About Kifaru House
Kifaru House is an elegant lodge in the Lewa Conservancy, with a scenic location, five cosy cottages and very personalised service.
Kifaru House was originally built for the American philanthropist Susan Lyall. Impressed by her significant donations to conservation work, the conservancy gave her permission in 2004 to build her own private house in the conservancy. She went on to build five cottages at Kifaru House for the exclusive use of donors to Lewa. In 2018 the lodge was taken over by a well known safari operation and it is now run as a high-end safari lodge. With beautifully appointed cottages, pretty gardens and panoramic views, Kifaru House is a small and luxurious lodge with very personalised service. Led by skilled safari guides you can explore the Lewa Conservancy on foot, horseback, camel, or more commonly with a 4x4 open-sided safari vehicle, while back at the lodge you can relax in the pool or indulge in a massage in the comfort of your own room. Susan Lyall died in 2019, however at Kifaru House her legacy lives on.
Our view
As a very comfortable, quite luxurious place to stay we think Kifaru House is an excellent base for a visit to the Lewa Conservancy. There’s an fantastic range of activities here – or nearby – and the wildlife is all around.
Kenya expert
Accommodation
5 cottages
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Kifaru House
5 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 15 pictures of Kifaru House to get the candid view.
View galleryKifaru House: Our full report
Located on a small hill in the heart of the 62,000-acre (250km²) Lewa Conservancy, Kifaru House is a small, ...
... high-quality safari lodge in a scenic location. The Lewa Conservancy is world renowned for its conservation work and particularly for its successful rhino breeding programme. In tribute to this the lodge takes its name Kifaru from the Swahili word for rhino and visitors are almost guaranteed to see both species during their stay.
Kifaru House is owned and managed by a well-known safari operation in East Africa, who also manage Lewa Safari Camp. Each of these properties has their own charms although they are quite different in style, with Lewa Safari Camp providing simple but good quality accommodation in the form of 12 rustic safari tents, whilst Kifaru House is a smaller, more exclusive lodge delivering a much higher level of luxury.
The elegant lounge and dining area are housed in a large oval building with stone fireplaces to either end. On one side there are several cream sofas and a low coffee table where guests gather for pre-dinner drinks and to chat about the day, on the other a chunky wooden table laid out for communal dining. There is a bar along the back wall with a good selection of drinks and a coffee machine. At the front there’s a verandah with a number of sofas where you can relax with coffee and take in the views. A separate structure houses a second lounge and a library with a small curio cabinet with locally produced beaded jewellery for sale.
The five colonial style cottages were originally built for private donors to the conservancy. These are spacious structures, with high thatched roofs, dark wood floors and white walls with exposed wooden beams. Three cottages are arranged with fixed frame fourposter double beds and a separate single bed, while one so-called honeymoon cottage has a double bed, cosy sofa, bathtub and outside shower. These feel stylish and are furnished with a couple of plush armchairs, a writing desk and a built-in storage cupboard. The well-proportioned bathrooms have single or double basins, showers, hairdryer and toiletries by Cinnabar & Green. While there is no dedicated spa, in-room massages can be arranged with a trained masseuse who is based at Kifaru House.
There is also a family cottage with two separate en-suite bedrooms – a double and a twin. The rooms are next to each other but not interconnected.
Kifaru House sits in pretty gardens, with lush green lawns dotted with small acacia trees and views over Lewa Conservancy. The lodge is fenced, keeping large animals at bay, however wildlife is regularly seen on the open plains below. A stepped path leads up to the swimming pool which is surrounded by a flagstone patio with loungers and thatched sunshades. On a clear day you can see Mount Kenya from here. There are showers and a changing area here and a shady seating area where lunch is often served.
The main attraction of Kifaru House is excellent, accessible game drives in search of rhinos and the other inhabitants of the Lewa Conservancy. As this is a privately run conservancy, not a national park, there are large areas where you can drive off road and night drives are also possible.
