Elewana Newsletter

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Our partners at Deckchair have re-invented the webcam and work with many of the world’s leading hotel chains and independents, Cruise Lines, Attractions and Tourism Boards in over 45 countries and growing. The Deckchair platform not only shows a live view, but also captures and archives over 105,000 4K images/year and a daily time lapse video, meaning potential, current and past guests, can tune in whenever they want to download and share stunning content on all digital channels at the touch of a button.

Engage with the wildlife anytime with a view from Elewana Tarangire Treetops by heading over to the following link livecam

Go on and have a look at what might be at the waterhole…

Read full Interview

Full Name

Godfrey Kinyaga

Where were you brought up (where is home)?

Ngare Ndare Village, which is approximately an hour from Elewana Kifaru House by road.

Why did you become a Guide?

Because I am very passionate about the wildlife and wildlife management, education, conserving the environment that we live in and coexisting with the wildlife in our area

How long have your been a guide?

4 years

When did you know guiding was what you wanted to pursue?

I knew from a very young age this is what I wanted to do, growing up around the Lewa conservancy and the Ngare Ndare forest area and being so close to the nature and wildlife of this area

Where did you train / what guiding credentials do you have (KPSGA)?

I am bronze level and am currently taking exams for the silver level (Kenya Professional Safari Guide Association ‘KPSGA’). I trained locally in the Lewa Conservancy area and Utalii College where I studied tour guiding.

Where do you work and how long have you been working there?

I have been at Kifaru House Lewa Wildlife Conservancy for 7 years, starting off as a waiter. It is where I got my experience with guests, this fed my passion for guiding and sharing with guests my love for all our Kenyan wildlife

How long have you been a head guide?

3 years now

What does being a guide mean to you?

Being a teacher and being able to interpret nature to my guests.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about all things relating to nature and the environment, and being able to share this with guests.

What is the best thing about being a Guide?

The bush is my office! And I couldn't think of a better place to spend my working day

Which species in Kenya do you believe needs conservation the most?

Rhino, giraffe, gerenuk, cheetah and the grevy’s zebra. We’re lucky to share the Lewa conservancy with them all.

What do you love about Lewa?

I love the coexistence between the communities and the wildlife. The management of Lewa Conservancy is amazing and the dedication of all the rangers and staff involved in the protection of our wildlife

What are the problems you see within the current Lewa landscape?

Maybe loss of habitat is the only real threat but as above, the management of the conservancy and surrounding areas is so good, that things can only really get better here for the wildlife

How do you see Conservation and Tourism working together?

Tourism & Conservation is a natural relationship where both benefit each other with no real harm

What are three essential things a guide needs?

Personality!! Good people skills, good communication skills and passion

What would you like people to know that haven’t been to Kenya before?

It is a peaceful country with a diverse ecosystem, rich cultures, wildlife, beautiful scenery and warm welcoming citizens. We also enjoy some of the most perfect whether in the world year round. Warm during the day and cool at night, Lewa is the most marvelous place to enjoy and good night’s rest on the planet - at least so our guests tell me!

Elewana Kifaru House - Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Guests can relax and feel at home, choosing how they spend their time, whether it is lying by the picturesque infinity pool gazing out over the plains or sitting in the library leisurely reading a book, time stands still at Elewana Kifaru House. Each of the five cottages offer spectacular views with well-appointed bedrooms, complete with opulent four poster beds and generous en-suite bathrooms.

Intimate and homely atmosphere offering true luxury in the bush with unrivalled wildlife viewing.

Overview of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

The Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, based at the foothills of Mount Kenya, works as a model and catalyst for the conservation of wildlife and its habitat. We do this through the protection and management of species, the initiation and support of community conservation and development programmes, and the education of neighbouring areas in the value of wildlife.

For the last three decades, our practices have resulted in thriving black rhino habitat and population, which in turn has created a robust ecosystem for a multitude of species including the endangered Grevy’s zebra, elephant, lion, cheetah, giraffe and more. We envision a future where people across Kenya value, protect and benefit from wildlife. This future depends on communities being able to derive their day-to-day livelihoods in ways that are compatible with thriving wildlife habitat. As a result, we invest heavily in the livelihoods of our neighbours through programmes in education, healthcare, water, micro-enterprise, youth empowerment and more.As a catalyst and champion of this model that puts people at the centre of conservation, Lewa has influenced and supported the conservancy management for both private and community lands across northern Kenya.

