Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is a pioneering wildlife conservancy located in northern Kenya, on the Laikipia Plateau. Established in 1995, it covers over 62,000 acres (250 km²) and has become a model for wildlife conservation and community engagement.

Key Aspects of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy:

1. History and Establishment:

• Originally a cattle ranch owned by the Craig family since 1924.
• In 1983, a 5,000-acre area was set aside as the Ngare Sergoi Rhino Sanctuary to protect the critically endangered black rhino.

• Due to the success of the rhino program, the entire ranch was converted into the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in 1995.

• The adjacent Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve was later incorporated, expanding the protected area.

2. Wildlife: Lewa boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including:

• Rhinos: Holds over 12% of Kenya’s eastern black rhinoceros population and a significant white rhino population, making it one of the most successful rhino sanctuaries in Africa.
• Grevy’s Zebra: Home to the largest single population of this endangered species in the world (approximately 350 individuals).
• Elephants: A vital migratory corridor for over 800 elephants annually.
• Big Cats: Lions (with resident prides), leopards, and cheetahs.
• African Wild Dogs: An endangered species with a returning population.
• Northern Specialty Species: Reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk.

• Other Mammals: Buffalo, greater kudu, various antelope species.
• Birdlife: An exceptional birding destination with over 490 recorded species.

3. Conservation Efforts: Lewa is renowned for its holistic and innovative approach to conservation:

• Anti-Poaching: A highly effective anti-poaching unit with well-trained rangers and tracker dogs has significantly reduced poaching incidents.

• Rhino and Grevy’s Zebra Conservation: Internationally recognized breeding and protection programs for these endangered species.
• Elephant Corridor Protection: Ensuring the safe movement of elephants through the conservancy and connecting ecosystems.

• Community Engagement: A fundamental aspect of Lewa’s success, involving local Samburu and Laikipiak Maasai communities in conservation through employment, education, healthcare, and sustainable development projects.

• Habitat Preservation and Restoration: Maintaining diverse ecosystems and controlling invasive species.

• Sustainable Practices: Utilizing renewable energy, water conservation, and waste management initiatives.

• Wildlife Monitoring and Research: Collaborating on research projects to inform conservation strategies.
• Human-Wildlife Conflict Mitigation: Implementing strategies to minimize conflicts between wildlife and local communities.

4. Tourism and Activities: Lewa offers exclusive and diverse safari experiences:

• Game Drives: Day and night drives in open vehicles with experienced guides.

• Guided Bush Walks: Explore the conservancy’s flora and fauna on foot.

• Horseback Safaris: A unique way to experience the wildlife.
• Camel Trekking: A different perspective of the landscape.
• Bird Watching: Excellent opportunities for avid birders.
• Cultural Visits: Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions.

• Behind-the-Scenes Activities: Visits to the anti-poaching unit, tracker dogs, and community projects offer insights into Lewa’s conservation work.

• Scenic Flights: Available for breathtaking aerial views of the conservancy and surrounding landscape.

• Fishing: Opportunities for fishing in designated areas.
• Mountain Biking: Explore specific trails within the conservancy.

5. Accommodation: Lewa provides a range of high-quality accommodation options, often with stunning views and exclusive experiences (part of the Elewana Collection):

• Elewana Lewa Safari Camp: Luxurious thatched cabins with views of Mount Kenya.

• Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs: Ultra-private and elegant rooms with exceptional vistas.
• Elewana Loisaba Star Beds: Unique outdoor sleeping platforms for an unforgettable night under the stars.
• Elewana Loisaba Bush Camp: A more traditional and intimate safari camp.

• Lewa House: The original Craig family home, offering a personal and historic experience.
• Sirikoi Lodge: An exclusive lodge nestled along a spring-fed stream.

• Borana Lodge: Located on the neighboring Borana Conservancy (part of the Lewa-Borana landscape).
• Other options like Kifaru House, Laragai House, Arijiju, and Lengishu in the wider Lewa-Borana landscape.

6. Community Impact: Lewa’s commitment to its neighboring communities is integral to its success:

• Healthcare: Supporting local clinics that provide essential medical services.
• Education: Sponsoring schools and providing educational opportunities for children.

• Water Projects: Developing sustainable water sources for communities and livestock.

• Micro-Enterprise Initiatives: Empowering women through micro-credit schemes.

• Employment: Providing significant employment opportunities for local people.

7. Recognition: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is an award-winning conservancy and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized globally as a model for successful integrated conservation.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy offers a world-class safari experience while making a significant impact on wildlife conservation and the livelihoods of local communities. Its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife (including endangered species), diverse activities, and commitment to sustainability make it a truly exceptional destination in Kenya.