Lewa Conservancy

Picture yourself standing in the heart of Kenya's Northern Frontier, where 65,000 acres of pristine wilderness stretch across rolling plains beneath the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kenya. Welcome to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a place where conservation excellence meets unforgettable adventure—and where every moment feels like stepping into a world few travelers ever experience. [1][2]

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy was founded in 1995, but its conservation legacy reaches back to 1983 when it began as the Ngare Sergoi Rhino Sanctuary, established to protect Kenya's critically endangered black rhinos. [2] Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has evolved into far more than a refuge for endangered species—it's a thriving ecosystem and a global model for how conservation and tourism can coexist beautifully. The conservancy now protects over 200 black and white rhinos, representing 10% of Kenya's entire rhino population. [7]

What makes Lewa truly exceptional is its commitment to putting people at the center of conservation. [2] The conservancy has influenced and supported conservation management across Meru, Laikipia, and Isiolo Counties, proving that when communities benefit from wildlife protection, everyone wins. This approach has created strong relationships with neighboring communities through education, healthcare, water, and micro-enterprise programs—making your visit part of a larger story of positive impact. Let our travel specialists help you understand how your safari contributes to real conservation work on the ground.

The landscape itself is a masterpiece of ecological diversity. [2] Lewa features pristine forests, fertile grasslands, extensive natural springs, and acacia woodlands that create ideal habitats for an astonishing variety of wildlife. To the south, dramatic snow-capped views of Mount Kenya dominate the horizon, while to the north, the landscape transitions into the arid beauty of Tassia and Il Ngwesi. [2] This geographic diversity means you'll encounter completely different ecosystems within the same day of exploration.

Wildlife viewing at Lewa is genuinely world-class. [7] The conservancy is home to the largest concentration of Grevy's zebra in the entire world—representing 20% of the global population—making it an absolute must-see for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. [7] Lions, leopards, and jackals thrive here thanks to the rich diversity of prey throughout the conservancy. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded, making Lewa a paradise for birdwatchers seeking both common and rare species. [7]

The rhino conservation story at Lewa is particularly inspiring. Registered as a rhino conservancy in 1983, Lewa pioneered successful breeding programs for black rhinos—a species once on the brink of extinction. [7] Walking through the conservancy knowing you're surrounded by animals that represent decades of dedicated conservation work creates an emotional connection to wildlife that standard safaris simply cannot match. Our local connections ensure you'll have opportunities to learn directly from conservancy rangers about their daily work protecting these magnificent creatures.

Accommodation options at Lewa cater to every travel style and budget. [1] The conservancy offers 10 unique lodging experiences, from intimate luxury to exclusive privacy. Elewana Lewa Safari Camp provides authentic comfort luxury with large tented bedrooms featuring verandahs and full en-suite bathrooms, offering privileged access to the entire 65,000-acre conservancy. [7] Elewana Kifaru House offers an intimate escape in just five charming thatched cottages, perfect for travelers seeking exclusivity and personalized service. [1]

For those craving ultimate privacy, Sirikoi Lodge operates as a small, family-owned safari lodge with only four luxury tents, a cottage, and a private house positioned along the spring-fed Sirikoi stream. [1] Lewa House features a dramatic thatched main building as the focal point, with separate cottage accommodations offering unique views of Kenya's Northern Frontier. [1] Lewa Wilderness provides the most adventurous experience, with opportunities to walk, ride, fly, drive, and camp—offering varied safari activities for every type of traveler. [1]

Getting to Lewa is surprisingly straightforward, despite its remote location. [4] Daily direct flights depart from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Lewa Downs, operated by SafariLink or Air Kenya—a convenient option that also supports conservation (SafariLink donates $5 per passenger to Lewa's conservation efforts). [4] If you prefer driving, Lewa is just four hours from Nairobi via the Thika road, passing through Thika, Makuyu, and Karatina before turning toward Nyeri. [4] For those with deeper pockets, private charter flights are available through companies like Tropic Air, Boskovic Air Charters, East African Air Charters, and Yellow Wings. [4]

The game viewing experience at Lewa is structured to maximize wildlife encounters while respecting the conservancy's strict conservation protocols. [3] Only 4x4 vehicles in shades of green or brown are permitted—a regulation that ensures minimal visual impact on wildlife and maintains the authentic safari aesthetic. [3] Drivers sign the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Code of Conduct, guaranteeing ethical wildlife viewing practices throughout your stay. [3] Scheduled shared game drives are included in most packages, offering excellent value and the chance to connect with fellow wildlife enthusiasts.

