Actress and conservationist Virginia McKenna records a heart-warming preview message for the new Born Free outdoor cinema experience at Elsa’s Kopje
Guests staying at Elewana Elsa’s Kopje in Meru National Park can now watch the movie Born Free in the surrounds of where it was filmed. What’s more, Elewana are a hugely privileged to have Virginia McKenna record an inspirational and emotionally moving message to preview the film. As the Born Free movie celebrates 60 years since its release, Virginia reflects on the days filming with Joy & George Adamson, how the film influenced the rest of her life and how we can all better share our natural world with precious wildlife.
Meru National Park is also celebrating 60 years since it was established in 1966. Recent years have seen a remarkable comeback for wildlife since the 1980’s when poaching posed a real threat to conservation in the area. Today the park boasts a thriving rhino sanctuary with both eastern black and southern white rhinos as well as a healthy lion population. Much of that is down to the hard work of the Born Free foundation in conjunction with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and support from Elewana and Elsa’s Kopje, the only permanent lodge in Meru National Park.
The new open-air cinema set up allows viewers to sit back and relax on bean bags or enjoy their evening meal at a table setting, whilst absorbing the captivating story of how Joy and George raised and released Elsa the lioness. It is not uncommon for guests to hear the roar of Elsa’s descendants in the background as the movie plays on.
Last year Elsa’s Kopje underwent a major refurbishment programme with upgrades to all guest suites. The spacious Private House was elevated with a luxurious new bath and redesigned outdoor shower. Communal areas reflect the same attention to detail: the main and private pools have been refinished with terrazzo tiles, offering a refreshed setting for relaxation between game drives. A new in-house sundowner space provides the perfect stage for evening G&Ts overlooking Meru’s vast wilderness. The spa has been expanded offering a more spacious retreat for wellness rituals in a tranquil setting.
The lodge’s updated culinary direction celebrates Kenya’s rich gastronomic traditions, blending comfort and authenticity. From slow-simmered local stews and grilled meats to elevated breakfasts featuring yoghurt parfaits, fresh pastries, and vibrant garden fare, each dish is a reflection of the surrounding land and its culture.
For more information on Elsa’s Kopje and the Elewana Collection please visit