5 reasons to travel to Kenya in April

Traveling out of season is easily our favourite time to travel! April is, and always has been, low season in Kenya. Most camps and lodges in remote areas in Kenya shut down over April and much of May due to issues with access; heavy rainfall can make roads in the Masai Mara incredibly sticky and difficult to navigate or, in places like Samburu, rising river levels can flood them altogether. For this reason, tourism comes to a fairy dramatic stop on the first of April. But on Ol Pejeta, life continues as always… it’s just a little muddier.

A crisp April morning on Ol Pejeta

Cosying up by the fire listening to the rain

Google may say that Kenya is a no-go in April but here are five great reasons to ignore Google and do it anyway…

1) THE LOWEST PRICES OF THE YEAR

If you’re looking for a safari on a budget, then April is definitely the best time of year to come to Kenya. Most camps and lodges are closed so you’ll have less options to choose from but those that remain open during this time will have excellent low rates and special offers. And with so few guests in camps you’ll also find that service is concentrated and at its best, making traveling in April brilliant bang for your buck!

2) GET THE PLACE ALL TO YOURSELF

Traveling out of season means space! It means you’re not fighting through mountains of safari vehicles to enjoy your sightings or needing to make a dinner reservation months in advance in one of Nairobi’s top restaurants. In Ol Pejeta our game drives are often completely private and our guests won’t see a single other tourist vehicle. Talk about exclusivity!

3) BEAT THE HEAT

There is something wonderful about the rain in Africa; it’s refreshing and full of life and, after a long, hot, dry season, we welcome the cooler temperatures that the April rains offer with open arms. If you are sensitive to heat, then you too may well enjoy this month of reprieve from the otherwise harsh African sun.

A rainstorm building on Ol Pejeta © Kathrine Macleod

4) WILD RAINSTORMS AND WILD ADVENTURES

The April rains are wild and powerful showers that mostly hit us in the afternoons. We’ll so often hear the distant rumble of thunder whilst we have lunch, the wind picks up a little and the birds are suddenly excitable. We can’t help ourselves; the thrill of an impending African rainstorm never really goes away. We get swept up in it, pour a cup of tea and enjoy the meditative sound of heavy raindrops against the steel rooftops. And if you’re out on the plains when the rains hit then hold on tight; you’ll be slipping and sliding all the way home and you may even have to pop out to help your guide push the vehicle out a muddy patch, turning a pretty standard safari into an African adventure!

*Top top: traveling to Kenya in April? Pack some light waterproof/wellington boots that will keep your toes warm and ward off the mud and pack clothing that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Most camps will supply you with an umbrella in your room but it’s always helpful to pack a light waterproof jacket too.

5) UNIQUE WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY

We’ve all seen a photograph of a lion but wildlife photography in the rainy season is really something else! A herd of giraffe ambling across a stormy landscape, cheetahs jumping over puddles and navigating high rivers, rhinos rolling about in decedent mud baths and a slow shutter capturing the rainfall or a bird shaking off its wet feathers. Kenya in April offers you the chance to get the shot that no one else gets!

Cheetahs in the Masai Mara © Shivang Mehta

6) HELP CONSERVATION

Okay okay we said five, but we’re sneaking in another reason to book your April safari because it’s a really important one. A lot of conservancies, like Ol Pejeta, rely heavily on tourism to keep them going and they often struggle to push through quieter months like April and May. Choosing to travel in April means you’re giving these organisations vital aid in tough times; your conservancy fee is more valuable than ever, literally paying ranger salaries and keeping electric fences that protect endangered and critically endangered wildlife operational.

Click here to learn more about how your visit to Ol Pejeta is supporting wildlife conservation.

This is not to say that travelling around Kenya in April doesn’t come with its challenges but if you do your research, pack appropriately and be prepared for anything and everything you’re likely to discover magical places and moments that you just can’t find at any other time of year.

BOOK YOUR APRIL SAFARI TO KENYA

Ol Pejeta has a network of well-maintained roads that are accessible in all weather conditions, which means The Safari Cottages stay open year round and soak up the peace and quiet and wildness of Ol Pejeta all through April too. What’s more, your fully inclusive stay with us include a private vehicle and guide so you can stay out and enjoy the African rain for as long or as little as you’d like. Take advantage of our absolute lowest rates and come visit us this April.

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Introduction to Spinners & Weavers

Nanyuki town is around a 90minute drive from Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages and is our closest town. We’ve been a part of this community for over twenty years now and have watched the town grow from a small, single, dirt through-road with a spattering of shops into what it is today; a busy settlement creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive.

We consider Nanyuki an extension of our home and our team is here almost every week to pick up supplies, take staff to doctors and dentists, run vehicle maintenance and more. We’ve come to love the people of Nanyuki and we’ve especially come to love a special place called The Spinners and Weavers.

Meet the Spinners & Weavers of Nanyuki

Spinners and Weavers was set up by the Nanyuki Presbyterian Church in the 70’s and is a sanctuary for widowed and disadvantaged women seeking refuge and employment. The program has helped over 280 women out of hardship; offering them necessary skills, training and income to support themselves and their families. Many of these women have left to create their own businesses or sister support groups all across the country.

Visiting the Nanyuki Spinners & Weavers

For those who linger a little longer at The Safari Cottages and are interested in learning more about the local communities, meeting the people and supporting them, we offer the chance to head to Nanyuki Town for a morning and visit the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers. You will learn how they use traditional methods to create, by hand, unique wool rugs and you can support them by making a purchase or by making a donation.

If you’d like to support the Spinners and Weavers woman’s group on your next visit to Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages then let us know and we can arrange a morning out in Nanyuki town for you. As well as a visit to see the ladies you can also wander the local shops or explore one of Kenya’s favourite Mitumba markets where vendors sell second hand clothing and goods in a bustling outdoor bazaar.

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5 reasons to travel to Kenya in January

The magic of a fresh, new year is as palpable in Kenya’s town, villages, open plains and beaches as it is anywhere else in the world. There are few things we love more than waking up to watch the sun rise over Ol Pejeta Conservancy’s expansive wilderness as it lights up Mt Kenya on the first day of the year. The magic doesn’t end on day one though; nothing here pauses, life simply goes on, but something about us has changed; we’re seeing it all unfold through fresh new eyes.

Watching a rhino out on the plains x Britt Von Steinen

An evening campfire x Britt Von Steinen

The November rains usually settle by the middle of December and in January, on Ol Pejeta, we see large herds of plains game enjoying the bounty of the rainy season, covering the plains in large herds with lots of excited little ones.

As well as jubilant baby zebras, here are five more things we love about Kenya in January…

1) Excellent game viewing

By January we are well and truly into the dry season where, aside from the occasional afternoon shower, the weather is often sunny and wonderfully warm. A stark contrast to the lush green landscapes of the November rains. With grasslands largely munched down game viewing is a little easier as the cats can’t hide in the long grass; this makes stalking their prey a little more challenging but spotting them a little easier.

2) Walking weather

If you love walking and hiking, then January is the time for you. With more predictably drier weather you can enjoy some of the country’s most beautiful hikes like Mt Kenya and Mt Longonot. And on the country’s wide open plains this is a great time for bush walks because visibility in the bush is excellent and you’ll not likely get your boots muddied. Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages is a great place to acclimate before your Mt Kenya hike and to unwind afterward and we are often a resting place for hikers at this time of year.

3) Hit the beach!

January is easily one of the best times of the year to be on the Kenyan coast. After your safari head to Diani, Watamu, Malindi or Lamu to unwind and enjoy tropical, warm weather whilst you sip a margarita by the pool and clear waters with excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling.

Lions on a buffalo kill x Britt Von Steinen

4) Warm, starry nights.

The warmer daytime weather that is so often associated with a January Kenya safari often extends into the evenings too. Whilst we’re at 1,800m (6,000ft) above sea level and you’ll still need your fleece and socks, the real chill of the rainy months has well and truly settled down. And with clear skies we’re enjoying excellent star gazing in the evenings too.

5) Mid/late January: the sweet spot

The start of January is considered high season around most of the country and, as such, prices are elevated and you’re encouraged to book your January Kenya holiday far in advance to ensure you can get the space that you want. But, around the middle of the month, things quieten down a little bit and the 6 weeks that follow herald in a bit of a sweet spot where the wildlife is truly excellent, weather is reasonably reliable and prices are lower.

