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Escape Safari Blog
Escape Blog

Our blog is where we share what we’re learning, what we’re noticing, and what’s worth knowing before you go. Field notes, destination guides, seasonal updates.

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Conservation

We only work in wild places we’re committed to protecting. Here’s what that looks like in practice.

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Honest answers to the questions worth asking before you go.

Laikipia

01

overview

Laikipia

Laikipia is one of Kenya’s most sophisticated safari regions: a mosaic of private conservancies, ranchlands, valleys and wild uplands where conservation, community partnerships and exceptional guiding intersect. Unlike a traditional national park, Laikipia feels layered and deeply tailored — ideal for travellers who want exclusivity, flexibility and more than game drives alone.
Reasons to Visit
The Laikipia Plateau covers more than 9,500 square kilometres of Kenya’s central highlands, managed as a mosaic of private ranches and community conservancies that collectively protect one of the country’s most significant wildlife populations outside the national parks. Guest numbers are deliberately low across the plateau, and the activities available, from horseback safaris to fly camping, operate with a freedom that more regulated destinations cannot offer.
Laikipia holds the second-largest elephant population in Kenya and a significant proportion of the country’s remaining black rhino. Its network of privately managed conservancies has become one of the most successful examples of community-based conservation in Africa, demonstrating what is achievable when wildlife and land ownership are brought into genuine alignment. Grevy’s zebra, endangered and found only in northern Kenya and Ethiopia, are also reliably encountered across the plateau.
Laikipia is one of the few places in Africa where horseback safaris can be conducted in the presence of free-ranging elephant, lion and buffalo. Moving through the bush at pace, without the barrier of a vehicle, changes the dynamic of a wildlife encounter in ways that take most people by surprise. Camel safaris offer a quieter alternative, covering ground through the dry north with pack animals and guides who have known the landscape for generations.
02

HABITATS

Laikipia

Highland Savanna
River Valleys
Rocky Hills
Forest-edge and semi-arid northern habitat transitions
Highland Savanna
A mosaic of private and community-managed land across Kenya's central plateau, supporting one of the country's most significant wildlife populations outside the national park system, including the majority of Kenya's black rhino outside Ol Pejeta.
River Valleys
The Ewaso Ng'iro and its tributaries cut through the plateau, their wooded banks providing permanent water and dense cover for elephant, leopard and a range of forest-edge species.
Rocky Hills
Broken terrain across Laikipia's higher ground providing refuge for klipspringer, leopard and the olive baboon troops that structure much of the ecosystem's predator activity.
Forest-edge and semi-arid northern habitat transitions
Laikipia's northern reaches grade into drier, more open country, creating a transition zone where species from Kenya's arid north overlap with those of the central highlands.
03

WILDLIFE

Laikipia

Black Rhino

Black Rhino Laikipia holds the majority of Kenya's black rhino population outside Ol Pejeta, with several conservancies running active protection and monitoring programmes that make guided rhino tracking a realistic and meaningful experience.

White Rhino

White Rhino There are only two northern white rhinos left in the world. Both are female, named Najin and Fatu, and they live under 24-hour armed guard at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya. Because there are no male northern white rhinos left, the subspecies is considered "functionally extinct," with scientists relying on IVF and surrogacy to attempt to save it

African Wild Dog

Laikipia is one of Kenya's most important wild dog strongholds, with several packs resident across the conservancy mosaic and sightings among the most consistent available anywhere in the country.

Grevy's Zebra

Laikipia is one of the last significant strongholds for Grevy's zebra, the world's largest wild equid, distinguishable from Burchell's zebra by its narrow pin-stripe pattern and large rounded ears.

Reticulated Giraffe

The reticulated giraffe, with its bold, clearly defined white-bordered patches, is a northern Kenya endemic found in good numbers across Laikipia's open conservancy land.

Gerenuk

The gerenuk, or giraffe-necked antelope, occurs in the drier northern sections of Laikipia, feeding on acacia browse by standing on its hind legs in a posture unique among antelope.

