The Collection

The teams have rested and are ready to open and eagerly welcome our Guests. Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp have unzipped the tents in anticipation, Elewana Loisaba Star Beds have polished the stars in excitement and Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar have ensured every sparkling grain of sand is in place as we look forward to our first arrivals.

With so much to look forward to, from the magnificent annual wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara, spotting the elusive blank leopard in Loisaba and the infinite exploring of the magical spice island of Zanzibar plus so much more. Each day brings something new and there is always so much to marvel and enjoy, breath taking landscapes, abundant wildlife and adventure is always in the air when you visit Africa.

Elewana Collection are delighted to announce the appointment of Murad Habib as the General Manager for our newest property opening very soon, Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs.

Murad was born in Nairobi but grew up in Narok. He came from a family of transporters, so he got used to travelling from an early age and as a result developed a passion for wildlife, safaris and conservation. Having worked previously in logistics and operations in Nairobi, then as field operations in the Masai Mara for a number of years. In addition to this he has been a relief manager and safari guide before joining Elewana Collection. His passion lies in photography - a skill that he continues to develop being out in the bush, which he loves. He has a hands on approach and calm personality and his strengths lie in his ability to learn and adapt quickly. He is excited to be taking on this new role and looks forward to welcoming our guests to Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs.

We are pleased announce that Rodgers Daniel Mtangi has been promoted to General Manager at Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp to take over from Simon Kisingi, who will be moving to Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp as General Manager.

Rodgers was born at Usambara Mountains in Tanga Region and having completed his education, he enrolled in a training program within the hospitality industry. In 1999 he joined Sopa Hotels in Tanzania, working in various departments from F&B stores, Kitchen Restaurant/Bar, Room Division, and Reception. Through his dedication and determination in various areas he was promoted from steward/attendant to supervisor then Manager. In 2008 he left Sopa and joined Elewana Collection as Assistant Manager and Relief Lodge Manager at Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp before being relocated to Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro for the same role and in 2015 was promoted to Assistant General Manager.

Rodgers is excited to see the industry growing so fast in Tanzania and has always found this profession interesting, as he gets to meet new people from all over the world. He loves ensuring guests are looked after and have the best experience during their stay.

Rodgers stated, “I like working with Elewana Collection because this is a fast growing company in East Africa with lots of training's and opportunities and I have a passion to see this company develop beyond East Africa and spreading to different part of Africa”.

With over 20 years working in the hospitality industry Rodgers will be such an asset to the team at Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp. His focus is to maintain its unique style and focus on guest satisfaction with an everlasting experience.

Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp - South Central Serengeti National Park

Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp is perched on a rocky outcrop in southern central Serengeti and affords dramatic views of the Serengeti plains that drift endlessly into the horizon.

A camp designed for limited impact on its natural surroundings and has the feel of a 1930s mobile safari camp, but with all the modern day amenities of a luxury camp. The tents are tastefully decorated in Campaign-style safari furniture, with en suite bathrooms offering steaming hot solar-heated showers. Each tent has a personal room attendant to look after guests’ needs. Ensconced among the natural bush, the tented suites offer a truly back-to-nature feel.

The College of African Wildlife Management, Mweka, runs a module on Tourism Planning and Infrastructure  for their Ordinary Diploma in Wildlife Tourism and Management students. As part of this course, a field trip was organized for the students to visit various travel service providers, attractions and stakeholders who play important roles in tourism so that they could learn how tourism companies plan, operate and manage tourists in Tanzania.

Mweka selected Elewana Collection in recognition for the important roles we play in Tanzania’s tourism sector and requested if they could organise a field trip for the students to visit our property in the Randilen Wildlife Management Area (WMA) next to the Tarangire National Park. We were delighted to accept and be a part of educating the next generation that will be going into this industry and showing them the importance of sustainable tourism. It is essential that they strive to conserve the environment, protect conservation efforts and work with the communities that live in these stunning locations.

Elewana Collection embraces the responsibility of protecting the wildlife in the surrounding habitats, such as Randlien Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in which Elewana Tarangire Treetops is located. We are one of the largest contributors to the conservation projects of Randilen WMA, administered by the Honeyguide Foundation and work closely with the community to support and develop this area for the better.

Our new General Managers, Riaan and Winnie showed the students around the property and explained to them what is involved in the daily operations of managing a property such as Elewana Tarangire Treetops. The head of departments then explained their area and also the importance of it and how each fit into the guest cycle. The students were intrigued and curious to learn from a practical aspect the partnerships not only within the property but the importance of external groups, whether it is organisations, communities or local government.

We wish them success with their further studies in Wildlife Tourism and Management and hope one day they come back and we get to work with this new generation that will continue having a positive impact in this country.

