Kigio Wildlife Conservancy, Wildlife conservancy in Gilgil, Kenya.
Kigio Wildlife Conservancy is a protected area in Gilgil consisting of grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, and riverine forests. It is situated between Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha.
The land was formerly a colonial-era cattle ranch but was transformed into a wildlife habitat after Kenya's independence. This change reflects the shift toward community-managed conservation.
The local Kikuyu community manages this land and uses eco-tourism as a source of income. This approach helps protect native plant species and animal populations.
The conservancy lies between Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha, with the Malewa River forming its eastern boundary and an electric fence enclosing the other three sides. Guided walks, cycling, fishing and day or night game drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles are offered, and guests stay at Malewa Wildlife Lodge or Kigio Wildlife Camp, both built with traditional techniques and materials.
Starting in 2002, Rothschild's giraffes were reintroduced here and their population has grown from eight to around thirty animals. This marks the return of a species that had been absent from this region for a long time.
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