The lodge introduced new E-bikes in 2023 which can be hired for game rides with a guide and an armed ranger. Other activities include walking safaris accompanied by an armed ranger, and visits to Il Ngwesi cultural village, which can be booked at an additional cost of $50 per person. Kifaru House also arranges full day excursions to the nearby Ngare Ndare Forest where you can explore the canopy on raised walkways and swim in forest streams. It is also possible to go horse riding or camel riding at nearby Lewa Wilderness. These are usually afternoon activities and can be dependent on availability. To discover more about the conservation work done in Lewa you can take a visit to the conservancy headquarters. The team have high-tech monitoring equipment in place and the extent of the security measures here is impressive.
Geographics
- Location
- Laikipia, Kenya
- Ideal length of stay
- Stay at least three or four nights to explore the conservancy and try the activities.
- Directions
- Lewa Downs airstrip is around an hour's flight from Wilson Airport Nairobi. It is then a further 20 minutes’ drive to Kifaru House, or longer if you stop for wildlife.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Like at the lodges sister properties, we found the food at Kifaru House to be excellent, and much of the local produce comes from the lodge's organic vegetable garden. As a result the meals are fresh, varied and plentiful. Most meals are served private dining, but communal tables or room service can easily be arranged on request.
As with many safari lodges, breakfast is a selection of fruits, cereals and bread, with hot food cooked to order. There are usually a few daily specials. Some guests chose to have a packed bush breakfast .
Lunch is often served 'family style' outside on the lawn, where diners are presented with a selection of salads, breads and a meat dish such as curried chicken skewers, perhaps accompanied with savoury tart. This is usually followed by a light desert such as homemade mango sorbet.
Dinner is then a more formal affair with three courses. There is a daily changing menu with several options for each course including a vegetarian choice. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is possible but should be arranged in advance.
- Drinks included
- Most drinks are included at Kifaru House, including four red and four white house wines. Premium spirits and wines and Champagne are at extra cost.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Kifaru House accepts children of all ages.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- Children are provided with a safari activity book for them to take on game drives, complete with colouring pens. The guides are very accommodating and will happily show children how to use bows and arrows and look for tracks and signs around the camp. Kifaru House can also arrange seasonal activities such as Easter egg hunts.
- Equipment
- There are no cots and highchairs at Kifaru House, however with advance notice the lodge may be able to make arrangements.
- Generally recommended for children
- The lodge is fenced and so it is relatively safe to run around and children will enjoy the swimming pool. The lodge has quite a sophisticated atmosphere, however the two-bedroom cottage would work well for families with older children.
- Notes
- Despite the electric fence there is still lots of wildlife in the area and children should be supervised at all times, particularly around the swimming pool.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Kifaru House
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Kifaru House have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
75% success
60% success
33% success
25% success
25% success
20% success
20% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The camp predominantly runs off solar power, however there is back up generator for use in poor weather.
- Communications
- Wi-Fi is available throughout the lodge.
- TV & radio
- There is a large flat screen TV in the library which is occasionally used for major sporting events.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Drinking water is brought in from Nairobi or Nanyuki.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Staff are first aid-trained and the lodge and vehicles are equipped with first aid kits. It is a 20-minute drive to the nearest clinic and the lodge has links with a flying doctors service.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There is discreet security in place 24 hours a day, including armed rangers. Guests are escorted to and from their rooms after dark.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers dotted throughout the property.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Horse-riding
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included at Kifaru House, and unusually for East Africa this includes all underwear. This is machine-washed and line-dried.
- Money
- There are electronic safes in all cottages.
- Accepted payment on location
- Kifaru House accepts all major currencies, including USD dollars, Kenyan shillings, GB pounds and Euros. MasterCard and Visa are accepted without surcharge, however not American Express.
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Kifaru House's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kifaru House.
Excursions from Kifaru House
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kifaru House. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Anti-poaching Dogs Display
Approx. one hour
Interact with the dog keepers and learn about what it takes to look after the specially trained canine team. Guests are encouraged to try and evade the sniffer dogs, not only is this great fun, but it helps to offer genuine training for the dogs.
