Overview
Rustic, community owned eco-lodge
Constructed entirely out of local materials, the award-winning Il Ngwesi Lodge is perched on the edge of the Mararoi hills close to the Ngare Ndare river in Laikipia, Kenya, with breath-taking views towards Samburu as far as the eye can see.
Six spacious rooms accommodating two to four people, either tucked away with views up the valley, adjoined to another by rope bridge for families, or overlooking the water hole. All are designed in an ‘open to the bush’ style with opportunities for viewing wildlife, and two have extended verandas for visitors who wish to sleep under the stars in large four poster star beds.
The main house (Il Laikipiak Hall) offers spectacular views to the north and east as well as down to the water hole while the swimming pool area overlooks the valley and provides an excellent spot to relax in during the day. The water hole attracts a wide variety of birds and animals daily and is the life blood for wildlife in this semi-arid part of Kenya. A hide tucked down the hillside in front of the lodge allows visitors to get closer to the water hole and enjoy the bush in utter peace and quiet.
Facts
At a glance
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Six rooms
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Restaurant
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Outdoor showers
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Swimming pool
Experiences
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![Il Ngwesi Laikipia game drive]()
Game drives
Head out on morning or night game drives with experienced local guides ensure guests have the best possible chance of seeing the wide variety of wildlife this conservancy has to offer.
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![Il Ngwesi Laikipia Walking]()
Walking safari
Take a walking safari with a Masai guide and an armed ranger – you can climb, or part-climb, the Mukogodo Escarpment for some amazing views and sightings of plains game.
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![Il Ngwesi Laikipia bird watching]()
Bird watching
Birdwatching is superb both in camp and on hikes in the surrounding forests and escarpments (more than 350 species have been recorded).
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![Il Ngwesi Laikipia community visit]()
Community visit
Visit the local village to learn about Masai hunting and honey-gathering methods, watch a traditional dance, and even share a goat roast (extra cost).
Community & Culture
Il Ngwesi supports numerous health and education projects, and a partnership with VSO Jitolee (funded by the European Commission) has helped local women to market their beadwork both locally and nationally. The six Maasai villages surrounding Il Ngwesi have benefited hugely from the lodge’s presence, and donations from guests have helped fund university degrees for local schoolchildren. The ‘Days for Girls’ programme (in partnership with the Kenya Health Care Initiative) has empowered young women by teaching them how to produce and distribute sanitary packs.
Conservation
Il Ngwesi has the proud distinction to be the only community owned and operated rhino sanctuary in Kenya, and possibly the world. As a measure and a testament to the successful conservation efforts of the community, the black rhino has been reintroduced to the conservancy. The conservancy spans 16,500 acres and Il Ngwesi has 18 armed rangers to ensure the reintroduced wildlife – white rhino, grevy zebra, and african wild dog are among those who have returned alongside the black rhino – stay protected from poachers.
Footprint
Il Ngwesi is big on sustainability. The solar-powered eco-lodge has been built by the local community using local materials, and directly benefits the Laipikiak Maasai who live in harmony with this precious land. The Lodge’s design aligns with the Laikipia Tourism Association’s goal to make Laikipia the most sustainable tourism destination in East Africa.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
