Kenya · Safari destination

Laikipia

Safaris built around Laikipia.

A vast Kenyan plateau offering off-the-beaten-track wildlife encounters, including Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe and African wild dog.

Laikipia

Laikipia

Why

Laikipia is home to a wide array of wildlife, including the Big Five, rare species like the Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, and African wild dog.

The region boasts a beautiful mosaic of grasslands, wooded acacia communities, and evergreen forests, set against the backdrop of Mount Kenya

Interact with local communities like the Maasai and Samburu, gaining insights into their traditions, lifestyles, and deep connection to the land.

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Where to stay

Lodges in Laikipia.

Budget

1 lodge

  1. LABA Mama Simba
    Lux Live availability

    LABA Mama Simba

    LABA Mama Simba is a small owner-run retreat on the edge of Laikipia in Kenya, set among gardens with views out to Mount Kenya. Five private cottages, home-style cooking and a Masai guide on staff make it feel closer to staying with friends than checking into a lodge, with horse riding and walking safaris on the doorstep.

    From $730 per person · night

Rates per person sharing, per night.

Laikipia

Your guide to Laikipia.

Highlights:

  • Unique Safari Experience: Walking safaris, night drives and horse back riding.
  • Luxury Lodges and Camps: Upscale and eco-friendly accommodation.
  • Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities like the Maasai and Samburu.

When

The best time to visit Laikipia for wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June to October). However, if you're looking for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and discounted rates, the wet season might be worth considering.

Dry Season (June to October):

  • Best season for wildlife viewing, especially between July and October, as animals congregate around waterholes.
  • Less dense vegetation, making it easier to spot animals.
  • Roads and tracks are more accessible.

Short Rainy Season (November to December):

  • Fewer tourists, making for a more private experience.
  • Lush green landscapes


Wet Season (March to May):

  • Fewer tourists, leading to discounted accommodation rates.
  • Birdwatching is especially good as migratory birds are present.

Where

Laikipia is situated in central Kenya, in the eastern part of the Great Rift Valley. It lies northwest of Mount Kenya and is bordered by several counties: Samburu to the north, Isiolo to the northeast, Meru to the east, Nyeri to the southeast, Nyandarua to the south, and Baringo to the west.

Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, from there, you ca connect with daily scheduled domestic flights from Nairobi's Wilson Airport. The flight from Nairobi to Laikipia is generally about an hour.

Imagery

Laikipia, in pictures.

Recent travellers

Word from people who have just been to Laikipia.

Quotes pulled directly from Trustpilot. Where we have specific reviews mentioning Laikipia, those come up first. Otherwise these are recent five-star notes from across the trips we have planned.

"Kate and Clarisha both went the extra mile to accomodate what we were requiring for our first safari. There pleasant way of dealing with us seniors was refreshing. Thank you ladies."
August 2026 · Verified on Trustpilot ↗
"This is the second time we have used Safari.com and have been very satisfied. Courteous, attentive and very responsive."
August 2026 · Verified on Trustpilot ↗
"Our travel agent Kate Harrington provided excellent service throughout the booking process. She was quick to respond to my questions, provided clear proposals with transparent pricing, and was easy to work with even through weekends and holidays. She was able to propose lodges and hold the availabilities for us while our vacation planning evolved. She is rea…"
August 2026 · Canada · with Kate Harrington · Verified on Trustpilot ↗
"The booking process was super easy and my Safari expert, Nerine was knowledgeable and very professional throughout our communication. Answered all my questions well and made good recommendations!"
August 2026 · USA · with Nerine Du Plessis · Verified on Trustpilot ↗

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