The Miracle of Mara Siana

Being in the right place at the right time — and immediately recognizing the rarity of that opportunity — is how director and co-owner Jackson Looseyia describes the birth of Mara Siana Camp in Kenya’s Ripoi Conservancy.

“We saw an opportunity and window,” he explains of the decision to create the camp. “Such a golden opportunity that it was irresistible, particularly if you are to say you have influence in your community to preserve the land.”

The roots of that opportunity stretch back in Olarro Conservancy was created in 2011 on the outer edge of Masai Mara National Reserve. Five years later the reserve was expanded into separate units called Olarro North and Olarro South.

Olarro and its partners eventually found they were unable to manage and fund such an expansive area and ensure the integrity of the landscape and its wildlife. So Olarro South was split off into the new Ripoi Conservancy.

Shortly after, Jackson heard through the Mara grapevine that Ripoi was searching for concessionaires to develop small safari camps in the new conservancy. But it was during the height of the Covid pandemic and no investors had yet stepped forward to claim a concession.

Jackson decided to take a look. “I drove out four times before I actually realized what an amazing place Ripoi is.” Jumping into action, he secured investment money and asked long-time friends and fellow Mara guides Salaash Morompi and Fred Ronko to partner in the enterprise.

They obtained a 20-year contract from the conservancy and got to work, creating a safari camp in the virgin bush. Mara Siani opened in early 2023. In doing so, the trio became the first Masai to own and manage a safari camp in the Mara.

“When people say, is this your dream come true? I'm like, this is so beyond my wildest dreams of what I even knew was even possible to dream of. What would be your fathers’ thoughts today in heaven when they realize we are now the employers, rather than being employees.”