From Our Partners

San Diego Zoo Global remote cameras recently recorded a black leopard mother and her two cubs in Laikipia County, Kenya. The cameras were placed by Ambrose Letoluai and Nick Pilfold, who are working together on leopards in Laikipia. This female and her cubs are new to the team, and bring the confirmed total of black leopards living in the study area to five. Although mom is black, she has one golden cub and one black cub.

Back in October 2018, a camera was placed in the area but the first four months were unsuccessful in recording any sights. The habitat was promising because it was rocky kopjes and hills, areas perfect for a female leopard to protect young cubs in the early days of their lives, when they are small and vulnerable.

In February 2019, the camera was moved approximately 20 feet—and immediately, the team was rewarded with beautiful footage of a leopard mother and her two cubs. Not only was this the first footage of cubs in their study, but the fact it was a black leopard made the finding that much more exciting.

This new finding is important in a number of ways. First, it helps the team understand where important denning habitat is in their study area, which is vital to protecting the next generation of leopards. Second, this footage also indicates that black leopards are breeding on Mpala. It has been hypothesized that the dark coloration of black leopards may be an adaption to shaded habitats—but finding breeding black leopards here challenges that notion, because the environment is semi-arid with no dense forest cover.

Finally, this footage showcases the genetic inheritance of the melanistic trait. The black leopard mother has a golden cub and a black cub, which follows what is known about the recessive inheritance of melanism. It is almost certain that she mated with a golden male that also carried a copy of the recessive black gene, which resulted in one black cub (recessive coloration) and one golden (dominant coloration).

After finding the videos on the camera, Ambrose remarked how important it was for leopard conservation to see this black leopard mother care for her new young. To protect the cubs and their mother, and give them best chance of survival, Mpala is keeping the site off-limits to visitors for now.

Source: Nicholas Pilfold, Ph.D., is a scientist in Population Sustainability at the San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research.

Special thanks to our partners for making this incredible discovery possible; San Diego Zoo Global Kenya Wildlife Service, Loisaba Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy, Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia  County Government.

A very unusual find by one of our San Diego Zoo Global research assistants, Ambrose Letoluai at Loisaba Conservancy, who spotted a young zebra that has leucism, which is partial loss of pigmentation and often mistaken for albinism (an absence of melanin which causes white hair/fur and pink/red eyes).

Plains zebra is the name for the most common and geographically widespread species of zebra, Equus quagga, characterized by vertical stripes on the forepart of the body, which tend towards the horizontal on the hindquarters, unique to each individual. Also known as the common zebra or the Burchell's zebra, which is a member of the Equidae, a family of odd-toed ungulate mammals of horses and horse-like animals.

Adults of both sexes of plains zebras stand about 1.4 meters (4.6 feet) high at the shoulder, are approximately 2.3 meters (8 feet) long, and weigh about 294 kilograms (646 pounds); however males may weigh ten percent more than females.

Facts in Black & White:

Elewana Collection has two award winning properties in Loisaba Conservancy, with a third to open in June, where you can stay and explore this incredible destination and indulge in the adventures that await. Learn more about the cutting-edge conservation efforts in the area and our Partners, who strive to protect our wildlife and work with the communities to ensure this prime ecosystem is safe for generations to come.

Loisaba sits on a vital Elephant Corridor connecting the famous Laikipia Plateau and plays a key role in supporting one of Kenya's largest and most stable lion populations. The Conservancy is also home to several critically endangered large Mammals, including Grevy’s zebra, wild dog, leopard and cheetah.

Earlier this month the Lion Landscape team at Loisaba Conservancy with the help of the Kenya Wildlife Service affiliated Ol Pejeta veterinary service successfully treated and collared an injured lioness. The Collar will help the team keep a close eye on the progress of the lioness while also contributing to the mitigation of human-wildlife conflict and long term data in Laikipia.

Lion Landscapes was founded in April 2016 with the aim of addressing key challenges facing carnivore conservation today. Their approach is collaborative and adaptive so they can strengthen current conservation efforts to secure important landscapes for viable populations of large carnivores. We do this in three main ways:

1. Building Partnerships: Available resources for conservation are often used inefficiently due to a lack of collaboration between key stakeholders working in the same landscape. We develop programs in partnership with government organisations, NGO’s, private enterprises, and local communities, to more efficiently achieve shared conservation goals.
2. Science and Data: Available resources are often allocated on the basis of emotional rather than data-based decisions. We provide science and data based support to large carnivore conservation and management by designing and implementing robust monitoring and scientific research programmes.
3. Innovation: Lack of a sustainability in current conservation models; most wildlife areas do not create enough value (e.g. from toursim or other wildlife based income) to support local communities and and ongoing conservation efforts. Our partnerships programs create innovative solutions with financial and ecological sustainability in mind.

Elewana Collection has two award winning properties in Loisaba Conservancy, with a third to open in June, where you can stay and explore this incredible destination and indulge in the adventures that await. Learn more about the cutting-edge conservation efforts in the area and our Partners, who strive to protect our wildlife and work with the communities to ensure this prime ecosystem is safe for generations to come.

