IL Ngwesi Conservancy

Location: Mukogodo Division, Laikipia County, Kenya

Area: 16,500 hectares

Overview

IL Ngwesi Group Ranch consists of 8,645 hectares of community-managed land located in Mukogodo Division, Laikipia District, north of Mount Kenya. 2016, II Ngwesi turned 20 years old, whilst supporting both communities and wildlife remains the only upmarket lodge owned and run by the community.

The neighbouring Lewa, Borana, and Lekurruki, II Ngwesi covers 16,500 hectares, home to the II Lakipiak Maasai – “people of wildlife”. This award-winning enterprise combines eco-tourism with sustainable environmental management and community development.

Early days approach by Ian Craig from neighbouring Lewa Conservancy, in the 1990s, where II Ngwesi became the first Maasai Group Ranch in Laikipia to join Lewa in conservation and community development with a vision beyond its border. The community elders agreed to set aside 8,675 ha of their grazing land for conservation, and in 1996, with funding from USAID through the Kenyan Wildlife Service, the II Ngwesi Eco-Lodge was built.

Guests interested in community projects can spend time with local women, learn about beading techniques, and visit a local school or health clinic built with funds from an individual donor. These encounters are dignified and respectful, with none of the hustle and bustle of many community visits in other parts of Kenya.

Children Guests are welcomed, and meals are provided at different times to suit them, with bedtimes and babysitting services for those who wish to stay in the communal areas after their children go to bed. Parents are cautioned on leaving small mobile children around the pool area and the lodge environment may be hazardous with no fencing at the edge of some communal areas.

The Uniqueness of this Park

• • The award-winning enterprise combines eco-tourism with sustainable environmental management and community development.

• • Il Ngwesi was the first community upmarket eco-lodge to be set up in 1996.

• • Bordering Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, this land is a vital corridor for wildlife moving between Samburu, Laikipia, and Mount Kenya.

• • Visitors to the lodge have full wildlife and cultural experience.

Accommodation Options

Il Ngwesi Eco-Lodge -Owned and run by the Maasai community, with no other tourist facilities within the Group Ranch, it is the ultimate personal experience.

Activities at the Destination

Bush dining, Sundowner, Bush Breakfasts by the Ngare River, Visit Mukogodo, Forest and Camp overnight, Swimming Pool, in-house beauty & Massage, Guided Walk to the Rhino Sanctuary, Visit a local Maasai Cultural Boma – learn hunting techniques, honey collecting, Learn beading techniques, visit a local school, or the health clinic.