Best Camping Sites & Conservancies in Nanyuki (2025 Guide) – Prices, Activities & Insider Tips

BeyondForest
Mar 9
8 min read

Updated: Sep 22

Tented cabins with corrugated roofs and stone paths in a lush, green setting. Trees surround the area, creating a serene, rustic mood.

By the end of this section you will have learnt

0.)Camping in Nanyuki

1.)Best Camping Sites in Nanyuki (With Prices)

2.)Top Conservancies Near Nanyuki

3.)Activities You Can Do While Camping

4.)List of Expensive Camping sites in Nanyuki

5.)List of Conservancies in Nanyuki

6.)FAQ about Conservancies and Camps In Nanyuki

Camping in Nanyuki

Sign with "I ♥ NANYUKI" in large letters, set against greenery. Paved area with yellow parking lines in the foreground. Bright, clear day.

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Kenya, Nanyuki is a hub for adventure seekers, offering easy access to numerous conservancies such as Ol Pejeta, Lewa, Borana, and Lolldaiga Hills. These areas provide unique opportunities to spot the Big 5, enjoy guided nature walks, go horse riding, and explore pristine wilderness.

Four green tents on a grassy field, with trees and blue sky in the background. A peaceful outdoor camping scene in Nanyuki

Image of Camping Tents at Angiri Camp In Nanyuki

Nanyuki’s camping options cater to all budgets and preferences. Travelers can choose from affordable sites like River Camel Camp for backpackers, mid-range options like Kongoni Camp, or luxury tented experiences such as Jambo Mutara Camp, which blends comfort with a true bush feel. Many camps provide amenities like hot showers, fire pits, Wi-Fi, and restaurants, ensuring both comfort and adventure.

A row of green tents on lush grass under a blue sky with fluffy clouds. Tall trees in the background, creating a serene camping scene at Angiri Camp in Nanyuki

A row of green tents on lush grass at Angiri Camp Nanyuki

The region is also a great base for climbing Mt. Kenya, fishing at local dams, or visiting local markets and craft centers. Whether you prefer pitching your own tent under the stars or staying in fully equipped safari tents, camping in Nanyuki offers a perfect mix of affordability, adventure, and nature, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Best Camping Sites in Nanyuki (With Prices)

A) Bring-Your-Own-Tent (true campsites & very budget) in Nanyuki

Typical budget: KSh 800–3,000 per person/night

Nanyuki River Camel Camp	camel experiences nearby.
Ngare Ndare Forest Campsites	shaded forest sites + canopy walkway
Mountain Rock (Bantu Africa Resort)	big lawns, bonfire space
Mt. Kenya Sirimon Gate Campsite	basic KWS site at the gate
Likii/Cedars farm & private camps	several small private riverside grounds

B) Budget Bandas / Self-Catering & Mid-Range Tented in Nanyuki

Typical mid-range (rooms/tented): KSh 5,000–15,000 pp

Aerial view of Kongoni Camp

Kongoni Camp (Nanyuki town)	rooms & cottages, lush gardens, pool, popular restaurant
One Stop Nanyuki	convenient on the highway
Beisa Hotel / Bantu Africa Resort cottages	handy for families wanting space + campfire vibe
Ol Pejeta Pelican House (self-catering)	inside the conservancy; great for groups on a budget
Ol Pejeta The Stables	simple, value base for game drives

C) Classic Tented Safari Camps (comfort + safari access) In Nanyuki

Typical comfort/luxe tented: KSh 18,000–60,000+

Two rhinos drink from a waterhole in a grassy field, with thatched-roof buildings and antelopes in the background under a clear blue sky.

Two rhinos drink from a waterhole at Sweet waters Serena Camp In Olpejeta

Sweetwaters Serena Camp (Ol Pejeta)	long-running favorite on a waterhole
Porini Rhino Camp (Ol Pejeta)	eco-tented, superb rhino sightings; game drives
Ol Pejeta Bush Camp (Asilia Africa)	on the Ewaso Nyiro river.
Sanctuary Tambarare (Ol Pejeta)	stylish contemporary tents
The River Camp (Ol Pejeta)	luxe tents, private decks
Mutara Conservancy: Jambo Mutara Lodge	north of Ol Pejeta

D) High-End & Exclusive (Laikipia/Nanyuki greater area)

Typical premium: KSh 50,000–150,000+ pp

Aerial view of a luxurious pool with loungers and umbrellas, surrounded by lush greenery. A thatched roof hut is nearby. Serene atmosphere.

