Situated only one kilometre from the world’s 'seventh natural wonder of the world, the Masai Mara, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp’s name really says it all. The camp pays tribute to the safari camps of days gone by where well-to-do gentlemen visited the area for some hunting in the lap of luxury. Luckily the only hunting done these days, is the tracking of wildlife to capture the best possible wildlife photograph. However, the class and charm of the 1920s lives on for the guests of the camp. The camp’s location in the private Olderkesi Conservancy gives visitors the benefit of being surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, without having to expect large numbers of tourists.
The camp is owned and operated by the legendary Cottar Family. They have been operating this and other camps under the Cottar flag for over 100 years (five generations). That they've done so successfully is noticeable through the many awards the camp has been presented with throughout the years. The camp is known for its stunning marquee tents, world-class Maasai guides and trackers and arguably some of the best food in the Mara. The camp's staff is extremely attentive and will do all they can to make sure your stay is very memorable. The camp’s guides and hosts have been known to share stories about the camp and the Cottar family history by fireside when prompted. A wonderful way to end the day and learn about the history of camp.
Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp offers small-scale luxury and consists of only nine stunning and spacious cream-coloured marquee tents. There are four double tents, three family suites and two lovely honeymoon suites. Each of the tents has its own en-suite bathroom. The family suite tents come with living rooms equipped with fireplaces. Each of the tents is spaced generally from the other tents to ensure privacy for all guests during their stay. The tents are sumptuously furnished with antiques, oriental carpets, four-poster beds, dressing rooms, porcelain, crystal and outdoor verandahs overlooking the stunning savannah and Olderkesi Hills.
The camp has two stylish spacious main mess area tents dedicated to eating, drinking and being merry. Guests can come together here to enjoy mouth-watering cuisine, sip on some of their favourite drinks and cocktails and to sit back and relax with a good book in a comfy chair. All meals at Cottar's are locally sourced and many come from the camp’s own organic kitchen garden. For moments when you could do with a refreshing plunge, there’s a stunning 25 meter pool. The camp also features a spa for the ultimate in relaxation after a long and exciting day of safari. For some bathing with a twist the camp offers a safari bath or shower in the savannah.
Activities at Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp
Cottar’s Camp has a slightly different approach to safari activities than other safari lodges. The act of going on a safari and spotting the big five has become fairly standardised at most lodges. Cottar's believes that guests long for a sense of purpose during their safari and that most safaris lack a sense of engagement. They have therefore spent the past year creating a range of safari activities that have a positive impact on safari travellers, Cottar's, biodiversity in the Mara ecosystem and the local Maasai community. In addition to more common safari activities, Cottar’s now also offers the following unique and engaging activities to its guests. Additional fee may apply for some activities:
- vulture / raptor rehabilitation experience
- Masai Mara’s all-female conservation ranger unit meet-up
- pangolin project talk
- wild dog talk
- medicinal plant walk & talk
- Mara predator project experience
- foraging adventure and foraged dining experience led by a Maasai staff member
- tour of the Maasai community-owned private Olderkesi Conservancy complete with a lovely sundowner
- e-bike tour of the surrounding area
- reforestation seed dispersal bushwalk
- stargazing
- Maasai warrior school
- history of safari talk
- Cottar's sustainability talk
- game walk or run with Maasai guide
- visit to local Maasai school
- professional photography experience
- hot-air balloon safari
- bush bath
Stay 4 pay 3 at Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp
Experience the magic of Masai Mara with Cottars 1920s Safari Camp. For every 4-night stay, you pay only for 3! Relish enchanting wildlife encounters, unrivaled luxury, and authentic 1920s charm. Book now and immerse yourself in the heart of the wilderness. This special is valid for stays between 1 November and 19 December 2023, between 11 January and 31 May 2024 and between 1 November and 19 December 2024.
Tripadvisor comments Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp
Cottar’s is really an exceptional high end safari camp. Lovely and luxurious facilities in Kenya’s Masai Mara with a cheerful, expert and gracious staff, who do a wonderful job of getting you to see all the animals and have rich cultural experiences as well (visiting and being welcomed to one of the local Masai villages was a highlight even on a day that included close up viewing of leopards and lions). Very private on its own reserve area and removed from the concentration of other Safari camps in the Mara. Highly recommended!
Z7619MIjoer from New York City, NY
Cottar’s was one of the best experience that we have ever had. Absolutely fantastic camp, great lodging, first rate staff - attentive, caring, thoughtful, professional and intent on meeting all of your needs. The Conservancy is chalked full of wildlife and unlike the overrun Masai Mara, near devoid of people as Cottar’s has a near exclusive right to the territory.
Scott H
