Serengeti Explorer by Elewana is now open, marking the launch of Elewana Collection’s new Explorer brand.

Located high in the Nyaboro Hills of Tanzania, the property delivers views of the Serengeti plains and gives guests access to one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems and The Great Migration.

Operating for more than two decades, Elewana has a collection of 15 luxury properties across East Africa. Its new Explorer brand collection of upscale safari lodges is designed to cater to a wider audience through a more moderate price point and an increased range of activities on property.

The property, which has 68 guestrooms and six suites, occupies the site of the previous Serengeti Sopa Lodge and its reconstruction did not cause any unnecessary disruption to the environment. The room count was kept the same so as not to add population pressure to the fragile ecosystem. All accommodations have private balconies with views of the Serengeti. Options include interconnecting rooms and rooms with wheelchair access.

Serengeti Explorer is home to the Serengeti’s first ever on-site hide overlooking a watering hole. Accessed through an underground tunnel from the lodge, the hide allows guests to view wildlife without traveling far from base.

Drink and dine options at the property include:

• a chef’s table within the property’s extensive wine cellar with an on-site sommelier;
• a Boma restaurant offering a bush dinner of African and Swahili signature dishes under the Serengeti sky;
• a main restaurant;
• a poolside bistro and bar;
• a deli;
• and a coffee shop.

Serengeti Explorer also has a stargazing deck, a children’s bushcraft center, and an outdoor cinema showing African movie classics as well as more current releases.

“The launch of Explorer by Elewana marks an exciting milestone for our group. This upscale safari lodge concept, set in the renowned wildlife-rich regions of Northern Tanzania, fills a unique niche by targeting the needs and price point of the mid-market safari guest,” said Karim Wissanji, Group CEO and chairman, Elewana. “Explorer promises a range of immersive safari experiences within World Heritage-designated natural landscapes. Consistent with every Elewana property, Explorer will be characterized by exemplary service, remarkable wildlife encounters, and a deep connection to nature. Our commitment to conservation and community engagement, a cornerstone of our ethos, will continue to be at the heart of everything we do.”