Since its beginnings in 1986 with the Maasai Mara’s Rekero Camp, Asilia has become a respected name in the safari industry. Asilia Africa operates exceptional safaris showcasing the very best of East Africa. The Swahili words ‘authentic’ and ‘genuine’ aptly describe our name.
Asilia Africa operates 17 high-end camps and lodges throughout Kenya and Tanzania, with Erebero Hills opening in Uganda in 2026, introducing gorilla trekking to Asilia’s offering. Today, we are a leading safari operator with 17 bespoke camps and lodges across Kenya, Tanzania, and most recently, Uganda, employing over 1000 people.
The Asilia brand represents reliability and value for money, with well-located properties that deliver a balanced safari experience. Asilia accommodation includes eco-friendly lodges and tented camps set in wildlife-rich reserves in Kenya and Tanzania as well as on tropical Zanzibar.
As the company owns a diverse collection of properties in some of Africa’s most popular wildlife-viewing areas, an East Africa circuit combining several Asilia camps presents great value and a seamless experience throughout. Our properties across Kenya and Tanzania focus on providing a lasting positive impact to local communities and conserving wilderness areas.
That was an easy dare for a longtime travel journalist, but once we got into the bush, curiosity trumped any need to play my role. But I learned more-and saw more-in my first few hours in Luraschi’s company, as a guest of Asilia Africa’s Kwihala Camp in Ruaha, than I had on all my previous trips. And that’s what Asilia’s 16 camps in Tanzania and Kenya are all about.
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The company was founded by former Ker & Downey directors who wanted to get guests deeper into Africa-the name Asilia means “authentic” in Swahili. So while Luraschi is a freelancer, whose latest four-month stint with Asilia just ended, he’s indicative of the outfitter’s priorities, and the caliber of people it hires.
There are no distractions like elaborate champagne breakfasts or lantern-lit dinners in the bush. While there’s a cooler in the backseat with the fixings for gin and tonics, sundowners aren’t the point. If you come upon a pride of ten young lions that want to hang out by the Land Cruiser, or a curious elephant checking out the vehicle’s grille with her trunk, as we did, you stay put and watch.
“They’re less about fancy space than good experience. Kwihala, which Asilia took over six months ago, proves her point. The six tents are simple, of the canvas-floor variety that can be packed up and moved every so often, leaving no evidence of having been there. The camp’s decor, chic as it is, isn’t as noteworthy as the fact that it’s there at all, since virtually no one else is.
Even when Asilia opened its flagship “camp,” the 15-“tent” Sayari in the northern Serengeti, ten years ago, that was somewhat off the most heavily beaten path. Now almost all of the Serengeti is crowded, especially during the wildebeest migration, but Asilia still offers one of the best perspectives.
In another corner of Asilia’s portfolio is Rubondo Island Camp, the only camp in that national park. The island is a grand experiment: In the 1960s, German zoologist Bernhard Grzimek set out to make Rubondo a Noah’s Ark on land. He brought in elephants, giraffes, chimpanzees, rhinos and all sorts of birds that had been rescued from captivity.
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The rhinos have sadly been poached, and the chimps are not yet habituated (though the process is under way), but the island is a weirdo wonderland. After Asilia took over this camp two years ago, they upgraded the eight rooms to have solid walls (with tent-like “front doors”) and fantastic plumbing. They just added an open-air room that lets guests see the sunset unencumbered and sleep right amid the trees (after an alfresco soak in a dreamy copper bathtub). The dining room and lounge are vibrant and welcoming, and the laid-back schedule is a relief after days of 6am game drives.
That means guests get to sleep in before setting out on bush walks, bird-watching cruises, or, especially, sport-fishing for Nile perch on Lake Victoria. Asilia is resolutely conservation minded, so the fishing is catch-and-release, but reeling in a 47-inch, 60-pound Nile perch within my first hour on the boat was more than satisfying. Even without a lot of culinary bells and whistles, I had no doubt that I’d be well fed-my mind as well as my stomach.
These safari destinations host some of the world’s most iconic and endangered wildlife, such as elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and flamingo. Conservation-focused wildlife safaris aim to address these challenges by supporting conservation efforts, such as anti-poaching patrols, wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, and community education.
They also empower the local people, especially women and children, by providing employment opportunities, income generation, skills development, and access to education and health care. Conservation-focused wildlife safaris also offer a unique and rewarding experience for the visitors, who can witness the beauty and diversity of nature, learn about the culture and history of the local people, and contribute to the conservation and development of the destinations.
Asilia Africa is a safari company dedicated to eco-friendly tourism and conservation travel, and is firmly committed to the well-being of local communities and wildlife in Africa. Our lodges are designed to run primarily on solar power, recycle wastewater, and cultivate organic food. When you explore Africa’s stunning wildlife and landscapes with us, you’ll support the people who work to protect them.
