Our Story
At Enashipai, It is Everything
Our name, Enashipai, comes from the Maasai language and means “a place of happiness.”
It reflects a belief rooted in this land that happiness grows from connection, from community, and from feeling welcomed just as you are. This belief quietly guides how we host, how we serve, and how we relate to one another. Rooted in land, water, and memory, Enashipai is held together by people with heart and purpose. Here, every connection becomes a story worth returning to.
From the beginning, our people have been at the centre of Enashipai. Their warmth shapes the welcome, their care gives meaning to every stay.
Here, our warm African hospitality is not a performance; it is instinctive, generous, and deeply human. It lives in genuine smiles, service that is intuitive and seamless, and the simple act of making every guest feel seen, comfortable, and at home.
Enashipai stands along the gentle waters of Lake Naivasha, where the land opens wide and life feels balanced. This is a place where families come to bond, where time is shared easily and memories are made naturally. It is where friends reconnect, returning to one another through conversation, laughter, and easy moments together sometimes even dancing.
It is also a place where colleagues gather with purpose to think clearly, to collaborate, and to move forward in an environment that allows space for focus and ease. Here, business and leisure are not divided; they exist comfortably side by side, supported by calm surroundings and thoughtful design. Inspired by the original custodians of this land and shaped by the rhythms of the Great Rift Valley, Enashipai was created as a place of gathering a place to pause, to celebrate, to reflect, and to restore.
Wellness here is not prescribed; it is experienced naturally, through space, nourishment, movement, and moments of calm. It is in these moments simple, intentional, and deeply felt that Enashipai reveals itself. And then…
Enashipai stays with you long after you have left in the memories you carry, the shared smiles, and a sense of belonging that lingers. This is Enashipai! A place of happiness. A place to return to.
Our Timeline
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2011
The Beginning
Enashipai Resort & Spa opens its doors along the shores of Lake Naivasha, founded on a simple yet powerful belief — to create a place of happiness, rooted in connection, hospitality, and a deep sense of welcome.
At opening:
- 40 guest rooms (Fountain Executive Rooms)
- 80-pax conference room (Palm Conference Room)
- 4 weddings hosted, marking the beginning of Enashipai as a place of celebration and shared moments
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2012
A Year of Wellness and Community
In 2012, Enashipai’s story deepens with the opening of Siyara Spa, marking an important moment in the resort’s journey. Wellness becomes more intentional — woven more deeply into the Enashipai experience through moments of pause, restoration, and renewal. Siyara Spa enhances this philosophy, offering guests space to slow down, reconnect, and restore in a way that feels natural and unforced.
That same year, Enashipai extends its sense of purpose beyond the resort by hosting the inaugural Naivasha Fashion Weekend. The event brings together creativity, community, and celebration, with funds raised directed toward charitable causes within Naivasha — reinforcing Enashipai’s belief in connection, responsibility, and giving back. Together, these moments shape 2012 as a year where wellbeing and community come into clearer focus, strengthening Enashipai’s identity as a place of meaningful experiences.
Key Milestones:
- Opening of Siyara Spa, enriching the resort’s wellness offering
- Host of the inaugural Naivasha Fashion Weekend, with proceeds supporting charities in Naivasha
- Growing leisure stays from families and weekend travellers
- Increased use of conference facilities as organisations seek balance between work and wellbeing
- Weddings and social celebrations continue to flourish
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2013
Global Recognition for Hospitality Excellence (Final Version)
In 2013, Enashipai receives global recognition for its high standards of hospitality, when the resort was voted Kenya’s Leading Spa Resort at the World Travel Awards — widely regarded as the Oscars of the travel industry.
This recognition affirms more than a single experience; it reflects Enashipai’s commitment to excellence across the guest journey — from warm African hospitality and intuitive service to wellness, comfort, and thoughtful spaces designed for connection and ease.
As international recognition grows, Enashipai continues to strengthen its role as a place where people gather with purpose. Families return, friendships deepen, and organisations choose Enashipai for meetings and retreats that balance focus with wellbeing.
