Lewa Wilderness

One of Kenya’s most beautiful and well-known lodges, Lewa Wilderness, established in 1972 and set in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, is still the family home of the Craigs, who live in part of the main house, where guests are also welcome.

There is a cosy fire in the living area around which to sit and share stories of the day’s activities, or read a book from the library, and a long dining table in the open-plan main area, around which dinner is served.

A stay here supports the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, known not only for pioneering conservation initiatives, but also many successful community and educational programs.

This sprawling property by a river not only has striking views across the Lewa plains towards Mt Kenya, and excellent game viewing (we lost count of the rhino we saw here on our last visit!), it has lots of manicured lawns, family rooms that open out onto grass, flexible meal times, tennis courts, a riding stables (open to riders of all ages and abilities), and an organic veggie garden to explore.

It could not be more perfect for families, of any age. Lewa Wilderness owns a very special aircraft, a retro yellow biplane (the only open cockpit biplane in East Africa) which can be taken on scenic flights in the area – a highly recommended activity! Fly camping in the wilderness for a night away from the lodge is also possible, by prior arrangement.

A stay of at least 3 nights here is recommended if possible – as soon as you arrive the relaxed atmosphere will strike you, and as well as wanting to make the most of all the exciting activities on offer, this is a most excellent place to kick back, sit a few things out and allow Kenya’s beautiful scenery and sense of space take you over for a while.