Spotlight on Elewana Elsa’s Kopje, Meru, Kenya
Nestled in the heart of Meru National Park, Elsa's Kopje Lodge is a haven of luxury amidst the rugged wilderness of Kenya. Revered as one of Africa's best-kept secrets, this boutique lodge seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings, offering guests an unparalleled safari experience.
With panoramic views, a rich history linked to the iconic "Born Free" story, and diverse wildlife at its doorstep - including lions, elephants, and the elusive caracal - Elsa's Kopje is a testament to exquisite safari lodgings. Whether you're a seasoned safari-goer or planning your first African adventure, Elsa's Kopje promises an unforgettable stay.
Each cottage at Elsa's Kopje seamlessly integrates into the natural rock formations, featuring expansive bedrooms, inviting open sitting areas, wide verandas, and generously sized bathrooms. Every corner offers awe-inspiring panoramas.
Views from Elsa’s Kopje - image curtesy of Elewana
Guests are treated to unparalleled solitude in the vastness of Elsa’s Kopje, which sprawls across a staggering 215,000 acres of unspoiled African terrain. Meru National Park is a haven for rhinos and is renowned for its large gatherings of elephants, hippos, lions, and diverse bird species. In fact, it stands out in East Africa for its unmatched animal species diversity.
Once at risk of being forgotten, Elsa's Kopje revitalised Meru National Park's untamed beauty. This boutique lodge, an acclaimed recipient of environmental accolades, has proudly held the title of 'Best Safari Property in Africa' by the Good Safari Guide. It's no wonder Elsa’s Kopje is celebrated as one of Africa's most refined lodges.
The vision behind Elsa’s Kopje was brought to life by Stefano Cheli. It was inaugurated in 1999 by notable figures - Dr. Richard Leakey, then Director of Kenya Wildlife Service, and Virginia McKenna, the star of 'Born Free'. Recognising Meru National Park as one of Kenya's most picturesque reserves, Liz & Stefano frequently incorporated it into their mobile-tented safari experiences.
With his profound respect for the environment, Stefano envisioned a lodge that not only exudes elegance but also remains inconspicuous, operates with minimal energy consumption, and proudly achieved Kenya's first Eco-rating in 2003.
Activities At the Lodge
Stationed right at the heart of Meru National Park, Elsa’s Kopje guides possess an unrivalled familiarity with this expansive wilderness. With exclusive access to the entire park, these guides, who are all certified either at the Bronze or Silver level by the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association, are indeed masters of their domain.
Meru National Park stands out as one of Africa's most picturesque landscapes. While it's a sanctuary for majestic creatures like lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and rhinos, it's also home to diverse habitats and a wide array of wildlife, including the elusive lesser Kudu.
The guides will lead you through every breathtaking nook of the park, from the oasis-like springs adorned with palms to the serene beaches of the Tana River. Bird enthusiasts will find Meru a slice of heaven, as it's home to over 400 bird species. The park also boasts botanical wonders, from the towering baobab tree to the rare paper bark Albitzia.
In a habitat as varied as Meru, the guides are well-versed in the medicinal attributes of the region's unique plants, possess a keen eye for birdwatching, and can even introduce you to the intriguing world of the diminutive naked mole rat!
Game Drives:
The game drive experience is elevated with their fleet of specially equipped 4x4 Toyota Landcruisers. These open-sided vehicles are the latest additions to Elsa’s Kopje and are meticulously designed for an optimal safari experience. With three rows of seats, stands for photographic equipment, and convenient charging sockets, these vehicles cater to both comfort and the needs of photography enthusiasts. Guests typically share game drives; however, an exclusive vehicle can be reserved for an additional charge.
Day Excursions to the Tana River
Pack a picnic lunch and dedicate an entire day to discovering the sandy shores of the Tana River, Kenya's lengthiest river. Originating from the highlands of Mt. Kenya, this river embarks on a 704-km journey before it gracefully meets the Indian Ocean.
Rhino Sanctuary
The National Park encompasses an 84 sq km rhino sanctuary, which shelters over 70 rhinos, including both black and white species. Given the vastness of the sanctuary, locating these rhinos adds an exciting challenge to the game drive experience!
Guided Walks
Step out of the vehicle and immerse yourself in the intricate details – from animal tracks and industrious dung beetles to intriguing naked mole rats and intricate micro-ecosystems.
You can embark on a hike to the summit of Mughwango Hill and be rewarded with a panoramic 360-degree vista from the snowy peaks of Mt. Kenya in the west to the expansive Meru plains stretching out to the east.
River Fishing
Grab your fishing rod, a refreshing afternoon drink, some savoury canapés, and an engaging book, then find a cosy spot along the palm-fringed edges of Meru's numerous rivers. The fishing experience is delightful abundant with catfish, tilapia, and barbell.