Key Milestones:
- Voted Kenya’s Leading Spa Resort at the World Travel Awards
- Global recognition for Enashipai’s hospitality standards and guest experience
- Continued growth in conferences, workshops, and corporate retreats
- Increasing number of repeat leisure guests and returning families
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2014
A New Conference Destination Emerges
In 2014, Enashipai reshaped the landscape of meetings and events in Naivasha with the introduction of the Entumo Conference Centre — a 500+ delegate facility designed not simply as a venue, but as a complete conference destination.
With Entumo, Enashipai moves confidently onto the regional and international stage. The centre hosts large-scale gatherings, including a regional Rotary District Conference, alongside other international meetings and events. These moments mark a shift not only for the resort, but for Naivasha itself — positioning the destination as capable, connected, and globally relevant.
This momentum places Enashipai firmly within the MICE landscape, where business gatherings are supported by space, service, wellness, and a setting that allows delegates to work productively while also experiencing genuine rest and balance. Enashipai becomes both a serious conference destination and a sought-after getaway.
As a result of the growing number of international events hosted in Naivasha, the destination gains recognition from ICCA (International Congress and Convention Association). In 2014, Naivasha rises to No. 2 in Kenya after Nairobi and enters the Top 10 conference destinations in Africa — a milestone that reflects Enashipai’s role in elevating the region.
Key Milestones:
- Opening of the Entumo Conference Centre (500+ delegate capacity)
- Hosting of a regional Rotary District Conference and other international events
- Enashipai emerges as a competitive MICE destination and leisure getaway
- ICCA recognition, ranking Naivasha No. 2 in Kenya and Top 10 in Africa
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2015
A Year of Global Recognition and Landmark Moments
In 2015, Enashipai’s position as a leading hospitality brand is firmly cemented on the global stage. The resort receives the World Travel Award for the third time, achieving a rare hat trick that affirms consistency, excellence, and enduring guest trust. This milestone reinforces Enashipai’s reputation as one of Kenya’s most respected hospitality destinations.
The year is also marked by a powerful landmark moment when Akon visits Enashipai Resort & Spa to headline the Airtel Trace Music Star Pan-African Grand Finale, hosted at the Entumo Conference Centre. Finalists from across Africa gather in Naivasha, with the overall winner receiving a recording deal with Kon Live and mentorship under Akon’s guidance — placing Enashipai at the centre of a continent-wide cultural moment.
Alongside global recognition and high-profile events, 2015 also captures Enashipai’s spirit in a more playful, human way. Inspired by the viral global trend around Pharrell Williams’ “Happy”, Enashipai creates an in-house corporate video, joining thousands of organisations worldwide who danced, lip-synced, and celebrated workplace culture through the song. The video becomes a joyful expression of team spirit, positivity, and shared belief — a reminder that happiness at Enashipai is not just a promise to guests, but a value lived daily by the people behind the scenes.
In a year defined by awards, icons, and global attention, this moment of collective joy reflects the heart of the brand — authentic, confident, and unapologetically happy.
Key Milestones:
- World Travel Award win for the third time, creating a hat trick
- Enashipai’s position cemented as a leading hospitality brand in Kenya
- Host venue for the Airtel Trace Music Star Pan-African Grand Finale
- Visit by Akon, headlining and mentoring finalists from across Africa
- Creation of Enashipai’s “Happy” viral corporate video, celebrating team culture and happiness
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2016
A New Level of Luxury, Five Years In
In 2016, Enashipai introduces a new level of luxury with the addition of 16 villas, marking an evolution in the resort’s accommodation offering. This milestone is accompanied by the launch of a refined room category — the Honeymoon / One-Bedroom Suite — designed for guests seeking enhanced comfort, space, and a more elevated stay.
This introduction reflects Enashipai’s growing confidence and maturity, responding to the expectations of discerning travellers while remaining true to the warmth and authenticity that define the brand.
