Elewana Elsa's Kopje Meru

The service was phenomenal. My husband and I went for a four day, three night Safari and fell in love with life all over again. From the manager Grace, to the gracious Solomon, our room attendant Frank, our guide Joe, and all of the other staff we didn't get to know directly, this place is made for lovers who want to rest, learn, and connect with themselves and all forms of life. Mind blowing experience, amazing food, unmatched views, REAL Safari experience. We'll be back, you couldn't keep us away if you tried.

We had the pleasure of spending three nights at Elsa's and wished we could have stayed longer. It is a gem of a lodge with an incredible view but what really made a difference for us was the way we were treated. From the communication during the booking, everything got better and better. I wish I could remember all the names and I apologise for not mentioning everyone. Jane and Joy at reception, Patrick and John in management, Judy in the restaurant, chef Jackline and attendant Anthony, they are all amazing people who made us feel incredibly welcome and looked after us making sure we had an incredible experience every moment of the day. Nothing was too much trouble. Joel was our guide, he's very knowledgeable and experienced and we had a great time with him. The welcome, the service, the food, the whole stay was fantastic. It's difficult to describe everything but the quality of the food is worth mentioning. As is the swimming pool.... and everything else as I already said. The lodge is more beautiful than my phone photos. Asante Sana rafiki, we hope we'll be able to return and we'll definitely recommend Elsa's Kopje to everyone.

This was my third visit to Elsa's and it has improved every time. There is now WiFi. The staff are very professional but also very friendly, they treat you as a friend rather than a guest. The food is excellent. As a vegetarian I did wonder what the food would be, it was superb. The cottages are unique. It is wonderful to wake up looking out onto Meru Park with the sun rising and setting. I can't praise Elsa's enough. I went there as it was my special birthday. I was driven to Elsa's grave and to the grave of George Adamson. The game drives were fantastic. The guides are so well trained and again they get to know what you want to see. The breakfast in the bush and sundowners were extra touch. Would highly recommend it. Hope to return again someday.

Elsa’s Kopje in Meru National Park is a rare safari experience that feels both deeply authentic and effortlessly exceptional. Set dramatically into the hillside with sweeping views across a truly wild and uncrowded landscape, the camp blends beautifully into its surroundings. The food was consistently excellent, and the entire team—from the warm, attentive staff to our outstanding hosts, Gabriel and Emily—made the experience feel personal and seamless. Our guide, Mohammed, was incredibly knowledgeable, and we saw a wide range of wildlife on our drives. Memorable moments included a visit to the Tana River, where the geology and scenery were just as compelling as the wildlife; a bush walk up Mughwongo Hill at sunset with William; and watching Born Free under the stars in the very place it was set, which was genuinely special. The nearby rhino sanctuary visit was another highlight, offering meaningful conservation insight alongside incredible sightings. What truly sets Elsa’s Kopje apart, though, is the feeling of complete wilderness—Meru remains one of the few places where you can experience such beauty, diversity, and solitude all at once.

Choosing Elsa’s Kopje (and Meru) wasn’t a light decision for us. We went back and forth between Meru and Samburu, weighed up the pros and cons. But having now stayed there, I can honestly say it is a truly magical place that exceeded all my expectations. The setting is breathtaking - you feel completely immersed in nature. It’s not just a lodge, it’s a living, breathing part of the landscape, and the views are absolutely unforgettable. What really makes Elsa’s special though is the people. Our guide, Mohammed, was exceptional - so knowledgeable, incredibly patient, and completely dedicated to making our experience special. He didn’t give up when we wanted to see rhinos, and thanks to him we also saw lions and so many herds of elephants. Every single game drive felt unique and thoughtfully tailored. The team at the lodge were just as wonderful. The managers, Gabriel and Emma, along with the assistant manager Patrick, were so warm and welcoming and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. A special mention to Sjeldrick, our housekeeper, who kept everything immaculate, even washing our muddy shoes, which just shows the level of care and attention. And to our security guard - truly a knight in shining armour - always there to escort us, make us feel safe, and even check the room when I got a bit spooked about insects in the room. On the last day they organise the most beautiful bush breakfast for us - it was one of the best experiences I had. It was so intimate and special. If you’re deciding between Meru and somewhere like Samburu, I would absolutely say don’t hesitate to book - Elsa’s Kopje is something really special.

Probably one of the most exciting and authentic moments in a life! Congratulations to the great team making this possible.

Absolutely beautiful, a stunning location with views as far as the eye can see. The camp sits into the hillside and is hidden by the trees, the accommodation is first class and the overall experience cannot be faulted. The staff are all so friendly and the service is just perfect, Highly recommended.

The best way to experience Meru. Elsa’s Kopje is luxurious and homey wrapped into one. Whether it is your first time arriving to the lodge or your 8th game drive, numerous team members welcome you upon arrival with fresh eucalyptus towels, eager to hear about your day. The cottages are well-appointed with a roomy bathroom and shower as well as a large bedroom and private balcony. It is easy to spot Buffalo, elephants, giraffes, and more from your room. Aside from the comfortable accommodation, the main dining and lounge area were a great place to spend the afternoon between game drives. Highly recommend bringing a pair of binoculars to enjoy the view from the Infiniti pool. My wife and I were celebrating our honeymoon and the entire team made our visit special from start to finish. Thank you to Nehemiah, William, Morris, Judy, Charles, Patric, and the rest of the team. Lastly and most importantly, we want to thank Moses for being the best guide we could have imagined. He taught us so much about the wildlife and made each drive more memorable than the last.

Excellent food and service. Awesome accommodations. If you want to see the big five animals…up close and personal…this is the place!