"The Spirit of Elsa" Safari
An Adventure into the Land of "Born Free"

The Meru and Kora National Parks in Kenya exist to a large extent because of the work of "Born Free" legends, George and Joy Adamson. Today, through the unique "Spirit of Elsa Safari," it is possible to experience the essence of the Adamson's lives, work, and legacy. Led by "Lion Man" Gareth Patterson, author, environmentalist, and the person who continued George Adamson's lion rehabilitation work, the "Spirit of Elsa" Safari takes you into the land of the lion, the land of "Born Free," an experience unique in Africa today. Based from the exclusive Elsa's Kopje in Meru National Park, you will experience an adventure of the Africa of old, an Africa where no fences restrict the movements of the wildlife, an Africa where the rhythms of life take place as they always have.

Itinerary- The Spirit of Elsa Safari

Day One
Depart from Nairobi in private charter to Elsa's Kopje in the Meru National Park. Overnight on a fully inclusive basis. Meru National Park is untamed Africa at its most alluring, where the landscape is wild and dense green ribbons of vegetation run through dry valleys. Here the private retreat of Elsa's Kopje is perched on top of Mugwongo Hill, the site of George Adamson's first camp. The name Elsa's Kopje was chosen for Elsa, the orphaned lioness reared by Joy and George who eventually returned to the wild in Meru. Each of the eight spacious, open, thatched, private cottages have been designed individually, incorporating the rocks into the structure and offering a 270 degree view of the surrounding park. The simple luxury of the rooms has been carried through to the cool, spacious sitting/dining area which itself opens onto the stunning drop-off swimming pool. Italian influenced cuisine and understated friendly service are the order of the day. Late afternoon sunset. Drinks from a viewpoint followed by dinner and the "Last of the Free" slide presentation at the lodge by Gareth Patterson

Day Two
Explore Kora in search of the Adamson lion pride. This is an all day safari, which includes visiting George Adamson's old camp and the majestic Kora rock. Overnight accommodation on a fully inclusive basis will be in Kora in a specially prepared private tented camp on the banks of the Tana River. The private tented camp will be pitched in advance by a safari team travelling ahead. The 9x14 foot canvas, insect proof tents have sewn-in ground sheets and verandas. Comfortable full frame metal beds with foam mattresses, fresh linen, blankets and towels are found inside. Each tent will also have a private hot shower and toilet.

Day Three
Continue to explore the Kora National Park, tracking lion and other wildlife before spending the afternoon on the banks of Tana River, fishing, birding or simply relaxing. Return to Kora private tented camp for overnight on a fully inclusive basis.

Day Four
Spend the final day exploring Meru, visiting the grave of the legendary lioness Elsa, made famous by the book Born Free, as well as other features of the National Park. Returning to Elsa's Kopje in the late afternoon. In the evening there will be a documentary presentation "Born to be Free"- the story of how Gareth returned George Adamson's last three orphaned lion cubs to the wilds. Overnight Elsa's Kopje on a fully inclusive basis.

Day Five
Morning game drive before the return private charter flight to Nairobi.

Cost: USD2200.00 per person sharing NETT USD170.00 single room supplement

Included: Private charter in Cessna Caravan, return lodge transfers, accommodation at Elsa's Kopje and in the fly camp including all meals, all drinks (except champagne), drive from Elsa's to Kora Fly Camp Park, entrance fees, all game drives and game walks, membership to the Flying Doctors Society Laundry at Elsa's Kopje, Tour Guide: Gareth Patterson "Last of the Free" slide presentation by Gareth Patterson, "Born to be Free" documentary presentation by Gareth Patterson

Excluded: visa fees, gratuities, activities not included in the itinerary, international flight & international airport taxes

Departure Dates: ex Nairobi 4th October 2000 8th November 2000

For Further Information Contact:

Nicci Lenferna at Falcon Africa Safaris:
Tel: 27 + 11 + 886-1981
Fax: 27 + 11 + 886-1778
E-mail: nicci@falcon-africa.co.za
PO Box 3490, Randburg, 2125
South Africa
Falcon Africa Safaris
"We Know the Territory"

Read more about the time Gareth spent with George Adamson:

The Lion's Legacy
Where the Lion Walked
Gareth at Kora