Elewana is defined by a deep-rooted commitment to the landscapes we call home. We believe that true luxury is inseparable from the health of our environment and the well-being of our neighbors. Our impact is a living story of conservation and community, woven into every guest experience to ensure that the wild heart of East Africa beats strongly for generations to come.
The name Elewana derives from the Swahili word meaning “harmony” - a core philosophy that shapes every unforgettable safari experience we deliver.
Our purpose is to drive sustainable change across Africa's ecosystems and communities. This vital mission is championed by our dedicated sustainability arm, the Land & Life Foundation.
As Elewana’s commitment to responsible tourism, Land & Life ensures future generations can continue to experience the wonders of the African bush. Believing that the survival of East Africa’s wildlife depends on empowering those who live alongside it, Land & Life secures critical habitats, protects endangered species, supports local education, and delivers healthcare. These goals are achieved through four core pillars: the Wildlife Warrior Program, School Support, Medical Support, and the Nature Conservation Program.
Our Sustainability Ethos has 3 Main Pillars
Pillar 1: Environmental Management & Conservation
Overall Goal: To minimise our environmental impact, reduce our carbon footprint and support biodiversity efforts.
Elewana protects over 1.36 million acres of vital wilderness across East Africa. By pioneering “Parks Beyond Parks,” we safeguard habitats outside nationally protected areas, ensuring a future for vulnerable species. Our lodges operate with a "light footprint" philosophy, utilizing state-of-the-art solar technology, battery storage, and strict zero-waste systems to ensure minimal emissions.
Since 2018, our ‘Ban the Bottle’ initiative has prevented over 160,000 plastic bottles annually from entering landfills. From eliminating single-use plastics to sourcing artisanal produce from our own on-site ‘shambas,’ we ensure our presence preserves the pristine nature of the savanna. We are proud that our lodges are designed to have as little impact as possible on their surroundings.
Pillar 2: Impact Driven Community Development & School Support
Overall Goal: To improve the quality of life of the communities we operate in, whilst ensuring they ultimately become the owners and managers of these efforts.
We believe that conservation only succeeds when local communities thrive. By employing up to 75% of our staff from neighboring areas, we provide stable livelihoods that reduce reliance on unpredictable agriculture. Beyond employment, we invest in infrastructure—providing clean water, regenerative farming tools, and education to build long-term resilience against food insecurity and conflict.
Through the Land & Life Foundation, we mentor the next generation of conservationists. By fostering a deep-seated passion for wildlife in young minds, we ensure that those living alongside these legendary landscapes become their ultimate guardians. Our goal is to inspire these communities to preserve East Africa’s rich heritage for the benefit of generations yet to come.
Pillar 3: Social Enterprise Growth
Overall Goal: Meaningfully impact the lives of people living from economically underserved communities, including people with disabilities, to enable them to become a positive force for change.
Our commitment to social enterprise combines commercial success with a profound mission to maximize human potential. At the heart of this is Shanga, based at Arusha Coffee Lodge. This circular-economy workshop employs people with disabilities to create world-class glassware and jewelry from recycled materials, proving that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and dignified life.
Beyond Shanga, we actively partner with small-scale artisans and agricultural start-ups across our ecosystem. By providing skills training and a direct market through our retail shops and lodges, we turn local talent into sustainable businesses. All profits from these products are reinvested back into the enterprise, ensuring our growth serves as a permanent engine for social empowerment.