We would like to notify you that we are currently unable to offer guided walking safaris at either Elewana Lewa Safari Camp or Elewana Kifaru House on the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

We shall be able to offer this activity to our guests once Lewa Conservancy have secured the relevant permits from the Government of Kenya.

Please accept our apologies for this interruption.

We are delighted to confirm that we continue to offer guided walking safaris at Elewana Elephant Pepper Masai Mara, Elewana Tortilis Camp Amboseli,  Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp and Elewana Loisaba Starbeds.

In The Community

The Land & Life rolled out its new Wildlife Warrior syllabus early this year in their supported schools. The first topic to be covered during the Wildlife Warrior club session was: ‘Animals and their surroundings’. The club members were taught about different animal species, their common habitats and modes of feeding followed by a group discussion. It was exciting to have some of the Elewana guides join the Land & Life team to share briefly about the topic and pass on their wealth of knowledge and expertise.

Based on their learnings from the sessions, students from the supported schools participated in a competition and they could choose from a range of categories, which varied from Essay writing about the Wildebeest Migration, Fun facts about a member of the Big Five to dramatizing and reciting songs/poems. The winning groups went home with trophies and school supplies. The overall winning groups will also have a chance to go for a game drive and a visit to their respective Elewana properties. The winning group from Esisteti Primary in Amboseli (Hare Group) which comprised of 9 students as well as the 2 club patrons, recently visited Elewana's Tortilis Camp and enjoyed a game drive in the conservancy.

To find out more or to follow update from the Land & Life foundation, please visit their website:

www.landandlife.foundation

The Land & Life Foundation is the charitable face of Elewana and Cheli & Peacock Safaris. Working with communities and conservation projects in the areas surrounding Elewana’s properties, the Land & Life Foundation supports local people and preserves the wildlife and habitats of these important landscapes. With all operational costs covered by Elewana, 100% of every single donation goes straight to benefiting the communities, schools and wildlife in the areas where we work. Land & Life believes that the sustainability of East Africa’s wildlife and habitats depends on four key actions: securing land for conservation, protecting species and their environment, providing tangible benefits to the people who live alongside wildlife, and educating the next generation of conservationists.

In April Hannah and Ruth had the honor of representing Shanga at the WTTC Summit held in Seville. Shanga was a finalist in the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards in the category of Investing in People.

Prior to their departure Ruth explained to the staff where she was going and how Shanga was to be represented. When the team heard that the former President of the United States of America, Mr. Barack Obama was going to be at the Summit, in their excitement they decided to make gifts for him and Michelle. Mr. Obama’s gift was a set of bottle stoppers with glass animal tops made by our glass blowing department under the direction of Alec. Michelle’s gift was a necklace made from a maasai beading technique incorporating both our glass and Ghana beads. The necklace was a collaboration, first with the bead makers Basley, Livingston & Rajabu, then was completed by Happy.

Mr. Barack Obama and his wife are an inspiration to our team and they put their hearts into making the gifts.

The WTTC council people assisted in giving the gifts to the former President’s staff. We haven’t yet heard from the Obama’s people but we are keeping our fingers crossed. Knowing their gifts had been given would be a gift of a lifetime to the team at Shanga.

To those reading this if you happen to have a direct line to Mr. Barack Obama or Michelle, please ask if they received their gifts from a very special and talented team in Arusha, Tanzania.

Shanga

Shanga is a successful social enterprise which employs people with disabilities to create unique, high-quality, handmade jewelry, glassware and home wares incorporating recycled materials. These products are sold in Tanzania and all over the world, with profits being reinvested back into developing opportunities to employ more people with disabilities.

Combining an uplifting local community project with unique artistic activities and opportunities to purchase handmade gifts, Shanga has been a favourite Arusha tourist destination since its inception in 2007.

Shanga became part of Elewana in 2017 as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility program, with an ongoing commitment to the people of Tanzania. Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge is the home of Shanga, which comprises of an open workshop for glass-blowing, weaving, sewing, Tinga Tinga painting, bead-making and metal work, with a shop showcasing all Shanga’s handmade products.

Training

Elewana Collection continues to invest in Guide training in order to ensure we have the best Guides to provide a superior experience to our guests when they stay at an Elewana property. We also want to improve the standard of guiding across the industry and are passionate about the people who work for us, ensuring we invest continuously in their development and the community around us. Part of this is our Guide Apprentice Program that Craig McFarlane, (Head of Guide Training) has developed, which recognises the responsibility that a guide has for ensuring all guests to Africa leave having felt a connection with the environment on which we all depend, and a respect for its surrounding communities and custodians – the fundamentals that underpin the ethos that drives Elewana and our Land and Life Foundation.  

