1. Introduction: A Sanctuary for Conservation and Luxury
Perched on the northern slopes of Mount Kenya within Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kifaru House (Swahili for rhino) is one of Kenya’s most exclusive safari lodges. Operated by the Elewana Collection, it offers a refined, homely experience where luxury and conservation meet in perfect harmony.
Originally a private family retreat, Kifaru House has evolved into a five-star property that caters to guests seeking tranquility, personalized service, and exceptional wildlife encounters. Its name honors the rhino, symbolizing Lewa’s pioneering conservation success and its shared heritage with Ol Pejeta Conservancy, just south of Lewa in the greater Laikipia ecosystem.
Kifaru House is ideal for travelers who wish to combine a high-end safari with meaningful conservation travel — including those exploring Ol Pejeta and the northern conservancies of Laikipia.
2. Location and Access
Kifaru House lies within Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, approximately 260 km (4–5 hours by road) north of Nairobi. Visitors can reach the lodge via:
- By Road: From Nairobi to Lewa Conservancy via Nanyuki and Isiolo.
- By Air: Daily flights from Wilson Airport (Nairobi) to Lewa Downs Airstrip take around 45 minutes, followed by a 15-minute scenic transfer to the lodge.
Though Kifaru House is located inside Lewa Conservancy, it is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by road from Ol Pejeta’s main gate. Many guests combine the two destinations, spending several days at Ol Pejeta Conservancy and continuing onward to Lewa for a complementary experience.
The lodge sits at an elevation of 5,600 feet, surrounded by sweeping views of Mount Kenya to the south and arid plains stretching northward toward Samburu — an ideal midpoint between Kenya’s highland and northern safari circuits.
3. Accommodation – Exclusive Elegance in the Wild
Kifaru House offers an atmosphere of understated luxury, with just five thatched cottages nestled amid manicured lawns and indigenous forest. Each cottage is designed for privacy, serenity, and connection with nature.
3.1 Cottages and Suites
- Four Individual Cottages: Each with a king or twin beds, ensuite bathrooms, twin washbasins, and walk-in showers.
- Family Cottage: Features two ensuite bedrooms — one double and one twin — making it ideal for families or small groups.
- Special Features:
- Private verandas with sweeping views of the conservancy
- Handcrafted wooden furniture and stone fireplaces
- Victorian-style bathtub or outdoor shower in select rooms
- Complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry, and daily housekeeping
3.2 Shared Guest Spaces
- Main House: A welcoming communal building with a spacious lounge, stone fireplace, library, and dining area.
- Swimming Pool: A stunning infinity pool overlooking the Lewa plains, perfect for relaxation after a game drive.
- Dining Terrace: An al fresco space for sundowners or starlit dinners with panoramic wilderness views.
- Fireplace and Bar: Cozy evening gathering points with fine wines and local hospitality.
The intimate scale (maximum 10–12 guests) ensures personalized service and a tranquil atmosphere, with staff anticipating every need.
4. Dining – Refined Bush Cuisine
Dining at Kifaru House blends international gourmet standards with Kenyan hospitality. Meals are prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often from nearby farms and community suppliers.
- Breakfast: Served indoors or as a bush breakfast on morning game drives.
- Lunch: Light meals or picnics in scenic outdoor settings.
- Dinner: A three-course plated affair, often under the stars or beside the fire.
- Special Options: Private dining on your veranda, sundowner cocktails, or curated wine tastings.
- Dietary Accommodation: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus are available on request.
Every meal is complemented by the warmth and attention to detail for which Elewana lodges are known.
5. Wildlife and Safari Experiences
Guests of Kifaru House enjoy access to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity and conservation impact. The area offers exceptional wildlife viewing and diverse safari activities that rival any park in Kenya.
5.1 Game Drives
- Morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives in open 4×4 vehicles.
- Frequent sightings of the Big Five, including black and white rhinos, elephants, lions, and leopards.
- Rare northern species such as Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Beisa oryx.
- Optional night drives for viewing nocturnal animals such as aardvarks, porcupines, and bush babies.
