Kigio Wildlife Conservancy
NaivashaKigio Wildlife Conservancy is a haven for different species found in the Great Rift Valley.
Wildlife Sanctuary in the Great Rift Valley
The Great Rift Valley is only about two hours away from Nairobi. Adventure seekers never get enough of this magical region with its range of lakes, natural formations and wildlife.
One such attraction is Kigio Wildlife Conservancy. This is a 3,500-acre sanctuary for Rothschild giraffes, buffalos, zebras, waterbucks, Grant’s gazelles, hyenas, hippos, leopards and Thomson’s gazelles among others. It has over 3000 wild animals.
In addition to wildlife, the conservancy has spectacular view of Mount Longonot, the Aberdares and Naivasha. The vegetation is mainly shrubbery, riverine forests and woodlands. Marewa River fences it off on one side.
Kigio Wildlife Conservancy Accommodation
Explore this magical conservancy during your tour of the Great Rift Valley. Accommodation is available within the sanctuary. Malewa Wildlife Lodge and Kigio Wildlife Camp, both eco-lodges, have modern accommodation facilities. Malewa Wildlife Lodge has 11 bandas(cottages) and a family suite with two bedrooms.
Kigio Wildlife Camp has four single storey chalets and one family cottage which is a two storey structure with two bedrooms.
Kigio Wildlife Conservancy Activities
In addition to game viewing, guests can enjoy cycling, guided nature walks and bird watching. Night game drives are exceptionally exciting. There are community tours to vist Tumaini Widows Group who make baskets, Gilgil Spinners and Weavers and Maua Women’s Group, which deals with jewelery.
The conservancy provides trains children and the local community about the environment and wildlife. To maintain the beauty and greenery of Kigio Wildlife Conservancy, there are a number of recycling projects. For example, the lodges use paper made from giraffe droppings.
Previously, the conservancy was a ranch until its owner sold it to the local community. It is about 120km from Nairobi.