Laikipia & Great Rift Valley

About Laikipia & Great Rift Valley

Found in central Kenya between Mount Kenya and the Great Rift Valley, the vast Laikipia region is largely a high altitude plateau with open plains, undulating hills, woodland and scrubby bush. Traditionally the land was used as cattle ranches and while ranching still continues much of Laikipia’s land is now devoted to wildlife and conservation, often in partnership with local communities. The game viewing here can be exceptional and Laikipia is home to various rare and endangered species including Grevy’s zebras, reticulated giraffes and wild dogs. A number of the conservancies serve as vital sanctuaries for both black and white rhino making this region the best place in East Africa to see these threatened species. Without the constraints of National Park rules Laikipia has a wide range of activities apart from the usual game drives including walking safaris, camping out in the bush, camel riding, horse riding, river swimming and even scenic flights by bi-plane.  

The Great Rift Valley runs down western Kenya from north to south creating dramatic escarpments and both freshwater and soda lakes. Loldia House is located on the shore of Lake Naivasha which has abundant birdlife including waterfowl, kingfishers and fish eagles with the chance to see plains game and hippos by the lakeshore. Lake Nakuru is an important sanctuary for white rhinos and flamingos can be found here as well as at nearby Lake Elmenteita. Further north Lake Baringo has superb birdwatching including herons, pelicans and spoonbills.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email info@africatravel.co.uk

Wildlife

At birth, baby rhinos weigh between 88-140 pounds

Lions spend 16-20 hours of the day sleeping or resting

Leopards can see seven times better in the dark than humans

The scientific name for the African Wild dog means “painted wolf”

There are six flamingo species, including the greater flamingo, Chilean flamingo, lesser flamingo, Caribbean flamingo, Andean flamingo and puna flamingo

The pattern of a zebra's stripes are unique to each individual zebra

Giraffes can run as fast as 35 miles per hour

African elephants can currently be found in 37 African countries