Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Maasai Mara
Ol Kinyei Conservancy is an 18,700-acre wildlife sanctuary, established in 2005 and was one of the pioneer conservancies in Kenya’s Masai Mara. Today, it is home to two of our Porini safari camps – Porini Mara Camp and Porini Cheetah Camp and our Ol Kinyei Safari Cottages, offering guests an exclusive and eco-conscious safari experience while supporting sustainable wildlife protection and community development.
Ol Kinyei Conservancy is recognised on the prestigious IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas, one of only 3 sites in Kenya and about 97 sites worldwide. This distinction reflects the conservancy’s success in providing safe habitat for wildlife, protecting natural values, and generating tangible benefits for the Maasai community. The IUCN Green List serves as a global benchmark for effective management and fair governance, ensuring long-term positive impacts on both nature and people. Every five years, Ol Kinyei is evaluated against rigorous criteria, including the quality of protection, effectiveness of threat mitigation, and measurable conservation results.
Situated within the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, the conservancy features breathtaking landscapes ranging from open savannah to rolling hills, nourished by springs, streams, and rivers. Wildlife thrives here, including resident lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and Cape buffalo. Guests enjoy exclusive access to the conservancy’s unspoiled terrain, as well as game drives extending into the neighbouring Naboisho Conservancy, supported through land lease contributions to local communities.
Ol Kinyei Conservancy also plays a key role in the Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, hosting herds from Kenya’s Loita Plains as early as January, and the annual wildebeest calving season in February and March, before herds move on to Naboisho and Olare Motorogi Conservancies.
With its combination of award-winning safari experiences, unspoiled wilderness, and internationally recognised conservation standards, Ol Kinyei Conservancy provides guests with an immersive encounter with Kenya’s wildlife while supporting long-term ecological and community sustainability. In our blog “Exploring the Rich History of Ol Kinyei”, you can discover the history of Ol Kinyei Conservancy, and how it has become a wildlife paradise.
A Taste of Ol Kinyei
A Dream Safari in Ol Kinyei
Ol Kinyei Conservancy Accommodation
Porini Safari Tours Combining Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Experience the wild like never before with safari itineraries featuring Ol Kinyei Conservancy and the award-winning Porini Camps. Journey through Amboseli, Ol Pejeta, Meru and the Maasai Mara, enjoying exclusive access to pristine conservancies and up-close wildlife encounters—far from the crowds.
Talk to a Specialist
Our experienced Safari Consultants—based in Nairobi and around the world—are here to guide you every step of the way. From expert advice to seamless planning, we’ll take care of every detail to create a safari that’s perfectly tailored to you.
Get in touch today, and a dedicated Safari Specialist in your time zone will start crafting your personalised safari to Africa.
Kenya
North America & Canada
North America & Canada
North America
UK & Europe
South America
Australia
India
Kenya
Head Office in Nairobi
We have an experienced team of Safari Consultants based in Kenya.
You can contact our Nairobi team at info@gamewatchers.com or call at +254-722-509-200.
North America & Canada
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, and together, we’ll make your African dreams a reality.
North America & Canada
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 reach me by email at rae@gamewatchers.com
North America
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. 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.
UK & Europe
Tom Mees
Jambo, I’m Tommy Mees, most people call me Tom.
My connection with Africa began through years of travelling across the continent.
I later spent more than twelve years managing safari camps and lodges while supporting conservation initiatives including beekeeping and tree-planting projects.
Having travelled extensively throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, I developed a deep appreciation for authentic wilderness experiences and the conservation-focused approach of the Porini Camps.
I am originally from Belgium and now based in Spain, though my heart has always remained in Africa.
Alongside my safari background, I am also a professional photographer and enjoy helping travellers experience and capture the extraordinary wildlife, landscapes and cultures that make Africa so special.
If you are considering an African safari, feel free to contact me at tom@gamewatchers.com
South America
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul.
If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com
Australia
Kristy Thomson
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call on +61 419 175 672.
India
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or call on +91 801 788 5256.
FAQs - Ol Kinyei Conservancy
What is Ol Kinyei Conservancy and why is it special?
Ol Kinyei Conservancy is an 18,700-acre wildlife sanctuary established nearly 20 years ago by the Maasai community to support conservation. It is recognized on the prestigious IUCN Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas for its effective management, habitat protection, and community benefits.
Where is Ol Kinyei Conservancy located, and what wildlife can I see there?
Ol Kinyei Conservancy is situated within the Maasai Mara ecosystem in Kenya, offering stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Ol Kinyei Conservancy is home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife, including two resident lion prides, elusive leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and more. As the northernmost calving ground for the Loita wildebeest migration, it offers guests the rare chance to witness this awe-inspiring natural event each year, typically in January and February.
How does Ol Kinyei Conservancy contribute to conservation and local communities?
The Ol Kinyei Conservancy supports conservation by providing a safe habitat for wildlife, maintaining natural values, and generating benefits for the Maasai community through land lease contributions and eco-tourism, which also helps its recognition on the IUCN Green List.
What kind of safari experiences can I expect at Ol Kinyei Conservancy?
The conservancy is reserved for Porini guests only, and tourism numbers are strictly limited—with no more than one vehicle per 1,400 acres—ensuring that every game drive feels personal and privileged. In addition to exploring Ol Kinyei Conservancy, guests also enjoy access to the neighbouring Naboisho Conservancy, broadening the range of habitats and wildlife experiences available.
Within Ol Kinyei Conservancy guests can enjoy exclusive game drives, walking safaris, scenic picnics, and wildlife encounters in unspoiled wilderness.
What makes Ol Kinyei Conservancy different from the Maasai Mara National Reserve?
Ol Kinyei Conservancy offers a more exclusive safari experience with fewer vehicles, off-road driving, night game drives, and guided walks, which are not permitted in the national reserve.
What safari camps and lodges are available at Ol Kinyei Conservancy?
The Ol Kinyei Conservancy offers two Porini safari camps; Porini Mara Camp and Porini Cheetah Camp, and the Ol Kinyei Safari Cottages, providing eco-conscious and comfortable accommodations that allow guests to immerse themselves in Kenya’s wilderness while supporting sustainable tourism.
There are no other accommodation facilities in the Conservancy, which therefore offers an authentic and exclusive safari experience to Porini guests.
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.
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.
World Travel Awards 2026
Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards 2026
We’re delighted to share that Porini Camps is on the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards ballot under Best Resorts.
We appear as Porini Camps | Ol Kinyei Conservancy. This nomination is a reflection of our incredible guests, the wildlife of Ol Kinyei Conservancy, and our team’s dedication to low-impact, community-led safaris.
How To Make The Best Choice For Your Wildlife Safari in Kenya
Don’t miss out on our free copy of our 36 page Guide to Choosing a Safari in Kenya. A must-read before booking any safari tour to ensure you make the most of your time and budget and get the best possible experience.
