Selenkay Conservancy
Exclusive African Wilderness with Low Guest Numbers & Exceptional Wildlife Viewing
Selenkay Conservancy lies just north of Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya and represents one of the earliest examples of community-owned land being set aside for wildlife conservation. Established in 1997 through a partnership between the local Maasai community and Gamewatchers Safaris, 12,000 acres of community land were leased to create a protected area where wildlife and people could co-exist more harmoniously.
Selenkay is a private wilderness area with strict limits on visitor numbers and vehicle density. Only a small number of safari guests are accommodated within the conservancy and there is only one safari camp – Porini Amboseli Camp – ensuring an exclusive and low-impact experience across thousands of acres of unspoiled habitat. This approach has allowed wildlife to return and flourish, including elephants that had been absent from the area for nearly two decades.
As an unfenced extension of the Amboseli ecosystem, Selenkay provides a vital dispersal area for species moving in and out of the national park. Nature does not recognize human boundaries, and the conservancy plays an essential role as a safe haven for elephants, big cats, giraffes, and a wide variety of plains game that might otherwise face conflict or pressure in settled areas.
Visitors benefit not only from quieter game-viewing but also from activities not permitted inside national parks, such as guided walks with Maasai warrior guides, night drives to encounter nocturnal species, off-road driving for close wildlife encounters, and bush meals in scenic locations. There is also the opportunity to visit a local Maasai Village to elarn more about the Maasai culture and way of life.
Today, Selenkay stands as a successful model of how ecotourism can generate tangible benefits for local communities while safeguarding critical wildlife habitats. Guests staying at Porini Amboseli Camp, the only camp within the conservancy, directly support conservation efforts and help sustain the Maasai families who have dedicated their land to wildlife protection.
Selenkay Conservancy is a private wildlife Conservancy in southern Kenya’s Amboseli ecosystem, lying just north of Amboseli National Park. Created through a pioneering partnership between the local Maasai community and Gamewatchers Safaris, this 12,000+-acre area has become a thriving haven for wildlife and a model for community conservation.
Why Selenkay Matters
Winner of World’s Leading Conservation Programme, Selenkay Conservancy pioneers community-led conservation, protects vital wildlife habitat, supports Maasai livelihoods, limits tourism impact, and safeguards a crucial wildlife corridor linking Amboseli National Park with surrounding rangelands.
Community Based Conservation
Through tourism revenue and land lease agreements, Maasai landowners benefit directly — creating employment and education for the community and long-term incentives for wildlife protection and sustainable land use.
Exclusive Wildlife Viewing
With only one small eco camp within Selenkay Conservancy, guests staying at Porini Amboseli Camp, are ensured an exclusive and low-impact experience across thousands of acres of unspoiled habitat. This approach has allowed wildlife to return and flourish, including elephants that had been absent from the area for nearly two decades.
Knowledge-Led Safari Experiences
Expert local guides with an intimate understanding of Selenkay’s wildlife and movement patterns, ensuring rewarding, insightful safari encounters in this exclusive conservancy.
Why Selenkay Matters
Winner of World’s Leading Conservation Programme, Selenkay Conservancy pioneers community-led conservation, protects vital wildlife habitat, supports Maasai livelihoods, limits tourism impact, and safeguards a crucial wildlife corridor linking Amboseli National Park with surrounding rangelands.
Community Based Conservation
Through tourism revenue and land lease agreements, Maasai landowners benefit directly — creating employment and education for the community and long-term incentives for wildlife protection and sustainable land use.
Exclusive Wildlife Viewing
With only one small eco camp within Selenkay Conservancy, guests staying at Porini Amboseli Camp, are ensured an exclusive and low-impact experience across thousands of acres of unspoiled habitat. This approach has allowed wildlife to return and flourish, including elephants that had been absent from the area for nearly two decades.
Knowledge-Led Safari Experiences
Expert local guides with an intimate understanding of Selenkay’s wildlife and movement patterns, ensuring rewarding, insightful safari encounters in this exclusive conservancy.
World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards 2025
Gamewatchers’ Selenkay Conservancy exemplifies community-driven conservation. Situated in Kenya’s Amboseli ecosystem, it empowers Maasai landowners by leasing land for wildlife protection while delivering tourism revenue and employment. The initiative has restored critical wildlife corridors, increased lion populations, and improved rangeland health through rotational grazing. Profits fund education, health, and water infrastructure for surrounding communities. Gamewatchers’ low-impact eco-camps run entirely on solar, use zero plastic, and promote local sourcing. Its model is scalable and has been replicated in other conservancies across Kenya.
What sets Selenkay apart is its success in aligning biodiversity conservation with tangible community benefits—making wildlife preservation economically viable for locals and enriching for visitors.
Wildlife & Landscape Highlights
Selenkay’s habitat — open savannah, acacia woodlands and seasonal waterholes — supports a rich array of species at close range.
Wildlife you may see includes:
- African Elephant (returned after a 20-year absence).
- Big Cats - Lion, Cheetah, Leopard.
- Giraffe, Zebra, Thomson’s & Grant’s Gazelles.
- Lesser Kudu, Gerenuk, Bat-Eared Fox and other plains game.
- Abundant birdlife.
A Taste of Selenkay
Getting There
Selenkay Conservancy lies within the Amboseli ecosystem, forming a vital wildlife corridor north of Amboseli National Park.
Selenkay Conservancy is easily accessible from Nairobi with a 45 minute light aircraft flight. Guests typically fly into the Airstrip within the Selenkay Conservancy and are met for a short game drive to Porini Amboseli Camp, enjoying scenic views of the Amboseli ecosystem along the way. Alternatively, a 4 hour road transfer from Nairobi is possible via well-maintained roads.
Gamewatchers Safaris will arrange all transfers, ensuring a smooth start to your safari. Light aircraft flights and private transfers are coordinated for convenience and comfort.
Our Porini Camps are extra special. That means we are able to offer our guests much more than typical safari experiences.
You’ll stay in a small eco-safari camp with private en-suite tents, excellent food, and all the comfortable modern amenities at hand.
Unlike national parks and other public game reserves, our private conservancies limit guests and vehicles. Offering a peaceful, crowd-free experience with more intimate wildlife encounters and a deeper connection to nature.
The limited number of vehicles in the conservancies allows for more flexible and customised game drives. Meaning you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, with expert guides tailoring the experience based on your specific interests, whether it’s birdwatching, photography, or tracking a particular animal.
Porini Safari Tours Combining Selenkay Conservancy
Experience the wild like never before with safari itineraries featuring Selenkay Conservancy and the award-winning Porini Camps. Journey through Amboseli, Ol Pejeta, and the Maasai Mara, enjoying exclusive access to pristine conservancies and up-close wildlife encounters—far from the crowds.
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Kenya.
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ENQUIRY FORM
Rick McIntyre
Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.
Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!
You can contact me at rae@gamewatchers.com
Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Kenya.
NORTH AMERICA
UNITED KINGDOM
SOUTH AMERICA
INDIA
AUSTRALIA
ENQUIRY FORM
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014, and together, we'll make your African dreams a reality.
Rick Mcintyre 
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let's embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.
Julie Roggow 
Hi, I'm Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!
You can contact me at rae@gamewatchers.com
Rachel Chambers 
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Selenkay Conservancy Safari Stories
Explore blogs and guest stories from Selenkay Conservancy, sharing first-hand safari experiences, expert insights, and close encounters with Africa’s remarkable wildlife in an unspoiled wilderness.
Selenkay Conservancy Wins World’s Leading Conservation Programme 2025
We are proud to announce that Selenkay Conservancy has been named the World’s Leading Conservation Programme 2025 at the 2nd Annual World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards!
