3 DAYS, 2 NIGHTS PRIVATE SAFARI TO OLPEJETA CONSERVANCY

Planning a safari to Kenya is exciting, but choosing the right experience can feel overwhelming. This 3-day, 2-night private tour of OlPejeta Conservancy offers a blend of wildlife encounters, scenic scenery, and genuine comfort—all at a reasonable price. While it’s not a luxury lodge stay, the focus on game viewing and authentic interactions make it a compelling choice for those wanting a balance of adventure and value.

What stands out most are the guaranteed game drives, the chance to see the Big Five, and the visit to the unique Chimfunny Sanctuary for orphaned chimpanzees. The scenic drive overlooking Mount Kenya adds a breathtaking backdrop that makes this trip unforgettable. The only thing to consider is the hotel quality, which some reviews suggest could be improved, but it’s a small trade-off for the wildlife-rich experience.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone keen to explore Kenya’s central region without the fuss of a multi-week safari. If your goal is to see iconic animals in their natural habitat, while enjoying good food and knowledgeable guides, this package could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Wildlife Focus: Guaranteed game drives with opportunities to see all the Big Five.
• Unique Sanctuary: Home to rare species like black rhinos and the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Kenya.
• Scenic Views: Overlooks Mount Kenya, providing incredible photo opportunities.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides, including Samuel and Paul, enhance the experience.
• Value for Money: Includes accommodation, transportation, park fees, and meals, making it a practical choice.
• Limited First Day Meals: No breakfast on the first day, and only breakfast on the last day, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Your adventure begins early—around 7 am—when you’ll be picked up from your Nairobi hotel or airport. The drive to Ol Pejeta takes approximately several hours, but the journey is part of the experience, especially with a stopover at the Equator crossing. This iconic spot provides a fantastic photo opportunity, complete with the sign marking the imaginary line dividing the hemispheres. It’s a quick, fun pitstop that adds a memorable touch to your day.

Once you arrive at the conservancy, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at the resort, setting the stage for the wildlife adventures ahead. In the late afternoon, a game viewing drive kicks off. Guides are experienced and eager to help you spot elephants, lions, or even elusive leopards. As one reviewer noted, “Seeing the rhinos was priceless,” emphasizing how wildlife sightings can be a highlight of these drives.

The evening concludes with a comfortable dinner at the resort, offering a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s sights. The resort, Comfort Garden Sweetwaters, provides a decent base, though some reviews mention the hotel isn’t quite luxurious, but it’s convenient for park access.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive at Ol Pejeta

Day two is dedicated to exploring the conservancy in depth. You’ll spend the entire day on game drives—an excellent way to maximize your wildlife sightings. The guides, like Samuel, are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Patrizio shared that “seeing the rhinos was priceless,” which underscores how special it is to encounter these magnificent animals, especially the critically endangered black rhino.

Ol Pejeta is notable for its sanctuary for rare and endangered species, including Gravy’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, and, most famously, white rhinos. The latter are often highlighted as a must-see. Kyle mentioned that “paying the extra to see the white rhinos was a pinnacle experience,” making it clear that this is a highlight for wildlife lovers.

The conservancy also features Kenya’s only Chimpanzee Sanctuary, where orphaned and abused chimps are rehabilitated. It’s a rare chance to learn about conservation efforts and perhaps catch a glimpse of these intelligent primates close up.

Guides like Paul are praised for their attentiveness, always ready to help you get the best views and clarifying wildlife behaviors. The full-day outing includes ample opportunities for photography, thanks to the open-sided safari van with a pop-up roof.

Day 3: Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, you’ll check out from the resort and begin your journey back to Nairobi. The drive offers new perspectives, and some travelers might want to reflect on the animals and scenery seen over the last two days. Expect a smooth transfer, with drop-off at your hotel or the airport, depending on your plans.

Note: Breakfast on the last day is only included, while on the first day, breakfast is not provided, so plan to eat before departure or bring snacks.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package offers excellent value for the $950 per person price. It covers two nights of accommodation, all park entrance fees, meals as per the itinerary, and transportation in a customized safari van with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing and photography. Bottled water and assistance during the trip are included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

However, extras like gratuities, alcoholic drinks, and airport pickup are not included—common in safari experiences but worth budgeting for.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the guides’ expertise, with Kyle praising Paul for being “prompt, super friendly, and ready to help us get the best views.” The food and accommodations also get good mentions, although some suggest the hotel could be better. Patrizio appreciated the opportunity to see rhinos up close and called the experience “adventure discovering Ol Pejeta,” which shows how impactful the wildlife encounters can be.

Most reviewers felt the value was great, especially considering all the included costs—park fees, meals, and transport—are bundled into the price. The itinerary is clearly designed for wildlife viewing, and the presence of rare species like the black rhino and chimpanzees adds an extra layer of uniqueness.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits nature lovers eager to see Africa’s iconic wildlife, especially the Big Five and rare species. It’s ideal for first-time safari-goers who want a well-organized, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s also a good fit for those who value knowledgeable guides and scenic drives over luxury accommodations.

If you’re comfortable with basic hotel standards and want an affordable, wildlife-focused adventure, this trip hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

This 3-day private safari to Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers a fantastic opportunity to see Kenya’s wildlife in a controlled, well-organized manner. With guaranteed game drives, the chance to witness rare species, and the backdrop of Mount Kenya, it’s a trip packed with memorable moments. The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, turning what could be a simple drive into a genuinely engaging experience.

While the accommodations may not be five-star, the value for money and authenticity of wildlife encounters make this safari a compelling choice. It perfectly balances adventure, education, and scenic beauty for travelers who want to experience Kenya’s rich biodiversity without breaking the bank.

Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers, and those seeking a straightforward but immersive safari experience. If spotting rhinos or chimpanzees, enjoying scenic views, and learning from passionate guides sounds appealing, this tour could be the highlight of your Kenyan journey.

FAQ

What is the price of this safari?
The tour costs $950 per person, which covers accommodation, park fees, meals, transport, and guide assistance, offering good value for the wildlife experiences.

Is breakfast included on the first day?
No, breakfast on the first day is not included, so plan to eat before departure or bring snacks. Breakfast is only provided on the last day.

How long is the drive from Nairobi to Ol Pejeta?
While not specified exactly, the journey begins early in the morning and includes a stopover at the Equator crossing, so expect several hours of travel with a scenic and interesting break.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Ol Pejeta is home to all the Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos—and other species like zebras, giraffes, and chimpanzees. The conservancy is especially known for its rhino sanctuary.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Samuel and Paul as friendly, attentive, and well-informed, eager to help guests get the best wildlife sightings.

Is this safari suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, and the experience is generally best suited for adults or older children who can enjoy game drives comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothing for game drives, sunscreen, hats, and camera gear. Drones and pets are not allowed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

This safari offers a balanced blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and authentic African adventure—perfect for those wanting to capture the essence of Kenya’s wilderness in just a few days.

You can check availability for your dates here: