Elewana Newsletter

At Elewana, we cherish the opportunity to welcome back returning guests with open arms. To express our gratitude, we're thrilled to extend a 5% discount on accommodation and 20% off spa treatments. What's more, you can enhance your experience by combining this special offer with other ongoing promotions. Please note that spa services are unavailable at Sand River Masai Mara and the Serengeti properties, and this offer does not apply to resident rates. Terms & conditions do apply. For inquiries or to secure your booking, reach out to us directly at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania with Elewana's exclusive double discount offer on circuit itineraries. Enjoy a generous 20% discount on bookings of 6+ nights and an incredible 30% off on bookings of 9+ nights when you combine at least two Tanzania bush properties. Participating properties include Tarangire Treetops, The Manor at Ngorongoro, Serengeti Pioneer Camp, and Serengeti Migration Camp. This offer is valid for bookings made until March 30th, 2024, with travel dates up to May 31st, 2024. Whether you opt for a game package or full board rates, this offer is applicable to new bookings only, subject to availability, and cannot be combined with any other promotions or resident rates. Terms and conditions apply.

Elevate your safari experience with Elewana's enticing "stay four, pay three" offer, allowing you to enjoy an additional complimentary night at select properties in Kenya and Tanzania, plus children under 12 stay for free. Book a combined 4-night stay at any two of the following featured properties:

Tanzania: Arusha Coffee Lodge, Serengeti Migration Camp, Tarangire Treetops, The Manor at Ngorongoro
Kenya: Elephant Pepper Camp, Elsa’s Kopje Meru, Loisaba Star Beds, Loisaba Lodo Springs, Sand River Masai Mara

The booking window is open until May 30th, 2024, for stays until May 31st, 2024, excluding blackout dates from March 29th to April 1st, 2024. This offer applies to non-resident, new bookings only, is subject to availability, and cannot be combined with any other promotions. Contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for inquiries or to secure your booking. Terms and conditions apply.

Indulge in the ultimate romantic getaway with Elewana's special honeymoon experiences at Kilindi Zanzibar. Nestled along the pristine shores of Zanzibar, Kilindi offers an idyllic setting for couples to celebrate their love. Immerse yourself in luxury with bespoke honeymoon packages featuring private villas with stunning ocean views, personalized butler service, and intimate dining experiences under the stars. To make your honeymoon truly unforgettable, our exclusive honeymoon packages offer activities such as couples' spa treatments, sunset cruises, and private beach dinners. Unwind and connect with your partner as you explore the lush gardens, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters of Zanzibar.

Contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to start planning your dream escape. Terms and conditions apply.

Loisaba Conservancy, a vital habitat for endangered species and a pioneering model for community-led conservation, has announced revised conservation fees to bolster its wildlife protection efforts. Below are the revised non-resident conservation fees for Loisaba Conservancy for 2025 and 2026; and resident conservation fees for 2024.

 These adjustments reflect Loisaba's commitment to sustainable conservation practices and ensuring the long-term viability of its wildlife habitats.

Elewana Collection, a trailblazer in luxury hospitality across Africa, is celebrating a remarkable milestone in 2024: 20 years of delivering unforgettable experiences to travellers from around the globe. Over the last two decades, Elewana has set the standard for luxury travel in Africa, offering discerning travellers unforgettable safari adventures, cultural encounters, and unparalleled hospitality across its diverse portfolio of lodges and tented camps. From the majestic plains of the Serengeti to the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, Elewana has continuously exceeded expectations, delivering exceptional service while promoting conservation efforts and supporting local communities. Since its inception, the brand has achieved numerous accolades and milestones, including the expansion of its footprint across East Africa and the implementation of ground-breaking conservation initiatives. As it looks ahead to the future, Elewana remains dedicated to redefining luxury travel, preserving Africa's natural heritage, and creating unforgettable memories for generations to come.

Elewana will be exhibiting at the upcoming ITB Berlin, the world’s largest travel trade show from the 5 – 7 March. Elewana's Sales Representatives Liz Harper and Guido Buerger, will be at our booth within the ATTA section, Stand 106 in Hall 20, and would love to meet you and update you on all that is new from Elewana.

To get in touch and schedule an appointment please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We had a chat with Dina Wilson, General Manager of Shanga, who was able to share news about eco-friendly products created by Shanga for the new Serengeti Explorer property.

Can you provide an overview of the products Shanga has developed specifically for the new Serengeti Explorer property?

Shanga has produced a number of products for the guest rooms, bathrooms, bar and pool area for the new Serengeti Explorer.

We have created pendant lights and beaded rods from recycled glass for wall décor in the guest rooms plus thoughtfully made woven blankets and bed throws for guest’s comfort. We also made glass jars from recycled glass for holding cotton pads, washing powder, etc for the bathrooms. The drinking glasses and oil and vinegar bottles for the bar and pool area were also made from recycled glass.

What unique challenges or opportunities did you encounter while designing and producing products for the property?

The team developed and learned a new technique of drilling holes into glass beads when trying to figure out how to make thousands of glass beads within a limited period of time.

The project was an eye opener for us in our weaving department, as we uncovered the many available opportunities and endless possibilities of different designs and colour patterns.

We also opened up a new market for selling stemless wine glasses at Shanga, as a result of the ones made for Serengeti Explorer.

How did you ensure that the products align with the overall brand identity and values of both Shanga and the Elewana Collection?

Responsible conservation practices and community initiatives by Elewana align perfectly with Shanga values of recycling/upcycling to conserve environments, while uplifting and giving back to the community by providing opportunities for people with disabilities to showcase their creativity/abilities and earn an income altogether. Hence, recycled glass and locally sourced cotton was a perfect fit for explorer products

Can you walk us through the creative process behind the development of these products, from concept to final production?

The Serengeti Explorer team and their designer met with the Shanga team several times to discuss the concept. Shanga did prototypes back and forth to develop the desired size, design and colour of the products. This involved some of the products like pendants and beaded rods being sent back and forth to Serengeti for the final fittings and assessment. It was a wonderful, collaborative process.

What materials and techniques were utilised in crafting the products and how do they contribute to the overall guest experience?

Shanga has used recycled bottles and broken window glass to make beads, pendant lights and drinking glasses. All products were handblown utilising ancient techniques of glass blowing, casting and bead making from our furnaces which are powered by recycled engine oils. We have also used locally sourced cotton yarn for the woven blankets and bed throws. All were handmade with our throw shuttle handloom machines.

How do you anticipate these products contributing to the overall ambiance of Serengeti Explorer?

There is no doubt that the products made by Shanga will accentuate the look of the rooms especially the beaded rods wall décor as well as the pendant lights that will illuminate the spaces.

The Elewana Collection is thrilled to announce the triumphant return of 21 majestic black rhinos to the breath-taking landscape of Loisaba Conservancy in one of Kenya’s most significant translocations to date. A partnership between Kenya Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Space for Giants and Elewana will ensure the conservation of these precious animals for years to come.

The meticulously planned translocation took place throughout the month of January led by Kenya Wildlife Service’s highly skilled vets with support from the partners. The safe relocation of these awe-inspiring creatures, who can weigh up to 1,400 kilos, consisted of transitioning them via truck from Nairobi National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to their rightful home in Loisaba

It is the first time Loisaba Conservancy has seen rhinos since poachers killed the last of the species there 50 years ago. For five decades the absence of rhinos haunted the landscapes of the Conservancy, which exists for the benefit of local communities in Laikipia County, a stark reminder of the devastating impact of poaching. Today, these gentle giants are now able to roam freely once again across two-thirds of the conservancy's sprawling 58,000 acres, securing this new sanctuary, which is protected by world-class security measures and low-profile fencing that allows for the harmonious movement of all wildlife species.

The resurgence of Kenya's black rhinos is nothing short of miraculous. Just three decades ago, these majestic creatures teetered on the brink of extinction, with a mere 240 individuals struggling to survive. Yet today, their numbers have soared to 966, thanks to heightened security and success in bringing poachers to justice, a testament to Kenya's unwavering dedication to conservation. The East African nation now hosts the third-largest rhino population in Africa, after South Africa and Namibia.

Kenya’s black rhino numbers have climbed so rapidly they are now grappling with the phenomenon of ‘overcrowding’ in their sanctuaries, which is why 21 of the rare animals have been carefully relocated to a new safe haven, ensuring their continued survival in ideal conditions.

Research underscores the need for Kenya to maintain a stable number of 2,000 eastern black rhinos for the species to survive here to counter threats, including climate change, disease, poaching and loss of habitat. Kenya’s government has made a strong commitment to achieving this goal. The key to success has been Kenya’s efficiency in safeguarding keystone species like rhino in protected areas. Black rhinos are solitary animals and without enough room to disperse, they cannot be encouraged to breed. With some of Kenya’s existing 16 sanctuaries nearing maximum capacity, there is an urgent need to create new ones offering ideal conditions: the right habitat, effective security, plus strong support from neighbouring communities. Only through collaboration and determination can Kenya pave the way for a future where these iconic animals thrive in their natural environment.

Lewa Safari Camp is well situated for safari-goers to access the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, home to one of the most inspiring and successful community-based conservation programmes, as well as outstanding game viewing. An intimate set up, with just 11 ensuite safari tents and two-family suites, guests feel at one with nature whilst still enjoying the comforts and service that would be expected from a luxury safari property.

Wildlife viewing in the area is exceptional. Not only are guests pretty much guaranteed to witness the approximate 250 rhinos that call this sanctuary home but will also view other rare and endemic species including Grevy’s zebra, wild dogs, lions and chetahs. Some have compared the area “to setting foot into a Disney movie.”

In camp, there is no shortage of activities with a refreshing swimming pool, spa and options for bush walks, horse-riding (for experienced riders) and camel treks.

It would be remiss to visit Lewa without exploring the outstanding conservation work that takes place. Visits to the conservation museum and the conservation talk at Lewa HQ can easily be arranged and are highly recommended, as well as Lewa’s anti-poaching team which includes their anti-poaching dog sniffing canine unit.

Children’s activities are available including an in-camp bush walk and a dedicated kid’s menu.

