High atop Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau, Loisaba Conservancy is a gorgeous spot. It’s as good for wildlife, including a number of species you see only in northern Kenya, as for the beauty of its surrounds. It also offers activities and many opportunities for engaging with the local community. And wherever you go on the conservancy, there’s a real feeling of wilderness.
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Best Time To Go
- June to September (Wildlife), December to March (Birding)
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High Season
- June to October and December to March
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Size
- 231km² / 89mi²
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Altitude
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1,449-1,846m /4,754-6,056ft
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Pros & Cons
- Excellent wildlife viewing
- Good for northern Kenyan specialty species
- Chance to engage with the local community
- Beautiful scenery
- Walking, horse and camel safaris available
- Never crowded
- No budget accommodations nearby
- Often booked out in high season
Wildlife
Loisaba has more than 260 bird species and around 50 different kinds of mammals. While you’re here, expect to see elephants (there are 800 on the conservancy), as well as buffalo, greater kudu, Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe. Big cats are also a possibility, with lion, leopard and cheetah in residence. African wild dogs are also returning to the conservancy.
Scenery
Loisaba is a picturesque place where the lush green hills and grasslands of the Wet season (October to May) give way to a more barren landscape during the drier months. Late in the Dry season (June to September) the entire conservancy turns golden. There are plenty of lovely hilltop vantage points from where the views seem to go on forever.
Activities
Loisaba is a private conservancy, which means that guided (including night drives and off-road drives) are permitted. Self-drive or self-guided game drives are not allowed. You can also join a walking safari (where you’ll be escorted by an armed guard) and visits to the local community are possible.
Weather & Climate
The weather and climate of Loisaba Conservancy is identical to that of the wider Laikipia Plateau. More info:
Best Time To Visit
You can visit Loisaba year-round, but it’s best during the Dry season (June to September), when roads are well-maintained and grasses are shorter. For birds, December to March is best. Rains in November, or the long rains from March to April or May, can turn some tracks to mud. From December to February, rains are usually just an afternoon storm.
Getting There
You can fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport (or from Lewa Downs, Nanyuki, Meru, Samburu and the Masai Mara) to Loisaba Conservancy’s private airstrip with AirKenya. Your tour operator or accommodations can help make arrangements. To drive from Nairobi to Loisaba (290km/180mi) takes 6 to 8 hours*.
*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.
Health & Safety
Please read our malaria and vaccinations page for Kenya and our general ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ page for more info: