Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp in Olderkesi Conservancy near Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya.

The Old Meets the New at Maasai Mara National Reserve

Situated only one kilometre from the renowned Masai Mara, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp is a tribute to the classic safari camps where affluent gentlemen once embarked on hunting expeditions amidst luxury. Today, the only hunting is for the perfect wildlife photograph. The elegance and charm of the 1920s endure for guests at the camp. Located in the private Olderkesi Conservancy, visitors enjoy abundant wildlife without the crowds.

The camp is owned and operated by the legendary Cottar Family, who have been running this and other camps under the Cottar name for over a century, spanning five generations. Their success is reflected in the numerous awards the camp has received over the years. Known for its stunning marquee tents, world-class Maasai guides, magnificent viewing deck, and some of the finest cuisine in the Mara, the camp’s attentive staff ensures a memorable stay. The guides and hosts often share stories of the camp and the Cottar family history by the fireside, a delightful way to end the day.

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp offers intimate luxury with nine exquisite and spacious cream-colored marquee tents. There are four double tents, three family suites, and two charming honeymoon suites, each with an en-suite bathroom. The family suite tents feature living rooms with fireplaces. All tents are spaced to ensure privacy for guests. The tents are lavishly furnished with antiques, oriental carpets, four-poster beds, dressing rooms, porcelain, crystal, and outdoor verandahs overlooking the stunning savannah and Olderkesi Hills.

The camp features two elegant main mess area tents for dining, drinking, and relaxation. Guests can gather to enjoy delicious cuisine, sip their favorite drinks and cocktails, or relax with a good book in a comfortable chair. All meals at Cottar’s are locally sourced, with many ingredients coming from the camp’s own organic kitchen garden. For a refreshing plunge, there’s a stunning 25-meter pool. The camp also offers a spa for ultimate relaxation after a thrilling day of safari. For a unique bathing.

Things to Do at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp in Maasai Mara National Reserve

Cottar’s Camp offers a distinctive approach to safari activities, setting itself apart from other safari lodges. While spotting the Big Five has become a conventional part of most safari experiences, Cottar’s believes in providing guests with a meaningful and engaging experience. Over the past year, they have developed a variety of safari activities that positively impact safari travelers, Cottar entire camp”s, the biodiversity of the Mara ecosystem, and the local Maasai community. In addition to traditional safari activities, Cottar’s camp now presents the following unique and interactive experiences. Some activities may incur an additional fee:

• Vulture and raptor rehabilitation experience

• Meet-up with Masai Mara’s all-female conservation ranger unit

• Insightful pangolin project discussion

• Wild dog conservation talk

• Educational medicinal plant walk and talk

• Mara predator project involvement

• Foraging adventure and dining experience led by a Maasai staff member

• Tour of the Maasai community-owned private Olderkesi Conservancy with a scenic sundowner

• E-bike exploration of the surrounding area

• Reforestation seed dispersal bushwalk

• Stargazing under the African sky

• Maasai warrior school experience

• Historical safari talk

• Cottar’s sustainability discussion

• Guided game walk or run with a Maasai guide

• Visit to a local Maasai school

• Professional photography sessions for wonderful memories

• Hot-air balloon safari

• Luxurious bush bath

• Fly from Cottar’s private airstrip

• Relax in sumptuously furnished tents

Stay 4 Pay 3 Offer at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp with Family Tents

Embrace the enchantment of the Masai Mara with Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp. Enjoy a 4-night stay while only paying for 3! Delight in captivating wildlife encounters, unparalleled luxury, and the authentic charm of the 1920s. Book now to immerse yourself in the heart of the wilderness. This special offer is valid for stays from 1 November to 19 December 2024, from 11 January to 31 May 2025, and from 1 November to 19 December 2025.

Tripadvisor Reviews of Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp

Cottar’s is truly an exceptional high-end safari camp. The facilities are lovely and luxurious, nestled in Kenya’s Masai Mara, with a cheerful, expert, and gracious staff who excel at ensuring you see all the animals and enjoy rich cultural experiences (visiting and being welcomed into one of the local Maasai villages was a highlight, even on a day that included close-up encounters with leopards and lions). The camp is very private, situated on its own reserve area, away from the concentration of other safari camps in the Mara. Highly recommended!

Jackyline from New York City, NY

Cottar’s was one of the best experiences we have ever had. An absolutely fantastic camp with great lodging and first-rate staff who are attentive, caring, thoughtful, professional, and intent on meeting all of your needs. The Conservancy is teeming with wildlife and, unlike the crowded Masai Mara, is nearly devoid of people as Cottar’s holds near-exclusive rights to the territory.

Patrick from Nairobi, Kenya