A Rough Guide to Laikipia

Vaccination Requirements for Kenya

Most international travellers do not need any compulsory vaccinations to enter Kenya unless they are arriving from, or have transited through, a Yellow Fever risk country.

In that case, a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required. Kenya no longer requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a pre-departure COVID-19 test for routine entry.

For safari travel, guests should still consult a doctor or travel clinic well before departure for personal advice on recommended vaccinations, malaria prevention and general travel health.

Kenya no longer issues traditional tourist visas for most international visitors. Instead, travellers are required to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travelling to Kenya.

The eTA should be completed before departure and applies to most visitors, including children and infants. Travellers will usually need a passport valid for at least six months, with at least one blank page, as well as travel dates, accommodation details, a passport-style photo or selfie, contact details and a payment method.

We recommend applying well in advance of your safari and checking the official Kenya eTA website before you travel, as entry requirements can change.

• Ol Jogi Wilderness Conservancy
• Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve
• Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy
• Ol Pejeta Conservancy
• Lewa Downs
• Mugie Ranch
• Equator Marker
• Kaptuya Wildlife Conservancy
• Ol Maisor Ranch

The drive to Laikipia takes about four to eight hours from Nairobi. Most people visit Laikipia by private charter from Nairobi or other parks. It is also possible to charter a flight from Nanyuki, the nearest town because all the reserves within Laikipia have airstrips.

Laikipia Plateau has a cool climate with annual temperatures largely below 21°C in most parts of the county, with the western and southern parts of the county having cooler temperatures which only rise moderately in the eastern corner to between 22°C and 24°C.

Wet season

October & November – The short rains normally begin sometime in October. Afternoon temperatures are around 27°C/73°F.

December, January & February – There is not as much rainfall in this period, which separates the short and long rains.

March, April & May – April is the wettest month due to long rains. There is a lot of rain but it doesn’t always shower the whole day. Driving is more problematic as tracks can get slippery. Early mornings are warmer with average temperatures around 11°C/52°F.

Dry Season

The Dry season has mostly sunny days, but it can rain at any time in Laikipia. Temperatures don’t vary too much and are around 26°C/78°F. It is cold in the early mornings and night time as the temperature is around 10°C/50°F.

June & July – The average afternoon temperature is 26°C/78°F. Don’t forget warm clothing for early morning game drives.

August & September – During the month of August, rain increases a little, but temperatures pick up slightly as well.