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Developed by leading cosmetic scientists, all Healing Earth ingredients are carefully selected and meticulously researched, ensuring a pure product that connects users to the healing powers of Mother Earth. All Healing Earth products are free from synthetic fragrances, colourants, petro chemicals, DEA, preservatives and parabens. In addition to this, Healing Earth products are not tested on animals. Perfectly aligned to the Elewana principles of acting in harmony with our environment.

A cornerstone of the Healing Earth philosophy is success through ongoing education and support. As well as offering hands-on assistance in the setup of a spa or retreat, their internationally experienced trainers offer an inspiring spa training program focused on personal development, respect for other cultures and love for Mother Earth. Each course is a blend of product and spa therapy theory, spa therapy practical demonstrations and hands-on practical workshops.  In addition to the beauty therapy training and product insight.

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The technique of seedballing allows regrowth and regeneration, and provides guests with a unique experience that not only helps the environment but provides the guests with some fun!  A seedball is an indigenous tree seed encased in a nutritious biochar casing which protects the seed from grazing wildlife and temperature extremes until conditions are perfect for germination.

We’d like to remind all our guests that this activity is not allowable currently inside Kenya’s National Parks or Reserves and that they should not attempt to take any seedballs with them when they  leave the country.

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Camel rides

Explore the beautiful Laikipia landscape during a unique experience from the lofty heights of a camel. Mosey along the Ewaso river bed or down Loisaba’s alluring valleys on the back of these friendly and affectionate creatures, stopping for a bush breakfast or swim along the way.

Horse riding

Love horse riding? Love the bush? Why not combine the two with a riding experience you will never forget. For experienced and confident riders, venture out into the conservancy, while less confident riders can ride in our 100 acre paddock.

Samburu village visit

During your visit to one of our neighbouring Samburu villages, you will experience and learn about the Samburu culture and their daily life. You will meet the village chief who will explain the typical village routine and how the community coexists with the conservancy. The Moran warriors and Samburu women will demonstrate their traditional dances and the process of bead making. You will also see their living areas as well as the Samburu method of making fire!

Anti-poaching & sniffer dog visit

As part of protecting the wildlife in Loisaba, the conservancy has an anti-poaching unit. During your visit to the HQ, you will meet the rangers and their sniffer dogs, who protect the wildlife in Loisaba. You will learn about the procedures the unit undergoes, the history of the team and you can also see the sniffer dogs in action!

Nature walk

If you really want to experience the bush in person, a nature walk is the way to do it! Just you, a guide and a conservancy ranger, will venture out into the bush. You will see and learn about smaller wildlife up close, as well as the possibility of larger game from a safe distance. We cater to all abilities, and your guide will coordinate the length and terrain of your walk to your preferences.

Fishing

If you are a fishing enthusiast, we have some great dams for both catfish and tilapia! We include a short game drive to the dam, where you may see hippos and other wildlife.

Mountain biking

At the camp we have 6 specialised mountain bikes as well as 2 bikes for children, perfect for our surrounding terrain. We cater to all abilities, and your guide will coordinate the length and difficulty of your ride to your preference.

Horse & Camel Rides

Elewana Collection is pleased to announce that Horse & Camel rides are now included in Game Package rate.

Explore the beautiful Laikipia landscape during a unique experience from the lofty heights of a camel or by horseback, if heights are not your thing. Mosey along the Ewaso river bed or down Loisaba’s alluring valleys on the back of these friendly and affectionate creatures, stopping for a bush breakfast or swim along the way.

Note: These two activities will be charged as an extra for Guests staying on Full Board

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After many meetings "under a tree", the samburu village representative has changed their fee for the village visit to a set fee to US$40 per person for 2019.

Samburu village visit

The best way to get to know the community Elewana Collection is a part of is to experience it first-hand. During your stay visit one of our neighbouring Samburu villages, where you will experience and learn about the Samburu culture and their daily life. You will meet the village chief who will explain the typical village routine and how the community coexists with the conservancy. The Moran warriors and Samburu women will demonstrate their traditional dances and the process of bead making. You will also see their living areas as well as the Samburu method of making fire!

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Last month, 19 leopards were mapped in 16 different occasions;

Elewana are incredibly proud to partner with TNC and Loisaba Conservancy where this valuable conservation research is happening. All the revenue generated from Tourism activities on Loisaba is carefully reinvested into the conservancy and the surrounding communities. We are extremely grateful for the fantastic work that SDZG are doing and look forward to supporting it in the future.

