Jimmy Gathu
New Lister
Imagine staying a heartbeat away from raw wildlife, and watching some real-time wildlife activities such as lions hunting? The place to be would be Mara Bushtops. These are a series of cottages, that are semi-open to create a breath-taking interior and exterior spaces relationship. It is located within exclusive 6,500-acre private wildlife sanctuary in Maasai Mara. The Bushtops Wildlife Conservancy, locally known as Isaaten benefits everyone. That is to say, the guests, the local Masai community, and the region's flora and fauna co-exist in a symbiotic manner. Bushtops is ran as a private business by The Stuart Family. Access to the Conservancy is reserved for the Masai and Bushtops guests, offering unique experiences such as private night and off-road game drives, walking safaris departing directly from the camp, breathtaking sunrises on Sekenani Hill, sundowners, and visits to nearby attractions.
The private land is a hotspot of biodiversity, hosting buffalos, giraffes, elands, elephants, impalas, topis, wildebeest and the zebra – all followed by a resident pride of lions and the occasional leopard appearances. The Conservancy is helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem, preserving lands that might otherwise be lost to human encroachment. The Stuart family have spent four generations seeking harmonious development opportunities in Kenya. Mara Bushtops and the Conservancy represents a template for good stewardship, local partnership and a sustainable future.
Some facts about the conservancy:
- Established as a limited company in 2012
- 6,500 acres and growing
- Rent paid to 318 landowners
- No tourists beyond Bushtops (low volume, low impact)
- 25 scouts patrol the area 24/7
- control room using the Earth Ranger programme.
Mara Bushtops has long partnered with Nkoilale School, located just four kilometers from the camp. Through Bushtops funding, and the generous contributions of participating guests, the school has been transformed, positively impacting the lives of its students, ranging from preschoolers to 14-year-olds. Each year, around 800 children benefit from facilities supported by Mara Bushtops. Their focus lies in empowering young Masai girls by providing education as a viable and respected alternative to early marriage and motherhood.
While there is no obligation, some guests choose to sponsor a child for $200 annually or make donations through us. Guests are also welcome to visit the school, and many bring supplies such as stationery, books, clothing, shoes, and footballs, which are deeply appreciated by the school fraternity. Currently, Bushtops is facilitating education for approximately 80 young boarders at the school.
Masai Moran