When we think about seeing the Big 5—Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Rhino, and Buffalo—in Kenya, the Maasai Mara and Tsavo often come to mind, and rightfully so, as they are both incredible destinations. However, there is a hidden gem in the northern part of the country, home to the highest diversity of large mammals in Kenya. The journey north is less travelled, mainly due to its distance from Nairobi, but what awaits you stunning landscapes are brimming with wildlife. Whether you travel by air or road, you are sure to be amazed.
The Big 5 in Laikipia
A pivotal stop is Nanyuki, which serves as a gateway to the northern county's attractions. Nanyuki offers a variety of accommodation options, restaurants, and a bustling shopping center. Major attractions include Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary therein, an introduction to the adventure that awaits.
Photo of Cheetah and Astra by Rio the photographer at Ol Pejeta
Ol Pejeta is one of the best places to see lions due to its significant lion population. Here, you can also encounter the black rhinos, Southern white rhinos, and the last two northern white rhinos in the world. Learn about Sudan, the last male Northern white rhino who passed away here, as well as the successful Northern white rhino embryo transfer into a Southern white rhino surrogate in January 2024. Unfortunately, the surrogate passed away from illness infection 70 days after conception. Conservation efforts to have another IVF and embryo transplant are still ongoing.
Photo of Fatu (Nothern white rhino) and Zachariah(Southern white rhino) by Rio the photographer at Ol Pejeta
Your Big 5 wildlife encounters from Nanyuki can continue in Laikipia, home to large herds of elephants, often seen grazing in the open plains or near water sources. Witness their majestic tusks as they move through the landscape. Laikipia is now home to five black leopards, also known as black panthers. This melanistic variation is caused by an excess of black pigmentation, though they still have visible rosettes, and is found mostly in jaguars and leopards. Laikipia's dense vegetation and rocky outcrops offer excellent hiding places for Leopards. Find buffaloes grazing in herds on the plains. These large and powerful animals are known to be aggressive when alone but are generally calm in herds.
The Big 5 in Samburu
From Nanyuki, you can choose to go further north to Samburu. Similar to Laikipia, it is also less crowded, providing an intimate wildlife experience. Encounter a special twist in addition to the classic Big 5: the Samburu Special Five. They are called "special" because they are not commonly found in other wildlife reserves and are adapted to the specific conditions of the Samburu ecosystem.
Here are the five species that make up the Samburu Special 5:
Samburu also offers an opportunity to encounter the classic Big 5. An interesting fact about Samburu's lions is their adaptability to arid conditions. Samburu elephants are known to be among the friendliest elephants in Kenya. Conservation efforts have been largely successful in Samburu National Park, thanks to partnerships with the community and organizations like; Save the Elephants and Reteti Sanctuary.
Photo: Rescued Elephant calves at Reteti
Rhinos have also been re-introduced to Samburu National Park after many years of heavy poaching. The park is also known to be one of the best places in Kenya to see Leopards, these elusive cats are occasionally spotted while buffaloes are typically found grazing in herds in the vast plains. Samburu’s varied landscapes include; acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and open plains, which offer a variety of habitats for different wildlife species.
We've explored the North countless times and have developed deep connections with local partners to provide an unforgettable journey tailored to your desires. With our expert guidance, you'll experience the magic of the Northern 5 firsthand.