More about Anti-poaching Dogs Display
Scenic Biplane Flight on Lewa Conservancy
30 or 60 minute flights
Soar high and fly low over the rolling hills and plains of Laikipia’s famed Lewa Conservancy, on a scenic biplane flight. Offering you the chance to spot wildlife from the air, this flight takes place in an open-cockpit WACO biplane – a truly unique excursion in Kenya.
More about Scenic Bi-plane FlightOther lodges in Laikipia
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When to go to Laikipia
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kifaru House in Laikipia
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Laikipia in January
Clear, warm days and mild nights make this a popular time for safaris in Laikipia. It's excellent for game viewing in all the conservancies, where water sources attract diverse wildlife. The dry conditions make it easier to spot black rhinos, lions and leopards. Star bed sleep-out options at a number of lodges are particularly magical under the clear night skies.
After the New Year period, many camps and lodges treat January as mid-season, offering good value. The landscape retains some greenery, enhancing photography.
- Clear days ideal for safaris
- Excellent visibility for wildlife viewing
- Dry riverbeds attract wildlife to water sources
- Calving season for wildebeest and antelopes
- Palearctic migrant birds abundant
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in January
Laikipia in February
With the short dry season well established in Laikipia, wildlife gathers close to water points, making it an excellent time for safaris. Ol Pejeta and Lewa Wildlife Conservancies offer prime viewing opportunities for endangered species like black rhinos and Grevy's zebras. Solio Rhino Conservancy provides exceptional black rhino sightings during this period. The grass is grazed down, improving visibility across the region.
February is ideal for walking safaris, where you can appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem. The clear skies make stargazing from star beds an unforgettable experience. Cultural visits to local communities are particularly rewarding, as the pleasant weather encourages outdoor activities and interactions.
- Prime time for wildlife gathering near water
- Ideal conditions for walking safaris
- Palearctic migrant birds still present
- Low rainfall makes game drives rewarding
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Laikipia in March
As March progresses in Laikipia, the weather becomes increasingly hot and humid with more rain likely later in the month. Through most of the month, conditions are still good for game drives in most districts. As the month advances, the buildup to the rainy season becomes apparent.
This period can offer unique photographic opportunities as animals congregate around diminishing water sources. Accommodation costs decrease as the low season approaches.
- Early month offers great wildlife viewing
- Hot weather transitions to occasional rains
- Lower visitor numbers
- Lush vegetation begins to appear
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Laikipia in April
April usually sees established, serious rainfall in much of Laikipia, transforming the landscape. The southeast monsoon wind brings cooler temperatures and frequent downpours. While game viewing can be challenging due to lush vegetation, the green season offers unique experiences, with new-born animals visible among the verdant scenery.
The landscape bursts into life with vibrant colours, ideal for photography. Birdwatching is excellent with many species breeding. This is a quieter time for tourism, with lower accommodation rates at many places allowing for a more exclusive safari experience for great levels of service.
- Long rains begin, transforming landscapes
- Green season offers unique photo opportunities
- Lower rates at Laikipia's luxury lodges
- Buffalo and zebra calving season commences
- Birdwatching excellent
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Laikipia in May
May in Laikipia is characterised by ongoing rains and lush vegetation. While game viewing can be trickier, the vibrant landscapes offer spectacular photographic opportunities with very little dust. The landscapes are a sea of green, with diverse and thriving flora.
This is an excellent time for birdwatching across the region as breeding season continues. The Ewaso Nyiro river swells impressively. Despite potential challenges, patient visitors may witness dramatic scenes of predators hunting in the thick vegetation.
- Lush vegetation makes wildlife spotting trickier
- Great for landscape and nature photography
- Rutting season for wildebeest and impalas
- Frog breeding season in Laikipia's wetlands
- Mount Kenya views improve with clearer air
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in May
Laikipia in June
As June progresses in Laikipia, the rains give way to slightly cooler, cloudy weather. This transition marks the beginning of a long, generally dry, high season for visitors. Game viewing improves as vegetation starts to thin, and conditions are comfortable.
