Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp & Bush Villa
Olderkesi Private Conservancy, Maasai Mara, Kenya
The Cottar Safari tradition began in 1919. Almost 100 years on, we continue to provide an unparalleled safari experience to discerning clients in Africa. Extending an era of luxury and quality, we return to the original spirit and essence of "safari‟, reminiscent of a golden era ~ an era of romance, professional guiding, adventure and elegance. Situated in an untouched exclusive concession bordering the Serengeti, Maasai Mara and Loliondo reserves, the camp and the area guarantee privacy and an abundance of wildlife.
Cottar’s is located in the famous ‘seventh’ natural wonder of the world, the Maasai Mara which has the largest concentration of terrestrial wildlife on earth - the immense wildebeest, zebra and plains game migration that numbers over to 2.5 million animals with some of the highest success rates of big five sightings in the business. Guiding is very important to us and we have the highest number of Gold Safari Guides within one camp in Kenya. All of our guides are chosen for their unique skill set, great personalities and a full understanding of the Cottar’s guiding ethos.
Situated in an untouched and exclusive concession bordering the Serengeti and Maasai Mara National Reserve we are the only camp situated in the 6,000 acre private conservancy. Exclusivity is guaranteed, with no hot air balloons flying overheard, no minibuses buzzing around, no nearby lodges and no low-flying aircraft to disturb.
We work hard to provide authentic and respectful Maasai cultural experiences and have developed some unique engagements such as ‘The Maasai Warrior School’, cultural visits, Maasai wedding blessings and invitations to certain Maasai ceremonies. The camp is situated on Maasai-owned land and employs members of the Maasai community and supports numerous initiatives including a school, medical facilities, water supply and ambulance service. Cottar’s 1920’s Camp is only one of ten accredited Global Ecosphere Retreats as part of The Long Run initiative.
Accommodations are under cream canvas safari tents in the 1920’s style in the Safari Camp, or in the modern Cottar’s Bush Villa with its own 25 yard swimming pool. Our accommodation choices are authentic and luxurious, providing the right mix of adventure and adrenaline and comfort.
We have also designed the camp so that everyone, from honeymooners to families, can have their own space, experience and fun without necessarily disturbing others. From our family tents, to our honeymoon suite, from our bush villa that accommodates 10 to private dining, to children’s menus, we can serve all guests respectfully.
Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp has won numerous accolades including ‘Best Tented Camp in the World’ (Tatler Magazine), ‘Top Guides of Africa’ (Conde Nast Traveler), ‘101 Best Hotels’ (Tatler Travel Guide), ‘Best Trip of a Lifetime’ (Fodors), among many others.
Reservations: info@cottarsafaris.com
US Contact: Brooke Berlin
Camp Fact Sheets, Images and Video:
Pioneering The Safari - Our 100 year Story
The Essence of a Safari Through Calvin Cottar's Eyes
Cottar's 1920s Video - A Family on Safari
Calvin Cottar speaks about Cottar's, Conservation, and Community - May 2020