Day Trips From Nanyuki: Ol Pejeta, Mount Kenya, Lewa and Laikipia Excursions

Nanyuki is a busy market town that sits almost on the equator, and it serves as the gateway to conservancies that protect rhinos, elephants and other animals. Visitors stay in the area for the scenery and the variety of activities.

This page focuses on excursions. For the town see the Nanyuki guide and for lodging the Laikipia where to stay guide.

This guide is part of our Uganda districts and towns guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Ol Pejeta is a short drive from the town and is known for rhinos, including a sanctuary for northern white rhinos, as well as a chimpanzee sanctuary. Game drives, night drives and walks may be offered. A day trip is possible, though overnight lets you use dawn and dusk. See the Ol Pejeta and Laikipia activities guide and the wildlife guide.

Nanyuki's altitude means the climate is cooler than the coast or lowlands, with fresh mornings and sharp evenings. Clear mornings often show the mountain's peaks, though cloud may hide them by midday, so plan scenic activities early and wildlife drives for the cooler parts of the day.

Mount Kenya Day Hikes

Short walks on the lower slopes show forest, streams and views without a full climb. A registered guide is required in the park. See the Mount Kenya day hikes guide and the climbing and trekking guide. Mornings are usually clearest.

Ol Pejeta also operates as a working conservancy, so some visits include conservation talks that explain how rhinos are protected and monitored. These add context to a game drive, and many families find them especially engaging. Ask whether the programme on offer suits children.

Lewa

Lewa Conservancy lies to the north-east and can be reached on a longer excursion. It is known for rhinos and for its role in conservation. See the Lewa activities guide.

Laikipia Plateau

The wider plateau has private conservancies offering walking, horse riding and cultural visits. Access and activities vary by property, so ask in advance. See the Laikipia and Ol Pejeta Conservancy guide.

A visit to a local market or a craft workshop in town adds a human dimension to a wildlife-focused day. Prices there are negotiable, and buying directly from makers supports local livelihoods.

The Equator

The equator crosses near the town, and roadside demonstrations show water swirling in different directions in each hemisphere. Treat it as a light-hearted stop. Be cautious about sellers who pressure you.

Treat the equator stop as a bit of fun rather than science: the demonstrations are theatrical, and the real pleasure is standing on a line that divides two hemispheres with Mount Kenya in the background. Agree any tip beforehand and decline politely if you do not want to buy anything.

Aberdare and Beyond

The Aberdare range can be reached for a longer day or an overnight; see the Nairobi to Aberdare route and Aberdare activities guide. Samburu is too far for a day.

The Aberdares are cooler and mistier than the plains, with moorland, forest and waterfalls. A long day from Nanyuki is possible, but the park is better treated as an overnight destination, and the access roads can be slow after rain.

Planning Tips

Nights can be cold at altitude, so bring a warm layer. Carry binoculars, sun protection and water. See Nairobi to Mount Kenya route for access.

When you book, ask what the vehicle seats, whether park or conservancy entry is included, and whether lunch is provided. Starting at first light gives the best chance of seeing animals active and the mountain clear. Children are welcome on most drives, though minimum ages apply to some activities, so check in advance. Read the Ol Pejeta and Laikipia best time guide to match your dates to the weather.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team