🗺️ Overview
Tawi Conservancy is a private 3,000-acre wildlife conservancy located in the greater Amboseli ecosystem, just outside Amboseli National Park near Kimana Gate. Established as a model for sustainable conservation and community coexistence, the conservancy offers a diverse, crowd-free safari experience with incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro, abundant wildlife, and exclusive activities like night game drives and walking safaris.
It is home to Tawi Lodge, the only lodge inside the conservancy, ensuring privacy and a low-impact visitor footprint.
🌱 History & Purpose
Tawi Conservancy was founded as part of an ambitious effort to:
- Protect wildlife migration corridors
- Promote eco-tourism
- Provide sustainable income to the local Maasai community
- Reduce conflict between people and wildlife
It was designed as a buffer zone between Amboseli National Park and surrounding human settlements, allowing free movement of elephants and other species while simultaneously benefiting the local community through tourism revenue sharing, employment, and conservation initiatives.
📍 Location & Geography
| Coordinates | Near Kimana Gate, SE of Amboseli NP |
|---|---|
| Size | 3,000 acres (approx. 12 sq. km) |
| Altitude | ~1,150 meters (3,770 ft) |
| Landscape | Open savannah, acacia woodland, seasonal waterholes |
| Viewpoint | Full views of Mount Kilimanjaro from most points |
The conservancy lies in a key elephant migration corridor connecting Amboseli to Chyulu Hills and Tsavo ecosystems, making it a vital wildlife area.
🐘 Wildlife & Biodiversity
Despite its small size compared to the national park, Tawi Conservancy boasts impressive biodiversity, thanks to its protected habitat and low human activity.
Notable Wildlife Sightings:
- African Elephants (resident and migrating herds)
- Masai Giraffes
- Common Zebras
- Lions (regular sightings)
- Leopards (elusive)
- Cheetahs
- Bat-eared foxes
- Hyenas
- Ostriches
- Over 400 species of birds, including raptors and seasonal migrants
Its waterholes and natural springs draw wildlife from miles around, especially during the dry season.
🎯 Activities in Tawi Conservancy
Unlike inside the national park, the conservancy allows exclusive activities that offer a deeper, more personalized safari experience:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Day Game Drives | Led by expert guides through varied habitats |
| Night Game Drives | Spot nocturnal species like aardvarks and genets |
| Walking Safaris | Track wildlife on foot with Maasai warriors |
| Camel Safaris | Unique scenic rides across the plains |
| Birdwatching | Ideal for ornithologists and hobby birders alike |
| Photography Sessions | Golden light, Kilimanjaro views, elephant backdrops |
| Cultural Visits | Engage with nearby Maasai villages in authentic ways |
| Sundowners & Bush Meals | Scenic outdoor dining under the African sky |
💡 Why it’s special: These activities are not allowed inside Amboseli National Park, making Tawi Conservancy an essential complement to your park visit.
🛏️ Where to Stay
🏡 Tawi Lodge
The only lodge within the conservancy, offering:
- 13 individual cottages with fireplaces and verandas
- Spa, pool, gourmet dining
- Access to conservancy and Amboseli NP
- Full board + game drives included in packages
For exclusivity, Tawi Lodge offers an intimate, personalized base from which to explore both the park and conservancy.
🤝 Conservation & Community Impact
Tawi Conservancy operates on a partnership model between tourism operators and the local Maasai community, offering:
- Revenue-sharing for land leased by the conservancy
- Employment of locals as guides, rangers, and lodge staff
- Education sponsorships through eco-tourism income
- Anti-poaching patrols and human-wildlife conflict mitigation
- Tree planting and environmental education programs
🌿 It is recognized as a model conservancy in Kenya for combining luxury tourism with tangible, local conservation outcomes.
💰 Entry & Access Info (2025)
| Fee Type | Approx. Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Conservancy Fee (Adult) | $60 per day |
| Conservancy Fee (Child) | $35 per day |
| Walking Safari (guided) | Included at Tawi Lodge |
| Night Game Drive | Included (Tawi guests) |
| Camel Ride | Often complimentary or $15–20 |
Note: If you’re staying at Tawi Lodge, all activities and fees are typically included in the full board package.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Green Season | Nov–Mar | Lush landscapes, migratory birds, fewer tourists |
| Dry Season | Jun–Oct | Best wildlife viewing, clearer Kilimanjaro views |
| Low Season | Apr–May | Budget rates, good for privacy seekers |
🐘 Elephant movements are most frequent during dry months, but the conservancy sees year-round wildlife due to its permanent water sources.
🛣️ Getting There
- By Road: 4.5 hrs from Nairobi, best via Emali-Loitoktok road
- By Air: Daily flights to Amboseli Airstrip (45 mins), then 15-minute transfer
- By Train: Nairobi to Emali SGR, then 2.5 hrs road transfer
Tawi Lodge offers private transfers, which can be arranged from any of these arrival points.
📝 Summary: Why Visit Tawi Conservancy?
✅ Private, exclusive safari setting
✅ Night drives and walking safaris – not allowed in national parks
✅ Spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro
✅ Diverse wildlife in a compact area
✅ Strong conservation and community focus
✅ Low tourist numbers = peaceful, immersive experience
👎 Potential Limitations
- Not part of Amboseli National Park, so park entry fees still apply if you wish to visit Amboseli
- No self-drive allowed within the conservancy (guided safaris only)
- Limited accommodation options (Tawi Lodge only within the conservancy)
📞 Contact Info
All conservancy access is currently handled through Tawi Lodge:
- Phone: +254 733 657 610
- Email: sales@tawilodge.com