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Director of Sales & Marketing, James Haigh together with Evelyn Kamau (DMC Relationship Manager – Kenya) and Benjamin Paul (Sales Executive – Tanzania) were present at the Elewana Collection stand to speak to attendees not only from overseas but also locally over the three days. The event was a huge success and we’re proud to have contributed to the growing reputation of this important trade event.

We look forward to working with new contacts and developing stronger relationships with existing partners.

Thank you to all those who came to visit us and we hope to see you over the course of 2019.

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Spier, a renowned winery from Stellenbosch in South Africa contributed the wines sampled, much to the pleasure of all the attendees. .

The night kicked off with a brief tour through the lodge’s coffee plantation then guests were led to a welcome reception with Spier signature sparkling wine served as a welcome drink under the stars. Live violin music enchanted the guests in attendance as they got acquainted with one another.

After the welcome reception, the violinist led invitees through the coffee garden and into the dining room for a specially created 6 course wine paired meal from Spier’s premium collection. The venue was well decorated - from the flower arrangements to the warm lights illuminated by the candles that gave a romantic atmosphere. In attendance was Spier viticulturist, who gave a history of the grapes used for each wine, and detailed the palate that shed light to the tasting experience.

Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Arusha

A welcoming retreat of aromas, gourmet food and vibrant gardens, the perfect start or end to an African safari. Situated on the fertile grounds of a coffee plantation, Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge is a peaceful sanctuary right on the doorstep of Arusha city.

The lodge is made up of a main area incorporating a spa, swimming pool, restaurant and a café bistro. The rooms and suites have views of the surrounding gardens. Reminiscent of traditional plantation houses outside, the rooms and suites are modern and spacious inside. All furnishings and amenities were designed with comfort in mind. Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge combines the warmth of an African welcome with the familiarity of a boutique hotel.

Guests can partake in a coffee tour, showing the process that brings a coffee bean from 'tree to cup'. The tour culminates in an all-important tasting of the farm's coffee blends. Guests can also visit Traders Walk, a collection of 5 on site boutiques including Shanga, run by Tanzanians with disabilities who produce beautiful arts and crafts. There is a Tanzanite Centre and the Soko Giftshop that is stocked with all sorts of wonderful gifts. Finally relax at Kahawa, a Coffee shop with freshly brewed coffee and delicious home-baked cakes.

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James Haigh, Director of Sales & Marketing for the Elewana Collection comments “we are delighted to welcome Mia Lawson to the role of General Manager for SkySafari and look forward to her leading her dedicated team to new heights”.

As Mia herself says "I am thrilled to by joining the SkySafari by Elewana team at this auspicious time. I am looking forward to the new challenge and to sharing my experience and bringing my own flair to SkySafari."

Please join us in welcoming Mia to the Elewana family and support her as she takes on this new role within the group.

Her email address will be This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

SkySafari by Elewana

SkySafari by Elewana is crafted to make it simple for you to book and enjoy an adventure to East Africa’s magnificent and game-rich landscapes.  Staying at a selection of Elewana’s elite collection of properties, enjoy the comforts of personalized service, luxurious accommodations and authentic African safari experiences, transported in supreme comfort aboard SkySafari’s own 9-seater executive class aircraft.

From the moment you set foot in East Africa to the moment you leave, SkySafari is crafted to ensure your safari experience is the perfect mix of indulgence and convenience.  

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The Wildlife Warrior Program is designed to promote inter-generational knowledge sharing, innovative thinking, and proactive wildlife conservation. The ultimate aim of the program is to take its top conservation scholars to tertiary level of education. Every day, the program is helping to develop a generation of East Africa’s conservationists.

Currently there are 37  scholars under the Wildlife Warrior Scholarship Program of whom 6 came from Esiteti Primary School, in Amboseli near Elewana Tortilis Camp. The school is an education centre for the local Masai community and caters for over 400 boys and girls and is supported by the Land & Life Foundation, who work alongside the Elewana Collection to ensure the local communities living nearby benefit from tourism

Skål International is an Affiliate Member of the UNWTO whose mission is to promote the development of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. Skål has adopted the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics in Tourism, and also support the ST-EP initiative (Sustainable Tourism-Eliminating Poverty). Skål is affiliated to other important international organisations such as IIPT, The Code, ECPAT, ICTP, STI.

