Lewa Wildlife Guide: Rhinos, Grevy's Zebra, Elephants and Big Cats

Lewa began as a sanctuary for rhinos and has grown into one of Kenya's best-known conservation areas. It is a working landscape where wildlife, security teams and neighbouring communities are closely linked, and that gives a visit a sense of purpose as well as beauty.

This guide explains the main animals, where to look for them and why Lewa matters to the survival of some of Africa's rarest species.

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

Black and White Rhinos

Lewa is one of the best places in Kenya to see rhinos, and the conservancy has long been central to rhino protection in the country. Black rhinos, the more irritable and browsing species, are most often found near thicker bush, while southern white rhinos graze the open grass in groups. Sightings are usually possible with an experienced tracker, and guides will explain how rhinos are monitored and protected. Learn more in save the black rhino conservation.

Grevy's Zebra

Lewa is home to a substantial share of the world's remaining Grevy's zebras, an endangered species recognisable by its narrow stripes, white belly and large rounded ears. The animals favour open, drier country and often gather at waterholes in the afternoon. Compare them with the common plains zebra, which also lives here, and look at the stripe patterns up close. A quiet approach allows you to appreciate their distinctive features.

Elephants and Buffalo

Elephant herds move across the conservancy and through corridors that link it with neighbouring areas, and buffalo graze in large numbers. Lewa is part of the effort to keep such corridors open, because elephants need room to roam. See elephant facts and where to see elephants.

Lions, Leopards and Cheetahs

The conservancy's predators include lions, leopards and cheetahs, along with spotted hyenas and smaller carnivores. Cheetahs hunt over open grassland, while leopards prefer riverine woodland and rocky ground. Night drives, where offered, increase the chance of seeing leopards and smaller nocturnal species. See African big cats for tips on identification and behaviour.

Giraffe, Antelope and Birds

Reticulated giraffes with their bold, neatly outlined patches browse the acacias, and the antelope list includes elands, impalas, waterbuck and oryx. Birders will find ostriches, vultures, bustards and a long list of savannah species. Learn more in the East Africa birding guide.

Watching Wildlife at Lewa

Early mornings and late afternoons are best, and guides often combine vehicle viewing with walks where permitted. Bring binoculars and a long lens, and ask your guide about recent sightings. Read about the neighbouring conservancy in Ol Pejeta and Laikipia wildlife, and compare with Samburu.

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