Elewana Newsletter

With Individual travellers often having greater flexibility to travel last minute, now is a fantastic time to take advantage of Elewana’s limited time offer of no single supplements on travel before the 20th December 2024. The saving amounts to almost a third off the regular rates for individuals booking their own room.  Whether wishing to explore the bush on your own, or gathering a group of friends to enjoy the wilderness with the privacy of their own room, this is an offer not to be missed.

This offer is valid for new bookings only made by 28th October 2024 and for travel by 20th December 2024, subject to availability. There is no minimum stay requirement and the special offer is applicable at all Elewana properties, except Arusha Coffee Lodge. A maximum of 3 rooms per booking is allowed and the offer can be combinable with the “Returning Guests” special offer. Terms and conditions apply.

To take advantage of this special rate or for more information, please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Elewana is offering guests an enticing offer of an extra night at no additional cost when booking a four-night stay at participating Elewana properties in Tanzania and Kenya. The promotion which amounts to a 25% discount is even more appealing to families as children under 12 can stay for free.

Including both beach and bush properties, this is a fantastic opportunity for a fully immersive experience exploring wildlife or simply relaxing on a white sandy beach.

Take advantage of this limited time offer at these stunning locations in Tanzania and Kenya.

Valid for stays from now until December 20th, 2024, with bookings accepted during the same period. Please note that this promotion is exclusively for new, non-resident bookings only and cannot be combined with other offers. All bookings are subject to availability, and terms and conditions apply. For more information or to make a reservation, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Anthony Kiplagat, Guide at Sand River reports on how guests have seen one of the most impressive migrations, in terms of the sheer number of Wildebeest and predators, compared to recent years.

In May this year, as many people might be aware, the Mara saw very heavy rains which resulted in some flash flooding. This weather changed the eco-system of the Mara and resulted in the grass growing to an all-time high. This was then managed by the park rangers with controlled burning to aid new healthy grass shoots, creating lush nutrient rich plains.

Normally the migration would start in June, however this year, due to the climate change, it was delayed. Nevertheless, once the Wildebeest started arriving in July, it was in phenomenal numbers between 10,000 and 20,000 on a single crossing. Guests at Sand River were extremely lucky as many of the crossings focused on the river and the surrounding area.

After just three weeks, the park was full, and it is still really busy. We are hoping that this will remain the case and are optimist that it will mean a longer migration season stretching to the end of October.

The arrival of such enormous numbers has attracted an equally impressive number of predators. There have been many sightings of nomadic lions from the Serengeti as well as unidentified cheetahs, vultures and civets. Currently there is a pride of four male lions near the Sand River, thrilling guests every night with their roars and a cheetah with five cubs has also made the area home for the time being.

Sand River has completed updates to the communal lounge, bar and dining area with new furniture and carpets. Several rooms (2, 3, 12,13,14) have also been updated with new tents and furnishings and upgraded shower doors. The reception and shop have a new look, ready to warmly welcome guests as they arrive.

For guests wishing to add on a beach break on the beautiful Spice Island, from 1st October they will need to purchase valid Inbound Travel Insurance through the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. The new scheme will provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, personal accidents, baggage delay, theft, legal expenses, personal liabilities, and repatriation expenses for stays of up to 92 days.

Inbound Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all travellers, regardless of their existing medical or travel insurance covers, and can be purchased online via a QR code before arrival at a cost of USD 44 per person.

Please do reach out to our reservations team if you have any questions regarding this new policy.

Recently recognised with a Travel+Leisure World’s Best Award for 2024, Arusha Coffee Lodge is nestled within a flourishing coffee plantation and seamlessly blends luxury with local charm. Located at the doorstep of Tanzania's most iconic National Parks, this 30-room lodge provides a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views of Mount Meru.

Guests can delve into the world of coffee production with guided tours or relax amidst the plantation’s serene ambiance. The lodge is also home to Shanga, a heartwarming social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to create beautiful, handcrafted jewellery, glassware, and textiles. Guests can also take part in activities like cultural tours, nature walks, and visits to Arusha city markets.

