Geography - Tourism - Ecotourism - Basecamp Maasai Mara CASE STUDY

Basecamp Maasai Mara CASE STUDY

Background The lodge opened in 1998 The main camp has 16 tents (32 beds) It is located in the Rift Valley Province, Narok District The Camp provides activities such as day game drives, nature walks, tree planting etc.

How it helps the environment Uses non imported local materials such as dead/fallen wood as building materials which means that no trees were cut down and these materials also help the camp blend in with the natural environment. Uses a treetop viewing platform to reduce the number of vehicle safaris Uses dry toilets and only washes linin on request in order to conserve water Uses lots of solar energy Waste water is used to water plants As much waste as possible is reused or recycled They try to not leave any permanent damage to the landscape

How it helps the local people Uses "Maasai Grammar" to explain the Maasai tribes culture Furniture is of Maasai design and make 95% of the Staff are local people (including 10 women) A percentage of the profits from the camp goes into supporting female education in the area Food is brought from local farmers so money goes back into the local economy The camp works closely with the local communities to try to aid them in any ways possible The camp tries to educate visitors on the local ways of life