Guide to Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp in Mara North Conservancy

Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp Stunning View

There’s a unique sense of serenity that comes with being completely alone in the wild, far removed from the hustle of everyday life. In these moments, you are transported into the realm of nature, following the same paths as the explorers before you. Elephant Pepper Camp offers just that—an escape from the chaos of urban life. 

Nestled in the private Mara North Conservancy, it is one of the few camps permitted to operate in this pristine area. With a limited number of guests allowed in at any given time, the camp provides an unmatched sense of isolation and adventure, far from crowded streets and towering buildings. This tranquil atmosphere makes it easier to experience the wildlife up close, including the resident prides of lions and other local animals.

The camp is thoughtfully designed to fit harmoniously with its surroundings. It is divided into two wings, each located on opposite sides of the central lounge and dining area. The entire camp spans four square kilometers, offering ample space for exploration. What sets Elephant Pepper apart is its eco-friendly construction—there is no cement used, ensuring that its impact on the environment remains minimal. Solar power is harnessed to meet all of the camp’s energy needs. 

Guests can enjoy Italian-inspired dishes, as well as a variety of international and local cuisines, all served in the welcoming dining area. Whether you’re dining with fellow adventurers or seeking a more intimate meal, the staff is more than happy to accommodate your preferences. In the evenings, guests can unwind by the fire with drinks and canapés while sharing safari stories, creating a truly memorable experience. Please note, the camp is closed from April 1 to June 15 each year.

Accommodations at Elephant Pepper are a perfect blend of luxury and nature. The spacious safari tents are designed to provide ultimate comfort while offering stunning views of the African savannah. Each tent features a private verandah and a hammock, providing an ideal space to relax. Inside, the tents are elegantly decorated with dark wood furnishings and vintage brass accents. 

They come with en-suite bathrooms, offering hot and cold running water as well as flushing toilets. For families or honeymooners seeking extra privacy, the camp offers two larger tents designed to cater to those needs. The remote location ensures uninterrupted stargazing, with the vast African sky stretching out above. At night, the sounds of the wild, including lions, hyenas, and leopards, fill the air as you drift off to sleep. 

In the morning, guests can enjoy a steaming cup of coffee or tea, along with a freshly-baked biscuit, as they prepare for another exciting day of adventure. For a truly unique experience, guests can even enjoy meals in the open air, surrounded by wildlife. Every moment at Elephant Pepper Camp is a part of the extraordinary journey it offers.

Things to Do at Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp

The camp offers a variety of fascinating activities for guests to enjoy. Among the highlights are the exceptional game drives and bush walks, all led by skilled Maasai trackers and guides with impressive qualifications and certifications. These game drives are conducted within the wildlife-rich Mara North Conservancy and utilize open-sided 4×4 Toyota Landcruisers. 

The vehicles are equipped with three rows of seating, photography stands, and charging sockets for convenience. While most drives are shared with other guests, exclusive game drives are available at an additional cost. The conservancy is home to a wealth of wildlife, including big cats like lions, and serves as one of the prime locations for viewing the great wildebeest migration, which takes place from July to October. For an extra charge, guests can also experience the thrill of a hot-air balloon safari.

A significant advantage of staying in the conservancy is the opportunity to embark on bush walks and evening game drives. The pre-dinner game drives, which use red-light spotlights, provide a chance to discover a different side of wildlife, showcasing nocturnal creatures like predators and the elusive aardvark. The camp also offers guided bush walks that allow for a deeper understanding of the surroundings. 

During these walks, guests can observe animal tracks, intricate micro-ecosystems, and various small flora and fauna. Patrick, the camp’s manager and expert walking guide, along with his Maasai colleagues, will highlight key points of interest as they lead you through the area. Unlike in the Masai Mara National Reserve, these activities are permitted within the private conservancy, allowing for a more immersive experience.

Optional experiences like bush breakfasts and scenic sundowners make these activities even more memorable. Sundowners, in particular, offer a chance to enjoy your favorite drinks and snacks at a beautifully scenic spot, prepared by your guide. Additionally, an unforgettable cultural experience awaits with a visit to a nearby Maasai manyatta. This offers an authentic introduction to Maasai culture and traditions, rounding off your stay with a unique and enriching experience.

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