This month we took some time to speak with two of the apprentices that have completed the first year and now face the challenges of year two. Solomon Epodo Epokor is from Kenya and is 27 years old with a passion for wild spaces and its wildlife. Steven Losaru is 25 years old Tanzanian and loves his country and wants to share his knowledge with those that visit. We asked them a few questions and here is what they had to say;

WHAT MADE YOU APPLY FOR THE GUIDING APPRENTICE PROGRAM WITH ELEWANA COLLECTION?

Solomon: “The Elewana Apprentice program offers a one of a kind guide training in East Africa and I believe this will benefit me. Elewana is recognized for having the best Guide trainer, plus the program incorporates the FGASA syllabus and I wanted to be involved in it. The apprentice program covers a number of training aspect that I feel will help me advance my career and have an advantage over other guides that have not gone through this training.”

Steven: “The reputation of Elewana is high and among the organizations that are leading the tourism industry in Tanzania. So this is where i believe the apprenticeship will help me to gain essential guiding experience, skills, and recognition qualification in the tourism industry.”

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS YOU HAVE COVERED SO FAR IN THE TRAINING?

Solomon: “It covers everything from the Kitchen and dealing with food and knowing every aspect, Front of house department and serving guests, Reception, Laundry, Workshop, for basic vehicle upkeep to the Maintenance department and helping in general camp duties and activities.”

Steven: “I have covered various things in the different departments, as I did my rotation around the different Elewana properties. I learned how to prepare cocktails, picnic foods, (lunch and breakfast), basic vehicle maintenance and relating to guests in the guiding department so that i can provide an exceptional guest experience.”

WHICH AREA OF THE TRAINING PROGRAM DO YOU FIND THE MOST INTERESTING?

Solomon: “The area of training that deals with Guiding, I find the most interesting as this is my lifetime dream.”

Steven: “The 30 days in the kitchen were the most interesting because I like preparing food and serving people who enjoy experiencing different dishes. My focus was on preparing the breakfast meals and breakfast and lunch humpers.”

WHAT AREA OF THE TRAINING WAS THE HARDEST?

Solomon: “Kitchen was the hardest since I have never worked in a kitchen and handled food stuffs like this. I was very happy when my kitchen rotation was over. ”

Steven: “The Maintenance department was the hardest part in the training program because I didn't have enough skills on carpentry, masonry, plumbing, electricity and I had to cooperate on the activities with the expert on the sub department. It was hard for me to catch up for that short period of time.”

IN WHICH AREAS OF KENYA / TANZANIA HAVE YOU BEEN TRAINING?

Solomon: “All over from thr Masai Mara to Meru, Amboseli to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and Loisaba Conservancy. I got to work in nearly every Elewana property in Kenya.”

Steven: “I have been training in the northern circuit national park, where our lodges are placed, Tarangire (WMA), Ngorongoro and Serengeti, which gives us the opportunity to explore these fascinating areas so that we can become an expert on our working area.”

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BE IN THE GUIDING PROFESSION?

Solomom: “Growing up in wildlife dominated areas and under the mentorship of my father, who was a Kenyan game ranger, inspired me to become a Guide. My passion and interest for wildlife encouraged me to go into the tourism and hospitality industry as I want to help conserve and protect Kenyan culture and its wildlife but also share it with people from around the world, including my fellow Kenyans.”

Steven: “I love and am passionate about nature and being out in the field, this encouraged me to be a guide. I want to be an ambassador for the environment and share my knowledge on wildlife and their habitats.”

WHAT DOES BEING A GUIDE MEAN TO YOU?

Solomon: “Sharing my knowledge and experience with others and providing the best guest experience and meeting their safari expectations.”

Steven: “Guiding to me is being part of it and acting as a link between people and attractions by sharing the beauty of nature, factual knowledge and interpreting what is going on in any given environment.”

WHAT DO YOU LOOK FORWARD TO MOST WHEN YOU BECOME A GUIDE?

Solomon: “Being the best experienced guide on the planet and working for my dream safari company - Elewana Collection.”

Steven: “I am looking forward to being an exceptional guide who provides an exceptional experience to my guest.”

WHAT ASPIRATIONS DO YOU HAVE AS A GUIDE IN THE FUTURE?

Solomon: “Being at the top of my field and being a wildlife and conservation ambassador. I would also like to travel to other Africa and European countries and see the different wildlife they have.”

Steven: “I want to become a professional guide who can provide excellent service and experience to guests. I also want to become a positive influence in the guiding profession by training the next generation of Guides.””

IF YOU HAD TO PICK ONE PLACE IN KENYA / TANZANIA WHERE WOULD THAT BE AND WHY?

Solomon: “ I love many places in Kenyas but to work at Lewa Safari Camp and Kifaru House would be amazing, as each they are located in one of the best role model Conservancy in Kenya.”

