Lewa Wilderness

Location: Lewa Wilderness, Laikipia, Kenya

Overview

Situated on the edge of one of Kenya’s most private wildlife and environmental conservation projects, the wildlife-rich Lewa provides guests a home-away-from-home experience that’s hard to find with just nine exclusive rooms dot the Lewa Wilderness landscape. Six cottages are tucked into the hillside overlooking the sprawling Eastern Marania Valley, a further three garden cottages that are cozy yet expansive are set amongst the beautiful lawn. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is what it is today because of a lady called Anna Merz, who became a dear friend of David and Delia Craig, having stayed as a guest at Lewa Wilderness. She approached them in the early 80s with a request: horrified by the population decline of rhino throughout Africa, Anna wanted to build a rhino sanctuary to protect the last remaining members of the species Since 1922, the Craig/Douglas family ran Lewa Downs as a cattle ranch encouraging the large number of resident wildlife to co-exist with the ranch cattle. In 1972, they began hosting visitors – the first private ranch in Kenya to do so. In 1990, David and Delia Craig retired and their son, Will and his wife, Emma, took over the running of the lodge. Lewa Wilderness is today still the family home of Will and Emma Craig with the help of Karamushu and his wife Fatuma and the wider team, proudly continue to entertain guests and provide a truly unique and personal safari experience.

Uniqueness of this Camp

From the traditional game viewing vehicles (a recent introduction of a converted Land cruiser of 100% electric), to guided walks and breathtaking scenic flights in our retro yellow WACO bi-plane to unforgettable horse riding safaris for all ages and levels, camel riding and fly camping. As a guest at Lewa Wilderness, you are automatically supporting the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, renowned for both its pioneering conservation initiatives as well as community and education programs. Today, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site owned by a charitable organization benefiting wildlife, environment and the participating communities.

Accommodation

Nine exclusive accommodation, 6 individual hillside thatched cottages, with stunning visas overlooking Lewa’s Eastern Marania Valley with ultimate privacy, where guests will feel like they are the only occupants for miles. 3 garden cottages set amongst the brilliant green lawns, each has a sizable open plan living area complete with fireplace, large room and bathroom on each side. Rich with rustic charm and handmade furniture, these ranch-style homes are perfect for families. The original rooms built by David and Delia Craig when they started the lodge with recent renovations, bright and sunny, perfect for families and also those who do not wish to be too far from the main areas. Each with balcony / deck, en-suite and shower, fireplace, hair dryer, laundry facilities, lounge area, mini bar, mosquito nets, pure cotton linen, safe and verandah.

Amenities

Room Amenities: balcony / deck, en-suite and shower, fireplace, hair dryer, laundry facilities, lounge area, mini bar, mosquito nets, pure cotton linen, safe and verandah. Camp Amenities: The sitting room, extensive library of books for all readers, afternoon tea & coffee is served here. Verandah, an open air room for guests to enjoy throughout the day, the deck and sitting room and area enjoyed by guests first thing in the morning and for both pre- and post-dinner gatherings. 24-hour Security, bar, battery charging facilities, communal dining, eco-friendly, gym, Internet access (Complimentary), laundry service (available & complimentary), library, malaria free, meal on request, mobile connectivity, pool, gift shop, private vehicle available. Electric lighting is provided by a 240V generator that runs from 0630-1030 & 1800-2230. Travel-size hair dryers can be used in rooms –guests are recommended to bring their own and management needs to be informed. Natural springs, home-raised livestock, and a 5-acre organic garden are transformed by skilled chefs into incredible, healthy and delicious food

Activities

Camp Activities:  game viewing of big 5, bird watching, game viewing hide, guided game walks, gourmet picnic, horse- back safaris (From pony rides, camel rides, Maasai games, exploring for cave paintings to crab fishing in the fresh water springs), massages, night game drives, scenic flights, tennis court. A maximum of just 3 vehicles are allowed at a wildlife sighting, ensuring an exclusive game viewing experience. There is a huge array of activities for kids of all ages – to enjoy with their families or on their own under guide supervision. Activities Nearby: animal encounters of the Big 5, Bird Watching, child friendly activities, cultural tours, fly Fishing, Game Viewing drives, garden tours, helicopter scenic flights, hiking, horse riding, quad biking, rhino tracking, Tree-top Canopy Tours.