As you reel in your catch, you'll be in the company of graceful herons, monitor lizards, and vibrant kingfishers.
Massages
A safari is not just an adventure; it's also a retreat – a respite from the relentless pace of contemporary life.
At Elsa’s Kopje, indulge in soothing massages, an ideal remedy to relax weary shoulders and backs.
Massages at Elsa’s Kopje, photo curtesy of Elewana
Accommodation
Cottages
Perched gracefully on the hillside and offering panoramic views of Meru National Park, every open-fronted cottage at Elsa’s Kopje boasts a distinct design, exuding a touch of elegant safari charm.
A mix of 5 double cottages and 1 can be set as either twin or double.
Each cottage has a primary bedroom, an en-suite bathroom, and a private deck or verandah. Notably, Cottage 3 is adorned with a private sitting room instead of a deck.
Two of these cottages can accommodate an additional bed, suitable for children under the age of 16 years.
Family Cottage
A recent addition boasting sweeping views of the Park, the Family Cottage offers ample space for families. This 2-bedroom abode features a double and a twin room, each with its own en-suite. The cottage is enhanced by a tastefully designed living room, an expansive private deck, and an outdoor bath adjacent to the master bedroom.
Honeymoon Suites
With a panoramic view of the sprawling expanse of Meru National Park, Elsa’s boasts three exquisite Honeymoon Suites. Two of these suites offer intimate outdoor baths, while the third is a unique tri-level suite comprising a cosy private sitting room, a main bedroom with its en-suite bathroom, and a secluded private deck.
For families with small children, two Suites can accommodate an extra bed suitable for children under 16.
Private House
Positioned with a sweeping view of Meru National Park's expansive plains and in the direction of Mt. Kenya, Elsa’s Private House is a sanctuary of luxury. It features a master bedroom with an en-suite and an adjoining dressing room, another twin bedroom, a spacious dining and living area, and its very own garden, complete with an infinity swimming pool.
The Private House can fit two extra beds for children under 16.
Family Cottage at Elsa’s Kopje, photo curtesy of Elewana
Getting To Elsa’s Kopje
By Air:
Mughwango Airstrip, a private airstrip, is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive away from the lodge.
Alternatively, Kinna Airstrip is a 45-minute drive from the lodge. Both airstrips are approximately an hour's flight from Wilson Airport.
Air Kenya offers a daily flight from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Kinna Airstrip.
Private charters can land directly at Mughwango Airstrip for a more personalised journey.
A helicopter pad is merely a minute's drive from the lodge.
By Road:
Elewana offers road transfers to and from its various Northern properties or Nanyuki. Depending on the destination, travel durations can range from 3.5 to 8 hours.
Discovering Meru National Park
Spanning 1,800 sq kms, Meru National Park is the focal point of an ecosystem comprising additional reserves like Kora, Bisandi, North Kitui, and Rahole. Altogether, they form a vast wilderness stretching over 5,000 sq kms.
Elsa's Kopje is nestled within the park's core, perched atop the rocky Mughwango hill. This vantage point offers panoramic views extending from the towering 17,000-foot Mt Kenya to the west and endless horizons to the east. Below this hill lies George Adamson’s historic camp, and it was here that Elsa the lioness frolicked. To the hill's east, a fertile spring beckons, and guests can witness majestic herds of elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes traverse the plains. With only two lodges in this vast National Park, Elsa’s Kopje ensures a secluded wilderness experience for its guests.
The park gained notoriety in the 1960s, courtesy of Joy & George Adamson, who released their cherished lioness, "Elsa," back into the wilds of Meru National Park. Their touching journey inspired the book, later adapted into the iconic film "Born Free," starring Virginia McKenna and Bill Travers. The movie was pioneering, portraying wild animals as sentient beings worthy of empathy. George Adamson’s legacy with lions continued in areas south of the park until his passing in 1989. Today, Joy Adamson and Elsa the Lioness rest in Meru National Park.
Meru's ecological diversity is staggering: from the cool 3,400 ft western forests that transition into 1,000 ft semi-desert plains dotted with giant baobab and Commiphora trees. The park boasts thirteen pristine, spring-fed rivers adorned with palms, riverine forests, and lounging hippos. It's a sanctuary for lions and elephants, but Meru also shelters unique species like the caracal, Lesser Kudu, aardwolf, and over 400 bird species.
An 84 sq km park segment also serves as a rhino sanctuary, home to over 60 black and white rhinos. Given the vastness of the area, spotting these majestic creatures can be an exhilarating game-driving pursuit.
Walking in Meru National Park - photo curtesy of Elewana Elsa’s Kopje
Climate
Days in the park are pleasantly warm, reaching up to 30°C, with minimal humidity ensuring comfort. Evenings bring a refreshing coolness. The park receives most of its annual rainfall, averaging 350mm, during April and May.
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