Conservation

The Story of
Nkoteiya

Pronounced N-ko-tay-a — a conservancy born from the belief that the future of wildlife and the well-being of local communities are intertwined.

The Conservancy

A Community-Led Conservation Model

43,000Acre community-owned ranch
5,300Acres of Protected habitiat

Situated within a 43,000-acre community-owned group ranch in Samburu, Kenya, the Nkoteiya Conservancy represents a new and exciting chapter in the Samburu people's long relationship with this land.

For generations, Samburu pastoralists have lived in balance with the wildlife that shares these hills and valleys. As pressures from climate change, overgrazing, and land fragmentation mounted, community leaders came together to chart a new path.

Established in partnership with conservation groups including the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), 5,300 acres of prime wildlife habitat was set aside as a dedicated conservation area. A lodge was built with the idea of attracting tourism and researchers to the area in support of the consernvacy.

Wildlife

The Kirisia–Laikipia Corridor

The conservancy forms part of the vital Kirisia–Laikipia wildlife migration corridor — a lifeline for northern Kenya's biodiversity.

ElephantsAfrican Wild Dogs (Striped Wolves)KuduLeopardLionsBaboonsVon der Decken's HornbillsVulturine GuineafowlPygmy Falcon
Community Impact

Conservation that gives back

Every visit directly supports the Nkoteiya community. Through conservation and bednight fees the conservancy is not just a refuge for wildlife — it is a model for coexistence with the Samburu people.

Ranger Programs

A dedicated team of community rangers protects the conservancy and its wildlife around the clock.

Sustainable Grazing

Carefully managed rotational grazing plans preserve the land while supporting the pastoral way of life.

Women's Groups

Community women's group called the "grassland Rangers", dig earth smiles in degraded areas and plant them with grass seeds for when the rains come. Repairing the degraded land and creating better grazing for local livestock.

Education Initiatives

Local children learn about conservation and their cultural heritage through programmes supported by the conservancy.

Climate

When to Visit

Sitting 2,000 feet above the Samburu plains, Loitana Wild enjoys a cool highland climate — warm days, crisp evenings, and constant exceptional views.

22–26°CAverage daytime
10–14°CNights & early mornings

Dry & Cool

June – September

Best visibility, crisp air, sunny days. Ideal window for game viewing and long walks.

Dry & Warm

December – February

Most reliable weather window. Slightly warmer days with excellent conditions throughout.

Short Rains

October – November

Shorter, less intense rainfall. Good mix of sun and storms; landscape stays green.

Long Rains

March – May

Lush green landscape. April is the wettest month; some tracks may be slippery.

Conservation Fees

KES 2,000 per person, per day.

Conservation feeKES 2,000
Bed night feeKES 1,000

Per person, per night · Children under 2 free · Same price for all nationalities

Whether you are a foreigner or a local, young or old, conservation fees are the same for all. These fees directly fund ranger programmes, sustainable grazing plans, women's groups, and education initiatives within the Nkoteiya community.

Plan Your Visit
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