Labentera

Ilparakuo (meaning nomads in the local Maa language) is a Maasai owned Eco Camp, sited on Labentera Hill close to the Siana Plains, in the heart of Maasailand not far from Kenya's world famous safari destination: the Maasai Mara Game Reserve. Set up by the elders of the Labentera community, under the leadership of Chief Moses, the guidance of Willetts Safaris and the support of a UK Charity, DEVELOPMENT DIRECT, the camp provides intimate contact with the wildlife, people and culture for its visitors and much needed revenue for the local community.

The camp is not far from the main road into the Maasai Mara, although most people travelling this route are in too much of a rush to properly appreciate the land they are passing through. This day has been planned so we arrive at Labentera in time for lunch and have a few hours in the afternoon to enjoy our surroundings.

Located on the slopes of Labentera Hill, where it catches cool breezes and commands stunning, panoramic views over the surrounding countryside, the camp is comprised of a number of stone built cottages with en-suite facilities, hot showers and solar powered electricity. It has been developed to provide all of the necessary comforts of life whilst having as little impact as possible on the surrounding environment. The area around the camp is rich in wildlife and it is not unusual to see elephant, giraffe, zebra and herds of antelope whilst relaxing in camp. At night lion, leopard and hyena often make their presence heard and test the vigilance of the guards by coming very close to the camp.

Apart from just relaxing and enjoying great views, people have the option of going on a guided bush walk in the surrounding area and climbing Labentera Hill to watch the sunset, or visiting the nearby village to enjoy a Maasai-style barbecue.