In the heart of every bold endeavour lies a hint of madness, a whisper from the universe that propels us beyond the extraordinary. Reimagining and entirely recreating a camp that had barely celebrated its second anniversary wasn’t just a decision—it was a declaration of our commitment to a dream, a testament to the Ishara spirit that pulses at the heart of what we do. Why, you might wonder? Because we believe in the power of dreams to reshape reality.
Nine months is time enough for the seeds of reinvention to burgeon into full bloom and for the pen to script a fresh, unwritten chapter laden with promise and possibility. The path we embarked upon wasn’t merely about making changes; it was about elevating each experience even further. We poured our hearts and souls into meticulously crafting each corner, infusing every nook with love, and sprinkling magic in the air, eagerly awaiting the moment we can share this reborn sanctuary with you. The journey has been transformative, not just for the camp but for each of us involved in this labour of love.
Stepping into Ishara, you now discover a labyrinth of pathways that weave through the very essence of the camp. As you meander across bridges and elevated walkways that soar through the lush tree canopies, the forest comes alive in a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents. Every direction you turn invites you to engage with nature in an intimate, immersive manner, transcending the typical safari and propelling you into the sublime.
Wellness stands at the core of our ethos, embedding a deeper, more holistic journey into the heart of the wild. Picture yourself emerging from a refreshing swim in our brand-new heated pool, or elevating your fitness regime in our expanded gym with views of the sprawling plains.
Aya Spa beckons you into a world of tranquility and indulgent treatments among the treetops, with two thoughtfully designed treatment realms—one dedicated to exfoliations, soaks, and signature therapies, the other offering the cocooning warmth of wraps complemented by the cascade of a Vichy hydro shower. It is here, amidst the whispering foliage and the soothing cadence of nature’s own melodies that you will find a space designed to rejuvenate the soul, invigorate the senses, and invite moments of reflection and renewal.
A brand-new yoga and meditation deck offers a novel vantage point—not just physically elevated, but elevated in thought and spirit. This deck is a space for contemplation and serenity, where the clamour and chaos of everyday life fade into the background, replaced by the rhythmic breathing of the forest and the heartbeat of the earth. And with the guidance of our yoga instructor, whose expertise and passion for wellness will illuminate your path, this deck is more than a physical space—it is a catalyst for awakenings.
For those yearning for a revitalising escape, Ishara introduces our Nordic spa that offers an exhilarating contrast with its elevated sauna, cold plunge, and hot tub overlooking the spectacle of the Posee Plains. This stunning architectural addition offers a new aesthetic to the Ishara wellness space and promises an experience that will make your heart soar.
At Ishara, photography goes beyond the provision of complimentary cameras and lenses, Canon certified guides, or indulging in the luxury of private game drives that give you the freedom to explore as you please. It is not merely about being accompanied by world-class resident professionals who are as fun and engaging as they are accomplished, and goes deeper than the spirit of adventure and the warmth of camaraderie that make every moment unforgettable. At its core, it is about making your safari experience—regardless if it is your first or your tenth time—into something profoundly remarkable, allowing you to truly be yourself in the most genuine sense.
Our new photo studio, with views that serve as both muse and backdrop, invites you to join our vibrant community of creatives, where the exchange of ideas and the passion for photography illuminate new pathways in the pursuit of artistic learning and excellence.
Considered a quintessential dining journey comparable to the finest restaurants in the world, an even larger kitchen is set to further broaden the spectrum of gourmet experiences on offer at Ishara, and our team of passionate culinary masterminds is ready to craft meals that will linger in your memory and make your gastronomic dreams come true. Our ‘Shamba of Goodness’ aeroponic tower farm now also features a garden extension with an interactive kitchen, an ideal spot for culinary exploration and joy.
The Pangolin Cellar emerges as a captivating new addition to our dining enclave, drawing its inspiration from the enigmatic and endangered pangolin. This unique wine cellar is not merely a space; it is an homage to the rare, the treasured, and the profoundly special, blending the essence of conservation with the art of winemaking. Architecturally stunning, the Pangolin Cellar stands as an exquisite feature, enhancing the charm of our main dining area with its presence.
Adjacent to our bar, a new al fresco fireplace and lounge beckon. Here, in the glow of the flickering flames, surrounded by the symphony of the wilderness, stories unfold, and memories are woven.
Our Observation Deck, now expansively redesigned, invites an array of vibrant experiences under the limitless canvas of the sky—from sundowners, candlelit dinners and intimate proposals to exploratory star quests and quiet time spent in nature.
Meanwhile, the Starbed whispers tales of romance and enchantment, now featuring a deck extension with a magnificent stone bathtub, adding to the allure of this magical place and placing it firmly at the pinnacle of any safari bucket list.
Several of our River Suites are now tucked away in the embrace of the forest with views of the river and plains, serving as a sanctuary for those seeking an intimate connection with the great outdoors. Our newly enhanced Villa Suite, replete with its vast heated infinity pool and fire deck, invites you to revel in a luxurious escape.
Amidst the transformation and progressive enhancements lies an essence that continues to define our unique haven. It is steeped in the genuine warmth and love of our people, and the thorough attention to detail that ensures every experience is as flawless as it is unforgettable. Here, you are not confined by schedules or itineraries; rather, you are given the freedom to explore, to be, and to connect on your terms, in a way that feels most natural to you.
The air is filled with the potent, unmistakable aura of magic once again. We can’t wait to welcome you back to Ishara.
Photo credits: Eric Averdung, Imara Njeri