Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy
Know Before You Go
Quick IntelEstimated Cost
High-end luxury rates apply for lodging; rescue center tours require pre-booking and specific entry fees.
Best For
Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts looking for an intimate, educational encounter with rescued animals.
Access & Logistics
A 4x4 vehicle is essential for the rough terrain, and you must confirm your booking in advance as there is no gate entry.
Operating Hours
By appointment only.
Editor's Review
Ol Jogi Wildlife Conservancy in Isiolo is a vast sanctuary that functions primarily as a high-end lodge and a dedicated wildlife rescue center. Accessing this location is a serious commitment; the journey from Nanyuki involves challenging road conditions, including a significant stretch of unpaved, rough terrain that demands a reliable 4x4 vehicle and patience to protect your suspension.
If you are looking for a more accessible wildlife experience in the Nanyuki region without the intense off-road travel, consider visiting the Ol Pejeta Conservancy. It offers a much wider variety of game viewing, better road infrastructure, and a more diverse range of activities that cater to both budget-conscious travelers and luxury seekers.
The Cost: Pricing is premium-tier for lodging experiences. Rescue center tours are exclusive and must be booked well in advance; expect to pay significantly higher rates than standard public parks, reflecting the private nature of the facility and the high cost of animal rehabilitation.
The Experience: Visiting the rescue center is an intimate, guided educational excursion rather than a traditional game drive. You will spend time on foot within the facility, so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes. The terrain is mostly flat but unpaved, requiring moderate physical mobility to move between the different animal enclosures and feeding areas.
What you can see: You can witness rescued elephants, giraffes, and rhinos in a controlled rehabilitation setting. It is also one of the few places in Africa where you can view a rescued bear, alongside solitary big cats, offering a unique, if controversial, look at specialized wildlife care.
Verdict: Ol Jogi is a polarizing destination that offers an unparalleled, up-close encounter with rescued wildlife for those who can navigate the difficult logistics. It is best suited for visitors who prioritize animal rehabilitation and private, exclusive access over the convenience of a standard safari.
More Details
Explorer Ken's Advice
"The opportunity to get up close and feed the rescued elephants is the standout highlight of the visit."
Things to Consider
The final 15km stretch to the gate is rugged, poorly signposted, and requires a 4x4 vehicle to navigate safely.
Feedback
Top Google Reviews
Rolf Ravne
Probably the most sensational safari resort and wildlife experience in Kenya. Extraordinary welcoming and beautiful host and staff. Fantastic food and service. Sensational rooms and facilities
Patrick Kamau
It is a visit to a wildlife rescue center, not a game drive. A 1-2 hour excursion. Be ready for 1-2 hours offroading in a relatively well maintained murram section. A good part of the 'tarmacked' section will need your patience if you care about your vehicle's suspension. 36km approx. one way. Very interesting how one can get close to a grown elephant and feed it. Once in a lifetime opportunity. The animals are healthy and well taken care of. The guides are passionate. The premise well maintained. Highly recommend!
Michael James
Awesome place and you get really close to the elephants. The only place with a bear in Africa
Mumbi Mumbi
The bear is very old and smelly but otherwise it was a good experience.
bobbykip
This is a Wildlife Rescue Centre. The experience is no better than going to a zoo and the actual journey there was one of the worst experiences of my life. The road there from Nanyuki town is the worst ‘tarmac’ I have ever come across and there is a ~15km off-road section to the gate that takes the better part of an hour. There is no clear signage to guide you. The animals are kept in relatively small caged areas. The bear appears miserable in a very hot climate and the lion is solitary, which cannot be good for a social animal. There are many better places to visit in Nanyuki for the experience of seeing wildlife. Would not recommend!!
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