Elewana Collection opens Serengeti Explorer, the first lodge of the new Explorer brand and home to the Serengeti’s first-ever on-site hide.
Conveniently located in the western corridor of the Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Serengeti Explorer is exemplified by its enviable position high up on the Nyaboro Hills, with views that stretch for miles across the surrounding iconic plains. Its central yet private location makes it the perfect hub from which to see the Great Migration. Guests have access to one of the world’s most iconic wildlife ecosystems, where space, freedom and the great outdoors meet thrilling adventure.
The new property is home to the Serengeti’s first-ever on-site hide overlooking a watering hole, allowing guests to view wildlife without travelling far from base. Accessed through an underground tunnel from the lodge, the hide allows wildlife enthusiasts to witness nature at play as animals visit for much-needed refreshment.
A stunning infinity pool takes full advantage of the panoramic vista, and the Riva Wellness Centre offers a range of treatments, massage and yoga, all inspired by the surrounding environment. Examples of spa therapies include the Big 5 Journey, an indulgent two hours of exfoliation, massage and skin nourishment and after-sun heat & repair sessions to help recover from skin damage
The property is slightly larger than the average existing footprint of the Elewana Collection with 74 rooms in total split between 68 well-appointed explorer rooms and six suites. Built on the historic grounds of Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Serengeti Explorer honours its predecessor’s environmental legacy by maintaining the original room count. The team employed careful reconstruction practices recycling many of the existing materials, so as not to disrupt the delicate ecosystem and ensure minimal impact on the Serengeti’s pristine wilderness.
All rooms have a private balcony offering the famed Serengeti views and configurations cater to couples, friends and families with interconnecting rooms and rooms with wheelchair access.
A wide selection of dining options awaits guests ranging from the Divai chef’s table located within an extensive wine cellar with an on-site sommelier, to a Boma restaurant offering a bush dinner of African and Swahili signature dishes under the Serengeti Sky. In addition, the main Acacia restaurant and Kisimani poolside bistro and bar both serve up a delicious array of dishes celebrating the farm-to-table culture.
Serengeti Explorer aims to offer guests a fully immersive holiday experience, with a plethora of activities, aside from the game drives, being introduced. A children’s bushcraft centre caters to families, whilst an outdoor cinema shows African movie classics as well as more current releases.
African culture is also a central theme to Serengeti Explorer with an art gallery showcasing local talent as well as local crafts available for purchase in the retail centre. A creative photo studio is equipped with useful technology and an on-site expert to ensure that guests take away their best images from the experience. Walking safaris with experienced guides are also available. A Star Gazing deck with an on-site astronomy guide allows guests to enjoy a galactic night safari under the sparkling African sky.
As with all Elewana properties, Serengeti Explorer upholds the core purpose of expertly sharing the wonders of our natural world by providing responsible, authentic, life-affirming, luxury safari and adventure experiences.