Following the United Nations declaration of 2002 as the Year of Ecotourism and the Mountains, Skål International launched these Awards in the same year, to highlight and acknowledge best practices around the globe. As an international organisation of tourism industry leaders, Skål International is a powerful force in the travel and tourism industry to initiate change and encourage the conservation of the environment in order to promote tourism and travel.

View the certificate received in appreciation of Land & Life’s participation in the 2018 Skål International Sustainable Tourism Awards, which acknowledges our commitment to sustainable practices and the implementation of an environmentally friendly business model.

A huge thank you goes out to Skål International Nairobi for hosting us and to Skål International Monaco for their support of the Amboseli Project.  Last but not least a big thank you to Skål International for the recognition of all our work.

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This time it was the turn of Amboseli to tune in to all the wonder that Zhang has to offer. First playing to a hugely appreciative Maasai audience, Zhang’s obvious enjoyment of the music and enthusiasm for the experience transmitted itself to the local community who enthusiastically clapped and stamped their feet throughout Irish jogs, Scottish reels and Chinese harmonies.

Moving on to Esiteti Primary, Zhang made about 486 new young friends. She played first to the assembled school and then toured the classrooms, laughing and joking with the children and inspiring them with her talent and her sheer force of personality.

All present were moved to see young Maasai experiencing this kind of music for the first time and it was truly a memorable day for everyone.

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Zhang Zhang is a member of Skål International Monaco, who facilitated her trip as part of their support for the Amboseli area. The day at the school saw a ceremonial unveiling of a plaque thanking Skal for the classrooms they have funded. Zhang Zhang and the Skal representatives were dressed in honorary Maasai clothing and given gifts of beautiful beaded necklaces.

This violin was made 130 years ago by a master luthier in Torino. Long before that, it was living as a tree in the forests of north Italy, this Tree, has been given a voice of its won by a human artist, it has the potential to share music for hundreds of years to come. By choosing to celebrate nature, to nurture beauty, and respecting the planet, we can surely accomplish a sustainable future, all together. That is why we care

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Kenya’s ambassador to the United States, Robinson Njeru Githae, said at the welcoming ceremony that the opening of a direct link between Kenya and the US should provide a big boost for the tourism industry.

Robert Godec, the US ambassador to Kenya, was a passenger on the maiden flight. “This is a historic moment for both Kenya and the United States,” Mr Godec said. “I know this flight is going to make new things possible — new business deals, new trade, new investment, more opportunities for students to come from the United States to Kenya, and Kenya to the United States.”

Upon landing KQ chief executive officer Sebastian Mikosz and the chairman Michael Joseph, who were also on the inaugural flight, were presented with a symbol of New York City - a glass apple. Roel Huinink, the CEO of JFK International Air Terminal LLC, made the presentation.

Foreign Minister Ms Juma noted in her address that the nonstop KQ service to New York gives the national carrier “a vantage point to serve more than 60 million travellers through JFK.”

“But this also demonstrates another opportunity for creating synergies from the North to the South Hemisphere,” the minister added. “This KQ flight offers New York, the UN headquarters, and a zenith of multilateral agencies that are dealing with various development aspects into Nairobi, the only UN capital in the global South, a unique opportunity and benefit of seamless connection.”

Previously travellers wanting to travel from New York to Kenya or vice versa could take over 22 hours to get to their respective destination using connecting flights, now it is a nonstop flight of less than 15 hours making it convenient and hassle free.

And of course direct flights drastically reduce the chances of passenger’s luggage taking unplanned detours!

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The CS was flanked by Kilifi governor Amason Kingi who spoke on behalf of the six coastal governors that have invested in tourism. The annual Skal Congress is one of the world's largest tourism stakeholders' parleys.

The CS said that Tui Fly has confirmed that on October 26, it shall start flying from Brussels to Mombasa and then a week later, another launch of a flight from Amsterdam in Holland to Mombasa's Moi International Airport (MIA). ''We are upbeat at this gesture by Tui Fly who have been one of our major supporters and wish to assure them of our support,'' Balala said. He said that Tui Poland has also been a significant contributor to bringing in the much needed international tourist numbers with their current three flights a week. ''I am duly informed that a fourth flight is on the cards,'' Balala who was flanked by Principal Secretary for Tourism, Joe Okudo said.

Source: The Standard