From phenomenal game viewing and multiple dining options to wellness and fitness facilities, photography and cultural centres, plus stargazing and outdoor cinema experiences, Liz tells us about the myriad of reasons to book Serengeti Explorer next year.
What are the top selling points travel advisors should know about the new Explorer by Elewana brand?
Elewana are known for being leaders in the safari business, with unique boutique lodges and camps in the most iconic locations throughout Kenya and Northern Tanzania. They have always been committed to delivering a true East African bush experience, whilst supporting community and conservation initiatives in the regions in which they operate. Whilst there is diversity in their offering (regions, landscapes, experiences, and wildlife viewing as well as styles of accommodation), a stay with Elewana has always been underpinned by a consistency in quality: from the guest care and service delivered by their incredible camp staff to the exquisite food prepared by the kitchen teams. What's more, they're proud to employ some of the most knowledgeable, experienced, and passionate guides in the business. Guests know that a stay with Elewana delivers a higher level of safari experience, and that guarantee continues through the new Explorer by Elewana offering.
How will the Explorer properties distinguish themselves from the current portfolio of Elewana properties?
This new concept lodge leverages Elewana's heritage and expertise, along with maintaining consistency as far as iconic locations are concerned, but with a new and reimagined safari offering. Explorer properties have a larger footprint (60-90 rooms), and whilst their location ensures phenomenal wildlife viewing, game drives are complemented with a wealth of contextual in-property experiences: from multiple dining options to wellness and fitness facilities, photography and cultural centres, to stargazing and outdoor cinema experiences. The incredible hospitality and service that Elewana is known for will remain attuned to accommodate the general clientele of a larger property.
To which type of guest will the new Explorer by Elewana properties mostly appeal?
These properties are likely to appeal to a wide range of guests. They fill a gap in the market for travellers who are looking at a safari adventure in its purest sense, as part of a broader holiday itinerary, or perhaps looking for activities “beyond the game drive” during their stay. It is also a great option for families who are looking for activities and entertainment for children, and larger travelling groups of families or friends. We also recognise that not everyone wants to stay at smaller camps and lodges - some are looking for more anonymity during their stay or for greater interaction with other guests, and a larger property can offer both these options.
When is the best time to book Serengeti Explorer?
We are very lucky in that the Serengeti delivers fantastic wildlife viewing in the central southern area all year round. Looking at the wildebeest migration specifically, the calving season happens during the first and last few months of the year. A drive south will have guests witnessing the southern plains covered in wildebeest calves before they start heading north around April and May. From July to September, the plains are richest with resident wildlife, including some of the most well-known predators in the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem.
Anything else you wish to include which makes Explorer such a great opportunity?
Explorer property bookings can benefit from the ongoing Elewana circuit discounts, making it possible for guests to mix and match a stay at Explorer with Elewana’s smaller boutique lodges and camps in other regions. This works well both in enhancing an overall itinerary with differing safari experiences, as well as helping to accommodate client budgets.
