Il Ngwesi Lodge

A community-owned eco-lodge on a Laikipia escarpment, run by the Il Ngwesi Maasai.

Il Ngwesi Lodge is a community-owned eco-lodge perched dramatically on a rocky escarpment in the northern reaches of Laikipia, overlooking the vast Samburu lowlands and the Mathews Range beyond. This is not just a safari destination, but a living conservation story, as the lodge was built and is run by the Il Ngwesi Maasai community, ensuring that tourism directly funds wildlife protection and local livelihoods. The area is known for its wild beauty, home to elephants, reticulated giraffe, Grevy's zebra, lions, leopards, and more elusive species such as wild dog. With just six open-fronted bandas, Il Ngwesi is intimate and deeply connected to its surroundings. Each banda is crafted from local materials and opens onto sweeping views of the wilderness. Some bandas have star beds for unforgettable nights beneath the sky, while a natural rock pool carved into the cliffside invites guests to cool off while watching elephants below at the waterhole.

Safari Highlights

• Six open-front bandas with private decks, open-air bathrooms, and some with star beds
• Natural swimming pool overlooking a waterhole frequented by elephants
• Day and night game drives in the Il Ngwesi conservancy
• Guided bush walks with Maasai warriors
• Camel safaris across the savannah
• Bird watching, with over 400 species recorded in the region
• Visits to Lewa Wildlife Conservancy for rhino viewing
• Solar-powered eco-friendly operations