Best hotels in Lewa Downs

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, sprawled across 65,000 acres (263 square kilometres) of Laikipia wilderness, is top of many people's game reserve wish list for its legendary wildlife viewing. With more than 70 recorded mammal species, the conservancy is home to lion, leopard and jackal, the largest concentration of Grevy’s zebra in the world, more than 130 black and white rhino, and too many bird species to list. To the south rises snow-capped Mount Kenya, to the north are the arid lands of Tassia and Il Ngwesi. Between them lie areas of pristine forest, fertile grasslands, extensive springs and acacia woodland.

Established in 1972 in the Lewa Conservancy in Northern Kenya, Lewa Wilderness is one of the country's oldest safari camps where you can see the Big Five in unaffected and authentic comfort. Found inside 62,000 acres of conserved land, the camp is surrounded by well maintained gardens and views stretching over the valley and towards the hills. Here conservation and respect for the wildlife work hand in hand with a passionate team dedicated to creating an unpretentious and memorable guest experience. In the words of the owners grandfather, "Always make room for wildlife"

Wide, acacia-dotted Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in the heart of northern Kenya is a hauntingly beautiful place. So it's no wonder that this charismatic wilderness is home to Sirikoi, a family-run, award-winning lodge that's dedicated to its environment, the people who live here and those who visit it. Come to Lewa to see abundant wildlife – including endangered species such as black and white rhino and Grevy’s zebra – and stay in true colonial comfort with world-class fine dining, spacious and homely accommodation and congenial staff. The area is malaria free and has a beautiful spring-like climate almost all year.

Tucked among thorn trees, Lewa rises from its hillside setting with a distinctly organic style. Thatched and intriguing, the main area is outdone in the quaintness stakes by its cocoon-like cottages—aptly called Earth Pods. The lodge lies at the very heart of the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. The main building, once a private home, is set on a hill, so the views across the landscape are uninterrupted – southwards to Mt Kenya and, to the north, the rugged Mathews Range and the sacred mountain of Ol Olokwe. Lewa has some of the best game viewing in East Africa.

Kifaru House, a gorgeous sprawl of thatch, windows and light, is an exclusive-use lodge in the heart of the privately owned Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, itself in Kenya's geographical centre. The house takes its name from the Swahili word for rhino, and indeed the reserve is home to both black and white species. All the Big Five are present, along with plentiful other game and some awe-inspiring landscapes and vistas. The house, which combines colonial style with modern comforts, is perched on a hill with 360-degree views. It's the perfect spot for a private safari group of up to 12 guests.

For families or friends wanting a proper slice of Lewa to themselves, this three-bedroom private house delivers total independence without sacrificing intimacy. Set within the grounds of family-run Sirikoi - itself a multiple Condé Nast Gold List winner - the house operates as its own self-contained world, complete with dedicated chef, private guide, exclusive safari vehicle and that rather lovely heated pool. Two separate cottages (a master suite plus a twin-bedroom cottage) connect via a central living and dining space that's become quietly famous for its positioning and style. Your private deck with fire pit overlooks the wetlands where elephants regularly pass through, whilst Mount Kenya looms in the distance. You can dine privately or wander over to join the main lodge's deck when you fancy company.