The year also sees Enashipai’s role as a continental meeting destination come into sharper focus when the Africa Business Media Innovators (ABMI) Forum, part of the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa (BMIA), is hosted at the Entumo Conference Centre. Media owners, operators, and leaders from across Africa gather in Naivasha to discuss the future of the media industry — from digital transformation and new business models to the rise of social media and the strengthening of business and financial journalism. The forum, recognised as a key driver of media innovation on the continent, further affirms Enashipai’s ability to host high-level, globally relevant conversations.
2016 also marks an important moment of reflection as Enashipai celebrates five years of service. This milestone is commemorated with a colourful golf event at Muthaiga Golf Club, bringing together partners, friends, and stakeholders to honour the journey, the relationships built, and the path ahead.
Key Milestones:
- Introduction of 16 villas, elevating the guest experience
- Launch of the Honeymoon / One-Bedroom Suite, introducing a new level of luxury
- Hosting of the Africa Business Media Innovators (ABMI) Forum at the Entumo Conference Centre, in partnership with Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa
- Celebration of five years of Enashipai
- Commemorative golf event at Muthaiga Golf Club
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2017
Celebrating Place, Pride, and the Journey
In 2017, Enashipai’s story turns deliberately outward — celebrating Naivasha itself and the emotional connection Kenyans have with the places they love.
This introduction reflects Enashipai’s growing confidence and maturity, responding to the expectations of discerning travellers while remaining true to the warmth and authenticity that define the brand.
That year, Enashipai partners with beloved local brand Peperuka to extend the iconic “ME I LOVE KENYA” campaign, introducing the “ME I LOVE NAIVASHA” edition. The collaboration captures a sense of nostalgia, pride, and patriotism, cementing Naivasha’s place as a destination cherished by many. The collection becomes a celebration of identity and belonging, with branded goodies available at the Enashipai gift shop — allowing guests to take a piece of that feeling home.
2017 also marks the launch of the “Road to Enashipai” campaign, inviting travellers to hit the road and rediscover the joy of the journey to Naivasha. The campaign positions Enashipai — and Naivasha — as Nairobi’s favourite road trip destination, reminding guests that the experience begins long before arrival.
Together, these initiatives reinforce Enashipai’s role not just as a resort, but as a storyteller and destination champion — celebrating place, memory, and the simple joy of travel.
Key Milestones:
- Partnership with Peperuka to launch “ME I LOVE NAIVASHA”
- Celebration of Naivasha as a beloved Kenyan destination
- Launch of the “Road to Enashipai” campaign
- Introduction of destination-inspired merchandise at the Enashipai gift shop
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2018
Culture, Partnership, and Five-Star Recognition
In 2018, Enashipai becomes the stage for moments that bring people together through music, purpose, and partnership — while also achieving a defining mark of excellence.
That year, Enashipai hosts the iconic Safaricom International Jazz Festival – Jazz in the Park, in partnership with Safaricom. Two trusted and influential brands come together to deliver a world-class cultural experience set against the dramatic landscape of Hell’s Gate National Park, Naivasha. The event places Naivasha firmly on the cultural map, attracting regional and international audiences and reinforcing Enashipai’s role as a host of globally recognised experiences.
2018 also marks a significant industry milestone. Following an official inspection, Enashipai is awarded Five-Star status by Kenya’s Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA) — a recognition that affirms the resort’s high standards across service, facilities, guest experience, and operations. This achievement formally places Enashipai among Kenya’s leading hospitality destinations.
Beyond the stage and accolades, the year is also defined by community impact. Enashipai partners with its guests through the “Donate a Book, Build a Library” initiative, supporting Mirera Primary School in Naivasha — one of the largest public schools in the country. Through collective generosity, guests and partners contribute books to help build a school library, extending the impact of hospitality beyond the resort and into the wider community.
Together, these moments reflect Enashipai’s growing confidence as a convener — able to host iconic events, forge meaningful partnerships, deliver five-star experiences, and create positive change within the community it calls home.
Key Milestones:
- Host venue for the Safaricom International Jazz Festival – Jazz in the Park
- Partnership with Safaricom, bringing together two iconic brands
- Awarded Five-Star status by Kenya’s Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA)
- Positioning Naivasha as a destination for major cultural events
- Launch of “Donate a Book, Build a Library” initiative
- Community partnership supporting Mirera Primary School, Naivasha
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2019
Music, Learning, and Lasting Impact
In 2019, Enashipai deepens its commitment to community, culture, and long-term impact.
During the festive season, Enashipai hosts Ghetto Classics in Naivasha, bringing music to guests and the local community as the year draws to a close. The performance becomes a shared moment of celebration, connecting people through music just before the Christmas holidays.
The year also marks a significant milestone in Enashipai’s education journey with the official opening of the J.K. Mwangi Library at Mirera Primary School on 29th April 2019. Established in honour of Enashipai’s late Chairman, John Kagema Mwangi, a strong believer in quality education for all, the library brings to life the generosity of guests who contributed through the Donate a Book initiative, with additional support from Story Moja.
Looking to the future, Enashipai launches the Enashipai Scholarship Programme in partnership with Moja Tu, committing to sponsor two bright students each year through their secondary education — a long-term investment in opportunity, continuity, and hope.
Together, these initiatives reflect Enashipai’s belief that hospitality extends beyond hosting — into nurturing talent, supporting education, and creating meaningful change.
Key Milestones:
- Hosting of Ghetto Classics in Naivasha
- Official opening of the J.K. Mwangi Library at Mirera Primary School, honouring Enashipai’s late Chairman
- Launch of the Enashipai Scholarship Programme, supporting two students annually
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2020
Resilience, Care, and a New Way Forward
In 2020, the world changes.
As COVID-19 spreads globally, its effects are felt deeply at home. In response to the unfolding crisis, Enashipai temporarily closes from March to July, prioritising the safety of guests, team members, and the wider community.
When the resort reopens, it does so with renewed energy and purpose, guided by the same warmth and African hospitality that define Enashipai — now strengthened by care, responsibility, and resilience. New sanitation and health protocols are introduced, setting high standards that continue to guide operations to this day.
The year also reshapes how people gather. Hybrid meetings and events become part of everyday life, marking a shift in how business is conducted and how connection is maintained. Enashipai adapts quickly, supporting organisations navigating this new reality with flexibility, technology, and reassurance.
Above all, 2020 becomes a defining year for the Enashipai team. Faced with uncertainty, the team emerges more resilient, positive, and deeply grateful — for one another, for community, and for the gift of life itself.
It is a year of pause, reflection, and resolve — one that quietly strengthens the foundation for the years to come.
Key Milestones:
- Temporary closure from March to July 2020 in response to COVID-19
- Safe reopening with enhanced health and sanitation protocols
- Adoption of standards that continue to guide operations today
- Hybrid meetings and events become part of the Enashipai offering
- A stronger, more resilient team culture emerges
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2021
A Global Comeback and the Joy of Rediscovery
In 2021, the world’s attention returns to Kenya as the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally makes a historic comeback — and there is no more fitting host destination than Naivasha.
After a 19-year absence, the Safari Rally returns to Kenya and the African continent as the sixth round of the 2021 WRC season, running from 24–27 June 2021. Originally scheduled for 2020 and postponed due to the pandemic, its return is celebrated as a monumental moment for global motorsport.
During this landmark period, Enashipai Resort & Spa naturally becomes home to some of the world’s top rally teams, hosting drivers, crews, and partners drawn to Naivasha’s landscape and proximity to rally stages. Enashipai once again demonstrates its ability to host global events with calm professionalism, warmth, and care.
Beyond hosting, Enashipai actively participates in the celebration by sponsoring a local rally team, supporting the Škoda Fabia R5 driven by Aakif Virani and Bhatti Azhar — reinforcing its commitment to local talent competing on the world stage. The excitement extends beyond the stages through the #EnashipaiRallyFun campaign, inviting guests and fans to engage with the rally experience in Naivasha.
