Nestled at the base of Kilimanjaro, with a view of Mt Kilimanjaro on one side and Mt Meru on the other, is the Osiligilai Maasai Lodge.

The lodge was founded by a visionary Maasai chief, William, who understands that climate change and other external influences continually challenge his culture and his people.

The Maasai are a nomadic tribal group originally from Egypt.

In the 15th century, they began migrating south, and by the 1800s, they had reached what we now know as southern Kenya and northern Tanzania. The Maasai are cattle herders who move according to where food and water are available for their animals. However, changes in rainfall patterns challenge their traditional migrations, and like all young people, the youth are tempted by a different life—one with mobile phones and Netflix.

The chief’s vision was to generate income for the villages in the area while enabling the Maasai to maintain and celebrate their culture. Young Maasai are encouraged to pursue education and return to the villages to work at the lodge—as Maasai—but with a foot in the “modern” world.

TourCompass has supported the lodge since it opened in 2018.

As a guest at the lodge, you will help support William’s vision while gaining an exciting introduction to Maasai culture—without sacrificing too much comfort. The lodge features both a pool and Wi-Fi, and the huts are equipped with toilets and running (hot) water.

During your stay at the lodge, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to talk with the Maasai about their way of life. They are delighted to take you on walks in the area, demonstrate spear throwing, and perform some of their traditional dances and songs.

Furthermore, the lodge is constructed from local materials, its electricity is sourced from solar panels, and the food served is locally grown and, of course, organic.

On our tour, ‘Around Kilimanjaro: safari, nature & culture in Kenya and Tanzania‘, you will spend 2 nights at Osiligilai Maasai Lodge.