BOOK YOUR JANUARY SAFARI TO KENYA

Welcome the New Year on a Kenya Safari in January to get your year off to an unforgettable start filled with incredible wildlife, sweeping wild spaces and moments that will stick with you forever from your home-away-from-home at The Safari Cottages.

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The History of Ol Pejeta

The history buffs among us might be curious to know a little more about how Ol Pejeta Conservancy came to be. To understand how far we’ve come we sat down with owner/manager Sonja Webb to unravel a little of the conservancy’s history.

RANCHING

During the colonial era, the Laikipia region was an extensive ranching area where wildlife had little to no value to land owners. Low rainfall meant crops couldn’t thrive here but cattle could, and so the landscape was speckled with ranches packed with cows.

In 1949 Ol Pejeta, then owned by the colourful Lord Delemere, was under the management of John and Jane Kenyon who spent the best part of fifteen years pouring their life and soul into it’s development and expansion. The most noteable growth was is the early years when John was joined by a school friend and business partner of Lord Delamere named Marcus Wickham Boynton. Over the course of a few years Marcus and John took the bull by the horns (pun intended) and successfully upscaled the farm from a “humble” 57,000 acre ranch into a sprawling 90,000 acre estate and widely successful beef production company.

Twenty years later and with a, now sizeable, feather in their cap John and Jane retired from their roles on Ol Pejeta in 1969 to run their own cattle ranch in the north.

Ol Pejeta’s Boran cows ander the plains alongside the wildlife (May 2025)

Following John and Jane’s departure the ranch changed hands a few times, falling under the ownership of a slew of colourful characters including Marcus Wickham Boynton, who was notorious for occasionally shooting cattle “he didn’t like the look of,” as well as the infamous international arms dealer Adnan Khashoggi. Over time cattle ranching became less and less profitable though. To make matters worse for the ranchers, increasingly, elephant populations that previously used the ranch as a transit area from the Northern expanses of the country to Mount Kenya and the Aberdares were forced to take up permanent residence on the property as fences started to go up all around country blocking off wildlife migratory routes. As a result, the ranch’s cattle fences were often destroyed and maintaining the fences became unsustainably expensive and time consuming.

Consequently, they gave in to the elephants; in the face of declining wildlife populations elsewhere and the increasing popularity of tourism in Kenya, talk of repurposing the ranch for wildlife conservation and tourism purposes began.

John and Jane Kenyon’s farmhouse on Ol Pejeta

Ol Pejeta House now stands in it’s place

STEPPING INTO WILDLIFE CONSERVATION

In 1988, a portion of the ranch; the Sweetwaters game reserve (24,000 acres) was opened by another of Ol Pejeta’s previous owners, Lonrho Africa. Primarily, Sweetwaters started as a sanctuary for the endangered black rhino, but animals of all shapes and sizes benefited from the new focus and wildlife populations (including the “Big Five”) have been steadily increasing since that time.

Image x Alison Dewar

In 2004 the ranch was purchased by Flora and Fauna International, a UK based conservation organization and the conservation area extended to encompass the entire ranch. “The Ol Pejeta Conservancy,” approximately 90,000 acres in extent was born. It is the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa, with the aim of generating profit from wildlife tourism and complementary activities (including cattle ranching which still happens on the conservancy) for reinvestment into community development in the local area.

And that’s that. Andy and Sonja made their home on Ol Pejeta in 2009, and you can read more about their journey to calling Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages their forever home via the link below.

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5 reasons to travel to Kenya in December

The first couple of weeks of December in Kenya are considered “shoulder season, then “peak season” returns over the Christmas and New Year period as the majority of Kenyans celebrate this time of year and schools are closed so families are out and about enjoying all our beautiful country has to offer. You can expect sporadic showers if you travel to Kenya in December; a bit of a hangover from the November “short rains” but generally clear skies, lovely green landscapes and, for the most part, sunshine-filled days at the beach. December is a wonderful month to travel to Kenya! Here are five reasons why we love it…

Lions hunting on Ol Pejeta

1) Escape the chaos of the festive season.

If you’re someone who gets swept up and overwhelmed by Christmas shopping, office parties and family flying in from all over the world and sleeping on your sofa then you’re going to love the quiet solitude and stillness of the Kenyan bush instead! No crowds, no rushing; this is the ideal escape from the Western world and it’s festive season chaos.

2) Shoulder season pricing and crowds.

For the most part, you can expect low or mid-season pricing throughout November and into the first couple of weeks of December. Not only are you able to enjoy reasonable prices and fewer crowds but the weather is also slowly clearing, making way for expansive skies and rolling grassland where plains game thrive and, as a result, predators do too. Sneak your visit in before the 20th December to take advantage of this lovely little pre-Christmas pause.

3) Spend Christmas on safari!

Imagine a Christmas where you don’t have to do a lick of cooking or cleaning! Even better, you get to wake up in the bush, listening to lions whilst you sip eggnog under the African stars and your boxing day walk is one surrounded by elephants, giraffes and zebras. Choosing to go on safari to Kenya in December means you’re signing up for a unique Christmas experience you’ll never forget.

4) Party time.

If you’re up for a good time, you’ve come to the right place. There’s nothing Kenyans love more than a celebration. Festivities take over in the cities and major resorts, and beach parties that will keep you on the dance floor until sunrise are famous in the coastal regions of Mombasa, Diania and Malindi. At The Safari Cottages we’re very respectful of our neighbours (the wildlife) so you won’t find any raving midnight parties here but our staff share a song and dance around the fire and the chefs whip up an incredible Christmas spread that you’ll need to be wearing your comfiest, stretchiest pants to enjoy.

5) Birders paradise.

If you’re a birder then you’ll definitely want to be planning your Kenya safari in December as this is well known to be the best time of year for birds. Although bird numbers on the conservancy are impressive year round, thousands of migratory species from Eurasia and North Africa start to arrive in November and December, including the European bee-eater, Abdims stork and Steppe eagle.

BOOK YOUR DECEMBER SAFARI TO KENYA

There’s something truly magical about Ol Pejeta in December; the rush of the festive season feels a million miles away and we revel in the peace and quiet of bush. If you’re looking for an escape from the Christmas chaos, you’ve found it!

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Sonja's Kitchen: Traditional Kenyan Beef and Bean Stew

There’s beef stew and then there’s Kenyan beef stew which sits entirely in a league of it’s own, and we’re confident we’ve absolutely mastered it! This is a fan favourite dish for us all at The Safari Cottages; guests and staff alike, and served up with warm rice or ugali, Sonja’s Flakey Chapatis and some local vegetables dishes you’ve got yourself a simple, hearty, homey dish that’ll have you licking your chops and going back for seconds and thirds.

Sourcing your beef

Wherever possible aim for grass-fed organic beef. We source our beef directly from Ol Pejeta where the cattle roam freely on the conservancy and the meat is noticeably excellent; the higher quality the source, the better the result. This recipe also suggest using diced beef because this is the most common presentation but any cut will do; we particularly love using osso bocco (beef shin) or oxtail; the meat really falls off the bone beautifully.

MAKE IT SAUCY

Despite the focus on meat, Kenyan beef stew is actually all about the sauce so measure your beef with your heart in this recipe! This is because, traditionally, beef was very valuable and hard to come by and, for a lot of communities it still is, so if we’re really going to be true to the roots of this stew the use of beef should be really minimal and used mainly to provide flavour to the sauce which is soaked up with ugali to fill bellies. In fact the original version of this recipes calls for just 50g of beef! But these days, reasonably priced, good quality beef is more accessible for a lot of us so you can make your stew as meaty as you’d like.

Here’s our much-loved Kenyan beef and bean stew recipe, right from Sonja’s cookbook, Footprints in The Butter.

KENYAN BEEF & BEAN STEW

Serves 4

• 4 cups of red kidney beans or other beans (tinned or dried beans that have been soaked overnight)

• 50g-1kg diced beef (depending on how meaty you want your stew)

• 2 onions

• 3 carrots

• 4 tablespoons of your preferred cooking oil

• 2 tablespoons of flour

• 6 cups of water or beef stock

• salt and pepper to taste

1. Slice the onions, heat the oil and fry, adding the diced beef until it’s all brown.

2. Chop the carrots.

3. Remove the onion and the meat from the frying pan. Keep the oil on a low heat and add the flour, stirring continuously until brown.

