Soysambu Conservancy

🦒 What is Soysambu Conservancy and Why Should You Visit?

If you’re planning a trip to Nakuru or Lake Elementaita and want a more exclusive, off-the-beaten-path safari experience, Soysambu Conservancy is the perfect add-on. Located just an hour from Nakuru town and right next to Lake Elementaita, this 48,000-acre private conservancy is teeming with wildlife, birdlife, and jaw-dropping Rift Valley scenery.

Unlike the busier Lake Nakuru National Park, Soysambu offers a quieter, more immersive safari where you’re not jostling with other vehicles to get a good view. It’s a perfect destination for photographers, nature lovers, families, or couples looking for something special.

Screenshot of the official Soysambu Conservancy website homepage.

📍 Where is Soysambu Conservancy Located?

Soysambu is located on the western side of Lake Elementaita, approximately 45–60 minutes from Nakuru town and about 2.5 hours from Nairobi by road.

It shares boundaries with Lake Elementaita, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers direct views of the lake, especially from luxury lodges on the escarpment.

How to Get There:

By Car: Accessible by private vehicle or tour van; a 4×4 is ideal for the internal conservancy roads.
By Public Transport: You can take a bus or matatu to Gilgil or Nakuru, then arrange a taxi or pickup to the conservancy.

🐘 What Wildlife Will I See?

Soysambu Conservancy is a haven for both wildlife and birdlife. The conservancy is home to:

Rothschild Giraffes (Soysambu has one of Kenya’s largest free-roaming populations)
Plains zebras, impalas, elands, gazelles
Buffalo, warthogs, and hyenas
Leopards (elusive, but present)
Over 450 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and raptors
Lions

It’s also a key part of the Kenya Wildlife Service’s giraffe conservation efforts.

🌄 What Activities Can I Do at Soysambu?

This is where Soysambu really shines — with a range of guided and self-led activities that give you full freedom to explore:

Day and Night Game Drives — Explore the conservancy near Lake Nakuru NP to see its over 12,000 wildlife on Land Cruisers or normal vehicle. Kes. 2000 per car. Read more here.

Guided Nature Walks — Learn about local flora, animal tracks, and bird calls
Bird Watching — Ideal for serious twitchers and casual bird lovers alike
Horseback Safaris — Ride among giraffes and antelopes (by advance booking)
Bush Breakfasts and Sundowners — Meals in the wild with incredible views
Photography Tours — Specialized outings for wildlife and landscape photography
Motorcycle safaris – Soysambu works with Dusty Helmets to offer itineraries for motorcycle safaris.

Because it’s a private conservancy, the activities are more flexible, less rushed, and often customizable based on your interests.

💵 What Are the Entry Fees?

As of 2025, entry fees for Soysambu Conservancy are:

Non-residents: Approx. $35 to $50 per person
Residents: Approx. KES 1,500 per person
Children: Discounted rates available

Some lodges include conservancy fees in their package; others charge separately. Always confirm when booking.

🏕️ Where Can I Stay Inside the Conservancy?

Soysambu offers several options depending on your budget and travel style:

Lake Elementaita Serena Camp – A luxury tented lodge with stunning lake views
Punda Milias Nakuru Camp – Affordable and family-friendly
Pelican Lodge – Mid-range with great access to both the lake and the conservancy
Soysambu Campsites – For those who want to pitch their own tent under the stars

Some properties offer full-board packages with game drives and guides included.

Check out video below with details on camping in Soysambu’s Simons Camp by Mufasa Mike:

Check out details of all campsites in Soysambu:

📸 When Is the Best Time to Visit?

You can visit Soysambu year-round, but each season offers something unique:

June to October (Dry season): Great for game drives and clear skies
November to May (Green season): Lush landscapes and excellent for birding
Flamingo Season: Varies based on water levels in Lake Elementaita

The area tends to be less crowded even during peak tourist months, making it ideal for a peaceful escape.

🔍 What Makes Soysambu Special Compared to Lake Nakuru?