Shanga was fortunate to have Brian Frus, an artist and an educator from Maine, USA spend three weeks onsite with the team to share his expertise in working with glass. Brian started working with glass in 1996 and is extremely passionate about the art form.

Being an educator and having his own workshop, Brian quickly became a part of the Shanga glass blowing team and worked side by side with them to learn about their techniques and the Shanga products. He was then able to expand on these and teach the team new ways of thinking and looking at glass with fresh eyes and a new perspective.

Shanga is very grateful for the opportunity to spend time with David, sharing in his creativity and the team will be talking about for a very long time. The new skills the team have learnt are being put into practice every day with new energy and zealousness.

After three sell out tours, Pie has announced next year’s dates, 4 to 13 November 2025, for his Masterclass and tour taking place at Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli and Elephant Pepper Camp in the Masai Mara. Below Pie tells us how some of his most iconic images on previous tours came about. When wildlife, weather and light all combine with being in the right place at the right time, magic can be captured through a lens.

Sign up for Amboseli & Masai Mara - Kenya

Top three images whilst staying at Tortilis Camp taken in the Kitirua Conservancy

A sudden approaching storm from the northwest made this small herd of elephants suddenly accelerate when crossing the lakebed in order to make it to the other side before things got wild. It was a perfect yet unexpected scene, that suddenly came together in one fleeting moment. Nomadic, unsheltered, exposed to the elements. A non-stop quest for water, day-in, day-out while only leaving footprints behind that are instantly swept away by the wind. It has long been clear that elephant groups rely heavily on their elder stateswomen. The matriarch is often right at the hub of a complex social network binding together multiple close-knit groups within the herd, and they play a key role in enhancing the survival of all the individuals. They have a unique influence on decisions that are made by the entire group, and they certainly possess character traits in almost the same way humans do. I have so much respect for these powerful ladies and all their skills, knowledge, and wisdom. If this is what you can see in real life, imagine what you can dream about.

For 3 years I had been envisioning this image, making sketches in my mind and dreaming up compositions and light. But when it finally happened while sitting on the ground next to our vehicle on the dried Amboseli lakebed, and taking it all in, it hit me more than expected. Everywhere across the world, the wild is vanishing in front of our eyes as animals and people compete for land, water, and food. The fact that such monumental sights still exist, in between all those ever-decreasing wildlife populations is something to protect, to cherish, and to celebrate. This image is a tribute to that.

I’m a firm believer that behind every first impression of any wild animal, big or small, there is a sentient being with the very same emotional needs and ability to feel. Over time, I learned that when practicing that vulnerability in the field, it can be incredibly rewarding to experience how my own senses become ultra-engaged. How the world goes to silent and how I almost enter another dimension. One in which I feel deeply connected to my subjects, as if I am no longer in control and my only compass is my instinct sharpened through experience. This also happened during multiple encounters with Craig, one of the last remaining Supertuskers of Africa. An image that, every time I look at it, gives me a strong sense of ‘oneness’, of unity. A feeling that became a recurring thread in my entire Umoja Collection and I sincerely hope that it will do the same to you. Like Chief Seattle once rightfully said: “if all the beasts were gone, men would die from great loneliness of spirit, for whatever happens to the beasts also happens to man”.

Top 3 images whilst staying at Elephant Pepper Camp taken in the Mara North Conservancy

This is an image I have always dreamt of taking. The King and the Queen of Africa, side by side. At the time I took the photo this particular couple was mating, which is one of the few occasions where you see a male and female closely together. For almost a week I followed them around every single corner of their Serian territory in the Mara North. But only on the last day they would allow me to get as close as 5 meters away when they positioned themselves perfectly in the morning sun, overlooking the savanna. They were so focused on each other, that it seemed as if they forgot about my presence, which gave me the unique opportunity to find a low and intimate angle to capture their sheer magnificence and true spirit as supreme King and Queen of the Mara.

After a long and intense downpour that lasted through the entire night, two of the Black Rock brothers rejoice in the early morning as the rain stops, the soft ground blossoms and the crips and cool air becomes abundant with the aroma of new life. For a brief, fleeting moment they find warmth and comfort in their brotherhood, as if two souls merge into one. In order for a viewer to really feel and experience the powerful presence of the subjects I photograph; I am often trying to be as low and close as possible. With lions, this is no easy job for very obvious reasons. However, on this particular morning, this particular scene finally unfolded in front of me in a way I imagined during all those years of failed attempts. One of the strongest and most powerful family ties in all of the animal kingdom, the bond between two adult male African lions. A scene that left me with many questions. Isn’t it a crazy thought that we humans, were once as wild as these lions? And, in the end of the day, aren’t we all brothers and sisters?

Mid-day heat, a gentle rumble echoes in the distance. Stillness returns, shadows vanish, a sudden mirage, swiftly blown away by a cloud of dust. Stay still, observe. This image of a herd of elephants finding cover for the relentless heat of the day is taken at 12pm, noon time, with full blue skies. We weren’t even looking for elephants, we just drove into them. The proof that when you respect nature’s pace, trust your instinct and put in the right energy, bush-karma will always deliver. That’s simply how nature works.