Plizio Visual Lab

Mathews Range

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

The Mathews Range, also known as the Lenkiyio Hills, is a mountain range approximately 150 kilometers long located in Samburu County, northern Kenya. This prominent feature rises dramatically from the surrounding dry lowlands, forming an ecological island clad in dense montane forests. The highest point in the range is Mount Warges, reaching an elevation of 2,688 meters. Geologically, the range consists of ancient crystalline rocks of the Precambrian basement complex. The Mathews Range is celebrated for its high biodiversity, including rare cycads and an isolated population of forest-dwelling elephants. Since 1956, much of the range has been protected as a Forest Reserve to safeguard its vital water catchment properties. The area is home to the Samburu people, who maintain a deep cultural connection to the mountains and their natural resources. In recent decades, the region has emerged as a destination for exclusive, sustainable ecotourism, with a focus on wilderness preservation. Its isolation has allowed many plant and animal species to persist here that have vanished from other parts of East Africa.

Location: Kenya
Nearby: Isiolo (65 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Jun, Jul.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	24	25	26	25	25	24	24	24	25	25	24	24
Rain mm	28	16	44	94	44	23	30	30	18	53	83	59

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This isolated mountain range within the dry region is extremely remote and is typically accessed only via specialized safari vehicles or light aircraft.

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Best season

Visiting is highly recommended during the short dry spells, as heavy localized rainfall can quickly render the few dirt access tracks completely impassable.

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Terrain & paths

The pristine mountain landscape features dense forests and rugged slopes, making any exploration without a professional local guide exceptionally demanding.

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What to bring

Comprehensive expedition gear, including reliable navigation equipment, a robust first-aid kit, and self-sufficient provisions, is absolutely essential here.

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Parking

Formal parking lots do not exist; vehicles are usually securely left at the camps of local guides or near small remote settlements at the base of the mountains.

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Safety

Due to the extreme remoteness and the active presence of wildlife, being accompanied by experienced, armed wildlife rangers is considered strictly mandatory.

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Time needed

For a meaningful and thorough exploration of this remote natural jewel, travelers should typically plan for an extended trip of at least three to five full days.

Geography

Coordinates

1.00000, 37.30000

Facts

The Mathews Range covers an area of approximately 900 square kilometers.
The highest summit, Mount Warges, stands at 2,688 meters above sea level.
The Mathews Range Forest Reserve was officially established in 1956.
The range is home to rare Encephalartos cycads, often called living fossils.
More than 200 bird species have been recorded within the mountain range.
The area is known for sightings of melanistic (black) leopards in the dense forest.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Samburu43 km · NWExplore →

Loldaika Hills54 km · WExplore →

Kenyatta House Maralal58 km · SExplore →

Isiolo65 km · NWExplore →

Maralal67 km · SExplore →

Laikipia Plateau74 km · SWExplore →

Ndoto Mountains78 km · SEExplore →

Nyambene Hills90 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mathews Range (1)

Wamba, Kenya📍 landmark

Wamba is a settlement in Kenya, located near the Mathews Range.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Mathews Range?

It is a biological 'island' with rare plants like cycads and a large population of wild elephants.

Can you stay overnight there?

There are some exclusive eco-lodges and campsites. Advance reservations are absolutely necessary.

Are guided hikes possible?

Yes, hikes are usually led by Samburu guides who know the terrain and wildlife very well.

What animals can be seen?

Besides elephants, there are leopards, buffaloes, and rare primates like the De Brazza's monkey.

How is the weather?

It is more humid and cooler than in the surrounding semi-desert. Short showers often occur in the afternoon.

Mathews Range: where is it located?

Mathews Range is located in Kenya.

Mathews Range: when is the best time to visit?