The lodge’s dining experience, now elevated under the expertise of executive chef Wesley Petersen and pastry chef Amie McNeice—both born and bred in South Africa with a combined experience of over 25 years in the hospitality industry—features innovative dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Their passion for inspiring cuisine and dedication to mentoring young chefs, ensure a culinary experience that is as memorable as the surroundings.

Land and Life Foundation, together with donors from Rotary Club of Calgary, have completed restoring a community borehole in the Amboseli region. The previously damaged borehole pump was relying on diesel but is now fully solarised making it more sustainable and free to operate. This project will now supply close to 300 people from the Baragoi community with piped water. In addition, a tap was installed just outside the community Manyatta which has significantly reduced the distance required to travel to fetch water.

These projects align with the mission of Land and Life Foundation, which is committed to making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve and striving for a sustainable future where people and wildlife coexist in harmony.

©lilyjamesofficial

Renowned actress Lily James recently joined forces with Space for Giants to champion the protection of Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. After a transformative visit to the Loisaba and Suyian Conservancies in Kenya, James was deeply inspired by the organisation’s groundbreaking work.

Witnessing first-hand the challenges faced by local communities and wildlife, she committed to raising awareness and funds for Space for Giants’ vital programs. These programs aim to mitigate conflicts between humans and elephants, allowing for harmonious coexistence. Additionally, they combat illegal wildlife trade, collaborate with local communities to develop sustainable livelihoods, promote conservation awareness, and preserve the natural habitat of wildlife.

Space for Giants is actively involved in conservation work within the Loisaba Conservancy. Guests staying at Elewana’s Loisaba camps also help support the conservancy and its partners like Space for Giants, thanks to their financial contribution through accommodation fees.

Seasoned solo traveller Ann McAllister recently embarked on a solo safari adventure with Elewana, defying the notion that such journeys are reserved for groups. Her experience highlights the ease and enjoyment of independent travel in East Africa.

Were you nervous about traveling alone on safari?

Initially, yes! I wondered if I'd feel isolated or have enough to do, especially since most other guests would be couples, families or those traveling in a group of friends. But those fears vanished quickly as I met fantastic people during my safari and also had plenty of options for activities and experiences. Each destination offered something different, whether it was horseback riding or meeting the anti-poaching sniffer dog unit or enjoying a spa treatment. I also enjoyed plenty of alone time when I wanted it. The people that I met during our game drives became fast friends and we found time to really connect back at the camp as well.

What was the highlight of your trip?

The sheer diversity of experiences and the incredible wildlife were certainly the best parts of my trip. From bush breakfasts to night game drives to relaxing moments by the pool watching the wildlife pass by in the distance to indulgent spa treatments, every day offered something new.

What did you enjoy most about traveling solo?

The freedom to create my own itinerary. I could balance social interactions with quiet moments of reflection. I loved waking up in the morning to a cup of tea, taking in the sounds of the birds and the first morning light. I never felt rushed or like I was missing out on something, as my schedule was always determined by what I wanted to do in the exact moment.

How did you interact with other travellers?

Shared game drives and bush walks were great for socialising. We bonded over incredible wildlife sightings, such as the pride of lions with all their little cubs playing around them and the parade of elephants – mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and the little babies too. The communal atmosphere at mealtimes and during bush breakfast and sundowners also helped to foster beautiful connections.

When is the best time to travel solo?

I chose the green season for fewer crowds and the chance to see newborn animals. The prices are also lower, but you still get to see incredible wildlife. Now that Elewana has this special solo offer, I would say anytime is a good time to go! Ultimately, the best time depends on what you want to see and experience.

Any advice for other solo travellers?

Embrace the adventure! Bring an open mind and open heart. Be open to meeting new people while also enjoying your own company and focus on experiencing everything the destination offers. A solo safari is incredibly rewarding and truly a trip of a lifetime. If you want to do it solo, book it now – there’s no better time than the present to enjoy a safari!