Steven: “I would choose the Island of Zanzibar. The island has some of the best beaches in the world with clear soft white sand and clear shallow waters. It just amazing being there.”

WHICH IS YOUR MOST FAVOURITE ANIMAL AND WHY?

Solomon: “I love all animal’s but the Leopard represents my Turkana Clan (Ngirithae) and I feel a special attachment to it.”

Steven: “My absolute favourite animal is a cheetah. It’s one that I want to see the most because of their spotted pattern, eyes, color of the body, how fast they are and lastly cheetahs have the cutest babies… so adorable.”

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE PEOPLE TO KNOW THAT HAVEN’T BEEN TO KENYA / TANZANIA BEFORE?

Solomon: “To know Kenyan wildlife, culture, history and how beautiful this country is.”.

Steven: “Tanzania is an incredible country with peace, unity, and a number of fabulous holiday experiences, ranging from an awesome safari among African wildlife, beautiful lakes, the highest mountain in Africa and the stone towns and many other activities – it has the most stunning areas in East Africa. Tanzania is the place to be.”

During the month of May Elewana Collection recruited the services of South Africa Butler Academy (SABA) to conduct training with over 100 individuals that work as either Guest Ambassadors or in Housekeeping and Food & Beverage from both our Kenya and Tanzania properties. The trainers from International Butler Academy were Elize Wiese and Abraham Hendrik van der Merwe. Newton Cross is the founding member and Principal of South African Butler Academy, which is the only Butler Training Academy in Africa to offer unique and intensive Butler & Household Courses.  The team has close to a combined 100 years’ experience in the Hospitality industry with the Trainers and Teachers working as commercial and private Butlers in the industry.

The training was done in 4 rotations broken down as follows;

Housekeeping (2 days)

Two Housekeeping session at Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro for those that work in Tanzania and two Housekeeping sessions at Elewana Lewa Safari Camp for those that work in Kenya. Each session hosted 15 staff (total Tanzania 30 staff) total Kenya (30 Staff).

Food and Beverage (4 days)

Two Food and Beverage session in Tanzania and two Food and Beverage sessions in Kenya, as above

Each session hosted 15 staff (total Tanzania 30 staff) total Kenya (30 Staff)

The South African Butler Academy education system educates staff and management within the hospitality industry worldwide, using the most detailed, high-definition courses on international skills, international standards and product knowledge, which includes; Body Language, Demeanor & Etiquette, Front line communication skills, Getting organized, Food & Beverage skills, brand culture and philosphy, Front of House skills, Housekeeping skills, Cultural diversity, Complaint handling and follow up, Food presentation skills, Decor and special areas of expertise, Communication skills, Guest Awareness, Cross Selling Techniques

All lectures are practical with role plays and assessments.

We are delighted to announce that Benedette Mwongeli has completed our Management Training Program and is ready to take on her new role as Assistant Manager at our new property, Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs.

Each management trainee commits to a set program of two years mentorship, during which time the trainee covers various areas of the lodge operations inclusive of guest experience, the different departments as well as supportive functions such as accounts, logistics, stores, compliance, licensing and human resources. After successful completion of the management trainee program each candidate is appointed in junior management role in one of the Elewana properties.

Benedette joined Elewana in 2013 as a receptionist/reservationist at Elewana Afrochic Diani where she earned the position of front office manager and in March 2018 she become one of the first to enter the Elewana trainee management program.  She underwent training in various departments in most all the Elewana Kenya properties in order to equip her for the new appointment. Upon completing the Management program, the company has offered her the opportunity of being the Assistant Manager of the new Loisaba Lodo Springs as from 01st May 2019.

Benedette enjoys travelling but is also focused on family and the importance of spending quality time with her children. She is looking forward to making a difference in other people’s lives, such as helping them grow or become better in their career and giving back to the community.

Completing the program is a major accolade and we are extremely proud of her and we would like to welcome Benedette in her new appointment as Assistant Manager.

Awards & Voting

We would like to ask those of you who have stayed with us and our Partners that support us, for a few minutes of your time to vote for your favourite Elewana camp, lodge or hotel. Please go to cntraveler.com/vote and register. On the voting page click on 'Hotels & Resorts' and type the property name into the search bar to start your rating.

You can invite your friends and the more you vote, and the more you share, the more chances you'll have to win a dream getaway for two! (Terms & Conditions apply*)

*OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA WHO ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD AS OF THE DATE OF ENTRY.

Open to UK and Eire residents only. Entrants must be at least 18 years of age and proof of age will be required before the prize is dispatched.

Terms & Conditions Apply.

