Lewa Wilderness

Set against the backdrop of the Western Marania Valley, Lewa Wilderness is more than just a lodge; it’s a home for conservation enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its roots as a tented camp, this now-permanent nine-room lodge offers an exclusive, family-like experience within the Lewa Conservancy, one of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuaries. Here, every guest feels like part of the Craig family, with the lodge’s warm, familial atmosphere extending from Emma and Will Craig, its managers, to the dedicated staff who have served for years.

The cottages at Lewa Wilderness are a testament to the lodge’s evolution, blending rustic charm with modern amenities. Each offers a unique space with stone walls, polished floors, and local woven carpets, creating an ambiance that feels like an English country home in the heart of Africa. The lodge’s commitment to conservation is evident not just in its location but in its operations, with activities designed to educate and involve guests in the conservancy’s ongoing efforts.

Location:

Lewa Wilderness is nestled on the slopes overlooking the Western Marania Valley within the Lewa Conservancy, a sanctuary known for its rhino conservation and biodiversity. The conservancy’s location near Mount Kenya provides a dramatic setting for wildlife viewing and cultural exploration. Access is typically by air from Nairobi to the Lewa airstrip or by road, offering a journey as memorable as the destination itself, with the lodge being a stone’s throw from where the wild thrives.

Accommodation:

The lodge’s accommodations include:

• Family Garden Cottages: Three expansive cottages perfect for families or groups, featuring:
  • Separate bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms.
  • A communal living area with a fireplace for intimate gatherings.
• Hillside Cottages: Six cottages, each a private retreat with:
  • A large bedroom with valley views.
  • A cozy lounge with a fireplace for chilly evenings.

Each cottage is designed to provide privacy while ensuring guests feel connected to the natural world outside their windows.

Amenities:

Lewa Wilderness enhances your safari with:

• Culinary Experience: Fresh, garden-to-table dining with views that make every meal an event.
• Recreation and Relaxation:
  • Pool: An infinity saltwater pool for serene moments.
  • Sports: Tennis and table tennis for those looking to stay active.
• Engagement with Nature:
  • Game Viewing: Electric and traditional game drives for a sustainable safari.
  • Riding Safaris: Horseback and camel treks for an intimate wildlife encounter.
  • Cultural Immersion: Visits to Maasai villages for a cultural exchange.
• Conservation and Education:
  • Walks and Fly Camping: Experience the bush in its purest form.
  • Bi-plane Tours: A nostalgic flight over the conservancy for a bird’s-eye view of conservation in action.
• Community Support: Through the purchase of locally crafted items, guests directly support local artisans and conservation efforts.