The diverse wildlife of Ol Pejeta includes species uniquely adapted to the northern drylands, such as Grevy’s zebra, gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and beisa oryx with their impressive horns. Blue-legged Somali ostriches roam the plains alongside bustling flocks of vulturine guineafowl, their glossy hackles contrasting beautifully with bright blue breasts. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting numerous bird species during game drives. The area is also home to the three Big Cats: lion, cheetah, and leopard.

Among the most famous residents is the lioness Kamunyak, known as “The Blessed One,” who adopted an oryx calf in 2002, fiercely defending it from predators. Although the calf did not survive, Kamunyak went on to adopt five more, leaving naturalists puzzled by her remarkable maternal instincts. The reserve is named after the Samburu people, semi-nomadic pastoralists proud of their unique traditions and culture.