Weather and Climate of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy: Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is situated in Northern Kenya, the Conservancy boasts a stunning location that incorporates the dense and magnificent Ngare Ndare Forest. The Lewa Conservancy is around 97 square miles in size and was established in 1995, the Lewa Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful example of key conservation in Kenya’s famous safari destination. The Conservancy is noted to be within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a great focus on rhino conservation and anti-poaching.
The conservancy is famous for its incredible wildlife species such as the Grevy’s Zebra and Statungas as well as the rarely spotted Black Rhino, a delight for any tourist to encounter. Besides the famous plains game that is seen roaming the wilderness in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, there are over 450 bird species to be found in the area.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy comprises grassy plains that meet rolling hills and the dramatic Laikipia plateau. Open savannahs are complemented by scattered Acacia trees, making this a truly scenic wilderness destination.
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy receives a pleasant climate, with daytime temperatures usually hovering in the mid to high twenties Celsius, which translates to the seventies to low eighties Fahrenheit. Nights, however, can be quite chilly. Since the conservancy is near the equator, the temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout the year. If you’re planning an early morning wildlife adventure, it’s a good idea to bring some warmer clothes to stay comfortable.
Tourists can consider traveling to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy during the quieter months of late May into early June, October, and November before the short rains start or during January and February. Birdwatching is brilliant at this time of year.
Dry Season–June to September
In the dry season at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, you can generally expect plenty of sunny days, but there’s still a chance of rain now and then. During the day, temperatures typically hover around 24 degrees Celsius, or 75 degrees Fahrenheit, making it quite pleasant. However, when night falls and in the early mornings, it gets much cooler, dropping down to around 12 degrees Celsius, which is about 54 degrees Fahrenheit.
- June and July
In June and July, the weather at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is generally quite nice, with plenty of sunny days. However, you might encounter some rain now and then. During the afternoons, temperatures typically hover around 24 degrees Celsius, which is about 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re planning an early morning game drive, it’s a good idea to dress warmly, as it can be chilly at that time.
- August and September
In August and September, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy experiences a bit more rainfall, especially in September. Despite this increase in rain, the temperatures stay pretty steady, often climbing to about 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit) during the afternoons.
Wet Season–October to May
The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy experiences many cloudy days, but it rarely sees rain that lasts all day. From December to February, there’s a dry season that sets apart the short rainy period from the longer one that comes later.
- October and November
In Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the months of October and November mark the arrival of the “short rains.” This period typically kicks off in October when temperatures during the day hover around a comfortable 25-degree Celsius or 77-degree Fahrenheit. People can expect a refreshing change as the skies open up, bringing much-needed moisture to the landscape and life within the conservancy.
- December, January, and February
In December, January, and February, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy experiences a dry spell. While it’s not easy to say exactly when this period starts and ends, these months usually mark a break between the short rains that come earlier in the year and the longer rainy season that follows. During this time, the weather typically becomes more settled, providing a brief respite from the wetter conditions.
- March, April and May
In the months of March, April, and May, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy experiences what is known as the “long rains.” During this time, you can expect plenty of rainfall, although it’s not the case that it rains continually throughout the day. April stands out as the month with the heaviest rainfall. Mornings tend to be quite cool, with temperatures hovering around 12 degrees Celsius (54-degree Fahrenheit). It’s important to keep in mind that the roads may become muddy and hard to navigate after the rains.
The highlight of a safari to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
Game drives
Game drives at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy are a highlight for many visitors, usually happening in the early morning hours just before the sun rises and again in the late afternoon when you can soak in the stunning colors of an African sunset. These adventures primarily take place in comfortable enclosed 4×4 safari vehicles. During your game drive safari, you will have the opportunity to spot wildlife species that dwell in the region such as Grevy’s Zebra, Sitatungas, Black Rhino zebra, gazelle, and giraffe that are seen roaming the wilderness in the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy as well as different colorful bird species among others.
Guided nature walks
For those seeking a more intimate connection with nature, guided walking safaris are also available for guests at the conservancy. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you’ll have the chance to explore the diverse plant life and wildlife that make this area so special. Walking through the Il’Ngwesi Community Ranch offers a unique perspective on the beautiful landscapes and the animals that inhabit them, making it a memorable experience for anyone eager to appreciate the beauty of the outdoors up close.
Where to stay at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
While there are a range of accommodation options available in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the accommodation facilities in the park range from luxury, to mid-range to budget-friendly. Some of the accommodation facilities options here include Lewa House, Elewana Kifaru House, Tassai Lodge, Elewana Lewa Safari Camp, Lewa Wilderness and Sirikoi Lodge among others
HOW TO GET LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY
By Road
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is around 260 kilometers northeast of Nairobi. The drive from Nairobi takes about 5 hours via the Thika Road, passing through the villages of Makuyu and Karatina. to reach the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Lewa can also be combined with other Laikipia conservancies, or on a northern circuit that includes Meru National Park, Samburu National Reserve, and/or Buffalo Springs National Reserve.
By Air
Tourists who prefer to fly into Lewa Conservancy can fly with Safari Link from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Lewa Downs, a 35-minute flight. There are also private or charter flight options where guests will land at the Lewa Airstrip.
