The "Star Beds" of Kenya's Loisaba Resort

[Rosebell Mugambi]

Let me introduce you to another type of exciting accommodation: the "Star Beds" of the Loisaba Wilderness eco-resort in northeastern Kenya.

The two sets of Star Beds are unique to Loisaba. The first and original set is located among a kopje of rocks in one of the eastern valleys overlooking the "Kiboko" waterhole. The second and newer set is about 8 kilometres south on the banks of the Ewaso N'giro River. These are cantilevered over the flowing river below and are reached by footbridge from the opposite bank.

These are named "Koija" Star Beds and are part of an exciting new joint venture project that Loisaba has undertaken in partnership with the Laikipiak Maasai people from the Koija community. Each Star Bed is a dramatically designed, handcrafted wooden raised platform partially covered with a thatched roof. A homemade "Mukokoteni" (a uniquely designed bed on wheels) can either be wheeled onto the open deck area for a night under the stars, or left under the shelter of the roof.

All the beds have complete "four-poster" insect netting. The Star Beds are normally reached by one of many options; on foot, horse, camel or vehicle and with two sets now in place create a unique opportunity to travel between them both and the lodge as part of a Star Bed Expedition.