Elsamere Conservation Centre | Naivasha

Elsamere Conservation Centre, located on the southern shore of Lake Naivasha in Kenya's Rift Valley, was established in 1969 by Joy Adamson and her husband, George Adamson. It is dedicated to their pioneering work in wildlife conservation and offers a variety of activities focused on nature, education, and conservation.

Sanctuary Overview

Elsamere is set within a beautiful environment, with access to Lake Naivasha and surrounding wildlife. It has become an important site for those interested in conservation and wildlife, offering educational programs and opportunities to connect with nature. The center also serves as a tribute to Joy Adamson's legacy as the author of Born Free, a book about her work with the famous lioness, Elsa.

Activities & Experiences

Visitors to Elsamere can enjoy a variety of activities:

Bird Watching: The area is home to over 240 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, herons, and kingfishers.

Wildlife Spotting: You can spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and antelopes that roam the reserve.

Boat Rides: The sanctuary offers boat rides on Lake Naivasha, where you can observe hippos and a wide variety of birds.

Nature Walks: Enjoy the natural surroundings on foot, with the opportunity to observe various species of plants and animals.

Afternoon Tea by the Lake: Elsamere offers a traditional afternoon tea service, where guests can enjoy freshly baked pastries while overlooking the lake.

Camping: For a more immersive experience, guests can camp around the reserve, enjoying the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Educational & Conservation Programs

Elsamere is deeply involved in wildlife conservation and offers programs aimed at raising awareness:

Workshops & School Visits: The center hosts workshops and school visits to teach about wildlife conservation and the importance of sustainable practices.

Community Outreach: Elsamere works with local communities to engage them in conservation efforts and promote environmental stewardship.

Research & Monitoring: The center conducts research to support conservation initiatives and gather data that contributes to wildlife protection.

Accommodation

Elsamere provides comfortable accommodation options, including cottages with views of the lake and camping facilities for those looking to experience the natural environment more closely. The cottages offer a serene retreat with verandas overlooking the lake, while the camping area allows for a more adventurous stay.

Getting There

Elsamere is easily accessible from Nairobi:

By Car: From Nairobi, take the A104 highway towards Naivasha. Once in Naivasha, follow the signs to the center.

Public Transport: Matatus (shared minivans) and buses operate between Nairobi and Naivasha. From Naivasha, you can take a taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to reach Elsamere.

Best Time to Visit

Elsamere is open throughout the year, with the dry season from July to October being the best time to visit. During this period, wildlife viewing is optimal, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

For more information or to plan a visit, you can contact Elsamere Conservation Centre through their official website.