The Luxury Travel Guide Awards champion the very best in their respective fields; therefore to come out on top is a great achievement. This year has seen an unprecedented number of shortlisted companies, providing strong competition in every category and Elewana AfroChic has been awarded

UNIQUE LUXURY HOTEL OF THE YEAR – KENYA

All winners of the Luxury Travel Guide Awards are subject to the same rigorous assessment criteria, carried out by LTG in-house professionals. This ensures only the most deserving firms and individuals walk away with one of these prestigious accolades and gain a place in the awards winners’ guide.

Elewana Afrochic - Diani Beach

Diani Beach is a magical location of white sands, rustling palm trees, and warm Indian Ocean waters. Elewana AfroChic enjoys beach front ocean views and delicious sea breezes on a quieter, more secluded section of Diani Beach. Each en suite room is uniquely designed with coastal furniture and fabrics, and amenities to take care of your every need. The crystal clear fresh water pool laps up against the terrace where guests have the option of dining or relaxing with the view of the ocean across the pool and shaded garden. The hotel has earned itself a reputation for a “home away from home” atmosphere, excellent seafood and friendly service.

Voted as one of the top 25 beaches in the world in the Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards, Diani Beach is the ultimate holiday destination with a wide variety of activities and excursions on offer. A plethora of water sports from scuba to snorkelling; deep-sea fishing to sailing; day trips to Shimba Hills National Reserve and Mombasa City, are just a few of the many activities available. And of course there is always the favourite coastal pastime of relaxing and soaking up the sun. With such a variety of options, visitors to Diani have the ability to make their holiday what they want.

Since their inception in 2008 the Safari Awards have gone from strength to strength.

Over 4,000 vetted tour operators, travel agents and travel journalists were invited to vote for the best safari camps, lodges, houses, mobile and riding operators, and wildlife organisations. The final nominees were listed and the Judges have made their final call. All The Safari Awards Judges are nominated by the previous years awards winners and finalists and are unquestionably the most highly-respected, knowledgeable independent tour operators selling safaris.

We are pleased to announce that Elewana Elsa’s Kopje was a runner up in the Best Design category.

Elewana Elsa’s Kopje remains one of the most elegant lodges in Africa, located in one of the most spectacular settings.  Nestled into Mughwango Hill, the lodge enjoys panoramic views over the Meru plains from almost any point within the grounds. Every cottage offers the perfect ‘room-with-a-view’, uniquely designed and crafted to incorporate the natural features of the rocky hillside. An elegant and comfortable lounge and dining area, gorgeous infinity pool, and stunning sundowner viewpoint make Elewana Elsa’s Kopje the ultimate safari destination. Unshamedly romantic and beautifully styled; a rugged, remote wilderness.

This year marks Elewana Elsa’s Kopje 20th anniversary and we are looking forward to celebrating its success over the years during a special week of activities hosted by the lovely Virginia McKenna, who starred in the film Born Free, taking on the role of Joy Adamson who released Elsa the lioness back into the wild, known as Meru National Park.

Trade Shows

We Are Africa was held in the unconventional setting of Cape Town Stadium, a five-minute walk from the Waterfront from the 13th – 16th May 2019.

WE ARE AFRICA IS THE WORLD’S MOST VIBRANT GATHERING OF LUXURY AFRICAN TRAVEL BRANDS, THE FINEST BUYERS AND TOP INTERNATIONAL PRESS.

WITH A SHARED MISSION TO TRANSFORM AND REBRAND AFRICAN TRAVEL FOR THE GLOBAL LUXURY MARKET, THE WE ARE AFRICA TRIBE CELEBRATE THE CONTINENT’S DIVERSITY, UNSURPASSED BEAUTY AND INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY.

UNITED, WE ARE #NOT ONE STORY: WE ARE AFRICA.

Our Director of Sales & Marketing James Haigh attended the event, an exhilarating four days meeting old and new friends, experiencing the best Cape Town has to offer and an action packed Tradeshow, which included the conference, awards ceremony and networking events.

For those who visited our stand, it was a pleasure meeting you in Cape Town. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about the Elewana Collection, SkySafari and our charitable arm, the Land and Life Foundation.

If you would like additional information or have further questions, kindly contact us

Travel Updates

Elewana Collection would like to congratulate SafariLink Aviation for making history by being the first carrier in Africa and the Middle East to be awarded the prestigious IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) certification.

Safarilink Aviation successfully completed the IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) designed for commercial airlines and the airline is now on the ISSA registry.

The assessment covered the following disciplines;

• Organization and Management System which includes Quality, Safety and Security Systems
• Flight Operations
• Operational Control and Flight Dispatch
• Ground Handling Operations
• Aircraft Engineering and Maintenance.

The IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) Program is an evaluation system designed to assess the operational management and control systems of an Operator and also to extend the benefits of operational safety and efficiency that emanated from the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) Program for  operators of aircraft below 5,700Kg maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) who are not eligible for the IOSA program.

