Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust
Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust is a community-led conservation organization located in northern Kenya. It was established in 1995 by the local communities living in the area to protect the wildlife and habitat in the region, while also creating economic opportunities for the people living there.
The trust covers an area of over 850,000 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and rare species such as the African wild dog and Grevy’s zebra. It is also an important habitat for many bird species.
One of the key objectives of the Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust is to create a balance between conservation and community development. The trust works with the local communities to provide them with sustainable livelihoods through ecotourism, livestock management, and other income-generating activities. This approach ensures that the local people benefit from conservation efforts and are motivated to protect the wildlife and habitat in the area.
The Namunyak Wildlife Conservation Trust is an excellent example of community-based conservation and has received international recognition for its success in balancing conservation and development.
Attractions at Namunyak Wildlife conservation
Wildlife
Namunyak Conservancy is home to a wide range of wildlife species that are adapted to the arid environment of northern Kenya. Some of the wildlife that you can see in the conservancy include:
Elephants: Namunyak Conservancy has a healthy population of elephants, which are a popular attraction for visitors. The elephants in the conservancy are well adapted to the arid environment and have longer legs and bigger ears than their counterparts in other parts of Kenya.
Lions: The conservancy is also home to a population of lions, which can often be seen hunting or resting in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Leopards: Leopards are another big cat species that are found in Namunyak Conservancy. They are elusive creatures and are often spotted in the early morning or late evening.
Cheetahs: Cheetahs are the fastest land animals and are often seen sprinting across the savannah in pursuit of their prey.
Hyenas: Hyenas are opportunistic scavengers and predators that are well adapted to the arid environment of the conservancy.
Giraffes: Giraffes are the tallest land animals and are often seen browsing on the tops of acacia trees in the conservancy.
Zebras: Zebras are a common sight in Namunyak Conservancy, where they can often be seen grazing on the savannah.
Warthogs: Warthogs are pig-like creatures that are found throughout the conservancy. They are often seen grazing on the grasslands.
Namunyak Conservancy offers visitors the chance to see a diverse range of wildlife species that are adapted to the arid environment of northern Kenya.
Scenery and landscapes
Namunyak Conservancy is renowned for its stunning scenery, with a rugged landscape that includes hills, valleys, and rocky outcrops. Here are some of the highlights of the conservancy’s scenery:
Matthews Range: The Matthews Range is a stunning mountain range that dominates the landscape of Namunyak Conservancy. The range is characterized by its rugged peaks and valleys, which are home to a wide range of wildlife species.
Rock formations: The conservancy is also home to a range of unique rock formations, including towering cliffs and rocky outcrops that provide a dramatic backdrop to the wildlife.
River valleys: The conservancy is intersected by a number of river valleys, which provide an oasis of green in the otherwise arid landscape. The river valleys are home to a range of wildlife species, including elephants and baboons.
Acacia forests: The conservancy is dotted with acacia forests, which provide a haven for a wide range of wildlife species. The forests are also home to a number of bird species, making them a popular destination for birdwatchers.
Open savannah: Much of Namunyak Conservancy is covered in open savannah, which provides a habitat for a range of wildlife species. The savannah is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the light casts a golden glow over the landscape.
The scenery at Namunyak Conservancy is truly breath-taking, with a rugged landscape that provides a stunning backdrop to the wildlife. Whether you’re exploring on foot or by vehicle, you’re sure to be captivated by the beauty of this unique wilderness area.
Cultural experiences
Namunyak Conservancy, also known as the Mathews Range, is a beautiful region located in northern Kenya. This area is home to the Samburu people and boasts a rich culture that visitors can experience and learn about. Here are some cultural experiences you can have in Namunyak Conservancy:
Visit a Samburu village: Take a guided tour of a Samburu village and learn about their traditional way of life. You can see their unique dress, houses, and food, and even try some traditional Samburu dishes.
Attend a traditional ceremony: The Samburu people have a rich tradition of performing ceremonies such as weddings, circumcisions, and coming-of-age rituals. Visitors can attend these ceremonies and witness first-hand the cultural practices of the Samburu.
Meet with a tribal elder: The Samburu people are known for their respect for their elders. Visitors can arrange to meet with a tribal elder and hear stories about their history and culture. Elders can also teach visitors about their traditional medicinal practices.
Participate in a cultural dance: The Samburu people are famous for their colourful dances, which are accompanied by singing and chanting. Visitors can participate in these dances and learn more about Samburu culture.
Shop for traditional handicrafts: The Samburu people are skilled artisans and make beautiful jewellery, baskets, and other handicrafts. Visitors can purchase these items as souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.
A visit to Namunyak Conservancy offers a unique opportunity to learn about and experience the rich culture of the Samburu.
Night Game Drives
Night game drives in Namunyak Conservancy are a unique and exciting way to see the wildlife in action after dark. Unlike most other wildlife reserves, Namunyak Conservancy allows visitors to go on night game drives, which are usually conducted in open-sided vehicles with powerful spotlights.
During night game drives, visitors can expect to see a wide range of nocturnal animals, such as leopards, hyenas, aardvarks, genets, civets, and porcupines. The conservancy is also home to several species of owls and nightjars, which can be seen and heard during these drives.
Night game drives usually start just after sunset and last for around two to three hours. They are conducted by experienced guides who are familiar with the conservancy and its wildlife. The guides use their spotlights to scan the surrounding area for wildlife and to track the movements of the animals.
It is important to note that night game drives can be quite chilly, especially during the cooler months, so visitors are advised to dress warmly and bring a jacket or sweater. It is also important to be respectful of the animals and to follow the instructions of the guide at all times.
Night game drives in Namunyak Conservancy are a unique and thrilling experience that should not be missed by anyone visiting the
Camel Riding
Camel rides are a unique and unforgettable way to experience the African wilderness and get a glimpse of the traditional way of life of the Samburu people in Namunyak Conservancy.
The Samburu people have a long tradition of using camels for transport and as a source of food and milk. Visitors to the conservancy can go on camel treks through the stunningly beautiful landscape, led by local Samburu guides who are experienced in navigating the area.
During a camel rides, visitors can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. The guides will share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna, as well as the traditional Samburu way of life.
Camel rides usually last for several hours, and visitors can choose to either do a short trek or a longer multi-day trek, camping out in the bush at night. The camels are well-trained and gentle, and the guides are skilled at making visitors feel comfortable and safe throughout the journey.
It is important to note that camel rides can be physically demanding, and visitors should be prepared for some walking and occasional periods of discomfort. However, the experience of traveling through the stunning wilderness on the back of a gentle camel is truly unique and rewarding, and is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Namunyak Conservancy.