4. Pour in the water, stirring continuously as you bring to the boil. Add salt, pepper, onions, beef, carrots and beans.

5. Reduce heat, cover tightly and simmer for about an hour until beef is tender.

Browning the beef shin

Combining beef with veg and beans

Adding the liquid

Let us know how your Kenyan beef and bean stew turned out! You can purchase Sonja’s recipe book Footprints in The Butter here for more of our favourite camp recipes.

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Ol Pejeta's mission to save the Northern White Rhinos

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a 90,000 hectare wildlife conservation area in central Kenya and home to both endangered and critically endangered species including black and white rhino. Most famously though it is home to Najin and Fatu, the last two Northern White rhinos left in the world. Visitors to Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages often take the opportunity to visit “the girls” and meet their caretakers and, if you’re curious about the Northern White Rhinos, here’s a little background on how they came to be here, how you can see them and Ol Pejeta’s mission to bring this species back from the brink of extinction.

IN THE BEGINNING

On December 20th 2009 four of the world’s remaining seven Northern White Rhinos (Najin, Fatu, Suni and Sudan) were translocated to Ol Pejeta from a zoo in the Czech Republic after breeding attempts in captivity had yielded poor results. It was hoped that placing the rhinos in their natural environment would aid in their natural reproduction.

Unfortunately, despite everyone’s hopes natural reproduction failed time and again for a number of reasons and, with Sudan as the only male Northern White Rhino alive, it seemed unlikely to happen at all. In 2014 Suni passed away and further hopes were dashed when vets deemed the remaining two females Najin and Fatu incapable of natural reproduction and Sudan’s sperm count was disappointingly low.

In July 2015 the two Northern Whites in captivity passed away, leaving just the three on Ol Pejeta and then the world morned as Sudan, the last remaining male Northern White Rhino died of natural causes in March 2018. It seemed all hope had been lost.

Najin & Fatu with their keepers. Image x Ami Vitale

THE FUTURE OF NORTHERN WHITE RHINOS

At this point Ol Pejeta could certainly have rolled over and given up, but they chose to use the opportunity to make a statement; that no more species should be allowed to go extinct on our watch. They wanted to show the world that there was still hope for wildlife, even when things seemed so bleak. The years that followed saw the beginnings of a unique Biorescue project whereby scientists used stored sperm from male Northern White Rhinos that have passed away, and the eggs collected from Fatu to create embryos which were then implanted into a surrogate Southern White Rhino.

Fatu is preparing for the procedure to retrieve her eggs. Image x Ali Vitale

IVF has never been performed on rhinos before so testing began using the embryos of Southern White Rhinos and in 2023, in a bittersweet moment that made headlines around the world, Ol Pejeta shared the news that the project had been successful; an embryo had been successfully implanted into a female Southern White Rhino, however the rhino that carried that embryo had passed away during her pregnancy from a bacterial infection. Nothing more than very bad luck. But it left Ol Pejeta and all those working on the Northern White Rhino project with a new hope because, whilst the world morned, it became clear that this is in fact a viable solution to the global threat of mass species extinction. The next step is to transplant a Northern White embryo in the hopes to welcome the first Northern White Rhino calf since Fatu’s birth in 2000.

Najin & Fatu on Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Image x Ol Pejeta Conservancy

HOW TO VISIT THE NORTHERN WHITE RHINOS

Najin and Fatu and a selection of Southern White Rhinos being considered for surrogacy are incredibly well protected armed guards and under 24hr monitoring and care in a 700 acre predator free area within the conservancy. Visitors to the conservancy are invited to visit Najin and Fatu on pre-arranged tours where they can enter into the Northern White Rhino enclosure to meet the girls and learn more about the rhinos and about Ol Pejeta’s role in the Biorescue project.

If you’d like to learn more then tune into Nat Geo who have released The Last Rhinos: A New Hope which covers the story of this groundbreaking conservation project. Even better, book your stay at Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages and include a visit to the Northern White Rhinos to witness history unfolding.

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Photographs from PAST GUESTS visits to The Northern White Rhinos

Image x Kayla Neilson

Image x Yoga For The Wild

Image x Yoga For The Wild

Image x Yoga For The Wild

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What to expect on a day trip to Mt Kenya

Our central location means we’re able to offer our guests the opportunity to stay a little longer and spend some time exploring Laikipia beyond the conservancy. A day trip to Mt Kenya offers you the chance to see the mountain’s alpine wilderness without committing to a gruelling 5-day hike to the summit. Here’s what your day trip to Mt Kenya can look like…

Good morning!

You’ll wake up with the sunrise this morning, enjoying a cup of freshly brewed Kenyan tea or coffee on your verandah along with a light breakfast to get you going. After breakfast you’ll head off for your day of adventure. You’ll drive through the conservancy, keeping an eye out for any exciting wildlife activity, then pass through local villages and towns before turning right and entering into Mt Kenya Forest reserve.

Open plains give way to montane forest as you pass through the Sirimon entry gate and proceed to Old Moses base camp; the first overnight stop for those hiking to the summit. The drive takes you through farmland into rain forests, bamboo forests, cedar and yellow wood forest and across the moorland to Old Moses. Enroute you have the opportunity to see monkeys, baboons, buffaloes and bushbuck as well as a colourful array of birdlife.

Arriving at Old Moses image x Marcelo Ramella

Old Moses hike & picnic lunch

You’ll park up at Old Moses and explore the mountain’s unique, equatorial afromontaine moorland vegetation and incredible views across the surrounding Laikipia county and mountain foothills. You choose your distance; most enjoy an easy amble to the met station (around an hour’s hike) at around 3300m above sea level, and back again in time for lunch but you can follow the trail as far as you’d like. Weather depending you can wrap up and enjoy the views with a picnic at Old Moses or descend into the cedar forest and relax beneath the canopy of trees here for a leisurely picnic lunch.

Featured images below kindly shared by Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages guest Marcelo Ramella on their recent family safari.

Nanyuki & return home

You’ll pass through Nanyuki town on the drive back so, if you still have some energy after your morning out, you’re welcome to stop by and wander through the shops or local markets. We also recommend visiting the Spinners & Weavers; a local woman’s group that hand crafts beautiful woven rugs.

Nanyuki Spinners & Weavers Womens Group

If you prefer to head back to the bush you’ll have a game drive back to camp, arriving late in the afternoon to put your feet up and have a sundowner around the fire whilst the stars unravel overhead. What a day!

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Your Kenya Safari Packing List

Jetting off on your safari soon and wondering what to pack? We’ve got you. An African safari is unlike any experience you’ve ever had, and the continent is so vast that your packing list for, say, Rwanda will look very different to your packing list for Kenya. So, let’s get into it.

Here’s your Kenya safari packing list… 

CLOTHING

Colours: if you’re wondering if you need to go full khaki cowboy on safari the answer is yes, sort of. Of course, you can still pack your fancy frocks and florals, but bright colours can be distracting for wildlife especially on bush walks and the aim is to blend in as much as you can. If you’re hitting the beach after your safari then don’t forget to take multiple swimwear pieces, light, airy clothes that wick well and lots of reef friendly suncream.

Layers: temperatures can vary greatly from the Kenyan coast and desert areas to the highlands so layers will be your best friend. Light shirts, a fleece and maybe one warmer, slightly thicker coat will be all you need. Pack leggings and shorts too, because it can be chilly in the morning but by mid-morning it’s roasting.

Footwear: people often think hiking boots will be the best solution but, unless you’re traveling in the rainy season, or you’re hiking, these just take up unnecessary space and weight. Comfortable trainers will be fine and high, thick socks do help ward off mosquitoes nipping at your ankles in the evening. Aswell as closed shoes. be sure to pack sandals or similar relaxing footwear for just plodding around the camp in. If you are traveling in the rainy season, waterproof boots or shoes are helpful but you’ll also get by just fine with an old pair of trainers that you don’t mind getting muddy.

Top tip: As well as your suitcase or duffel it’s a great idea to travel with a smaller backpack or tote that you can pop spare clothes, some sunscreen, your phone or camera and a bottle of water in for your game drives.