The same year also marks a renewed focus on domestic travel and recovery through Tembea Tujenge Kenya, a premier initiative encouraging Kenyans to rediscover travel across all 47 counties and support the hospitality sector. Enashipai proudly participates by offering special promotional rates, inviting local travellers to hit the road and experience the magic of Naivasha once more. As part of the campaign, Maina Kageni, the face of Tembea Tujenge Kenya, visits Enashipai — amplifying the message of rediscovery, pride, and the simple joy of travel.
Together, these moments define 2021 as a year of return — for global sport, for domestic travel, and for Kenya’s place on the world stage — with Enashipai at the heart of both.
Key Milestones:
- Return of the WRC Safari Rally to Kenya after 19 years
- Naivasha confirmed as a central host destination for the rally
- Enashipai hosts international rally teams and partners
- Sponsorship of local rally team, supporting Aakif Virani and Bhatti Azhar
- Launch of the #EnashipaiRallyFun campaign
- Participation in Tembea Tujenge Kenya, promoting domestic travel
- Visit by Maina Kageni, face of the Tembea Tujenge Kenya campaign
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2022
Recognition, Celebration, and Looking Forward
In 2022, Enashipai continues to strengthen its position as a leading destination for both business and leisure, marked by industry recognition, strategic growth, and moments of celebration.
In June 2022, Enashipai officially joins the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) — a significant step that reinforces the resort’s standing as a credible and competitive conference and meetings destination. This membership reflects Enashipai’s ongoing commitment to international best practice within the MICE sector and builds on its growing experience hosting regional and global events.
The year also brings renewed recognition on the global hospitality stage. At the World Travel Awards, Enashipai is named Kenya’s Leading Family Resort for 2022, alongside several additional leading resort nominations. These honours affirm the resort’s ability to create experiences that resonate across generations — from families and couples to conference delegates and groups.
As the year draws to a close, Enashipai ends 2022 on a high note with a grand Old-School themed New Year’s Eve celebration on 31 December. With flares, afros, music, and an epic fireworks display, the night sets the tone for a tradition that continues to this day — establishing Enashipai as home to the best New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Naivasha.
Together, these moments capture a year defined by confidence and momentum — where professional recognition, joyful celebration, and forward-looking ambition come together.
Key Milestones:
- ICCA membership confirmed,strengthening Enashipai’s MICE credentials
- World Travel Award: Kenya’s Leading Family Resort 2022, with additional nominations
- Old-School themed New Year’s Eve celebration
- A signature fireworks display, establishing a lasting New Year’s tradition in Naivasha
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2023
Adventure, Energy, and MICE Excellence
In 2023, Enashipai continues to broaden the experiences it offers — welcoming guests who seek not only rest and connection, but also energy, movement, and challenge.
The year marks the launch of the inaugural Enashipai Wild Ride Mountain Bike Challenge, held on 1st July 2023. Set against the dramatic landscapes of Naivasha, the event brings together cycling enthusiasts for a day of endurance, community, and adventure. Wild Ride introduces a new dimension to the Enashipai experience, positioning the resort as a base for active lifestyles and outdoor pursuits while celebrating the natural terrain that surrounds it.
2023 also becomes a defining year for Enashipai’s meetings and events journey. At the World MICE Awards in Berlin, Enashipai is named Kenya’s Best MICE Hotel 2023 — a prestigious international recognition that affirms excellence across meetings, incentives, conferences, and events. The award reflects years of investment in facilities, service, and expertise, and firmly positions Enashipai as a leader within Kenya’s MICE landscape.
Together, these milestones reflect a brand in motion — confident in hosting world-class business events, while continuing to evolve through experiences that energise, inspire, and bring people together in new ways.