Alex Avedi, Chief Executive Officer Safarilink Aviation says, “I am very pleased with this exceptional achievement, we are now officially the first carrier in Africa and the Middle East to get this prestigious certification and only the fourth in the world. This is an assurance that our Airline operations meet the highest international safety standards. I would also like to thank the dedicated staff of Safarilink Aviation who always ensure our clients have a safe and memorable experience when flying with us”

Safarilink is Kenya's premier safari airline with a network of connecting domestic scheduled services to all the best safari destinations within Kenya and across the border into northern Tanzania. Safarilink was formed in January 2004 by a management team who together had more than 35 years experience in providing tourist related air services in East Africa. This professional quality specialist airline now operates 11 aircraft ranging in size from 13 to 52 seats, which are chosen to meet the specific requirements of operating into bush airstrips within Kenya's world famous game parks. Safarilink provides daily scheduled services to 22 destinations and during the busiest periods of the year carries over 14,000 passengers per month.

Safarilink is a member of the Kenya Association of Air Operators.

The airline's Head of Public Relations, Josephat Kagirwa, says, from June 28, Air Tanzania will operate flights to Johannesburg four times a week. The airline will start flying to Mumbai three times a week from July 11.

The Boeing B787 Dreamliner, configured with 22 seats in business class and 240 in economy class, will service both routes.

Two months ago, as part of its growth and restructuring plan, Air Tanzania inaugurated Dar es Salaam-Lusaka and Harare flights.

China Southern has confirmed the launch of a fourth flight per week from Guangzhou to Nairobi, between July and September this year.

All services will be operated by an Airbus A330-200 aircraft. It was learned that two of the flights each week will route via the capital of Hunan province, Changsha – a city of 7.5 million inhabitants, half the size of Guangzhou, which has a population of about 15 million people.

This new routing will add extra connectivity from China to Kenya and into Eastern Africa.

China Southern left the SkyTeam alliance at the beginning of 2019 but has reportedly retained the code share in place with Kenya Airways.

Good news for the Kenya coast emerged recently when Air Italy, a partner airline of Qatar Airways, confirmed that the airline will be flying to Mombasa again next winter, using a two class Airbus A330 for the service. Zanzibar too will be served with the same aircraft type.

Elewana Collection has two stunning beach properties, one on the Kenya coast located on Diani Beach, a magical setting where white sandy beaches, rustling palm trees and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean are a stone throw away. Elewana AfroChic enjoys beach front ocean views and delicious sea breezes on a quieter, more secluded section of Diani Beach. Voted as one of the top 25 beaches in the world in the Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards, Diani Beach is the ultimate holiday destination with a wide variety of activities and excursions on offer.

A plethora of water sports are available, where guests can enjoy scuba diving in prime spots that offer a number of dive sites for those that are just beginning to those that are more advanced and want to explore shipwrecks. Regardless of ability there is so much to see under the waves; white tipped reef sharks, rays, turtles and so much more. The coral heads have a myriad of colourful tiny reef fish to marvel at and the occasional octopus can be spotted. The best months are from September to April, the weather is perfect and diving conditions optimal for those wanting to explore the ocean floor. If you are unable to dive, snorkelling offers just as much in the shallower waters and trips to Wasini can be arranged, November being the best time as the waters are calm and visibility is crystal clear.

For those that want to stay dry but still explore the ocean from above, sailing and boat trips can be arranged, with the opportunity of seeing Humpback Whales from July to October as they travel annually in their thousands from the Antarctic to Kenya to breed and have their calves in Kenya's safe tropical waters. Humpback whales are among the most acrobatic of whales, and spend time leaping or ‘breaching’ to communicate, play, or give themselves a mini spa to remove unwanted skin parasites. Another marine animal that can be seen along the Kenya coast is the Whale Shark and the best months to spot the largest fish in the world is from February to March.

A very special experience to witness is turtles hatching and Elewana AfroChic has its own hatchery on the beach in front of the hotel. This is unpredictable as it depends on when the eggs are laid and collected to be transported to the safety of our hatchery. Last year we were extremely fortunate to have six nests hatch, three between April and May and then another three in September and October with a total of approximately 370 tiny turtles emerging and making their way to the ocean to our guests delight. With such a variety of options, visitors to Diani have the ability to make their holiday what they want.

The second destination is on the magical Island of Zanzibar with its sandy white beaches, turquoise-blue water and swaying palm trees and should be on everyone’s bucket list of places to visit. The historic Spice Island seems to have been lost in time with its narrow streets, carved doorways and ancient trade routes. As you head to the north of the island, Elewana Kilindi overlooks the ocean that has witnessed the spice trade route for over 500 years. Facing west, you can witness the sun set as you relax on your private balcony.