CAMERAS

Clients so often ask us what kind of camera they need and the answer is, I’m afraid, not as simple as you might hope. Because it depends entirely on what you want from your safari. If you want to return home with a selection of beautiful wildlife photographs that you can blow up and mount on your bedroom wall then your iPhone probably isn’t going to cut it and you’ll need to invest in a good zoom lens. But if you’re more interested in just enjoying the experience and maybe snapping one or two pics of the sunset or the elephants to share on the family group chat then there’s no need to break the bank on a fancy new camera.

One thing to remember is that, if you’re heading off on your Kenya safari holiday with a new camera, make sure you test it and get really comfortable with it before your holiday. Otherwise, you’ll likely spend most of your time fiddling with the settings and you’ll miss all the magic.

OTHER BITS AND BOBS

• Memory cards: if you’re into photography, then you’re going to need multiple memory cards for your camera. It’s not uncommon to get home after a week in Kenya with around 3000 pictures to sort through! You will see a lot!

• Charging cables/adaptors: don’t forget all your charging cables and adaptors if you need them. Most camps and lodges will have power sockets (3-pin British style sockets) in the rooms or the main area but it’s always useful to have a mobile charging unit handy just in case.

• Toiletries/first aid: leaving bulky toiletries at home can help you save space, so check in with your accommodation to see what toiletries they provide. But, as well as your basic toiletries, it’s helpful to carry some essential first aid bits like antihistamine, paracetamol, rehydration salts and after sun lotion. Most camps can facilitate a visit to a nearby doctor but they may not be able to supply you with medications due to liability concerns.

• Binoculars: bring them! They may well add weight to your precious baggage limit but no one has ever regretted bringing a pair of binoculars on safari, but so many have regretted leaving them at home.

*A note on luggage. If you are flying locally be sure to check baggage restrictions as most bush flights will be operated by small aircrafts that have strict baggage limits.

Finally, as always, before you lock the door behind you and jump into your taxi to the airport don’t forget to double check you’ve got the essentials handy: passport, flight tickets, visas, emergency cash and cards.

Safari njema!

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Yoga for the Wild: Kenya yoga retreats for conservation

We’ve had the joy of welcoming a number of yoga retreat groups to The Safari Cottages over the years and we adore them all. Many of them return, year after year, to share the magic of Ol Pejeta with more of their guests and many of their guests have returned a number of times too.

Yoga For The Wild joined us for their first yoga retreat in 2021 and since then they have run five successful retreats with us, with another two coming up! They are sharing a little of their story with us today, and what it is that they love about their Kenya yoga retreat home-away-from-home, The Safari Cottages.

In the beginning

Laura and Kat met when Kat planned and booked Laura’s anniversary safari to Kenya for herself and her husband. They discovered a mutual love of yoga and of wildlife conservation and kept in touch over the years that followed. During Covid, when tourism collapsed in Kenya and funding for Ol Pejeta became dire they teamed up to host online yoga classes and events that raised funds for Ol Pejeta to help them through that tricky time. And when borders reopened they led two groups of like-minded yoga and wildlife loving guests on the first of what was to become many yoga retreats for the wild at Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages. To date, Laura and Kat have raised over $17,000 for Ol Pejeta and their in-person retreats have made a further positive impact over $21,000.

Laura, as you prepare to return to us for the fifth time, what is it about The Safari Cottages that you love that keeps you coming back?

“There are quite a few reasons I continue to return to Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages. Each time I visit feels like the first time - there are always new sightings and experiences! Even so, it is the wonderful people at The Cottages that keep me wanting to return time after time. It's very much a family atmosphere and everyone is there to help and make sure you're having the time of your life! They also value and prioritize the environment with a high set of standards and ethos to protect and care for our planet.

The guides are the best! They are so knowledgeable about every inch of the land. They are accommodating and I always feel safe with them.

It is just the most beautiful place! Mount Kenya's backdrop provides a picturesque view to the flat plateau of Laikipia. Even when it's not totally green, the landscape is still a stunning contrast,  but when it has rained and the greenery is vibrant and lush, it is absolutely breathtaking! The Cottages are surrounded with views in every direction and the potential for wild visitors is always thrilling.”

“The wildlife seems to thrive in Ol Pejeta. It's a perfect location and habitat for so many animals, and being protected by the conservancy allows them to naturally flourish. This is so encouraging given that many places in Kenya and throughout Africa are losing their wilderness and wildlife due to the ever growing human population. I'm so grateful to find a place where I can see wildlife being truly wild.

I feel more alive here than anywhere else on Earth. I feel close to the natural world, surrounded by good people and it really gives me hope that keeps me going even when I can't be there.” 

Kat, what are some of your favourite moments and experiences during your stays with us?

“I’m not a morning person at all but that changes when I’m at The Safari Cottages. I really love being up before sunrise and taking a cup of coffee down to the deck to practice yoga with our group at first light. There’s something so magical about the breaking of dawn here that really cracks you open, in the best way. The light, the texture of the air, the bird song. It’s so easy to be a morning person here!”

“But really every moment is so filled with wonder; I adore being out in the bush too. I grew up in the bush and spend as much time as I can here trying to share this wild place with my own kids too. So of course this environment is really the secret sauce to my inner peace - there is no better feeling in the world than sitting quietly in the car whilst elephants rumble around you or watching giraffe saunter across the plains whilst you have breakfast under an acacia tree or the incredible sensation of your bones rattling when a lion roars from only a few feet away.“

What is your vision for Yoga For The Wild?

“We return to Ol Pejeta every year to lead our annual Kenya yoga retreat; The Safari Cottages feels like home to us and Ol Pejeta continues to be such an incredible force for good that we are very passionate about rallying behind their efforts to make the world a better place. We've recently expanded to additional locations in Zimbabwe and the Maldives and have plans for even more adventures on the horizon, but we will always return to Ol Pejeta as it really represents the need for protecting our planet and all beings who call it home. The story of the iconic northern white rhinos at Ol Pejeta have a huge impact on all who visit and a way of changing people for the better by prioritizing the planet.

"The heartbeat of our operation is to go where the wildlife needs us and to share the magic of the world's wildest places with as many people as we can. Not only does this empower them with the understanding of why it’s so important that we continue to fight for the protection of endangered and critically endangered animals and their environments, but also creates a global community of people making a difference.”

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5 reasons to travel to Kenya in September

September is considered “high season” in Kenya but, if you’re crowd-averse, don’t let that deter you from your visit. This is a wonderful time of year and there is a reason that so many choose to travel in high season months. If you’re considering a Kenya safari holiday in September then here are five reasons why it’s your best idea yet!

1) It’s great for couples and adult travellers

For so much of the world, schools reopen in September after the Summer break and so families are no longer traveling. That means better availability and more options to choose from when it comes to finding lodging that suits you. It also means there is less competition for seats on airlines. At The Safari Cottages our one-bedroom safari cottages are absolutely ideal for couples looking for privacy and exclusivity; they come with a private chef and a dedicated, expert guide and vehicle. What a pleasure!

2) You can leave your umbrella at home

Whilst we can never say never, September is usually a very dry time of year; you may be treated to the occasional afternoon shower, if you’re lucky. That means there’s a very low risk of being rained in and not able to go out and enjoy the bush and, if you’re visiting the coast, you can expect predictably clear skies and warm weather for your days lounging on the beach.

3) Excellent game viewing

The drier weather means shorter grass so it’s easier to spot lions lounging out on the plains and track cheetahs as they race across the grassland on a hunt. The lack of rainfall also means that water sources are more concentrated so predicting when and where you can see wildlife at popular waterholes is more accurate. At The Safari Cottages we’re watching elephants, giraffe, rhino, buffalo and more frolicking in the river and resting in the near by shady trees every time we sit down for a meal.

4) The great migration

Many people choose to travel to Kenya between July - October to witness the great migration of wildebeest and zebra from the Serengeti into the Masai Mara. And for good reason; it’s a site to behold! We’d recommend starting your safari in Laikipia then flying down to the Masai Mara on a direct flight - this way you’ll get to see more of the country and enjoy the quiet of the highlands where you can settle in to your safari before you head the busy Masai Mara to witness one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

5) The start of whale shark season

With more predictable, excellent weather conditions across East Africa this is a great time for the classic “bush and beach” safari itinerary. Not only are the waters clear and beautiful but it’s the start of the whale shark season in East Africa and if seeing these incredible gentle giants is on your bucket list then you have a strong chance of being able to tick that one off!