The Ewaso Nyiro river, still full from the rains, attracts diverse wildlife. Accommodation rates begin to rise, reflecting the start of peak season.
- Rains subside, ushering in cooler weather
- High season begins with increased visitors
- Comfortable conditions game viewing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Laikipia in July
July in Laikipia brings cooler temperatures and ideal conditions for safaris. Animals concentrate around water sources on the conservancies, providing excellent game viewing opportunities.
July marks the peak of the high season, with higher accommodation rates and visitor numbers. The dry conditions make it easier to spot elusive species like leopards and black rhinos.
- Cool weather perfect for walking and riding
- Wildlife concentrates around water sources
- Excellent conditions for photography tours
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in July
Laikipia in August
August in Laikipia offers mild, dry weather, perfect for safaris. The conservancies teem with wildlife, including endangered species like black rhinos and Grevy's zebras. The landscapes offer stunning vistas and excellent conditions for game drives and walking safaris. The dry conditions make it easier to spot big cats across the region. This is peak season, so expect higher visitor numbers and accommodation rates.
You might consider combining your Laikipia safari with a stay at the nearby Samburu National Reserve, known for its “northern five” species – Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, gerenuk and Somali ostrich.
- Peak season for wildlife viewing in Laikipia
- Mild weather ideal for outdoor activities
- Busy period requires advance bookings
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in August
Laikipia in September
As September progresses in Laikipia, the weather typically remains dry with clearing skies, signalling excellent safari conditions. Early September can be busy, but visitor numbers decrease later in the month. In the conservancies, game viewing is exceptional as animals congregate around limited water sources.
September generally offers excellent conditions for photography.
- Hot, dry weather with good visibility
- Quieter period for more exclusive safaris
- Natural bush fires flush out insects and small animals for predators
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Laikipia in October
October in Laikipia brings generally hot and mostly dry conditions, ideal for safaris. It's a favourite month for many visitors due to the good weather and fewer visitors. The conservancies offer excellent game viewing, with animals concentrated around water sources. The Solio Rhino Conservancy provides exceptional rhino sightings in the dry conditions.
Birdwatching is rewarding as Palearctic migrants begin to arrive. Cultural visits to Maasai communities remain a highlight. Consider combining your Laikipia safari with a trip to the nearby Samburu National Reserve for a diverse wildlife experience.
- Warm or hot and mostly dry conditions for safaris
- Migratory birds start arriving
- Perfect for photography
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Laikipia in November
November in Laikipia marks the beginning of the short rains, usually in the latter half of the month. This transition brings about dramatic changes in the landscape. Early November can still offer good game viewing before the rains intensify. Then the bush begins to green, creating beautiful scenery.
As the low season begins, accommodation rates decrease, and visitor numbers drop too, allowing for a more exclusive safari experience. Birdwatching becomes excellent with the arrival of many migratory species. November is ideal for photographers capturing the changing landscapes and dramatic skies, with low dust and clear air. Cultural visits to Maasai communities offer insights into how local life adapts to the changing seasons.
- Short rains begin, transforming landscapes
- Low season offers better rates and privacy
- Excellent time for birdwatching in Laikipia
- Lush scenery provides stunning backdrops
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Laikipia in December
In a typical December, Laikipia sees the short rains finish by mid-month, leaving the landscape at its most beautiful. Clear blue skies return, heralding the start of the second peak visitor season from around 20 December onwards. The conservancies offer excellent game viewing with lush backdrops.
Christmas can occasionally be wet, but most years see perfect safari conditions by the festive season. This is an ideal time to combine wildlife viewing with cultural experiences, such as visiting Maasai communities.
- Rains typically end, leaving landscapes lush
- Peak tourist season begins mid-month
- Christmas safaris popular in conservancies
- Night sky clarity ideal for stargazing
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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