Beyond traditional game drives, Lewa offers diverse safari activities that transform your experience. [3] Guided walking safaris lasting four hours provide intimate encounters with the landscape and wildlife, allowing you to notice details you'd miss from a vehicle. [3] Night game drives reveal the conservancy's nocturnal residents—from elusive leopards to hyenas and smaller predators rarely seen during daylight hours. [3] For something truly unique, camel riding and horse riding adventures are available, offering a completely different perspective on the African landscape. [3]

Cultural immersion is woven into the Lewa experience. [3] Visits to the Il Ngwesi cultural boma provide authentic encounters with local Samburu and Maasai communities, where you'll learn about traditional pastoralist lifestyles that have existed for centuries. [3] These aren't staged performances—they're genuine interactions with communities that have lived on these lands far longer than any safari lodge. Our travel specialists can arrange these experiences to be respectful, educational, and genuinely meaningful.

Ngare Ndare Forest offers a completely different ecosystem to explore. [3] This lush forest sanctuary, located 15 miles from the main conservancy, provides opportunities to see forest-specific wildlife and experience Kenya's biodiversity beyond the savanna. [3] The forest's pristine streams and dense vegetation create a stark contrast to the open plains, making it an essential addition to any comprehensive Lewa itinerary.

Accommodation packages at Lewa are designed for transparency and value. [3] Full Board rates start at $292 per person sharing in the green season (April-May), rising to $658 during high season (July-October and December-January). [3] Game Packages, which include guided activities, start at $492 per person sharing in green season and $858 in high season. [3] These rates include accommodation, all meals, beverages, laundry services, and access to the conservancy's incredible wildlife. Additional activities like guided walks ($115 for 4 hours), night drives ($120 for 2 hours), and cultural visits ($80) are available as add-ons. [3]

The best time to visit Lewa depends on your priorities and interests. [8] July through September offers exceptional wildlife viewing during Kenya's dry season, with comfortable temperatures and excellent visibility for photography. [8] December through January provides fantastic wildlife viewing with opportunities to see newborn animals and migratory birds, though this is peak season with higher rates. [8] The green season (April-May) brings lush vegetation, fewer tourists, and significantly lower rates—perfect for budget-conscious travelers willing to embrace occasional rain showers. [8] Each season reveals different aspects of Lewa's ecological calendar, so there's truly no bad time to visit.

Health considerations for Lewa are reassuring compared to many African destinations. [4] Due to its elevated location, Lewa is a low-risk malaria zone, though consulting your travel doctor about recommended vaccinations for East Africa is wise. [4] No immunizations are legally required to enter Kenya if traveling from Europe or the US, though yellow fever vaccination is required if coming from countries where the disease is present. [4] Vaccinations for typhoid, hepatitis A, and polio are highly recommended. [4] All lodges operate on 220V generators with British three-pin standard sockets, so charging cameras and devices is straightforward.

Adventure doesn't have to be complicated—our travel specialists handle all the complex planning details. [3] We can arrange your flights through SafariLink or charter services, coordinate your lodge selection based on your budget and preferences, organize all game drives and cultural activities, and ensure your itinerary flows perfectly. [3] Whether you're a first-time safari traveler or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, we'll craft an experience perfectly suited to your interests and timeline.

Ready to explore one of Kenya's most extraordinary and conservation-focused destinations? Your adventure awaits at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy—a place where thrilling wildlife encounters, authentic cultural experiences, and genuine conservation impact converge. Let our travel specialists create your perfect itinerary and help you discover why Lewa has become the preferred safari destination for conservationists, photographers, and adventurous travelers from around the world. [1][2][7]