Lake Naivasha

Elsamere Lodge

Q: How much does it cost to stay at Elsamere Lodge?

Stays at Elsamere Lodge start from around US$120 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

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Elsamere Lodge

About Elsamere Lodge

A pretty lakeside lodge, home to the late George and Joy Adamson of Born Free fame.

Elsamere lies on the shores of Kenya’s Lake Naivasha, and is named after Elsa, the lioness made famous by George and Joy Adamson in the 1960s, in the Born Free books and films. It is the home in which Joy Adamson lived until her death, with an on-site museum containing movie memorabilia, art, literature and other personal items. Accommodation consists of comfortable garden cottages and Joy's own room within the main house, and the overall atmosphere is one of relaxed, homely comfort. This budget-friendly lodge will appeal to anyone interested in conservation and the incredible lives of the Adamsons.

Lake Naivasha , Kenya

From $120 per person/per night

Safari

10 Rooms

Open Map

Property details

The property

Elsamere’s main house is a sprawling colonial-style homestead surrounded by colourful gardens that lead down to the shores of Lake Naivasha. The dining room still has the antique furniture owned by the Adamsons, and breakfasts and dinners are served here. Lunches are buffet-style, set on the lawns beneath the trees. The conservation centre and classrooms are alongside the main house, and guests are invited to participate in the lessons. The museum is popular, and there's a gift shop, and wi-fi.

The rooms

Guests have a choice of accommodation, either in the Joy Adamson Room in the main house, or in four basic and comfortable garden cottages that can accommodate families if required. The rooms are simple, spacious, and retain many of the original furniture and personal items owned by the Adamsons, creating a mood both homely and historical. Each has an en-suite bathroom, and the cottages have a small private patio area.

Activities

Activities focus on the history and legacy of the Adamsons and their beloved lions. Visit the museum dedicated to their life story, take a boat cruise on volcanic Lake Naivasha to admire the views, enjoy the excellent birdwatching and spot hippo, buffalo and other smaller species. The on-site conservation centre is open to guests interested in community environmental lessons and Elsamere’s conservation strategies. Visits to local wildlife sanctuaries can be arranged.

Why we love it

The no-frills, homey feel - and the cheeky colobus monkeys that roam the grounds, especially at tea time when there's cake to be stolen...

Insiders Tip

Our perfect day would probably involve a morning cycle through Hell's Gate National Park, a little known gem abutted by towering valley walls and volcanic plugs, before enjoying a picnic breakfast overlooking Mount Longonot and the glittering lakes.

Something to think about

Don't expect five-star service; this is a comfortable base to explore the surrounding lakes and parks and immerse yourself in the history of the late George and Joy Adamson's home.

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How to book Elsamere Lodge

How do I book Elsamere Lodge?

Elsamere Lodge can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made Kenya trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended Kenya trips featuring Elsamere Lodge or get advice and suggestions from one of our Kenya specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Elsamere Lodge?

Stays at Elsamere Lodge start from around $120 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

Kenya

Lake Naivasha

A vast, sunlit lake where easy-going days are spent boating, driving and walking.