Hippo Report - Elsa’s Kopje

Dates Visited: August 2017

Location: Meru National Park

Comments: Elsa's Kopje has it's own airstrip which allows easy access for most safari travelers flying in from Nairobi and the other safari parks. It is located high up on the hills (a kopje) that affords stunning views from the beautifully decorated and large rooms. 

The lasting experience for my travel partner and I were the game drives. After coming from the Mara and that area's game drive experience, we were pleasantly surprised by how different the animals reacted to seeing our approaching vehicles. Unlike the Mara, the animals here are not too familiar with humans and react to our encroachment to their territory with aggressiveness. Specially the cape buffalo herds. They were alert and prepared for defensive formations around their young as soon as they saw us. Some of the males actually charged at us to try and scare us away. 

The elephants were also not too keen on our approach. Throughout our brief visit with them, they were trumpeting to try and move us away! 

The highlight for us was the visit to the separate rhino protected area. We were not allowed to visit more than 2 hours to minimize the impact of the human footprint around the rhinos. At the time of our visit, there were only 80+ rhinos (both black and white) remaining in this conservancy!

The lodge has a very welcoming central area and the main area for dining is quite spacious. Night time dining under the stars is quite peaceful and serene. If one would want to have a romantic or more private dinner for two, they can set up an intimate table by the vast and warm swimming pool. 

Beautiful stay and amazing animal experience!

E