Elsa’s Kopje

Mugwangho Hill, Meru National Park, Kenya

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Stay at Elsa’s Kopje

Elsa’s Kopje is named after Elsa the lioness, made famous by George and Joy Adamson’s biographical book and film “Born Free”. Elsa’s Kopje remains one of the most elegant lodges in Africa, in one of the most spectacular settings. It is the best upmarket location to view rhino in their natural habitat in Kenya.

Elsa’s Kopje is almost invisible to the eye as you approach its home on Mughwango Hill. It blends into the rocky crags of the “kopje” (small hill), built above the site of George Adamson’s original campsite. Every cottage is the ultimate ‘room-with-a-view’, uniquely designed and crafted, incorporating the natural features of the rocky hillside. Each cottage has spacious double or twin beds with elegantly appointed en-suite bathrooms. The lounge, dining room and infinity pool all have spectacular views overlooking the Meru plains.

The lodge can be credited with single handedly saving this beautiful National Park which until our investment, had suffered from little or no income from visitors. Before the opening of Elsa’s Kopje and the subsequent income from visitors, there was talk in the government of de-gazetting the park and turning the well-watered fertile land into rice plantations.

Considered one of the most spectacular locations and lodge designs in Africa, Elsa’s is built round a granite hill, each cottage was individually designed to take advantage of the stunning views, and the natural curves, rocks, and trees on the hillside.

Being passionate about the environment, Stefano designed a lodge that was not only elegant, but deliberately hard to see, uses minimal power, and received the first Eco-rating in Kenya in 2003.

Why we love it

An elegant lodge with excellent views over Meru National Park
The lodge received the first Eco-rating in Kenya in 2003, owing to its commitment to the surroundings
The Elsa’s Kopje guides are based at the lodge in Meru National Park, they have the whole park to themselves, and know their backyard intimately

Facilities

Wifi

Infinity swimming pool

Massage and spa treatments

Delicious cuisine

Experiences

Game Drives

Make the most of Meru's incredible variety of wildlife; as well as big game, spot 400 species of birds, and the rare aardwolf, lesser kudu, and caracal.

Tana River

With a picnic in hand, spend the whole day explore Kenya's longest river - the Tana River - leading from Mount Kenya to the Indian Ocean.

Rhino Sanctuary

Pay a visit to the park's dedicated rhino sanctuary, home to over 70 black and white rhino, and learn about the importance of conservation.

Guided Walks

Trek up Mughwango Hill for panoramic views stretching from snowy Mount Kenya all the way back to the Meru plains, filled with wildlife.

River Fishing

Cast a line into one of Mery's many rivers with plentiful catfish as you relax with a drink, some snacks and a book, under the shade of the palms.

Swimming Pool

Admire the incredible views over the plains from the infinity pool's hillside, allowing you to continue to spot wildlife from the water.

Bush Breakfasts

Join the animals who have risen to search for their breakfast in the bush, as you enjoy a breakfast in the plains for an experience to remember.

Sundowners

Sip a gin and tonic whilst watching the fiery Kenyan sunset out in the bush - a happy hour backdrop you will never forget.

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Tameem

I went on an adventure of a lifetime to Kenya, planned by True Travel. Borana was the perfect introduction to Africa – the staff were fantastic, the lodge very comfortable and I had amazing wildlife sightings. Then the helicopter flight and night out with Andrew (the real Crocodile Dundee) was an experience of a lifetime; we went scorpion hunting, crocodile catching, swimming in lakes and flew over flamingos. All in all, everything was fantastically planned and the service was brilliant. I’m looking forward to the next adventure!