What does a safari feel like when wildlife, community, and conservation come first? Welcome to Selenkay Conservancy — recently named the World’s Leading Conservation Programme 2025. This is a place where travel directly supports wildlife protection and local communities.
Smart Learning for the Maasai: How Holiday Sessions Transform Education in Kenya
At Gamewatchers Safaris, conservation is inseparable from community empowerment. While protecting wildlife and landscapes remains central to our work, we are equally dedicated to supporting the people who call these
FAQs - Selenkay Conservacy
Where is Selenkay Conservancy located?
Selenkay Conservancy lies north of Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya, forming a vital wildlife corridor and community-owned conservancy. It is easily accessible from Nairobi with a 45 minute light aircraft flight into Selenkay Conservancy or alternatively, a 4 hour road transfer from Nairobi is possible via well-maintained roads.
When & how was Selenkay Conservancy set up?
Selenkay Conservancy was established in 1997 as one of Kenya’s pioneering community-leased wildlife areas. It was set up through a partnership between local Maasai landowners and Porini / Gamewatchers Safaris, aiming to protect critical wildlife habitat while generating sustainable income for the community
What wildlife can I see in Selenkay Conservancy?
Visitors can expect elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and abundant birdlife. Selenkay is part of a dispersal area connecting Amboseli, offering spectacular, close-up wildlife encounters.
What makes Selenkay Conservancy unique?
Selenkay is one of Kenya’s first community-leased conservancies, combining wildlife protection with Maasai-led community benefits. Strict visitor limits ensure minimal disturbance and an exclusive safari experience.
How many safari camps and lodges are there in Selenkay Conservancy?
There is only one safari camp inside Selenkay Conservancy — Porini Amboseli Camp — providing exclusive, low‑impact accommodation and wildlife access in this private Maasai‑owned wilderness.
Is there wifi or phone signal if we need to stay connected?
There is minimal phone signal within the Selenkay Conservancy, however there is phone signal at the Porini Amboseli Camp, and Wi-Fi in the communal area.
And while many guests will enjoy the chance to disconnect, there is still enough connectivity to stay in touch if needed.
When is the best time to visit Selenkay Conservnacy?
Selenkay Conservancy offers rewarding wildlife viewing year-round. The wet season brings lush scenery and excellent birdlife, though heavy rains can make roads impassable, and Porini Amboseli Camp closes from mid-April to mid-May.
What are the rules in the conservancies? Can we go off-road or do night drives?
Yes. Conservancies allow activities that national parks do not, including:
- Off-road driving for closer sightings.
- Night drives using red-filtered spotlights.
- Guided bush walks with Maasai trackers.
- Bush breakfasts, picnics and sundowners.
How does Selenkay support conservation and communities?
Tourism revenue and land leases provide direct benefits to Maasai landowners. Conservation programs protect wildlife corridors, restore habitat, and fund local education and community projects. You can see more at our Responsible Tourism section
Where can I find out more information about The Conservancies that Gamewatchers operate in?
We operate our Porini Camps in: Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Mara Ripoi Conservancy and Ol Pejeta Conservancy.
The Conservancy Concept section explains the community conservancy model that underpins Selenkay and other conservancies, including how land is leased from Maasai communities to protect habitat and support livelihoods.
How do I plan a safari to stay at Selenkay Conservancy?
To plan a safari at Selenkay Conservancy, start by choosing dates and checking availability at Porini Amboseli Camp, the only camp located inside the conservancy.
Work with one of our safari specialists to design your itinerary — including number of nights, guided game drives, bush walks, and any cultural experiences — then confirm flights, transfers, and park fees.
Gamewatchers Safaris can arrange all logistics, including transfers and Conservancy fees, ensuring a smooth, tailored safari experience.
Is Porini.com the same as Gamewatchers Safaris?
Yes, Gamewatchers Safaris is the tour operator responsible for organising safaris and booking experiences, the website is www.porini.com.
Porini is the brand for our award winning, eco-friendly, exclusive Porini Camps & Cottages within private conservancies that we run and manage.
