Ol Pejeta Conservancy 2027: Kenya’s Black Rhino Sanctuary and Northern White Rhino’s Last Stand

Ol Pejeta Conservancy protects over 140 black rhinos, making it the largest population in East Africa. This is a remarkable conservation achievement, as black rhinos are critically endangered with fewer than 6,000 remaining worldwide. The conservancy also cares for the last two northern white rhinos on Earth — Najin and Fatu, both females. Their father, Sudan, died in 2018 and is buried on the conservancy. Scientists are currently attempting in vitro fertilisation using preserved sperm from deceased males and eggs from Najin and Fatu, with the hope of saving the subspecies. Ol Pejeta’s rhino conservation programme is considered one of the most successful in Africa.

Yes, visitors to Ol Pejeta can see Najin and Fatu, the last two northern white rhinos on Earth. They are kept in a large, fenced enclosure for their protection, and visitors can observe them from a viewing platform. The experience is deeply moving — seeing these magnificent animals, knowing they are the last of their subspecies, is a powerful reminder of what humanity has done to wildlife. The conservancy’s education centre tells the full story of the northern white rhino’s decline and the scientific efforts to save them. Sudan’s grave is nearby, a poignant memorial to the last male. For many visitors, seeing the northern white rhinos is the emotional highlight of their Kenya safari.

Ol Pejeta offers an exceptional range of activities beyond standard game drives. Rhino tracking on foot with armed rangers allows visitors to approach black rhinos on foot — an exhilarating and rare experience. Lion tracking with researchers using telemetry equipment provides insight into predator research. The endangered species enclosure houses the northern white rhinos and is open to visitors. The chimpanzee sanctuary offers guided walks to see rescued chimps. Night drives reveal nocturnal wildlife. Walking safaris explore the bush on foot. Mountain biking and horseback riding are available for adventurous visitors. The Morani Information Centre provides comprehensive education about the conservancy’s work. Few safari destinations offer such a diverse range of meaningful activities.

Ol Pejeta has accommodation options across all budgets. Sweetwaters Serena Camp is the main tourist camp, offering comfortable tented accommodation with excellent wildlife viewing. The camp overlooks a waterhole that attracts elephants, rhinos, and other animals day and night. Ol Pejeta House and Ol Pejeta Bush Camp offer more exclusive experiences with smaller guest numbers. For budget travellers, the conservancy has camping facilities. All accommodation includes game drives and access to the conservancy’s facilities. We recommend staying at least 2 nights to fully experience everything Ol Pejeta has to offer — the rhino tracking, chimpanzee sanctuary, and northern white rhino visit each deserve a full morning or afternoon.

Ol Pejeta can be visited year-round, but the dry seasons — June to October and January to March — offer the best wildlife viewing. During these months, animals concentrate around waterholes, making them easier to spot. The weather is pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. The wet seasons (April to May and November to December) bring lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but some roads may be muddy. Rhino tracking on foot is possible year-round. The northern white rhinos and chimpanzees are accessible regardless of season. For the best combination of wildlife, weather, and accessibility, visit between June and October or January and March. Ol Pejeta is less seasonal than the Masai Mara, so even during the wet season, the experience is excellent.