offers unique experiences, with new-born animals visible among the verdant scenery.
The landscape bursts into life with vibrant colours, ideal for photography. Birdwatching is excellent with many species breeding. This is a quieter time for tourism, with lower accommodation rates at many places allowing for a more exclusive safari experience for great levels of service.
- Long rains begin, transforming landscapes
- Green season offers unique photo opportunities
- Lower rates at Laikipia's luxury lodges
- Buffalo and zebra calving season commences
- Birdwatching excellent
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Laikipia in May
May in Laikipia is characterised by ongoing rains and lush vegetation. While game viewing can be trickier, the vibrant landscapes offer spectacular photographic opportunities with very little dust. The landscapes are a sea of green, with diverse and thriving flora.
This is an excellent time for birdwatching across the region as breeding season continues. The Ewaso Nyiro river swells impressively. Despite potential challenges, patient visitors may witness dramatic scenes of predators hunting in the thick vegetation.
- Lush vegetation makes wildlife spotting trickier
- Great for landscape and nature photography
- Rutting season for wildebeest and impalas
- Frog breeding season in Laikipia's wetlands
- Mount Kenya views improve with clearer air
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Laikipia in June
As June progresses in Laikipia, the rains give way to slightly cooler, cloudy weather. This transition marks the beginning of a long, generally dry, high season for visitors. Game viewing improves as vegetation starts to thin, and conditions are comfortable.
The Ewaso Nyiro river, still full from the rains, attracts diverse wildlife. Accommodation rates begin to rise, reflecting the start of peak season.
- Rains subside, ushering in cooler weather
- High season begins with increased visitors
- Comfortable conditions game viewing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Laikipia in July
July in Laikipia brings cooler temperatures and ideal conditions for safaris. Animals concentrate around water sources on the conservancies, providing excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the peak of the high season, with higher accommodation rates and visitor numbers. The dry conditions make it easier to spot elusive species like leopards and black rhinos.
- Cool weather perfect for walking and riding
- Wildlife concentrates around water sources
- Excellent conditions for photography tours
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in July
Laikipia in August
August in Laikipia offers mild, dry weather, perfect for safaris. The conservancies teem with wildlife, including endangered species like black rhinos and Grevy's zebras. The landscapes offer stunning vistas and excellent conditions for game drives and walking safaris. The dry conditions make it easier to spot big cats across the region. This is peak season, so expect higher visitor numbers and accommodation rates.
You might consider combining your Laikipia safari with a stay at the nearby Samburu National Reserve, known for its “northern five” species – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich.
- Peak season for wildlife viewing in Laikipia
- Mild weather ideal for outdoor activities
- Busy period requires advance bookings
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in August
Laikipia in September
As September progresses in Laikipia, the weather typically remains dry with clearing skies, signalling excellent safari conditions. Early September can be busy, but visitor numbers decrease later in the month. In the conservancies, game viewing is exceptional as animals congregate around limited water sources.
September generally offers excellent conditions for photography.
- Hot, dry weather with good visibility
- Quieter period for more exclusive safaris
- Natural bush fires flush out insects and small animals for predators
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Laikipia in October
October in Laikipia brings generally hot and mostly dry conditions, ideal for safaris. It's a favourite month for many visitors due to the good weather and fewer visitors. The conservancies offer excellent game viewing, with animals concentrated around water sources. The Solio Rhino Conservancy provides exceptional rhino sightings in the dry conditions.
Birdwatching is rewarding as Palearctic migrants begin to arrive. Cultural visits to Maasai communities remain a highlight. Consider combining your Laikipia safari with a trip to the nearby Samburu National Reserve for a diverse wildlife experience.
- Warm or hot and mostly dry conditions for safaris
- Migratory birds start arriving
- Perfect for photography
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Laikipia in November
November in Laikipia marks the beginning of the short rains, usually in the latter half of the month. This transition brings about dramatic changes in the landscape. Early November can still offer good game viewing before the rains intensify. Then the bush begins to green, creating beautiful scenery.
As the low season begins, accommodation rates decrease, and visitor numbers drop too, allowing for a more exclusive safari experience. Birdwatching becomes excellent with the arrival of many migratory species. November is ideal for photographers capturing the changing landscapes and dramatic skies, with low dust and clear air. Cultural visits to Maasai communities offer insights into how local life adapts to the changing seasons.
- Short rains begin, transforming landscapes
- Low season offers better rates and privacy
- Excellent time for birdwatching in Laikipia
- Lush scenery provides stunning backdrops
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Laikipia in December
In a typical December, Laikipia sees the short rains finish by mid-month, leaving the landscape at its most beautiful. Clear blue skies return, heralding the start of the second peak visitor season from around 20 December onwards. The conservancies offer excellent game viewing with lush backdrops.
Christmas can occasionally be wet, but most years see perfect safari conditions by the festive season. This is an ideal time to combine wildlife viewing with cultural experiences, such as visiting Maasai communities.
- Rains typically end, leaving landscapes lush
- Peak tourist season begins mid-month
- Christmas safaris popular in conservancies
- Night sky clarity ideal for stargazing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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