Code

Great news for our friends in Latin America looking for adventure and new destinations as Emirates announces a new codeshare partnership agreement with LATAM Airlines Brazil covering domestic services in Brazil, providing greater choice and connectivity to its customers. This makes it easier to not only to fly internally but to connect to International destinations, such as Dubai and from there 150 places worldwide, including two flights a day to Nairobi, Kenya and one daily flight to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, where the Elewana Collection has 16 boutique lodges, camps and hotels offering unique accommodations in iconic locations.

Emirates passengers travelling to and from Brazil will now be able to connect with 17 cities in LATAM’s domestic network covered by the codeshare agreement including Belo Horizonte, Brasília and Foz do Iguaçu (more details below). Passengers travelling to/from these cities will now be able to connect seamlessly in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro with Emirates’ flights to its Dubai hub, which serves a multitude of destinations worldwide. The agreement will also offer Emirates passengers more choice to travel to/from Brazil with minimum connection times to destinations, such as  Africa.

Emirates connects its passengers to more than 150 destinations, in 85 countries, across six continents. In all classes passengers can take advantage of the ice, the multi-award-winning in-flight entertainment system with over 4,000 channels featuring movies, TV shows, music and podcasts. The onboard experience is complete with complimentary Wi-Fi to stay in touch with family and friends as well as regional-inspired meals prepared by international chefs.

Emirates currently serves two Brazil gateways with daily services to Dubai from Sao Paulo, operated by the A380, and Rio de Janeiro, operated by the newly-refurbished Boeing 777-200LR as of June 1, 2019. Passengers can also fly to Buenos Aires and Santiago de Chile (from June 1, 2019) onboard the Boeing 777-200LR from Rio de Janeiro.

Passengers flying with Emirates can book a Dubai Stopover package which will allow them to stay in Dubai for a few days on their way to one of over 155 destinations. Visiting Dubai is now much easier as Brazilians don’t need to get a visa before departing to the United Arab Emirates – it is issued immediately upon arrival, free of charge, for up to 90 days.

Codeshare routes are as follows:

East Africa’s most popular and best known music and cultural festival, Sauti Za Busara, has secured funding worth over 340.000 US Dollars for the next three years after signing a new sponsorship deal with the Norwegian Embassy in Tanzania.

Sauti za Busara brings people together to celebrate African music under African skies. The 17th edition will take place in Stone Town, Zanzibar from 13th - 16th February 2020. Highlights include:

• 400+ musicians: 44 shows over 4 days and nights
• Carnival Parade: Zanzibar Town and outlying districts buzz with festival fever!
• Swahili Encounters: Local and visiting musicians exchange and collaborate
• Movers & Shakers: Networking for music industry professionals
• Busara Xtra: Fringe events, as organised by the local community

Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar is the perfect place to stay and enjoy the festivities of the festival. Set in a picturesque tropical garden with its secluded beachfront, the luxurious Pavilion suites embrace wide-arched glassless windows affording spectacular views over the Indian Ocean.

Each villa has its own private plunge pool and is tended to by its own Guest Ambassador. Kilindi's 'open-to-nature' approach provides the true essence to any stay and crafts a private, intimate and 'barefoot' appeal that so many crave. Explore the hidden secrets of the island or relax in the infinity pool watching the dhows head out to sea, with a gentle breeze in their sail.

We would like to notify our Partners and those who have booked to travel to Tanzania that the country has announced that it will ban single-use polythene bags from June in the war against plastic pollution:

The Government of Tanzania wishes to make an official note to travellers planning to visit Tanzania that from 1st June 2019 all plastic carrier bags, regardless of their thickness will be prohibited from being imported, exported, manufactured, sold, stored, supplied and used in Mainland Tanzania.

The Tanzania Government released an official letter clearly outlining the details of the ban, and what is acceptable and what is not.

View Official Letter

Special Offers

Enjoy staying three nights at either Elewana AfroChic Diani or Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar and only pay for two nights. Valid for travel from 01 November 2019 to 31 May 2020 (Excludes Festive Season).

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DISCOVERY

Earn double night credits on all stays in May and June and maintain your Black status for 2020! Continue to enjoy the benefits of elite status AND carry over bonus nights earned during this promotion (beyond 30 nights) towards your qualification for Black status beyond 2020.

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Elewana DISCOVERY is a loyalty programme like no other. When you join, you’ll be rewarded with savings of 10% or more through Member Rates, along with hotel benefits such as complimentary internet access and bottled water. Your membership is extended across all Elewana hotels as well as more than 500 luxury hotels in the DISCOVERY collection. Become an Elewana DISCOVERY member today and start enjoying recognition and rewards around the world.

As a member of Elewana DISCOVERY, you’re entitled to special benefits during your stay, plus special Local Experiences - authentic activities meant to connect each traveller more deeply with their destination and make each stay unforgettable.

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Media

© Wildlife Photographer PJ Hicks, who stayed with us at Serengeti Pioneer Camp. PJ Hicks can be found on instagram @pj_hicks