Olare Orok Conservancy | Narok

Olare Motorogi Conservancy is a renowned wildlife conservancy located in the southwest of Kenya, neighboring the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is a premier example of community-based conservation and is celebrated for its rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and commitment to sustainable tourism and wildlife protection.

Overview:

Location: The conservancy is located along the northern border of Maasai Mara National Reserve, adjacent to the greater Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. It covers approximately 35,000 acres and includes a variety of habitats, including savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, riverine forests, and the scenic Ntiakitiak Gorge.

History: The conservancy was formed in 2006 through the merger of two previous conservancies: Olare Orok and Motorogi. Its creation was a collaborative effort between local Maasai landowners, conservation organizations, and tourism operators, designed to protect wildlife while supporting local livelihoods.

Community Involvement: Local Maasai communities play a key role in the management of the conservancy. Landowners lease their land for conservation purposes and are compensated through annual lease payments and tourism-related employment opportunities.

Wildlife & Biodiversity:

Olare Motorogi Conservancy is part of the greater Mara-Serengeti ecosystem and is renowned for its impressive wildlife populations:

The Big Five: The conservancy is home to the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. It is particularly famous for its healthy lion and leopard populations, which are often seen in the open savannah.

Great Migration: The conservancy serves as a vital corridor for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate from the Serengeti in Tanzania into the Maasai Mara region. This migration typically occurs from June to October and offers some of the most spectacular wildlife viewing in the world.

Other Species: In addition to the Big Five, Olare Motorogi is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, crocodiles, and over 450 species of birds. The diverse ecosystems provide ample opportunities for observing wildlife in different settings, from riverbanks to open plains and woodlands.

Geography & Climate:

Landscape: The conservancy features diverse landscapes, including acacia woodlands, savannah grasslands, and riverine forests. The Ntiakitiak Gorge is a particularly scenic area within the conservancy. The region’s varied terrain provides a picturesque backdrop for game drives and wildlife photography.

Climate: Olare Motorogi enjoys a semi-arid climate, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) during the day. Nights and early mornings can be cooler. The conservancy experiences two main rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains from November to December. The dry season, from June to October, is the best time for wildlife viewing, especially during the Great Migration.

Activities:

The conservancy offers a range of activities that allow visitors to experience its wildlife and natural beauty:

Game Drives: Game drives are the most popular activity, with professional guides taking visitors through the conservancy’s diverse habitats to spot a wide range of animals. Morning and afternoon drives offer the best opportunities for wildlife sightings, with the added chance of spotting nocturnal creatures during night drives.

Walking Safaris: Visitors can enjoy walking safaris led by Maasai guides. These safaris provide a closer look at the landscape and its smaller creatures, as well as an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna that make up the ecosystem.

Night Drives: Night game drives are a unique feature of the conservancy, where visitors can observe nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, and owls. These drives are exclusive to conservancies and offer a more intimate safari experience.

Cultural Visits: Olare Motorogi is not just about wildlife; it also offers cultural experiences. Visitors can engage with local Maasai communities to learn about their traditional ways of life, music, dance, and crafts. These visits provide a deeper understanding of the Maasai culture and their role in the conservancy’s conservation efforts.

Accommodation:

The conservancy offers a range of accommodations, catering to various budgets and preferences, with a focus on eco-friendly and intimate experiences:

Porini Lion Camp: A tented camp offering an authentic safari experience, located in a prime game-viewing area of the conservancy. It is known for its close proximity to wildlife and its commitment to conservation.

Mara Plains Camp: A luxury tented camp offering high-end accommodations and an exclusive experience in a beautiful setting. The camp is known for its exceptional service and personalized safaris.

Mahali Mzuri: A luxury camp owned by Sir Richard Branson, providing high-end amenities, stunning views of the Mara plains, and a high level of service and comfort.

Olare Mara Kempinski: A luxury lodge offering upscale accommodations and a range of amenities, including a spa, infinity pool, and gourmet dining, while still providing easy access to the conservancy’s wildlife.

Kicheche Bush Camp: A smaller, more intimate camp offering personalized safari experiences with knowledgeable guides.

Conservation Efforts:

Olare Motorogi is a model of sustainable conservation, with local Maasai communities leasing their land to the conservancy for wildlife protection and tourism. The income generated from tourism provides significant financial benefits to the local communities and is reinvested into conservation efforts. The conservancy collaborates with conservation organizations like the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Maa Trust to promote wildlife protection, anti-poaching initiatives, and community development.

Sustainable Tourism: The conservancy operates with a low tourist density, ensuring that the natural environment remains undisturbed and that visitors have a more exclusive and intimate experience.

Community Benefits: The local Maasai communities benefit directly from tourism through employment opportunities, educational support, healthcare, and a share of the lease payments for the land they provide to the conservancy.

Visitor Information:

Access: Olare Motorogi Conservancy can be accessed by road from Nairobi, approximately a 5–6 hour drive, or by scheduled flights to the Olare Orok Airstrip.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the Great Migration (June to October) when wildlife viewing is at its peak. However, the conservancy offers excellent wildlife sightings year-round.

Entry Fees: Entry fees vary depending on the entry point and accommodation. It is recommended to check with the conservancy or a local tour operator for up-to-date rates.

Conclusion:

Olare Motorogi Conservancy is a unique and highly sought-after safari destination, offering exceptional wildlife experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to learn about and support local Maasai communities. Its commitment to conservation, sustainable tourism, and community involvement makes it a perfect choice for those looking for an authentic and intimate African safari experience. Whether you're visiting for the Great Migration, a game drive, or a cultural immersion, Olare Motorogi offers an unforgettable adventure in one of Kenya's most pristine and wildlife-rich areas.