How to Get to Lewa: Flights From Nairobi, Road Routes via Isiolo and Combinations

Lewa lies on the northern side of Mount Kenya, beyond Nanyuki, close to the edge of Kenya's drier north. The conservancy is well organised for visitors, with an airstrip and established camps.

Most travellers fly because it saves a long day on the road, but those who enjoy scenery and have time to spare may choose to drive.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Flying to Lewa

Scheduled light aircraft fly from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Lewa Downs airstrip and often continue to the Masai Mara or Samburu, which makes onward connections easy. The flight takes well under two hours and gives views of the Aberdare range and Mount Kenya. Baggage is limited, with soft duffel bags required, and flights can be affected by weather. Read flying safaris in East Africa for more.

Driving to Lewa

The road route follows the highway north from Nairobi through Thika, Nyeri and Nanyuki, with the final stretch heading toward Isiolo before turning to the conservancy gates. It is a full day journey, and the scenery changes from farmland to dry savannah. Road conditions are generally good to Nanyuki but vary beyond. Ask your lodge about security and gate times. If you are travelling with a driver, agree a start time that gets you to the conservancy before the afternoon drive, and plan a lunch stop in Nanyuki or Isiolo, where fuel and supplies are also available. The landscape north of Mount Kenya becomes steadily drier and more open, with Samburu herders and their livestock often visible beside the road, which makes the drive interesting in its own right. See getting around East Africa.

Staying on the Conservancy

Most visitors stay at camps and lodges within Lewa, and transfers from the airstrip to camp are part of the stay. Because access is controlled, you will not be able to simply arrive without a booking. Camps at Lewa are generally small, which means staff can tailor the first afternoon to your interests, whether that is a short drive to see rhinos, a walk to a viewpoint or simply time to settle in. Mention dietary needs, mobility concerns and any special occasions when you book so that the camp can prepare. Light aircraft schedules are fixed in the morning and early afternoon, so build in a margin if you have an international flight on the same day. Confirm your pickup arrangements and any conservancy fees through your operator, as official rates apply.

Combining Lewa With Other Destinations

Lewa pairs naturally with neighbouring Ol Pejeta, with Samburu to the north, and with the Masai Mara in the south-west. A popular pattern is to fly into Lewa, spend a few nights, and continue by air to the Mara. See getting to Ol Pejeta, Samburu and Kenya itineraries.

Before You Travel

Check entry and health requirements, including the visa guide and health and vaccinations, and read the Lewa wildlife guide for what to look for.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team