Lewa Wildlife Conservancy | Nanyuki

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is located in northern Kenya, near the foothills of Mount Kenya. Spanning approximately 62,000 acres (250 square kilometers), it was established in 1995 and has since become one of the most successful models for community-driven wildlife conservation and sustainable land management. The conservancy is renowned for its wildlife protection efforts, which include innovative strategies to protect endangered species, including the black rhino and Grevy’s zebra.

Geography and Landscape

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is located within the semi-arid region of northern Kenya. The conservancy sits on the slopes of Mount Kenya, providing a diverse landscape that includes open savannahs, acacia woodlands, wetlands, and hills. The topography is varied, with an elevation ranging from 1,200 meters at the lowlands to over 2,000 meters at higher altitudes.

The climate in the area is characterized by warm temperatures, with cooler conditions at higher elevations. The region receives relatively low rainfall, though the rainfall patterns are variable, and the area experiences occasional droughts.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Lewa is known for its abundant wildlife and plays a key role in conserving endangered species. The conservancy is home to a number of iconic African species, including:

Black Rhinos: Lewa has one of the largest populations of black rhinos in Kenya, with efforts to protect and breed them playing a significant role in the recovery of the species.

Grevy’s Zebras: The conservancy is a key sanctuary for Grevy's zebra, an endangered species. About 20% of the world's population of Grevy's zebra is found here.

Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are present in the conservancy. Lewa's large areas of open savannah and woodlands provide an ideal habitat for these predators.

African Wild Dogs: Though rare, packs of African wild dogs can be seen in Lewa. The conservancy is one of the few places where these endangered animals are protected.

Other Species: The conservancy also hosts reticulated giraffes, Beisa oryx, gerenuk, Somali ostriches, and other species endemic to the northern regions of Kenya. Birdwatching is a popular activity, as over 490 bird species have been recorded in the area, including the vulturine guineafowl and the red-bellied parrot.

Conservation Efforts

Lewa’s conservation approach combines wildlife protection, community involvement, and sustainable land use. Key conservation initiatives include:

Anti-Poaching and Security: The conservancy employs over 150 rangers who patrol the area to combat poaching. Lewa is part of the larger Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), which helps manage wildlife and community lands in northern Kenya.

Wildlife Corridors: Lewa has created wildlife corridors to facilitate the movement of animals between different ecosystems. The conservancy has even constructed an elephant underpass to allow elephants to move safely between habitats without crossing busy roads.

Community Engagement: One of Lewa’s core values is working closely with the local communities. It provides education, healthcare, and employment opportunities to nearby communities, directly benefiting more than 15,000 people. It also supports pastoralism and sustainable agriculture, helping local communities coexist with wildlife.

Tourism and Visitor Experiences

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy offers visitors a range of activities and experiences, ensuring that they not only enjoy the natural beauty but also learn about conservation efforts:

Game Drives: Both day and night game drives are available, providing opportunities to see the diverse wildlife, including the big cats, rhinos, and other animals that roam the vast savannah.

Guided Nature Walks: Visitors can explore the landscape on foot, guided by local experts who offer in-depth knowledge of the flora, fauna, and ecology of the area.

Horseback Safaris: Riding on horseback allows a unique way to experience the conservancy, getting closer to the wildlife without disturbing them.

Cultural Visits: Lewa also offers cultural experiences, where visitors can interact with local communities and learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and conservation efforts.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours: For those interested in conservation, behind-the-scenes tours are available. These can include visits to anti-poaching units, tracking dogs, and wildlife monitoring stations.

Accommodation

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to more intimate and private camps:

Lewa Wilderness: A luxury lodge that offers a highly personalized safari experience. It’s located within the conservancy and provides views of the savannah and Mount Kenya.

Lewa House: A family-run lodge that offers a more private and homely atmosphere. It is known for its relaxed ambiance and exceptional service.

Elewana Lewa Safari Camp: A high-end camp that blends luxury with conservation. It is situated within the conservancy and offers a variety of activities, including game drives, bush walks, and cultural tours.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

In 2013, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, along with Mount Kenya, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights Lewa's outstanding universal value in terms of wildlife conservation and sustainable land management. The site is considered one of the most important conservation areas for endangered species in East Africa.

Environmental Challenges

Lewa faces several challenges, including threats from poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. However, through its innovative conservation strategies and community partnerships, it has managed to mitigate many of these challenges. The conservancy is also actively involved in educating both locals and visitors about the importance of preserving wildlife and habitats.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lewa is during the dry season from June to September and December to February when wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources.

Rainy season (March to May) can make roads challenging and is a time when the landscape is lush and green, though wildlife may be harder to find.

How to Get There

Lewa is accessible by road and air:

By Road: It is about a 5-hour drive from Nairobi.

By Air: There are daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Lewa’s private airstrip, which takes around 1 hour.

Visitor Tips

Bring warm clothing, especially if visiting higher altitudes in the conservancy.

Pack sunscreen, hat, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Guided tours are recommended to ensure you get the most out of the experience, as local guides are familiar with the area's wildlife and ecosystems.

In summary, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a critical area for wildlife conservation and an ideal destination for those looking to experience Kenya’s natural beauty while supporting sustainable conservation efforts. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration between conservationists, local communities, and visitors.