In an era where responsible travel has become paramount, eco-tourism stands as a beacon of sustainable adventure. At JourneyPalette, we're proud to partner with conservation-focused properties that combine wildlife protection with exceptional guest experiences. Kenya’s diverse landscapes, from sprawling savannahs to remote conservancies, are home to some of the most unique eco-friendly lodges and camps. Here are the top five eco-tourism destinations that have perfected the balance of luxury, sustainability, and community involvement. Each of these destinations offers a distinctive take on conservation and culture, making them ideal choices for conscientious travellers seeking both adventure and impact.
1. The Elewana Collection
Countries: Kenya, Tanzania
Focus: Boutique eco-luxury lodges across iconic East African landscapes.
Overview
Elewana, meaning “harmony” in Swahili, offers 16 boutique lodges, camps, and hotels that immerse guests in East Africa’s natural wonders and warm hospitality. Elewana’s properties prioritize luxury, comfort, and authentic experiences while embracing eco-friendly operations and cultural preservation. With accommodations in premier wildlife destinations, Elewana ensures guests enjoy an indulgent yet sustainable safari experience.
Kenya Properties
- Elephant Pepper Camp (Masai Mara, Mara North Conservancy): Set among the acacias, this camp offers a close connection to nature with solar-powered tents and minimal environmental impact.
- Elsa’s Kopje (Meru National Park): Named after the legendary lioness Elsa, this lodge atop Mughwango Hill offers panoramic views and emphasizes conservation in partnership with Meru’s preservation efforts.
- Lewa Safari Camp & Kifaru House (Lewa Wildlife Conservancy): Located in Lewa, one of the best-known rhino conservancies in Africa, both camps support wildlife protection and community initiatives.
- Loisaba Collection (Loisaba Conservancy): A trio of experiences in Loisaba, including the open-air Star Beds and the luxurious Lodo Springs, offering eco-conscious travellers a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation.
- Tortilis Camp (Amboseli, Kitirua Conservancy): With unobstructed views of Kilimanjaro, this Amboseli gem supports local Maasai communities and has a strong commitment to solar energy and eco-friendly practices.
Why Choose Elewana?
Elewana Collection combines opulence with a low-impact approach, ideal for travelers who want top-tier service, unique accommodations, and a personal connection to East Africa’s wildlife and culture. Each stay supports Elewana’s local conservation and community initiatives, creating a holistic and transformative experience for visitors.
2. Sarara
Country: Kenya
Focus: Community-centered eco-tourism supporting local Samburu communities and wildlife preservation.
Overview
Sarara stands out not just as an eco-tourism destination, but as a cultural experience that supports the Samburu community. Nestled in the remote Mathews Range, Sarara’s properties are set within the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy, offering a rare opportunity to connect with Kenya’s lesser-known yet equally mesmerizing landscapes and traditions.
Kenya Properties
- Sarara Camp: This intimate camp combines luxury tents with natural aesthetics, providing a truly immersive experience surrounded by mountains and abundant wildlife.
- Sarara Treehouses: Elevated treehouses offer sweeping views and a secluded, eco-friendly retreat in the heart of Samburu land.
- Reteti House: Located near the community-run Reteti Elephant Sanctuary, this accommodation gives guests a close look at elephant rescue efforts, with all proceeds directly benefiting local initiatives.
- Sarara Wilderness: Perfect for explorers, this area provides a pristine landscape for walking safaris and cultural interactions with Samburu guides who share their traditions.
Why Choose Sarara?
Sarara offers travellers a way to directly support conservation and community projects, making each stay a positive contribution to the local Samburu people and wildlife. It’s an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure for those who want both luxury and impact.
3. Great Plains Conservation
Countries: Kenya, Botswana, Zimbabwe
Focus: Luxury safaris with a conservation-first approach, designed by National Geographic filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert.
Overview
Known for some of Africa’s most carefully crafted safari experiences, Great Plains Conservation offers a “Luxury, Naturally” ethos, seamlessly blending opulent accommodations with environmentally-conscious practices. Their camps, certified by Relais & Châteaux, uphold world-class standards in design and service, making them a perfect choice for travellers looking to experience East Africa’s wild beauty with a purpose.