If Lake Nakuru is a classic national park safari, then Soysambu is the intimate, off-grid version. Here’s why I often recommend both:

Fewer tourists = better experiences and better photos
Night drives and horseback safaris (not allowed in national parks)
Rift Valley escarpment views and lake vistas
Deeper connection with nature thanks to guided walks and conservation projects

🌱 Is It Eco-Friendly?

Absolutely. Soysambu Conservancy is a leader in community-based conservation and eco-tourism. It supports local schools, runs wildlife research programs, and protects critical giraffe and flamingo habitats.

Many of the lodges also follow eco-friendly practices including solar power, low-impact construction, and waste management.

🧭 Can I Combine This With a Trip to Lake Nakuru?

Definitely. Soysambu and Lake Nakuru are just about an hour apart. Many travelers visit both as part of a 2- or 3-day circuit:

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Game drive in Lake Nakuru, overnight in Nakuru town
Day 2: Transfer to Soysambu, afternoon nature walk or sundowner
Day 3: Morning safari or horseback ride, return to Nairobi

Soysambu Conservancy Documentaries:

Check out below as well by NTV:

👣 Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and authentic safari experience with a strong focus on conservation, Soysambu Conservancy is a hidden gem worth exploring. Whether you’re a couple, a solo traveler, or a family, it offers something different — and truly unforgettable.

❓1. Is Soysambu Conservancy safe for tourists?

✅ Yes, it’s very safe.
Soysambu is a private conservancy with controlled access and security patrols. Because it’s less crowded than national parks, there’s minimal risk of theft or disturbances. Guides are well-trained, and safety protocols are followed for all activities, including night drives and walking safaris.

❓2. Do I need a guide to explore the conservancy?

🧭 You don’t have to — but it’s highly recommended.
Guided activities like walks, game drives, or horseback safaris enhance your experience with expert insights on wildlife, tracks, and conservation. Plus, guides know where animals typically hang out.

For camping or staying overnight, a guide is optional but can be arranged to support specific interests like birding or photography.

❓3. Is Soysambu suitable for kids and families?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Absolutely.
Soysambu is one of the most family-friendly safari destinations in Kenya. There’s minimal vehicle traffic, and activities like nature walks, giraffe tracking, and bush meals can be tailored to children’s ages. Some lodges even offer kids’ programs and family-sized tents or cottages.

❓4. Can I see flamingos in Soysambu?

🦩 Yes, especially when water levels are right.
The conservancy borders Lake Elementaita, a sister lake to Lake Nakuru, and is also home to flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. While the numbers vary seasonally, flamingos often gather along the lake’s shoreline within the conservancy — especially during the dry season.

❓5. What should I pack for a trip to Soysambu?

🎒 Here’s a quick list:

Light clothing for the day, warm layers for the evening
Closed walking shoes or boots
A good pair of binoculars
Camera with zoom lens if possible
Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
Refillable water bottle
Power bank (some camps run on solar)

If you’re planning to camp, check with your host whether tents and bedding are provided.

❓6. Is mobile network coverage available in Soysambu?

📶 Yes, but it can be spotty in some areas.
Most lodges have mobile signal for Safaricom and Airtel, and some offer Wi-Fi in common areas. If you’re camping or venturing further out into the conservancy, expect intermittent connectivity — which, honestly, is part of the charm.

❓7. Can I visit Soysambu for just a day?

🕐 Yes, day visits are allowed.
You can pay the conservancy entry fee at the gate and spend the day doing game drives, nature walks, or enjoying a lakeside picnic. It’s a great way to escape crowds and enjoy nature if you’re staying in Nakuru or Elementaita.

❓8. Do I need to book in advance?

📅 Advance booking is strongly advised, especially for:

Guided activities like horseback safaris or bush meals
Accommodation inside the conservancy
Special requests like birding tours or photography sessions

For day visitors, you can often show up at the gate and pay entry, but it’s best to call ahead to confirm availability and gate hours.

❓9. Can I visit Soysambu using a normal car?

🚙 Yes, but a 4×4 is better.
Some internal roads can get rough, especially during the rainy season. If you’re using a 2WD car, stick to the main tracks and avoid venturing too far off unless you’re sure of road conditions.