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One of our lodges that offers an immersive, conservation-driven experience is Usangu Expedition Camp, located in the Usangu Wetlands in the remote south of Ruaha National Park. By including Usangu Expedition Camp in your safari itinerary, you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of the wetlands and support efforts to study and protect this fragile ecosystem.
Asilia recognises the importance of supporting the people and wildlife of East Africa. Our conservation efforts are inseparable from the future of these fantastic countries. Asilia supports several projects that make a difference in the lives of the local people and wildlife.
The Maa Trust empowers the younger generation with education, career guidance, and opportunities. The Honeyguide Foundation established Tanzania’s only K9 anti-poaching dog unit, and we are restoring vital ecosystems like the Usangu Wetlands. Asilia invests boldly in the areas that need them most, protecting endangered species such as lion, elephant, and cheetah. Booking an African conservation experience with Asilia is an incredible and life-changing experience. It also contributes to these worthy conservation and community projects.
Asilia cares about the people and the places you visit, so join us on an Asilia safari and discover the beauty and bounty of East Africa. Asilia Lodges & Camps is a small group of authentic properties throughout East Africa. The Asilia philosophy focuses not on the luxurious extras of the accommodation, but rather on the safari experience, the quality of guiding, personalised service and fine food.
Asilia strives to be a role model in sustainable tourism and seeks to create lasting positive impacts on both the natural habitats and the economies of the people in the areas in which they have a presence. Dreaming of a trip to East Africa?
We have earned a reputation for providing exceptional safari experiences alongside a steadfast dedication to empowerment. An ensemble of passionate individuals possessing a rich and abiding history in East Africa’s safari industry founded Asilia Africa. Our legacy began with Rekero Camp in 1986 and Oliver’s Camp in 1992. Driven by a commitment to the region and a desire to make a meaningful impact, we joined forces in 2004 to create Asilia.
Embarking on an Asilia safari signifies more than staying in our luxurious camps. It’s about being part of a movement that believes in the power of tourism to establish lasting positive change. Asilia is a member of the Nawiri Group. This B Corp Certified organisation brings together responsible travel companies, local communities, and expert partners to deliver an all-inclusive, equitable and sustainable positive influence where needed across East Africa.
By choosing Asilia for your safari adventures, you become a crucial element of our wildlife conservation and local community initiatives, helping to preserve the precious wilderness areas of East Africa and the traditions and lifestyles of the local people. Feel closer with Asilia's authentic safaris in iconic wilderness locations that make a genuine difference to local communities and conservation.
Read more about our unparalleled safaris through the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya, Tanzania, and beyond. Proudly we share our earned accolades, reflecting the dedication of our passionate teams in crafting and delivering unparalleled safari experiences across East Africa. Should you be looking for a meaningful and fulfilling career in hospitality and wildlife conservation while fostering trusting relationships with and enhancing the lives of our local communities, Asilia is the place for you.
Dive into our latest editions where every page brings you closer to the untamed wonders of East Africa. The Asilia Edit. Ready. Set. Four carefully crafted Small Group Tours. Seamless journeys, hosted by specialist guides, shared with like-minded travellers. Asilia Africa promises to offer genuine safaris that make a genuine difference.
Namiri is a stylish camp with a remote location and phenomenal wildlife, including a healthy big cat population. A reliable luxury camp in the northern Serengeti and an excellent spot for witnessing the Great Migration, as it’s so close to the Mara River. Asilia’s flagship camp is Sayari in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. This camp has a superb location close to the Mara River, which is ideal for viewing dramatic wildlife crossings during the annual Great Migration. Oliver’s Camp in Tarangire National Park is also popular due to its remote, crowd-free setting and walking safaris led by first-rate professional guides.
Asilia also has some luxurious, exclusive-use private residences that cater perfectly for family or group travel.
Asilia Camps and Lodges in East Africa:
| Country | Camps/Lodges |
|---|---|
| Tanzania |
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| Kenya |
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| Uganda (Opening 2026) |
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Map of Asilia Africa Camps in East Africa
Asilia's Commitment to Conservation and Community
A core part of the brand is its ecotourism credentials and support for purposeful travel. It’s a proud member of the Namiri Group, which unites responsible travel companies to support social and environmental initiatives, including healthcare, education, conservation, and employment.
Asilia Africa's Conservation Efforts in East Africa
Key Conservation Projects Supported by Asilia:
- The Maa Trust: Empowers the younger generation with education and career guidance.
- The Honeyguide Foundation: Established Tanzania’s only K9 anti-poaching dog unit.
- Usangu Wetlands Restoration: Restoring vital ecosystems.
Our People - Rubondo Island Camp, Asilia Africa
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