5.2 Guided Bush Walks
Accompanied by armed rangers, guests explore Lewa on foot to learn about tracks, plants, birds, and smaller wildlife — a perfect complement to vehicle safaris.
5.3 Cultural Experiences
Visits to Maasai and Samburu villages offer guests authentic insights into local traditions, beadwork, and pastoral lifestyles.
5.4 Horse and Camel Safaris
Guests can explore parts of Lewa on horseback or camelback, viewing wildlife from a unique and peaceful vantage point.
5.5 Scenic Excursions
Optional day trips include the Ngare Ndare Forest, famous for its waterfall and canopy walk, or Mount Kenya excursions for adventure travelers.
6. Conservation and Sustainability
Kifaru House is deeply embedded in Lewa’s award-winning conservation model, which inspired many of Ol Pejeta’s community and wildlife protection initiatives.
6.1 Conservation Efforts
- Rhino Protection: Lewa is home to over 200 rhinos, one of the largest populations in East Africa.
- Anti-Poaching: Your stay helps fund ranger patrols, aerial surveillance, and local intelligence networks.
- Community Partnerships: Guest revenue supports education, health clinics, and water projects in surrounding communities.
6.2 Sustainable Operations
- Eco-sensitive construction using natural materials.
- Solar-powered lighting and water heating.
- Strict waste management and recycling practices.
- Employment of staff from nearby communities.
Guests can visit Lewa’s education center or meet conservation rangers to see first-hand how tourism supports long-term wildlife security.
7. Rates and Booking Information
Indicative 2025 Rates (Per Person, Per Night)
- Low Season (April–May): From USD 650
- High Season (June–October, December–March): From USD 900
Inclusions:
- Accommodation, meals, and standard beverages
- Shared game drives, guided walks, and conservancy fees
- Laundry and airstrip transfers
Exclusions:
- Premium drinks, private vehicle hire, cultural visits, and gratuities
Booking Channels:
- Directly through Elewana Collection Reservations
- Via trusted safari operators or conservation-based travel partners
- Through combination packages with Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Laikipia circuit lodges
8. Why We Recommend Kifaru House for Ol Pejeta Visitors
Though located in Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kifaru House is a perfect complement to Ol Pejeta itineraries. Its proximity — roughly 1.5 to 2 hours’ drive from Ol Pejeta’s main gate — makes it a natural second stop on a Laikipia safari circuit.
We recommend Kifaru House for:
- Luxury travelers seeking an exclusive, all-inclusive safari lodge.
- Conservation enthusiasts who wish to experience rhino conservation in both Lewa and Ol Pejeta.
- Couples and honeymooners desiring privacy and romance amid pristine wilderness.
- Families and small groups looking for private cottages and bespoke service.
Combining a stay at Kifaru House with time at Sweetwaters Serena Camp or Ol Pejeta Bush Camp allows guests to experience Kenya’s two most successful rhino sanctuaries in one unforgettable journey.
9. Quick Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, 1.5–2 hrs north of Ol Pejeta |
| Operator | Elewana Collection |
| Accommodation | 5 cottages (4 double/twin, 1 family) |
| Capacity | 10–12 guests |
| Power | 100% solar |
| Conservation Focus | Rhino protection, community development |
| Wildlife | Big Five, Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx |
| Facilities | Pool, main lounge, terrace, library, Wi-Fi |
| Rates (2025) | From USD 650–900 per person, full-board |
| Ideal For | Luxury travelers, families, photographers, conservationists |
10. Final Word
🦏 Kifaru House is more than a safari lodge — it’s a statement of elegance, sustainability, and purpose. With its breathtaking location on the Lewa plains, personalized service, and strong conservation ethos, it captures the essence of responsible luxury.
For travelers to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, a stay at Kifaru House offers the perfect extension — combining world-class comfort with a meaningful contribution to Kenya’s most celebrated wildlife sanctuaries.
From sunrise views of Mount Kenya to sundowners overlooking rhinos grazing below, Kifaru House redefines what it means to travel with heart and purpose in Africa’s wildest places.