Aerial view of a luxurious pool with loungers and umbrellas at Loisaba Conservancy

Lewa Safari Camp (Elewana), Kifaru House, Lewa Wilderness.

Borana Lodge, Sirai House,Laragai House.

Loisaba Tented Camp, Loisaba Star Beds

Solio Lodge

Ekorian’s Mugie Camp

E) Mt. Kenya Trekking Camps (North side from Nanyuki/Sirimon)

Old Moses (Judmaier) Camp	dorms/huts + camping platforms; acclimatization stop.
Shipton’s Camp	high-altitude base before Point Lenana; basic facilities; spectacular views.
Mackinder’s	used by various trekking itineraries

Top Conservancies Near Nanyuki

Safari vehicle with five people seated, parked on a dirt road. Clear blue sky, greenery in the background. Vehicle marked "El Karama Lodge."

Safari vehicle with five people seated at Elkarama Conservancy

Nanyuki is surrounded by some of Kenya’s most famous wildlife conservancies, making it a premier safari base. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is the star attraction, home to the Big Five, the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and the last two northern white rhinos.

Aerial view of a loisaba conservancy with tan tents, surrounded by lush greenery. Features a pool, curved stone patio, and open landscape.

Aerial view of a loisaba conservancy by globalexpeditionsandsafaris

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is world-renowned for rhino conservation and Grevy’s zebra protection, offering premium lodges and community tourism programs. Borana Conservancy combines cattle ranching with rhino protection, delivering excellent game drives in a less crowded setting.

Ol Jogi Conservancy is a vast private sanctuary known for rare species like wild dogs and Grevy’s zebras, perfect for private and exclusive safaris. Loisaba Conservancy offers stunning landscapes, star-bed experiences, and luxury tented camps, ideal for honeymooners or photographers.

A person in uniform holds a bottle near a baby rhino on a dirt path. Two more rhinos and another person are visible in a grassy, tree-filled savanna.

A person in uniform holds a bottle near a baby rhino at Lewa Conservancy by Georgina Goodwin

El Karama Conservancy is smaller but rich in birdlife and accessible for quick trips. Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy focuses on the critically endangered mountain bongo and is great for families and students. Finally, Segera Conservancy blends luxury tourism, art, and conservation, with reforestation projects and world-class villas offering breathtaking views of Mount Kenya.

Conservancy	Size / Location	Highlights
Ol Pejeta Conservancy	90,000 acres, Laikipia County, between Mt Kenya & Aberdares; west of Nanyuki.	Big 5 (lions, elephants, rhinos, etc.), chimpanzee sanctuary (Sweetwaters), last northern white rhinos
Borana Conservancy	28,000 acres on Laikipia Plateau, north of Mt Kenya.	Home to both black & white rhinos, big wildlife, spectacular landscapes
Ol Jogi Conservancy	58,000 acres private conservancy.	Big wildlife diversity, rare species (e.g. Grevy’s zebra, wild dogs etc.),
Segera Conservancy	spans roughly 50,000 acres of diverse savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine habitats	Segera hosts a thriving population of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffes, and over 365 bird species.
Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC)	10 km from Nanyuki, at the foot of Mount Kenya.	Critically endangered mountain bongo breeding
El Karama Wildlife Conservancy	15,000+ acres, Laikipia County, close to Nanyuki.	Rich bird life (432 species reported), population of many mammals (80 mammal species)
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy	62,000 acres in Laikipia region.	Known for successful rhino conservation, Grevy’s zebra protection, excellent ranger & community programmes
Loisaba Conservancy	58,000 acres, northern Laikipia.	Stunning wilderness, star-beds, tented camps, excellent views of Mt Kenya

Activities You Can Do While Camping In Nanyuki

Top 12 Things To Do In Nanyuki >>>>>>>

One of the most popular activities is game driving in nearby conservancies like Ol Pejeta, Lewa, and Borana, where you can spot the Big Five and rare species such as Grevy’s zebra and wild dogs. Many camps also organize guided bush walks and camel or horseback safaris, allowing you to explore the landscape quietly and connect with nature.