Beisa Oryx

Beisa oryx are found in the drier northern conservancies of Laikipia and are a characteristic species of Kenya's arid north, less commonly seen on the southern and central Kenyan safari circuit.
04

ACTIVITIES

Laikipia

05

WEATHER

Laikipia

Laikipia, a vast and diverse region in Kenya known for its wildlife conservancies and stunning landscapes, experiences a moderate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate can be divided into three primary periods
The wet season in Laikipia is marked by two separate rainfall periods – the “short rains” from November to December and the “long rains” from March to May. During this time, daytime temperatures typically range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), with cooler nights. The rains transform the landscape into a lush, green environment, making it a beautiful time for photography. However, the abundance of water sources leads to wildlife being more dispersed, making game viewing slightly more challenging. Some roads may become impassable due to the heavy rainfall.
The dry season in Laikipia features cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and little to no rainfall. Daytime temperatures usually range between 68°F and 86°F (20°C to 30°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C) or lower, especially during the colder months of June and July. As water sources become scarce, wildlife tends to gather around the remaining waterholes, making this an ideal time for game viewing. The dry season also offers better visibility and more comfortable weather conditions for visitors.
A MONTH BY MONTH BREAKDOWN OF THE WEATHER
January in Laikipia is characterised by warm days and cool nights. The landscape is lush green after the short rains, and wildlife can be spotted near water sources. Game drives are popular during this time.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
25 mm/ 1 in
In February, Laikipia experiences similar weather to January, with pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall. It’s a great time for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, as migratory birds begin to arrive.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
30 mm/ 1.2 in
March brings slightly higher temperatures to Laikipia, along with increased rainfall. The plains are teeming with wildlife, and it’s a fantastic time to witness the dramatic interplay between predators and prey.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
11°C/ 52°F
Average Rainfall
50 mm/ 2 in
April marks the peak of the rainy season in Laikipia. While rainfall is abundant, the showers are often short-lived. The landscape is lush, and the wildlife is active. It’s an excellent time for photography enthusiasts.
Average High Temperature
25°C/ 77°F
Average Low Temperature
11°C/ 52°F
Average Rainfall
100 mm/ 3.9 in
In May, the rains start to taper off, and the temperature gradually cools down. The savannah is dotted with wildflowers, and the scenery is breathtaking. This is an ideal time for exploring the wilderness on foot.
Average High Temperature
24°C/ 75°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
70 mm/ 2.8 in
June is a relatively dry month in Laikipia, with cooler temperatures. Wildlife viewing is excellent, as animals congregate around water sources. Visitors can enjoy game drives and guided walks in the crisp morning air.
Average High Temperature
23°C/ 73°F
Average Low Temperature
9°C/ 48°F
Average Rainfall
20 mm/ 0.8 in
July brings similar weather to June, with cool temperatures and minimal rainfall. It’s an excellent time for exploring the diverse ecosystems of Laikipia and observing the abundant wildlife that calls this region home.
Average High Temperature
22°C/ 72°F
Average Low Temperature
8°C/ 46°F
Average Rainfall
15 mm/ 0.6 in
August is characterised by mild temperatures and minimal rainfall in Laikipia. Wildlife sightings are common, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including guided game drives, walking safaris, and cultural interactions.
Average High Temperature
23°C/ 73°F
Average Low Temperature
9°C/ 48°F
Average Rainfall
15 mm/ 0.6 in
In September, the dry season continues in Laikipia, with pleasant temperatures. The wildlife is active, and it’s an excellent time for observing predators in action. Cultural visits to local communities are also popular during this period.
Average High Temperature
24°C/ 75°F
Average Low Temperature
9°C/ 48°F
Average Rainfall
20 mm/ 0.8 in
October marks the transition from the dry season to the short rains in Laikipia. The weather is generally warm, and there is an increase in bird activity. Visitors can enjoy game drives and bush walks in search of wildlife.
Average High Temperature
25°C/ 77°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
40 mm/ 1.6 in
November brings the onset of the short rainy season in Laikipia. The landscape turns green again, and the wildlife disperses across the plains. It’s a great time for birdwatching and witnessing the arrival of migratory species.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
50 mm/ 2 in
December in Laikipia experiences warm temperatures and occasional rainfall. The plains are teeming with wildlife, and it’s an ideal time for game drives and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings of the region.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
30 mm/ 1.2 in

