Eco-tourism and the Maasai

Campi ya Kanzi is the living example of the policies of the Kenya Wildlife Service, which encourages local people to become involved in the conservation of wildlife. This approach to conservation is based on the self-interested involvement of the Maasai, rather than the creation of laws and bans.

For example, when lions kill Maasai cattle, the Maasai naturally wish to eliminate the lions to protect their livelihood. However, if the same lions produce profit through tourism, the Maasai may realize that it is best to co-exist with them. The Maasai now see the benefit of having wildlife on their land, so they protect the animals and view them as extension of their ranching activities.

For each guest accommodated at Campi ya Kanzi for one night, $30 is set apart for the Maasai community. The money is spent as follows:

Reimbursement of animal damages, compensating Maasai who have incurred loss through damage by wildlife.
For education, through scholarships awarded on merit and to those who are too poor to afford education. The funds also pay for school supplies and help pay teachers' salaries.
For health, by providing basic medical facilities and medicines.
For new infrastructures, such as schoolrooms, toilets, dispensaries.

By choosing Campi ya Kanzi for your safari, you will not only enjoy a unique and pristine wilderness, but you'll actively protect it and help the Maasai community.
The staff of Campi ya Kanzi consists of local Maasai. They are specially trained for their positions at the camp, and benefit directly from the camp's revenues. In this way, the success of the camp contributes to the local community and to the property's policy of conservation. The managing directors of Luca Safari consider Campi ya Kanzi the fulfillment of their dream.

Luca Belpietro has a degree in economics and wrote his thesis on wildlife as a natural resource in Kenya. He would be pleased to tell you more about how Campi ya Kanzi benefits conservation efforts in Kenya, and how you can play a part in protecting Kenyan wildlife by choosing Campi ya Kanzi for your luxury Kenya safari adventure.

Through the trust we have founded, The Maasai Wilderness Conservation Trust, we also have community projects and adoption schemes for the wild animals of the ranch. Whether or not you visit our safari camp, we'd be delighted to have you involved in our wildlife conservation efforts and the perpetuation of the Maasai heritage.
The MWCT is also supported by the Maasai Wilderness Conservation Fund, officially recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

A small contribution can really make a big difference in this part of the world!!