Safaris in Laikipia
Laikipia is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable safari experience in East Africa. Boasting an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five and rare species that are difficult to find elsewhere on the continent, Laikipia is the perfect place for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. This region offers unique safari holidays that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Whether you're interested in spotting large herds of elephants on the grassy foothills of Mount Kenya or catching a glimpse of the exceptional leopard sightings in the more arid regions to the north, a tailor-made Laikipia safari holiday is the perfect choice for you.
Collapsible content
More About Safaris in Laikipia
Laikipia has a strong conservation record and is home to private ranches and community land, ensuring that wildlife and human populations can coexist in harmony. This approach has led to a rise in the amount of wildlife in Laikipia in recent decades, making it one of the best safari destinations in east Africa, competing with the likes of Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater.
Located to the north of the Great Rift Valley lakes, Laikipia stretches from the Aberdare Mountains to the Samburu lands in the northeast. The town of Nanyuki serves as the gateway to Laikipia, just a 3-4 hour drive north of Nairobi, or under 2 hours by air. Visitors can also enjoy easy connections to Laikipia's more remote airstrips, including Loisaba and Lewa Downs.
Wildlife in Laikipia
Laikipia is a wildlife paradise, offering a unique and unforgettable safari experience for any wildlife enthusiast. From majestic mammals to colorful birds, Laikipia boasts an incredible array of species that can be spotted while on safari.
One of the most iconic mammals found in Laikipia is the black rhinoceros. Laikipia is home to one of the largest populations of black rhinos in the world, and visitors have the opportunity to see these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat. In addition to the black rhino, Laikipia is also home to white rhinos, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and leopards, making it an excellent destination for those looking to spot the Big Five.
For those interested in bird watching, Laikipia is a must-visit destination. The region is home to over 500 species of birds, including the colourful Lilac-breasted roller, the Kori bustard, and the Grey crowned crane. The beautiful African Fish Eagle, Tawny Eagle, and Bateleur eagle can also be spotted soaring in the sky. With such a diverse range of bird species, Laikipia is a bird watcher's paradise.
Best Time to Visit
If you're planning a safari holiday in Laikipia, Kenya, it's important to consider the best time of year to visit to ensure you have the best possible experience. Laikipia is known for its vast landscapes, diverse wildlife, and stunning scenery, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Laikipia is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. This is the time when the wildlife is most active, and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is also pleasant, with warm days and cool nights, making it a comfortable time to go on safari.
Another great time to visit Laikipia is during the short dry season from December to March. While this period is not as dry as the main dry season, the weather is still relatively pleasant, and the wildlife is still active. However, this time can be busier due to the high season for tourism.
If you're interested in bird watching, the rainy season from April to May and November to December can be a great time to visit Laikipia. The park is transformed into a lush, green landscape during this period, and the wetlands are full of birdlife. However, it may not be the best time for game viewing as the vegetation can be quite dense, and the wildlife may be more difficult to spot.
Month-by-Month Guide to Weather
January:
The weather is warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) during the day to 10°C (50°F) at night. The average rainfall is around 10mm, with 1-2 days of rainfall per month.
February:
The weather is similar to January, with warm and dry conditions. Average temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) during the day to 10°C (50°F) at night. The average rainfall is slightly higher, around 20mm, with 2-3 days of rainfall per month.
March:
The weather begins to change as the rainy season approaches. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) during the day to 11°C (52°F) at night. The average rainfall increases significantly, with around 90mm of rain and 7-8 days of rainfall per month.
April:
This is one of the wettest months in Laikipia, with an average rainfall of 170mm and 12-13 days of rainfall per month. Temperatures remain similar to March, with average highs of 24°C (75°F) and lows of 11°C (52°F).
May:
The rainy season continues, with average rainfall of around 110mm and 8-9 days of rainfall per month. Temperatures begin to cool down, with average highs of 23°C (73°F) and lows of 10°C (50°F).
June:
The rainy season starts to taper off, with average rainfall of around 50mm and 5-6 days of rainfall per month. Temperatures continue to cool, with average highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F).
July:
The weather in July is cool and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) during the day to 8°C (46°F) at night. There is very little rainfall, with an average of 10mm and only 1-2 days of rainfall per month.
August:
The weather is similar to July, with cool and dry conditions. Average temperatures range from 23°C (73°F) during the day to 8°C (46°F) at night. The average rainfall is around 10mm, with 1-2 days of rainfall per month.
September:
The weather starts to warm up again, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) during the day to 10°C (50°F) at night. There is very little rainfall, with an average of 10mm and only 1-2 days of rainfall per month.
October:
The weather is warm and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) during the day to 10°C (50°F) at night. The average rainfall is around 10mm, with 1-2 days of rainfall per month.
November:
The weather starts to change as the short rainy season approaches. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) during the day to 10°C (50°F) at night. The average rainfall is around 60mm, with 5-6 days of rainfall per month.
December:
This is the start of the short rainy season, with average rainfall of around 50mm and 5-6 days of rainfall per month. Temperatures remain warm, with average highs of 24°C (75°F) and lows of 10°C (50°F).