Il Ngwesi means ‘people of the wildlife’. This is a pioneering and award-winning community-owned and run lodge in the Laikipia region of Kenya.
Il Ngwesi is set on 16,500 acres of north west of Lewa and has six Bandas that are beautifully and organically constructed with thatched roof and local wood (from elephant damage etc), and have great views from the verandas and en-suite bathrooms (showers only). Furniture is all locally made.
There is a good swimming pool and lounge area, and a waterhole giving you a chance to get closer to the wildlife. Since this is a ‘Big Five’ area, the wildlife viewing can be excellent.
Il Ngwesi Lodge Accommodation
Each Bandas at Il Ngwesi Lodge is built with an open-to-the-bush design. The design allows our guests to enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife during the day, and sleep out under the stars in the evening. Each room has been expertly crafted with local materials to fit in beautifully with the surrounding environment.
The rooms have bathrooms with all the amenities of home. as a special treat, the showers are positioned just outside of the rooms and are open to the bush for wildlife and nature viewing while taking a refreshing shower. Water is heated by a solar-heating system which keeps water hot at any time of the day and night.
Activities at the Il Ngwesi Lodge
There is a diverse range of activities. Visits to Il Ngwesi’s Cultural Boma are unique because the experience provides a genuine exposure to how the Maasai really live. Exploring the area by foot, or by camel, following the Ngare Ndare River with local guides, offers a special opportunity to get close to the wildlife.
Less strenuous activities include a game drive and taking sundowners to one of the many different vantage points along the Mukogodo Hills. Bush breakfasts and dinners are also available. Il Ngwesi is also home to the hand-reared orphan black rhino, Omni.
He is the first black rhino to come back to Il Ngwesi in 30 years and with two white rhinos, is now a daily sight for lodge visitors. There is also a habituated baboon troop where guests can closely observe these fascinating primates.