BOOK YOUR SEPTEMBER SAFARI TO KENYA

Wildlife is abundant year-round in Ol Pejeta but there is something really wonderful about September; the lions are thriving and baby animals are popping up at every turn. We also tend to conduct our safari activities primarily in the wilderness area of the conservancy at this time, which has restricted access and means that game viewing isn’t as the mercy of big crowds of vehicles, as it is in the country’s national parks and reserves. It’s such a treat to have such privacy on your safari despite traveling during one of the busiest months of the year!

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A dream come true: building and running our safari camp in Kenya

From the outside, a stay at The Safari Cottages is all wildlife on your doorstep, roaring fires ready for your arrival, chilled wine on the African plains, big smiles and big hearts. What you don’t really get to see or understand is the vision, the hard work and the dedication that comes with living your dream every day and sharing it with the world. So today we thought we’d share an interview with Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages owners, Andy and Sonja Webb to hear more about how they came to be here and what it’s really like living their dream every day in the African bush.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN

Andy and Sonja met in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe in their teens, and married young, before moving to Lake Kariba to grow their family and begin their journey in the safari industry. Over the next eighteen years Andy became one of Southern Africa’s most celebrated guides and the two of them built and ran life-changing mobile safaris in Zimbabwe; Sonja seamlessly handling the catering, marketing and business admin whilst Andy expertly hosted and guided life-changing bush experiences for their guests.

In 2003 they moved to Kenya’s Masai Mara and built, from the ground up, four incredibly successful Kenya safari camps that still hold rank in the country’s top safari properties. Finally in 2017, after forty years of guiding, hosting, building and operating safari camps and mobile operations in Zimbabwe and Kenya Andy and Sonja found their forever home on the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. It was here that they took all these years of experience and passion and expertise to create a bush experience that offers their guests everything that really matters without the fuss, without the hefty price tags and without the pretence. It was here that they redefined “luxury,” because the real luxury on safari, they know, lies in incredible value for money, in privacy and exclusivity, in feeling like you belong completely.

 Andy, what was it about this location that appealed to you? And what were your top priorities in terms of minimising ecological impact during the construction?

“We found our location along the Ngobit River; this was originally a cattle station for Ol Pejeta Ranching Ltd and previously very barren. It had been completely overutilized by humans and livestock and the old wooden ranch managers house, built in the 50’s, still stood here but was totally unliveable. So our first thought was that it just made sense to build in an area where the soil had already been turned (utilised) rather than destroying virgin bush.

I think about our impact pretty much every day and protecting the existing, fragile eco system was a top priority for me during the build so I was careful to work around as many trees as possible and we upcycled the wood from the old house (stunning, aged cedar, purchased from Ol Pejeta) to make a lot of our furniture. To further protect both existing and new trees (primarily from from elephants - we love them but they can be very destructive) we ran a single strand electric fence around the property and wrapped some of the neighbouring acacias in chicken wire. The trees thanked us for it; today there is a beautiful grove of Yellow Bark Acacias in front of the cottages that not only look wonderful but support a multitude of insect and bird eco systems.”

 Sonja, when it came down to curating and refining the guest experience what was your vision for the food, décor and staffing? What has most influenced your style and vision?

“Growing up on a farm in Zimbabwe, and being from an Afrikaans/Dutch descent, I have always had a passion for cooking and creating delicious dishes, pickles, and jams. This also stems from spending many happy hours in the kitchen with my Gran, Aunts and Mum who taught me to believe in the magic of a good, healthy, home cooked meal and gave me the foundational skills to create these types of dishes, with a little twist added by my amazing chefs.

I have always loved arts and crafts, so décor was a natural part of the learning process too. I did a year-long study in interior design, which I absolutely loved and this continues to fufill an artistic niche in my life. This love only grew as I designed and decorated a handful of camps in Zimbabwe and Kenya. I am a “bush bunny” at heart so when it came to setting up The Safari Cottages, my daughter Kathrine and I (we share a similar aesthetic) pulled together a vision board full of rich, warm colours and textures that were inspired by nature; I wanted people to walk in and feel like they have arrived home.

We worked closely with the staff during the design phase; hiring their artisan family members and purchasing hand-made goods from their communities whenever we could. The staff are a massive part of what we do and are the ambassadors for The Safari Cottages, so it was important that they love the space as much as I do.”

BEHIND THE SCENES: DAY TO DAY RUNNING OUR DREAM KENYA SAFARI CAMP

The days start nice and early, as radio chatter merges with birdsong and the askaris are preparing for morning calls. Andy and Sonja love to sit on the veranda with a cup of coffee and listen to Africa wake up as the sun rises, watching the day unfold before them. Then, when guests are well on their way for their morning game drive, they’re in the office, answering emails and checking in with their team for the day. They will often have guests who linger for breakfast in camp instead of heading out at first light, so they will usually pop down to say hello and make sure they have all they need or if they have any questions or concerns that can be addressed. Then the day really kicks off; restocking kitchen supplies, managing guest movements, vehicle and property maintenance, business management, preparing rooms and welcome packages for arrivals and allocating vehicles for transfers, supply runs and activities.

They will often host bush brunches in the late morning too, so after a quick bite to eat they’ll load up vehicles with staff, equipment and food then head to the river to set everything up ready for the guests’ arrival. If they aren’t out and about at midday then lunch is usually delivered to the office, and they admit they’re lucky enough to eat incredibly well thanks to their team of chefs! They’ll then check in with any guests they have yet to chat with at teatime, before they head off on their afternoon activity and finish up any final tasks and checks for the day.

In the evenings, if things are quiet, they try to make time to enjoy a sundowner together or to talk a walk around the property with the dogs (and the cat!) before the guests return. This is a great opportunity to assess the perimeter and grounds, and to spend some quality time enjoying their bush home and their years of hard work, love and care.

 Sonja, what do you find the toughest part of managing the behind the scenes and what is the most rewarding part of it all?

“I would say that the toughest part behind the scenes would be making sure that everything from the cottages, menus, orders, and staff are all operating smoothly. I just love it when the “Floating Duck Syndrome” is well in place; things look to be operating with smooth, calm efficiency on the surface but we’re paddling like crazy out of sight!

I find the most rewarding part of all of this is being able to share my home in the African wilderness and love for nature with amazing guests and having them leaving wanting more!”

Andy, what is your favourite part of each working day?

“Sunset, easily. After a busy day in the office, welcoming new arrivals and bidding farewell to departures, chatting with guests over lunch down on the river deck we will often pack a cold beer or gin and tonic and enjoy a sundowner on the plains behind the cottages.”

“Like all other business, running The Safari Cottages is no mean feat and comes with it’s fair share of challenges, set backs and frustrations. But in the moments of quiet we so often look to one another and think, "aren’t we lucky to wake up each morning in a place that we love and spend our days pouring our hearts into watching our dream come true!" - Andy & Sonja

What to expect on a day trip to Ngare Ndare

Ngare Ndare Forest is a bit of a hidden gem. This is a community owned and run trust tucked away in the foothills of Mt Kenya that forms part of the wildlife corridor between the northern wilderness of Laikipia and Mt Kenya. Whilst this is not necessarily a safari experience you’ll likely spot bushbuck, warthogs and elephants on your day trip to Ngare Ndare as they pass through this corridor and the best place to spot them is from the forest’s suspended canopy walkway. This is also a great place to see the elusive Colobus monkeys; a striking, black and white monkey of which less than 5,000 exist in the wild in Kenya.

Your day out at Ngare Ndare

You’ll be woken early with a fresh, steaming cup of Kenyan coffee or tea delivered to your Safari Cottage and a delicious breakfast of hot food, baked goods and fresh fruit with Sonja’s famous homemade granola to get you going for the day. After a hearty breakfast you’ll head out on your adventure, looking out for wildlife on the way out of the conservancy. Your journey continues through nearby Nanyuki town and the surrounding farmland and villages, giving you an insightful glimpse into life in rural Kenya, before you arrive at Ngare Ndare’s canopy walkway in the late-morning.