Kenya Properties
Reserve Collection Camps
- Mara Plains Camp: Set in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, this camp provides an exclusive, eco-conscious safari experience designed with local materials and solar power.
- Mara Nyika Camp & The Sambuk Suite: Blending into the savannah, Mara Nyika’s luxurious tents offer a secluded experience with a focus on big cat conservation.
- Ol Donyo Lodge (Chyulu Hills): Featuring views of Kilimanjaro, this lodge provides a refined, eco-friendly experience that supports local Maasai communities.
- Shompole Camp: Set within the private Shompole Conservancy, the camp combines eco-conscious design with incredible game viewing.
Why Choose Great Plains?
Each Great Plains camp is a handcrafted oasis that balances comfort with sustainability, ensuring travellers contribute to conservation. Led by conservation visionaries, Great Plains delivers a unique safari that prioritizes cultural understanding and environmental preservation.
4. Porini Camps
Country: Kenya
Focus: Low-impact camps that prioritize wildlife conservation and empower Maasai communities.
Overview
Porini Camps focuses on providing authentic, eco-conscious safari experiences within private conservancies. Known for minimal environmental impact, Porini Camps operate in partnership with local Maasai communities, ensuring that tourism directly benefits conservation and cultural preservation efforts.
Kenya Properties
- Porini Lion Camp (Olare Motorogi Conservancy): A big-cat haven, this camp offers guided walks with Maasai warriors, making it a favorite for wildlife photographers.
- Porini Mara Camp: Located in Ol Kinyei Conservancy, guests can enjoy night safaris and an exclusive, intimate safari setting.
- Porini Amboseli Camp (Selenkay Conservancy): Known for its abundant elephant herds, this camp in Amboseli is ideal for travellers seeking close encounters with nature and culture.
- Porini Rhino Camp (Ol Pejeta Conservancy): A front-row seat to Kenya’s rhino conservation efforts, guests at Porini Rhino Camp contribute to safeguarding these endangered animals.
Why Choose Porini?
Porini Camps delivers a fully immersive experience that educates and inspires guests to appreciate Kenya’s delicate ecosystems. Each camp contributes to environmental conservation, ensuring your stay makes a tangible difference.
5. Sanctuary Retreats
Countries: Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, Egypt
Focus: Boutique safari lodges that prioritize authenticity, luxury, and environmental stewardship.
Overview
Sanctuary Retreats has crafted a series of lodges that embody “Luxury, Naturally,” bringing travellers close to nature while providing a refined, eco-conscious experience. With locations in remote and remarkable areas, each Sanctuary property is designed to create minimal environmental impact.
Kenya Properties
- Sanctuary Olonana (Masai Mara): Set along the Mara River, Olonana’s spacious suites and eco-friendly operations offer travellers an elegant, immersive experience while respecting the delicate Mara ecosystem.
- Sanctuary Tambarare (Ol Pejeta Conservancy): Located within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, this camp supports rhino conservation and offers guests guided bush walks, a rare chance to get close to Africa’s endangered wildlife.
Why Choose Sanctuary Retreats?
Sanctuary Retreats excels in providing sustainable luxury in breathtaking environments. Every stay at a Sanctuary property contributes to their conservation initiatives and community projects, giving travellers a luxurious yet conscious way to experience Kenya’s natural beauty.
Book Your Eco-Tourism Experience with JourneyPalette
As your dedicated partner in sustainable travel, JourneyPalette offers:
- Expert guidance in selecting the perfect eco-friendly destination
- Exclusive rates and special offers
- Direct support for conservation initiatives
- Seamless booking experience
Ready to embark on a sustainable safari adventure? Contact JourneyPalette today to explore these remarkable destinations while contributing to vital conservation efforts across Africa.
Call/Whatsapp +254754600177
Email: info@journeypalette.co.ke
Website: www.journeypalette.co.ke