01

overview

Laikipia

Laikipia is one of Kenya’s most sophisticated safari regions: a mosaic of private conservancies, ranchlands, valleys and wild uplands where conservation, community partnerships and exceptional guiding intersect. Unlike a traditional national park, Laikipia feels layered and deeply tailored — ideal for travellers who want exclusivity, flexibility and more than game drives alone.
Reasons to Visit
The Laikipia Plateau covers more than 9,500 square kilometres of Kenya’s central highlands, managed as a mosaic of private ranches and community conservancies that collectively protect one of the country’s most significant wildlife populations outside the national parks. Guest numbers are deliberately low across the plateau, and the activities available, from horseback safaris to fly camping, operate with a freedom that more regulated destinations cannot offer.
Laikipia holds the second-largest elephant population in Kenya and a significant proportion of the country’s remaining black rhino. Its network of privately managed conservancies has become one of the most successful examples of community-based conservation in Africa, demonstrating what is achievable when wildlife and land ownership are brought into genuine alignment. Grevy’s zebra, endangered and found only in northern Kenya and Ethiopia, are also reliably encountered across the plateau.
Laikipia is one of the few places in Africa where horseback safaris can be conducted in the presence of free-ranging elephant, lion and buffalo. Moving through the bush at pace, without the barrier of a vehicle, changes the dynamic of a wildlife encounter in ways that take most people by surprise. Camel safaris offer a quieter alternative, covering ground through the dry north with pack animals and guides who have known the landscape for generations.
02

HABITATS

Laikipia

Highland Savanna
River Valleys
Rocky Hills
Forest-edge and semi-arid northern habitat transitions
Highland Savanna
A mosaic of private and community-managed land across Kenya's central plateau, supporting one of the country's most significant wildlife populations outside the national park system, including the majority of Kenya's black rhino outside Ol Pejeta.
River Valleys
The Ewaso Ng'iro and its tributaries cut through the plateau, their wooded banks providing permanent water and dense cover for elephant, leopard and a range of forest-edge species.
Rocky Hills
Broken terrain across Laikipia's higher ground providing refuge for klipspringer, leopard and the olive baboon troops that structure much of the ecosystem's predator activity.
Forest-edge and semi-arid northern habitat transitions
Laikipia's northern reaches grade into drier, more open country, creating a transition zone where species from Kenya's arid north overlap with those of the central highlands.
03

WILDLIFE

Laikipia

Black Rhino

Black Rhino Laikipia holds the majority of Kenya's black rhino population outside Ol Pejeta, with several conservancies running active protection and monitoring programmes that make guided rhino tracking a realistic and meaningful experience.

White Rhino

White Rhino There are only two northern white rhinos left in the world. Both are female, named Najin and Fatu, and they live under 24-hour armed guard at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya. Because there are no male northern white rhinos left, the subspecies is considered "functionally extinct," with scientists relying on IVF and surrogacy to attempt to save it

African Wild Dog

Laikipia is one of Kenya's most important wild dog strongholds, with several packs resident across the conservancy mosaic and sightings among the most consistent available anywhere in the country.

Grevy's Zebra

Laikipia is one of the last significant strongholds for Grevy's zebra, the world's largest wild equid, distinguishable from Burchell's zebra by its narrow pin-stripe pattern and large rounded ears.

Reticulated Giraffe

The reticulated giraffe, with its bold, clearly defined white-bordered patches, is a northern Kenya endemic found in good numbers across Laikipia's open conservancy land.

Gerenuk

The gerenuk, or giraffe-necked antelope, occurs in the drier northern sections of Laikipia, feeding on acacia browse by standing on its hind legs in a posture unique among antelope.