Ngare Ndare Canopy Walkway

This is a 450m long bridge elegantly suspended through the trees and where you can wander at leisure looking out for big wildlife, colobus monkeys and birds including rare species such as Hartlaubs turaco and Narina trogon which can both be found here. The walkway ends at a platform overlooking a swamp below where you may be able to spot resident warthogs, waterbucks, bushbuck and elephants as they come down to drink.

 Ngare Ndare Waterfalls

You’ll descend from the walkway back to the forest floor and be guided on foot to the pools. Ngare Ndare is centered around six beautiful pools that are connected by the Ngare Ndare river. In dry seasons the waters tumble down a series of waterfalls and gather in magical azure blue pools which, if you’re not averse to the cold, you can swim in.

Game driving home

After your swim stretch out in the sunshine and tuck into a picnic lunch with your guide, listening to the cacophony of birdlife overhead before you make your way back to Ol Pejeta in the mid-afternoon. You’ll take a slow drive back through the conservancy, stopping to enjoy the wildlife on the way, then arrive for a drink around the fire and dinner under the stars. What a day!

Does a day our exploring the beauty of Ngare Ndare sound like just what you need? Read more about our day trips here and book your stay.

A map of Kenya + choosing the best route for your safari

The 582,646sqm beautiful and diverse land of Kenya ranges from the barren wastelands and turquoise waters of Turkana and Sibiloi, to the lush forests and farmlands that surround Mt Kenya, endless plains in the Masai Mara and Amboseli and a sparkling Indian Ocean coastline. The country is rich with culture and history; home to an astonishing 42 tribes including the most famous, Masai tribe and the beautiful Samburu. But access and planning can be tricky across such huge areas, especially when you have limited time for your Kenya safari holiday and what to make the most of every day.

Here's a map of Kenya and some suggestions on how to route your trip, so that you can spend more time enjoying all that Kenya has to offer and less time in transit…

MAP OF KENYA

KENYA SAFARI ROUTE PLANNER

Option 1 (flying): Laikipia – THE Mara – Amboseli (for the wildlife lovers)

This is a flying only route and, with limited time, flying really is the best way to get around the country. Just bear in mind that you’ll have strict baggage limits on local flights (usually 15kgs in soft bags only), but don’t let that deter you; you’ll be surprised how much you can squeeze into your luggage limit.

Start by flying North to Laikipia, there are a number of excellent properties in this area offering a range of different experiences. Ol Pejeta (that’s where you’ll find The Safari Cottages) is most famous for it’s prolific wildlife and it is home to the Big Five including the last two Northern White Rhinos on the planet. Samburu and Lewa are also excellent locations for wildlife lovers.

You can fly directly to the Masai Mara from Nanyuki and, depending on the time of year and your interests and preferences, there are a number of excellent properties in the reserve itself and the surrounding conservancies. Your plane will stop at all the airstrips where passengers are hopping on and off, so expect this flight to work like a bus service and listen out for your stop.  Our favourite spots in the Mara are Serian, Spekes Camp and Kicheche Bush Camp.

You’ll then fly directly to Amboseli from the Masai Mara. Another of Kenya’s most famous wildlife areas and by now elephants will feel like family and the call of lions will be just another normal sound in your day! We love Tawi Lodge and Ol Donyo. You can then catch your return flight to Nairobi to board your international flight home.

Option 2 (flying): Laikipia – THE Mara – Diani (safari & beach)

If you’d like to finish your safari with a beach holiday then you’ll be happy to hear that Kenya has incredible, beautiful beaches (the white sands of the South coast easily rival those of Zanzibar), rich culture (check out Lamu) and incredible food (the Swahili/Italian fusion restaurants of Watamu are incredible!). This route is much the same as the above but you will fly to the coast (direct from the Mara) to relax; the perfect finale to your Kenya safari holiday. On the coast, we love Kizingo (Lamu), Kobe Suite Resort (Watamu) and Waterlovers (Diani).

*If you’re short on time and want to skip the Mara you can fly to Nairobi from Nanyuki late morning, and connect with an afternoon flight to Diani in the South Coast.

Option 3 (driving): Laikipia – The North (for the WILD SOULS)

For those who are more adventurous at heart, it’s an easy four hour drive to Ol Pejeta where you can tick off the Big Five and ease into your safari. Then, once you’ve got your wildlife fix (because who goes on a Kenya safari holiday and doesn’t see lions and elephants?) it’s a beautiful drive across the hills and farmlands of Laikipia and down the rift valley escarpment into Samburu to seek out more endangered, Northern species such as generuk, oryx and the beautiful Vulturine guinea fowl. This is also a great spot for leopards so keep your eyes peeled.

You’ll then continue driving further into Kenya’s more secretive Northern frontier to soak up this untouched wilderness and meet the Samburu people who call this land home. In Samburu we love Elephant Bedroom Camp and, in the North, Sarara or Saruni Rhino.

Option 4 (driving): Laikipia – The Lakes – The Mara (a Classic Kenya road trip)

This trip starts just like the one above, but instead of heading North you’ll spend a day driving through the beautiful forests and heathland of the Aberdares National Park. Make sure you stop to enjoy a picnic enroute and take the view! Then you’ll descend into Kenya’s Lake District, to unwind on Elementaita or see the flamingoes of Nakuru. We love Loldia House. Relax on the lake shores, take a canoe to Crescent island or a day trip to Nakuru National Park.

You’ll then continue your adventure into the Masai Mara; around five hours of driving time (depending on where you stay) through farmland, lava fields and villages before you are traversing the epic plains of this world famous wildlife area.

*If you travel to the Mara between July - October you’ll likely witness the great migration! This is peak season in Kenya so if you prefer to steer clear of the crowds then opt for accommodation in the surrounding conservancies rather than in the park itself.

JOINING A GROUP SAFARI

If planning your own Kenya safari holiday feels a little daunting then a great place to start is by joining a group safari. Click here to see the full list up upcoming group safaris that we are hosting and find more details.

We hope to see you soon!

5 family safari holiday myths busted!

If you’re thinking of venturing off into deepest, darkest Africa with the kids this Summer and you’re feeling hesitant then you’re not alone. Jetting off into an unfamiliar destination with your precious family under your care can be intimidating. But you’ll soon find that a family safari holiday, even with (or especially with) young children, will bring you so much joy and excitement and stories that will stick with you for a lifetime.

Here are our top 5 family safari holiday myths and why they simply aren’t true!

1. Africa is too dangerous for children

   Like every other continent and country in the world there are areas that are not recommended for travel and there are parts that are totally safe. Discuss a suitable family-friendly itinerary with your travel agent and you might be surprised to discover just how safe a lot of Africa is for families with children of all ages.
   

2. They’re too young to remember it

   It’s true, young children and babies won’t remember it, but YOU will - you’ll remember the time your baby snuggled up and snored quietly whilst a lion roared them to sleep. You will remember that they used to cheers you with their milk bottle out on the open plains. You will remember that they said “epant” for the first time when they saw them wandering past at lunch time. Creating memories with your kids starts from day 0. And just imagine being your child and seeing photographs of yourself as a baby on a family safari holiday. Incredible!

3. I will feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in Africa

   Everywhere you look you will see African women breastfeeding their children. It’s the most natural, normal thing to do and to see in Kenya and in Africa at large. And if you’re traveling with a baby who needs to be bottle fed then you’ll be glad to find baby formula is available in most major supermarkets in Kenya too, alongside nappies, wipes and other essentials.

4. The food won’t be suitable

   Babies are born and grow up and thrive in Africa every day and Africans know all about how to feed and care for babies and young children and they love getting stuck in and helping you with your little ones. The art of mothering is a universal gift. And if you have young kids who are picky eaters most lodges and camps will accommodate your child’s dietary needs if you give them enough notice. You might think you’re being difficult, but you’re absolutely not; giving the camp or lodge as much information about your children’s dietary requirements as possible will mean that you’re all much more likely to enjoy your stay.

5. It’s going to be expensive

   Well, we can’t fault you on this, but it’s also not likely to be as expensive as you’d think! When booking your Kenya safari holiday lodging opt for accommodations that give discounted rates or even free stays to children under 3 and under 12. And if you’re heading to the Kenyan coast you can also opt for a private villa stay - this will be especially helpful in managing costs if you’re traveling with two or more older children.