Key Milestones:
- Inaugural Enashipai Wild Ride Mountain Bike Challenge, held on 1 July 2023
- Expansion of Enashipai’s offering into adventure and outdoor experiences
- Winner: Kenya’s Best MICE Hotel 2023 at the World MICE Awards, Berlin
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2024
The Destination of Choice
In 2024, Enashipai firmly solidifies its reputation as a destination where luxury leisure and high-profile corporate events meet with ease and confidence. It is a year defined by trust — from global brands, industry leaders, and guests who continue to choose Enashipai to mark moments that matter.
A defining highlight of the year is the hosting of the 16th Annual CIO100 Symposium and Awards, held from 20–22 November 2024 at Enashipai Resort & Spa. Organised by dx5 (formerly CIO Africa), the event brings together senior technology leaders from across the continent to celebrate innovation, digital transformation, and the strategic role of IT in driving business value
Across three days of dialogue, recognition, and collaboration, Enashipai provides the setting for conversations shaping Africa’s digital future — reaffirming its role as a trusted host for complex, high-level, and continent-wide gatherings.
Beyond industry-led recognition, 2024 is also marked by the voice that matters most — guests. Enashipai earns a place in the Top 10% of hotels worldwide on Tripadvisor, a distinction based on consistently strong traveller reviews. This recognition reflects the everyday experiences that define the resort: warm hospitality, intuitive service, and moments that feel right.
By this point in its journey, a clear pattern has emerged: when brands want to celebrate key milestones, they naturally choose Enashipai. The resort’s balance of space, service, wellness, and quiet confidence makes it a place where achievements are recognised meaningfully, and gatherings feel both significant and personal.
Together, these moments position 2024 as a year of affirmation — where Enashipai’s evolution into a premier leisure and MICE destination is not just evident, but widely acknowledged by industry and guests alike.
Key Milestones:
- Hosting of the 16th CIO100 Symposium and Awards 2024
- Continental gathering of technology and business leaders at Enashipai
- Recognition as a destination for high-profile corporate milestones
- Ranked in the Top 10% of hotels worldwide on Tripadvisor
- An internal milestone is also met #Team1B you know yourselves
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2025
Leading with Purpose
In 2025, Enashipai takes a decisive step forward in its commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality.
The year marks a significant operational milestone as Enashipai eradicates the use of single-use plastics across the resort. This move reflects a broader shift toward conscious practices that protect the natural environment Enashipai calls home, while setting higher standards for long-term, sustainable operations.
This commitment is brought to life on 27 September 2025, when Enashipai leads the World Tourism Day celebrations in Naivasha under the global theme “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation.” The event brings together partners, stakeholders, and the wider community to reflect on the future of tourism — one shaped by responsibility, innovation, and respect for people and place.
Through action and advocacy, Enashipai reinforces its role not only as a destination, but as a leader — contributing to a tourism industry that is more thoughtful, resilient, and future-focused.
Key Milestones:
- Elimination of single-use plastics across the resort
- Leadership in sustainable hospitality practices
- Hosting of World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations
- Championing the theme “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation”
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2026
Fifteen Years, and Looking Ahead
In 2026, Enashipai marks 15 years of welcoming guests to the shores of Lake Naivasha — a milestone shaped by land, people, and the countless moments shared along the way.
This anniversary is less about looking back, and more about recognising how far the journey has come. From a place founded on the belief of happiness, Enashipai has grown into a destination trusted for rest and renewal, meaningful gatherings, and experiences that stay with guests long after they leave.
As Enashipai looks to the future, its focus remains clear:
to continue evolving thoughtfully, to deepen its commitment to sustainability and community, and to create spaces where connection — to self, to others, and to place — can flourish. Growth is guided not by scale alone, but by purpose, care, and the desire to do things well.
Fifteen years on, Enashipai stands grounded and confident — ready to embrace what’s next, while staying true to what has always mattered most.
Key Milestones:
- Celebration of 15 years of Enashipai
- Reflection on a journey shaped by people, place, and purpose
- Continued commitment to sustainability, community, and meaningful experiences
- A forward-looking vision grounded in thoughtful growth and authenticity