Il Ngwesi Conservancy's 20 Years of Maasai Eco-tourism in Kenya

The Il Ngwesi Conservancy (ilngwesi.com) is celebrating 20 years of wildlife conservation and community development in a Maasai Group Ranch in northern Kenya. The ChangeStream Media team visited to document how both the land and the people living there have benefited from the first and only Kenyan conservancy that is both owned and operated by the Maasai community.
The most striking development is how the model has supported education, health, and economic opportunities to form a self-reinforcing cycle. Now a new generation of leaders, educated in the schools built with eco-tourism funding, are taking leadership roles at the Il Ngwesi Lodge and local governing bodies. This in turn is spurring innovative new educational programs, and reestablishing the lodge as a premier tourism destination.
ChangeStream Media (changestreammedia.org/) is a Seattle-based nonprofit that uses digital storytelling to spread important ideas and support innovative grassroots organizations in disadvantaged communities around the world.
Thanks to all the staff and volunteers at Il Ngwesi for their assistance in making this video possible, in particular Kip Olepolos, Margaret Kortol, Fred Karmushu, David Japees, Peter Kortol, Francis Lentungai, Dominic Kenchae, Hellen Parkusaa, James Kasoo, James Kinyaga, Mpaapu Kuantai Kawai, Daniel, Tasia, John Lishian Mureiyiani, Anessi Tema, and Kirstin Johnson.
Music by Shore and Francis Lentungai played on a Maasai guitar and recorded at the Il Ngwesi Lodge.

[@kahlerhunter7644]

I was lucky enough to visit the Il Ngwesi lodge for several days in 2020. It was an amazing experience and I'm thrilled to recognize some faces in this video! Go! You'll love it.

[@elizabethgray617]

I have had the privilege of staying at Il Ngwesi twice and have been charmed both times! The people are so warm and the guides had such a vast knowledge of wildlife. The lodging was picturesque and beds so comfortable. I recognize many of the people from this video! Beautiful - can't wait to go back again in 2018!

[@angelawright2487]

I absolutely love this place! I stayed there some years ago, and will return. To me, this is a place that turns a crazy world the right way up again! It had a profound effect on me and, as a Travel Consultant, I have visited very many camps and lodges across Africa. This is something very special.
May you continue to thrive ❤️ xx

[@ChangeStream]

Well said, and we couldn't agree more. Il Ngwesi is one of our favorite places in the world. We hope you get to go back soon!

[@azertytou4698]

Bonne chance les 2E

[@alisonbelknap1124]

What an interesting and nicely written/produced video, telling a wonderful story! I hope to visit there one day and am so happy that this lodge exists.

[@ChangeStream]

Thanks, Alison! Il Ngwesi is a beautiful place run by wonderful people. We hope you get to visit soon!

[@azertytou4698]

Helou everidoudi

[@brandonubelhor3167]

As I am researching potential places to visit, I land on this amazing video. He told their story and represented his people so well. Visiting their website now! Thanks Change Stream!

[@ChangeStream]

We’re so glad you found this video. Kip and the Il Ngwesi team are our heroes-we hope you get the chance to meet them!

[@mellatoadventures3612]

Can we get contacts please? We can plan for a stay

[@ChangeStream]

Thanks for getting in touch--we hope you will visit Il Ngwesi! Please find contact information on their website: ilngwesi.com/content/visit/