We hope that’s helps to quell some of your fears around taking children to Africa on a family safari holiday. We have raised two children in the African bush and our grandchildren visit us in Kenya every year. They simply love the freedom and space at The Safari Cottages, spending time in the kitchen with our chefs, helping to clear brush with the askaris and naming all the animals on their game drives.

if you’re still not sure, drop us an email - we’re here to help.

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“Our family of eight (including boys ages 8 and 12) stayed for three nights at these wonderful cottages. The accommodations were private and well appointed. The meals were superior, one day we gave the cook a standing ovation! Watching the elephants parade past at lunch was a highlight of our stay. There were plenty of place for our boys to explore safely during the day. Each evenings the guard, Peter, made a small bonfire for us and provided marshmallows and stories to entertain us. One evening he brought out a telescope and showed us the stars of the Southern Hemisphere! He is a real treasure.”

- December 2024 -

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A safari proposal: Rachel & Pete

It was May 2023 and Rachel and Pete joined us for their second visit on a Yoga For The Wild Kenya Yoga Retreat. Ahead of their trip we received the most exciting message; the type we just love to read. Pete was planning to propose to Rachel on their safari and could we help him set it all up? Our team couldn’t have said yes fast enough!

Ol Pejeta’s golden light, the sweetness in the wind, the titillating melody of birds and the quiet moment a family of elephants wanders past you makes Ol Pejeta easily one of the most romantic Kenya holiday destinations we can think of. It’s no wonder so may choose to spend their honeymoons with us and return for wedding anniversaries years down the line.

THE BIG DAY

On the day of Pete’s proposal the group was out on an afternoon game drive whilst our guides were secretly searching for an idyllic backdrop for the proposal. As luck would have it, they found a cheetah lounging around on the plains just down the road from the spot our team had so carefully selected (this particular cheetah had set up camp here and they had seen him almost every day on their trip). Everyone paused for photographs but Mike, key proposal organiser, hurried everyone along as subtly as he could. As you might expect there was a lot of confusion around why they were being rushed to get to a sundowner. But, it became clear very quickly, because they made it to their just spot in time for sunset and one of the group pulled out a camera to photograph the couple in the golden light when Pete dropped to one knee and the group let out a collective gasp!

The wildlife on the game drive to their proposal spot was excellent!

 Rachel was completely taken off guard and, upon popping the question got promptly told to “F** off.” Ahhh, romance. We still laugh with Rachel to this day about her reaction to Pete’s declaration of love on their Kenya safari holiday.

She said, “it was a genuine surprise- you only have to look at my face in the picture! I don’t think I even heard him ask me the actual question, I just saw him get down on one knee in this just incredible location and my heart just filled with genuine delight. We were both buzzing for weeks, and it was so glorious to be able to share such a special moment with everyone (including all of zebra, buffalo and giraffe!).”

Rachel was shocked!

 Rachel and Pete celebrated with bubbles and a little dance party with our staff that night at dinner. Pete says, “everyone at OPSC were amazing. I had been talking to Kat prior to even setting foot back in Kenya so she was well prepared for what was going to happen and that I wanted to do it at one of the sundowners. This is where all the behind-the-scenes planning took place as when I said “today?” to Kat I could tell Mike, and the rest of the team were on the lookout for something special as we headed out for the sundowner’s drive.

Sundowners are such a special time of the day regardless but the team bringing a bottle of fizz and being fully involved made me so much more at ease and can honestly say relieved a lot of the nerves I may have had. We had a lovely private meal at our cabin one night and all the camp staff were amazing even more so at the camp group dinner where we were treated to a special celebration song and dance by the staff then as our always cherished walk back to our cabin with Peter!”

They were married in the UK in 2024 and our daughter Kat attended the wedding which was a day of incredible love and, as we might expect from these two, so much fun! Rachel and Pete were so moved by their visit to the Northern White Rhinos during their trip that, in place of wedding gifts, they asked for donations to Ol Pejeta’ Northern White Rhino Recovery Program and raised an incredible £220!  

Asante sana Rachel and Pete for sharing your love with us and for your infectious joy and unwavering support of our wildlife. We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Rachel & Pete celebrating their engagement with their group

FINAL WORDS FROM RACHEL & PETE

“When I say going to The Safari Cottages feels like being at home I am not exaggerating, everyone in the team is so special and makes it feel like a home away from home (especially Andy and Sonja), a truly loving and welcoming place!” - Pete

“Not only did we feel supported and celebrated, we felt genuinely loved. The team pulled out all of the stops, and everyone seemed truly elated to be part of it. From the cheers and fizz on sundowners, to the hugs from the rest of the team when we got back AND the celebration singing around the dinner table, they couldn’t have made it more special if they tried.” - Rachel

5 reasons to travel to Kenya in May

If you’re considering coming to Kenya in May for your safari but google is telling you to avoid the whole country at all costs because it’s the rainy season then you’ll be so happy to have stumbled on this blog post. It’s written by folks who have lived/thrived through 20+ Mays in Kenya and are happy to bust a few myths.

A cheetah wandering the plains of Ol Pejeta

Ignore Google. There are so many reasons why traveling to Kenya in May is actually the best month, but here are our top five…

1) THE WEATHER

Google’s been telling everyone not to travel to Kenya in May because of the rain. It’s true, historically April and May have brought about the “long rains” and this has been a period of significant rainfall across the whole country. This rain caused widespread disruption and camps and lodges would close down completely due to problems with access. But global weather patterns are changing and we’re seeing changes right here too. In fact the last ten years of our rainfall records indicate that May, especially the last two weeks of May, are dryer than most Augusts. In short, you’re no longer guaranteed eternal sunshine if you’re traveling in “dry season” and you’re no longer guaranteed disruptive heavy rainfall in the “rainy season.” If you ask us, we’ll say “stop traveling for the weather and start traveling for the wildlife” and Ol Pejeta delivers incredible wildlife encounters year round, especially in May!

2) No crowds

As most people have been told to avoid Kenya in May that means you have vast tracks of wilderness almost entirely to yourself. Traveling out of season allows you to see the land in it’s most natural state; free of the rush of tourist vans. This means sitting quietly with a pride of lions on a kill and no other vehicles in site, or hearing only the rumble of elephants at night. It means more even privacy and more exclusivity making traveling to Kenya in May incredible value for money.

3) Lower prices

Talking of excellent value for money, a lot of camps continue to close annually for maintenance over this period so you may have fewer options to choose from. But those that stay open will offer heavily discounted rates, making May one of the cheapest months to travel to Kenya. Our low season offer runs from April right through to mid-June, and with graded roads we have no problems with access and brilliant wildlife at every turn, so we have no reason to shut our doors.

4) The landscape

The April rainfall (which is still, for the most part, reliable) turns Ol Pejeta into a lush, green landscape with full rivers, bursting dams and rolling plains of fresh grassland. This is one of the most beautiful times of year to be in Ol Pejeta; ideal for photographers. And photographers aren’t the only ones who are thriving - the normally shy and elusive black rhinos come out onto the open plains during the day in May looking to eat all the tasty herbs and weeds that become available in the open grasslands after the rains.

We also really have to talk about the sky in May; crystal clear skies at night make for excellent stargazing (our askaris love to show you the constellations) and top notch sunrises and sunsets.

Stars over Ol Pejeta Safari Cottages

5) The babies

Last but by no means least, we often see so many newborns around during this time, as they’re enjoying the bounty of the recent rainfall. There’s not much sweeter than a prancing baby zebra or watching hyena cubs roll around in the grass.

HERE’S WHAT A MAY SAFARI LOOKS LIKE IN OL PEJETA…

See you in May!

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What to expect from a 3 day safari in Ol Pejeta

A day on safari can look different for different people and their interests, and it can play out very differently depending on where in the continent you are. So, what can you expect from a day on safari in Ol Pejeta, with The Safari Cottages? Let’s get stuck in!

First off, there’s so much to do and to see here that we recommend a minimum 3 night stay; that’s two full days with the afternoon of your arrival and the morning of your departure adding up to three days. And here’s how we’d suggest you spend your time so you get the most out of your Kenya safari holiday with us.

You’ll have amazing views of Mt Kenya from all around Ol Pejeta

SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR YOUR 3 DAY SAFARI IN OL PEJETA

DAY ONE

You can fly into Nanyuki Airport, or drive from Nairobi. Granted you depart in the morning you’ll likely arrive at The Safari Cottages in time for lunch. When you arrive you’ll be met by our team and management will give you a short briefing explaining a little more about the property layout, safety and what you can get up to during your stay.