Four people sit around a campfire near a large tent in an open field at sunset, surrounded by trees. Relaxed, warm atmosphere.

For active travelers, Nanyuki is the perfect base for Mount Kenya climbing or day hikes, particularly from the Sirimon Gate. Birdwatching is also excellent, with hundreds of species including sunbirds, raptors, and weavers found along rivers and forest edges. In the evenings, guests can enjoy campfire dinners, storytelling, and stargazing, with clear skies revealing a dazzling display of stars.

Mountain valley with a reflective blue lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and green slopes under a bright, cloudy sky. Tranquil and scenic.

Families and groups often engage in team-building games, fishing in nearby dams, or visiting cultural attractions like the Mount Kenya Animal Orphanage or Ngare Ndare canopy walkway.

Camp sites in Nanyuki

Signs for Mount Kenya Game Ranch, Safari Club, and Angiri Camp in grassy area. Person sitting under sign, trees in background.

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Camp Mahon Gardens Nanyuki

Brown metal gate of Camp Mianzi, surrounded by lush greenery. The gate has bold white text and a website link displayed.

Camp Mahon formerly known as Mianzi Camp is a serene retreat nestled along the Nyeri-Nanyuki Highway in Nanyuki, Kenya, adjacent to the Gakawa Police Station. Set amidst indigenous trees and natural landscapes, the camp offers well-manicured lawns and flower gardens. Camping at Camp Mahon Cost 6,390Ksh

Bamboo hut with a green fabric front, surrounded by trees. A small table sits on the red floor. Calm, natural setting.

Guests can choose from executive cottages, double cottages, and designated camping areas for tent pitching. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, gazebos, and a conference hall. The camp also provides nature walkways with benches, an open camp kitchen, and bonfire areas.

ENTALATA CAMP Nanyuki

Terracotta cottages with chimneys are surrounded by lush greenery and a mountainous landscape in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

Entalata Camp is a serene retreat nestled in the Timau area near Nanyuki, Kenya, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kenya at sunrise and the rolling Loldaiga hills at sunset.

A wooden house with two parked cars in front, surrounded by lush trees and gardens. Blue sky with clouds overhead. Peaceful rural setting.

The camp provides various accommodation options, including cottages and camping facilities, catering to diverse preferences. Guests can engage in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and stargazing, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the Kenyan wilderness. The camp's proximity to the Ngare Ndare Forest Trust offers opportunities for enjoyable cycling day activities.

Kongoni Camp Nanyuki

Round huts with thatched roofs amid trees and greenery, pathway leading through, peaceful mood. Foreground shows a carved wooden stump.

Kongoni Camp is a charming eco-lodge nestled on the outskirts of Nanyuki, Kenya, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views of Mount Kenya. Surrounded by indigenous trees and wildlife, the camp blends rustic elegance with modern comforts. Accommodation includes well-furnished cottages and safari tents, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Wooden entrance gate to Kongoni Camp, set in a lush natural area. Sign reads "Kongoni Camp." Rustic, welcoming atmosphere.

Kongoni Camp features a cozy restaurant and bar, serving delicious local and international cuisine, with live music on select evenings. It’s a favorite stopover for travelers exploring Mount Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and Laikipia Plateau.

RJ Camp Nanyuki

Cozy bedroom with stone walls, a double bed with white linens, and folded towels. Sunlit through a glass door with sheer curtains.

Rj Camp in Nanyuki (also referred to as Rj Bar & Restaurant) is a low‑key local spot ideal for a relaxed evening or casual meal, rather than a full-service lodge. Nestled just south of Nanyuki town, it offers a laid‑back vibe with live music and a “pond‑to‑plate” feature—fresh fish from their own pond served directly to guests.

