Kenya is renowned for its spectacular wildlife and stunning landscapes, but beyond the famous national parks and reserves, the country is also home to some incredible conservancies that offer a more exclusive and intimate safari experience. These conservancies, which are often located in privately managed areas, provide a perfect balance between conservation efforts, wildlife protection, and sustainable tourism. For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure while supporting conservation, Kenya’s conservancies are an ideal choice.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top conservancies in Kenya, highlighting what makes them special and why they are worth visiting.

1. Masai Mara Conservancies
The Masai Mara is one of Kenya’s most famous wildlife destinations, known for its breathtaking wildlife, including the Big Five and the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. While the Masai Mara National Reserve can get crowded, the surrounding conservancies offer a quieter, more private safari experience.
Key Conservancies:
- Mara North Conservancy: This conservancy is a partnership between local Maasai landowners and conservationists. It offers exclusive game drives in pristine wilderness, as well as activities like walking safaris and night drives. The conservancy is home to a wealth of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
- Olare Motorogi Conservancy: A favorite for its excellent game viewing, this conservancy is situated on the northern border of the Mara Reserve. It’s known for its high concentration of big cats and is also one of the key areas to witness the Great Migration. With fewer tourists than the national reserve, you can enjoy private and uninterrupted game drives.
- Leopard Hill Conservancy: Known for its stunning landscapes, this conservancy offers a peaceful environment, where guests can view wildlife from the comfort of luxury lodges and tented camps. It also contributes significantly to preserving Maasai culture while supporting local communities.
Why Visit?
- Less crowded than the national reserve, ensuring a more private safari experience.
- Excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, especially of predators.
- Unique cultural encounters with the Maasai community.

2. Laikipia Conservancies
Located in central Kenya, Laikipia is a vast area that offers a diverse range of wildlife experiences. Known for its open savannahs, rolling hills, and rich biodiversity, the Laikipia region is home to several conservancies that are leaders in wildlife conservation, particularly for endangered species.
Key Conservancies:
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy: This is one of the most famous conservancies in Kenya, known for its commitment to rhino conservation. Ol Pejeta is home to the world’s last two northern white rhinos, as well as a significant population of black rhinos. Guests can also encounter chimpanzees, elephants, and a variety of other wildlife.
- Solio Ranch: Situated at the foot of Mount Kenya, Solio Ranch is renowned for its successful rhino breeding program. It offers visitors an intimate experience with wildlife, including sightings of both black and white rhinos, as well as giraffes, zebras, and big cats.
- Borana Conservancy: A private, luxury conservancy on the northern edge of Mount Kenya, Borana is committed to both conservation and community development. With incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, and endangered Grevy’s zebras, visitors can enjoy a range of activities like game drives, bush walks, and horseback safaris.
Why Visit?
- Ideal for those seeking a quieter, more remote safari experience.
- Great for wildlife enthusiasts interested in seeing rare species like the northern white rhino.
- Offers luxury lodges and camps with a focus on sustainability and conservation.
3. Amboseli Conservancies

Located at the foot of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is famous for its large herds of elephants. The area is home to several conservancies that ensure wildlife conservation while offering an authentic safari experience.
Key Conservancies:
- Tawny Conservancy: A relatively new but highly promising conservancy in Amboseli, Tawny offers travelers the chance to explore the area’s wildlife while supporting conservation and local Maasai communities.
- Kimana Conservancy: This community-owned conservancy works in partnership with Amboseli National Park to provide a haven for elephants and other wildlife. The conservancy is an important area for elephant migration, and it helps mitigate human-wildlife conflict by providing a buffer zone between the park and local communities.
- Selenkay Conservancy: Selenkay is part of the Amboseli ecosystem and focuses on the conservation of elephants and other big game. It offers a more private and intimate experience compared to the Amboseli National Park and is perfect for guests looking to escape the crowds.
Why Visit?
- Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, providing a dramatic backdrop for safari adventures.
- A great location for elephant sightings and photography.
- Less crowded than Amboseli National Park, ensuring a more peaceful safari experience.
4. Tsavo Conservancies
Tsavo is one of Kenya’s largest and most diverse ecosystems, known for its rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, and numerous bird species. The Tsavo region offers several conservancies that provide access to exclusive, private game-viewing areas.
Key Conservancies:
- Lumo Community Wildlife Conservancy: Located on the southeastern border of Tsavo West National Park, Lumo is a vital conservancy for the preservation of wildlife corridors. The conservancy has successfully protected a range of species, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs, and it also works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and conservation.
- Taita Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary, situated near Tsavo, is home to the endangered bongo antelope and provides refuge to a variety of wildlife species. It offers guests the chance to explore the rugged terrain and view wildlife up close.
- Mkomazi Game Reserve: Bordering Tsavo East National Park, Mkomazi is a community-run conservancy that focuses on wildlife protection, especially for rhinos and elephants. It’s also an important sanctuary for African wild dogs.
Why Visit?
- Home to unique wildlife, including endangered species.
- A great destination for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path safari.
- Excellent for birdwatching, as Tsavo is known for its rich avian diversity.
5. Samburu Conservancies

The Samburu region, located in northern Kenya, is one of the most unique and beautiful parts of the country, with its arid landscapes, striking mountain ranges, and diverse wildlife. The conservancies here protect a rare collection of animals, including the Samburu “Special Five” (Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx).
Key Conservancies:
- Samburu Intrepid Conservancy: This conservancy focuses on protecting wildlife while empowering local communities through conservation programs. Visitors can explore a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs, as well as learn about the local Samburu culture.
- Shaba Conservancy: Known for its stunning landscapes, Shaba is an extension of Samburu National Reserve, offering a more private safari experience. The area is home to rare species and large predators, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Why Visit?
- A unique landscape with a variety of desert-adapted species.
- A quieter and more private alternative to the Samburu National Reserve.
- Rich cultural experiences with the Samburu people.
Conclusion: Why Choose a Conservancy Safari?
Kenya’s conservancies offer an unparalleled safari experience for travelers seeking more exclusive, private, and meaningful interactions with wildlife. By choosing to stay in a conservancy, visitors contribute to conservation efforts, empower local communities, and ensure that Kenya’s stunning natural resources are preserved for future generations.
If you’re planning a safari to Kenya, consider exploring one of these top conservancies for a truly memorable and impactful adventure.
Contact Us:
For more information on booking a safari to Kenya’s top conservancies, contact Crystal Tours Kenya Ltd today. Let us help you plan a trip that supports conservation and gives you a deeper connection to the beauty of Kenya’s wilderness.