It’s pretty hot in the middle of the day so you'll have lunch on your verandah, served up by your chef and waiter, before relaxing and unpacking after your travels. We suggest heading out on your first game drive today around 4.30PM and your team can prepare a cup of tea and a snack for you before you go incase you’re feeling peckish. After a game drive and a sundowner (a drink and snacks enjoyed whilst watching the sun set) you can return to camp to an open fire and enjoy dinner on your verandah or under the stars before tucking in for a good night’s sleep.

Returning from your game drive to a roaring fire and a sky full of stars

DAY TWO

You’ll let your team know what you prefer to drink in the mornings and, at around 6AM, freshly brewed tea, coffee or whatever you’d prefer will wake you and ready you for the adventures that await; the perfect start to your day on your Kenya safari holiday. You’ll head off just before sunrise at 6.30AM in search of lions, leopards, cheetah, elephant, black and white rhino, giraffe and so much more! The conservancy abounds with an incredible density and variety of game so be sure you’ve packed an extra memory card for your camera - you’re going to need it. As the sun rises and you start to warm up you’ll tuck into a picnic breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed Kenyan coffee or tea.

You’ll meander back through the bush as your game drive continues and the heat of the day really starts to set in, then arrive at your safari cottage to a colourful lunch, a cool drink and a chance to rest. You can enjoy a book on your verandah, wander the property bird watching, take a tour of the garden with Dominic, enjoy yoga in the cool breeze of your verandah (yoga mats are provided), a volleyball game with the staff or take a cooking lesson with your private chef and learn how to make some of our favourite Kenyan staples.

Tucking in to leisurely lunch on the riverside deck

After an afternoon cup of tea you’ll head out again around 4.30PM to see what wonderful wildlife awaits you on the plains surrounding our little spot of heaven in the bush. After your sundowner this evening, if our askaris haven’t yet had a chance to share their knowledge of the night skies with you, we’d recommend you ask them too - you’ll learn about the constellations on our side of the globe which, on a clear night, are spectacular!

Lions hunting on a morning game drive

DAY THREE

Ol Pejeta is home to the last two Northern White Rhinos in existance and, this morning, you’ll head off after a light breakfast to meet them. Ol Pejeta’s passionate rhino caretakers will meet you and guide you to the spacious enclosure that Najin and Fatu, a mother and daughter due call their home. They will tell you all about how these gorgeous girls found their way to Kenya and the impressive project that Ol Pejeta and it’s partners have undertaken to bring Northern White rhinos back from the brink of extinction.

After meeting the Northern Whites you’ll also meet Baraka, a blind black rhino rescued by Ol Pejeta who is not averse to a chin scratch. Then return back to your bush home for brunch and a chance to relax in the heat of the day.

Najin & Fatu - the last two Northern White Rhinos left on the planet

This afternoon you’ll embark on your final evening game drive and sundowner, returning with a spotlight on a night drive in search of Kenya’s more secretive nocturnal species like leopard, aardvarks and white tailed mongoose. Enjoy dinner and a drink around the fire before tucking in for the night.

A big male cheetah posing for the shot on an afternoon game drive

DEPARTURE DAY

After breakfast today your guide will drive you to Nanyuki Airport to meet your flight to your next destination, or drop you off at the Ol Pejeta entrance gate to meet your road transfer back to Nairobi. Your three day safari with us will leave you full to bursting with enthusiasm for the wilderness, wildlife and people that call this corner of the world home and leave you inspired by the hard work and dedication of our conservation team. If you do choose to linger longer you can continue your safari on the conservancy or explore further afield with a day trip to the local town, Aberdares National Park or Ngare Ndare too.

Remember, you have a private guide and vehicle for the duration of your stay with us so this outline is just one idea. You can do as little or as much as you’d like.

Sonja's Kitchen: Flakey Kenyan Chapati Recipe

The chapati is a much loved staple of Kenya cuisine and unlike an Indian chapati it is flakey and served alongside curries, stews or with eggs at breakfast time. If you’re sat at home after your safari and craving a little bit of Kenya, cooking up a pile of delicious chapatis and enjoying them along side a plate of githeri or a beef stew is a great way to feel transported right back to Africa! Here’s our much-loved chapati recipe, right from my camp cookbook, Footprints in The Butter.

FLAKEY KENYAN CHAPATI RECIPE

Serves 8

• 3½ cups plain white or wholemeal

• wheat flour

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp margarine, butter or ghee

• 1⅓ cups warm water

• ½ cup vegetable oil or shortening

1. Sift flour and salt together, if using shortening rub in with finger tips.

2. Make a well in the centre, pour in half the water and, if using oil pour it in also. Mix with a wooden spoon, gradually adding the remainder of the water until a firm but soft dough forms. Continue kneading with your hands.

3. Divide the dough into 8 balls. Roll out each ball on a circular chapati board or on a lightly floured pastry

board.

4. Coat the surface of each circle of dough generously with margarine. Roll up the circle lightly with your fingers into a sausage, then coil the sausage into a wheel, thus trapping the air inside. Then, with a rolling pin, roll out each wheel into a circle less than ⅛inch thick.

5. Smear a chapati pan or 23cm non stick frying pan with oil. Using low heat, brown the chapatis on both sides

until golden brown. If you press the chapati lightly with a folded tea towel whilst cooking, the air bubbles will quickly rise.

6. Keep warm until served.

Guests mastering our Kenyan chapati recipe WITH OUR CHEFS on a recent group safari with Yoga By Candace

Let us know how your chapatis turned out! You can purchase Sonja’s recipe book Footprints in The Butter here for more of our favourite camp recipes.

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3 ways to bring your Kenya safari cost down

A Kenya safari is undoubtedly one of the more expensive holidays you’re going to take. Why? Because caring for and protecting wildlife, especially so many valuable and endangered species, is incredibly expensive. So don’t be surprised when a decent safari camp is going to charge upwards of $400 per person per night in low season. Even then, these camps, you might be surprised to hear, will be just about covering their costs with a rate like this. So the nightly cost of your safari, coupled with park fees often over $100 per person per night, and the added cost of transport, really starts to rack up and your Kenya safari cost moves into the thousands, if not tens of thousands.

Here are some basic but bulletproof ways tO BRING YOUR Kenya safari cost DOWN

1. Consider seasonal prices and special offers

   All camps will have seasonal prices, and most will have special offers available for traveling out of season or for staying a little longer. And don’t be afraid of traveling out of season; it’s true that some areas will be completely inaccessible, but many are still offering incredible wildlife experiences at much lower prices for those who don’t mind getting their boots a little muddy. For example, it’s nearly $200 per person per night less to stay at The Safari Cottages in low season, than in high season. Or, if you stay 3 nights or more you qualify for a lower rate. Not sure when out of season is? Read our Kenya When To Go Guide to find out more.
   
   

2. Plan your route carefully

   If you’re doing a multi-destination safari then careful planning of your route can significantly help you better manage your final Kenya safari cost. Speak to your travel consultant to help you better understand ways around expensive flight routes or the need for private charter flights by opting to drive or re-order the destinations to make more financial sense.

   For example, if your safari destinations are the Masai Mara, Ol Pejeta and Diani, there are no direct flights from Diani to Ol Pejeta, meaning if you wanted to start at the beach or have a beach stopover between two safari destinations, you’d have to charter a private flight or do two flights, plus an overnight in Nairobi. So, in this case, it’s cheaper and easier to fly from the Masai Mara to Diani at the end of your safari for which there are direct flights.

3. Check the inclusions and exclusions

   A lot of camps will offer you a fully inclusive price, and some will offer a rate that excludes certain activities or amenities. This means that the price you are given can look very low but you’ll end up paying the same, if not more, once you tack on hidden costs like drinks, activities, late check out and meals feels or park fees.

An overview of our special offers

MOST IMPORTANTLY

When considering ways to bring your Kenya safari cost down the most important thing to bear in mind is that this is really a country where you get what you pay for so, considering this might be your once-in-a-lifetime safari holiday, it’s worth paying a little more to ensure that you have the best experience possible.

And when booking your stay don’t hesitate to ask us for advice on where else to go and where to stay that will offer you just that!

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