Laikipia Takes Center Stage: Kenya’s Next Must‑Visit Safari Destination for 2026

There’s a fresh and powerful shift underway in Kenya safari tourism. Beyond the iconic Maasai Mara — long the globe’s safari default — a quieter, more exclusive wildlife destination is surging into the spotlight: Laikipia County. Travel leaders and safari insiders now say this sprawling plateau should be on every discerning traveler’s radar for 2026.
 

What’s Driving the Trend

• Under‑the‑Radar, Over‑the‑Top Wildlife: Laikipia’s vast landscape supports a remarkable array of species — from abundant elephants and lions to endangered Grevy’s zebras, African wild dogs, and both black and white rhinos. Half of Kenya’s black rhino population is found across its private and community conservancies, making the region a global conservation stronghold.

• Exclusive Safari Experiences: Unlike the Maasai Mara, where peak‑season game drives can involve dozens of vehicles around a sighting, Laikipia offers far fewer crowds and more intimate wildlife viewing. Visitors often find themselves alone at sightings for extended periods, watching natural animal behavior with minimal disturbance.

• Conservation‑First, Community‑Led Tourism: Laikipia’s conservancies — including Lewa, Ol Jogi, Ol Pejeta, and others — operate on models that directly benefit local communities while safeguarding habitat. This integrated approach resonates deeply with travelers seeking responsible tourism and meaningful impact.

• New Luxury Arrivals Fuel Buzz: The opening of safari lodges like andBeyond Suyian in 2025 signals growing industry confidence. These properties blend upscale comfort with authentic immersion into the landscape, drawing adventure seekers and luxury travelers alike into Kenya’s north.

• Diverse Safari Activities: Beyond classic game drives, Laikipia’s conservancies offer horseback safaris, camel treks, guided bush walks, night drives, and cultural interactions with Maasai and Samburu communities. This diversity — coupled with exceptional wildlife densities — extends the appeal well beyond traditional safari experiences.

Why It Matters for 2026

With global safari traffic increasing and concerns about overcrowding at classic parks, destinations that offer authentic encounters and low‑impact tourism are rising quickly to the top of traveler wish lists. Laikipia’s inclusion on major travel forecasts for “Where to Go in 2026” underscores this shift.

For safari planners, travel advisors, and wildlife lovers crafting 2026 itineraries, Laikipia represents a rare opportunity: world‑class wildlife viewing without the crowds, supported by leading conservation and community engagement models.