Rustic building with stone walls and a thatched roof, surrounded by trees. White umbrellas cover wooden tables in a sandy courtyard.

While visiting Rj camp expect a cheerful, rustic atmosphere with gentle music and friendly staff. Guests often relax outdoors, sipping local brews while sampling grilled or fried fish—straight from the on‑site pond

Angiri Camp Nanyuki

Inside a tent with two beds, leopard-printed blankets, and leafy curtains. A shelf on the left, sign reading "Vodka" in the foreground. Cozy vibe.

Angiri Camp in Nanyuki is a modest, budget-friendly campsite offering simple comfort just off Nanyuki Road. With only 10 units either tents or compact double rooms each space features a double bed, desk, LCD satellite TV, private bathroom with rainfall shower, slippers, towels, and free Wi‑Fi .

Entrance to Angiri Camp with flags above. Sign on wall reads "Angiri Camp" in yellow. Trees in background, earthy tones dominate.

Guests enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast served daily from 7:00–10:30 AM plus 24‑hour front desk support and daily housekeeping . Check-in runs between 2‑6 PM with checkout by 11 AM; pets aren’t allowed . Pricing typically starts around KSh 12,500), inclusive of taxes and fees, though rates fluctuate seasonally

Kicheche Laikipia

Safari vehicle with passengers parked on a grassy plain under blue skies. Bright red flowers are in the foreground. Mood is relaxed.

Kicheche Laikipia Camp is an intimate, eco-friendly safari camp located within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia. The camp features just six luxurious, en-suite tents overlooking a waterhole that attracts wildlife throughout the day. Guests enjoy game drives, night drives, guided bush walks, and visits to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

FAQ about Nanyuki

Are there cheap camping sites in Nanyuki?

Yes. Nanyuki has several budget-friendly camps like River Camel Camp, Kongoni Camp (basic rooms & camping), and budget camping spots near Mt. Kenya. Prices start from around KSh 1,500 – 2,500 per person per night, making it affordable for backpackers and groups.

Row of tan tents with green interiors on grass under a blue sky. One tent is open, revealing a cot. Flags visible in the background.

Can I camp inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy?

Yes, Ol Pejeta offers designated camping sites where you can pitch your own tent or book furnished safari tents. They provide security, showers, toilets, and sometimes firewood.

Are pets allowed in Nanyuki camps?

Most camps do not allow pets due to wildlife safety concerns, but some budget camps or private lodges may allow them if kept on a leash and under supervision.

Goats and sheep enclosed in a pyramid-shaped cage on at el karama conservancy

Is camping safe for solo travelers?

Yes, camping in Nanyuki is generally safe when you stay at registered campsites or conservancies with security. Avoid isolated wild camping

What is Nanyuki Known For?

Nanyuki town serves as a gateway for climbers heading to Mount Kenya. The town hosts the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK). Nanyuki is also home to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which protects endangered species like rhinos. The town sits on the equator, and visitors often stop at the equator marker.Nanyuki has high-end hotels, private ranches, and coffee/flower farms.

Rustic stone house with a unique circular pool amidst a lush, hilly landscape at sunset. Warm tones create a serene, inviting atmosphere.

Image of Lengishu at Borana Conservancy

How Much Money from Nairobi to Nanyuki?

The cost depends on the mode of transport: for a Matatu cost ranges from 700Ksh-1,000 .A train which is way more cheaper but only operates on Friday and returns back on Saturday cost 300Ksh -1,000 (depending on the class .For a Private Car cost ranges from 2,000Ksh -5,000 depending if its a SUV or a station wagon while a Flight cost 6,000Ksh -15,000 for a one-way ticket

Is Nanyuki, Kenya Safe?

Yes, Nanyuki is generally safe for visitors. However Tourist Areas Popular spots like Ol Pejeta and Mount Kenya are well-patrolled.In terms of Crime Levels Petty theft can occur, so avoid walking alone at night in less busy areas. Wildlife Caution should be taken If visiting conservancies, be aware of wildlife safety rules.