Taking the road to one of Africa’s Greatest Wildlife Reserves, the Masaai Mara is definitely one of the most breathtaking and memorable experience tourists could ever have. The silent sounds of electric safari vehicles powered by solar energy welcome guests to this humble tourism destination.
Located in the Masaai Mara Game Reserve along a river bend is one of the world’s first carbon-free eco-lodge, Emboo River. By applying innovation and technology, Emboo river is offering guests a luxurious stay in the centre of nature.
“Maintaining a high level of tourist satisfaction, raising their awareness about sustainability issues and promoting sustainable tourism practices made us go all in on all matters sustainability,” says William Partois Ole Santian, Managing Director of Emboo River.
The lodge is the first one in Kenya to have its entire fleet of safari vehicles powered by solar energy. This was after converting its old engines to electric engines. The vehicles do not emit any hazardous gases and enhances the game viewing experience for guests.
“The biggest draw card for safari-goers is that electric vehicles are almost completely silent. It is a whole new experience to drive through the bushes noiselessly, minimizing the disturbance for wildlife and adding to the enjoyment of the guests,” says William.
In addition to the solar-powered vehicles, Emboo river’s eco mission includes natural lagoons that filter and recycle 100% of wastewater, delicious farm to fork meals with ingredients from their own organic vegetable garden and an eco-friendly kitchen with a stove fueled by biogas generated from the lodge’s organic waste.
“We have two lagoons with six species of local plants that clean 100% of wastewater. This is extremely hydro-thrifty because we have reduced the water consumption by 85%,” added William.
When implementing their sustainable vision, Emboo river was told that it was impossible, too costly, and that the transition would cost them greatly. However, they believe that sustainable tourism is possible if one sets their mind to it.
“Emboo river is making sustainable operations more transparent and showing the tourism industry that it is possible to be eco-friendly. We have made sustainability efforts that highlight numbers behind our innovations,” explains William.
By sharing these numbers, Emboo river is showcasing that sustainable operations are business savvy and financially viable, with short payback periods on investments and enormous saved operational costs.
The team is striving to inspire businesses, community organisations, and individuals to make their lifestyles more sustainable as they share experiences.
