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©Peter Grunert/Lonely Planet

Laikipia Plateau

Set against the backdrop of Mt Kenya, the Laikipia plateau extends over 9500 sq km of semi-arid plains, dramatic gouges and acacia-thicket-covered hills. This patchwork of privately owned ranches, wildlife conservancies and small-scale farms has become one of the most important areas for biodiversity in the country, boasting wildlife densities second only to those found in the Masai Mara. It's the last refuge of Kenya’s African wild dogs and it's here that some of the most effective conservation work in the country is being done. Indeed, these vast plains are home to some of Kenya’s highest populations of endangered species, including half of the country’s black rhinos and half of the world’s Grevy’s zebras.

For more information on the region's ecosystems and wildlife, contact the Laikipia Wildlife Forum and pick up a copy of Laikipia – A Natural History Guide, sold at many lodge gift shops across the region.

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Laikipia Plateau.

  • See

    Mt Kenya Wildlife Conservancy Animal Orphanage

    It may come off a little zoo-like at first but this orphanage is one of the few places in the world to have successfully bred the rare mountain bongo. Its success is such that there are now plans to release some of the captive-bred antelope into the Mt Kenya forests to bolster the current population of around 70. Children, and anyone who wants to have a baby monkey scramble over their head, will love this place. It's deceivingly large and worth asking the guides about each animal's story. The orphanage has some of the last pygmy hippos in Kenya (which were given to the first president, Jomo Kenyatta) as well as a rescued leopard and cheetahs. As you enter, be prepared for the free roaming bongos, llamas and ostriches.