Beisa Oryx

Beisa oryx are found in the drier northern conservancies of Laikipia and are a characteristic species of Kenya's arid north, less commonly seen on the southern and central Kenyan safari circuit.
04

ACTIVITIES

Laikipia

05

WEATHER

Laikipia

Laikipia, a vast and diverse region in Kenya known for its wildlife conservancies and stunning landscapes, experiences a moderate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The climate can be divided into three primary periods
The wet season in Laikipia is marked by two separate rainfall periods – the “short rains” from November to December and the “long rains” from March to May. During this time, daytime temperatures typically range from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), with cooler nights. The rains transform the landscape into a lush, green environment, making it a beautiful time for photography. However, the abundance of water sources leads to wildlife being more dispersed, making game viewing slightly more challenging. Some roads may become impassable due to the heavy rainfall.
The dry season in Laikipia features cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and little to no rainfall. Daytime temperatures usually range between 68°F and 86°F (20°C to 30°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C) or lower, especially during the colder months of June and July. As water sources become scarce, wildlife tends to gather around the remaining waterholes, making this an ideal time for game viewing. The dry season also offers better visibility and more comfortable weather conditions for visitors.
A MONTH BY MONTH BREAKDOWN OF THE WEATHER
January in Laikipia is characterised by warm days and cool nights. The landscape is lush green after the short rains, and wildlife can be spotted near water sources. Game drives are popular during this time.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
25 mm/ 1 in
In February, Laikipia experiences similar weather to January, with pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall. It’s a great time for wildlife viewing and birdwatching, as migratory birds begin to arrive.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
30 mm/ 1.2 in
March brings slightly higher temperatures to Laikipia, along with increased rainfall. The plains are teeming with wildlife, and it’s a fantastic time to witness the dramatic interplay between predators and prey.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
11°C/ 52°F
Average Rainfall
50 mm/ 2 in
April marks the peak of the rainy season in Laikipia. While rainfall is abundant, the showers are often short-lived. The landscape is lush, and the wildlife is active. It’s an excellent time for photography enthusiasts.
Average High Temperature
25°C/ 77°F
Average Low Temperature
11°C/ 52°F
Average Rainfall
100 mm/ 3.9 in
In May, the rains start to taper off, and the temperature gradually cools down. The savannah is dotted with wildflowers, and the scenery is breathtaking. This is an ideal time for exploring the wilderness on foot.
Average High Temperature
24°C/ 75°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
70 mm/ 2.8 in
June is a relatively dry month in Laikipia, with cooler temperatures. Wildlife viewing is excellent, as animals congregate around water sources. Visitors can enjoy game drives and guided walks in the crisp morning air.
Average High Temperature
23°C/ 73°F
Average Low Temperature
9°C/ 48°F
Average Rainfall
20 mm/ 0.8 in
July brings similar weather to June, with cool temperatures and minimal rainfall. It’s an excellent time for exploring the diverse ecosystems of Laikipia and observing the abundant wildlife that calls this region home.
Average High Temperature
22°C/ 72°F
Average Low Temperature
8°C/ 46°F
Average Rainfall
15 mm/ 0.6 in
August is characterised by mild temperatures and minimal rainfall in Laikipia. Wildlife sightings are common, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including guided game drives, walking safaris, and cultural interactions.
Average High Temperature
23°C/ 73°F
Average Low Temperature
9°C/ 48°F
Average Rainfall
15 mm/ 0.6 in
In September, the dry season continues in Laikipia, with pleasant temperatures. The wildlife is active, and it’s an excellent time for observing predators in action. Cultural visits to local communities are also popular during this period.
Average High Temperature
24°C/ 75°F
Average Low Temperature
9°C/ 48°F
Average Rainfall
20 mm/ 0.8 in
October marks the transition from the dry season to the short rains in Laikipia. The weather is generally warm, and there is an increase in bird activity. Visitors can enjoy game drives and bush walks in search of wildlife.
Average High Temperature
25°C/ 77°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
40 mm/ 1.6 in
November brings the onset of the short rainy season in Laikipia. The landscape turns green again, and the wildlife disperses across the plains. It’s a great time for birdwatching and witnessing the arrival of migratory species.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
50 mm/ 2 in
December in Laikipia experiences warm temperatures and occasional rainfall. The plains are teeming with wildlife, and it’s an ideal time for game drives and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings of the region.
Average High Temperature
26°C/ 79°F
Average Low Temperature
10°C/ 50°F
Average Rainfall
30 mm/ 1.2 in

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