The Cottar’s Safari tradition began over 100 years ago and they continue to provide an unparalleled safari experience. There are 2 x spectacular accommodation offerings. Namely; Cottar’s 1920s Camp and the Private Bush Villa. Cottar’s Safari Camps are in the private Olderkesi Conservancy. This borders the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Loliondo Reserves.
The Cottar family focuses on providing an authentic and individualized safari experience. While supporting an ongoing legacy of wilderness, wildlife, comfort, and security; honoring a balance between conservation, prosperity, community, and culture.
Cheetah on game drive
Being located on the far southeastern part of the Masai Mara; Cottar’s Safari camps are the first to see the wildebeest migration arriving. And the last to see the herds heading back South into the Serengeti. The Maasai Mara is famous for its astounding variety of wildlife. With both resident and transient populations of lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, giraffe, and elephant, to name a few. As well as over 450 bird species, the vast fertile plains are dense with game. The area has been classified among the “Seven Wonders of the world”. This is due to the extraordinary annual migration from July to November. When over 1.3 million wildebeest and zebras cross the Serengeti to the Mara in search of greener pastures.
Cottar’s Safaris has the highest concentration of Gold and Silver level guides in Kenya. Therefore game drives, and all other safari activities; are informative, and fun.
Cottar’s 1920s Camp 2024 Awards: Winner of best ecologically responsible safari property. Runner up for best family safari experience. 3rd place for most romantic safari property. 3rd place for best community focused safari property.
The 1920s Camp is a tented camp sleeping up to 26 – 28 guests. While The Bush Villa provides a luxury exclusive use stay option for up to 12 x guests. Both properties extend an era of luxury and quality. With a low impact, high value approach to sustainable ecotourism that helps fund the vital work that is conserving land for biodiversity.
Cottar’s 1920s Camp has two main mess tent areas for fine dining, drinking, reading, and relaxing. And an amazing pool and spa. Guests can also enjoy a traditional canvas safari bath. A genuinely unique way of bathing specifically set up on the tent’s verandah, with views out over the plains. There is also the interactive Explorers Tent where you will learn about conservation, culture, and community (a mini museum of sorts).
Bush Bath
Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottars 1920 Camp feel
The 1920s Camp provides the romance of safari under cream canvas tents. Spacious and luxuriously furnished in the style of the bygone era of the twenties. While at the same time supplying the amenities required by today’s modern world travelers. All with King four poster beds and en suite bathrooms. They are private and quiet. Whether for honeymooners or families with young children.
Cottar’s 1920s Camp has recently completed the redesign of four luxury double tents (Ndovu, Kudu, Athi and Duma). From the original, classic style to a refreshed, more spacious layout. In early 2025, there are plans to redesign the remaining classic style luxury double tent (Swala). As well as the family tented suites. Cottar’s 1920s Camp will therefore be closing from 28th March to 10th May 2025 for these exciting renovations to begin
Duma renovated tent
The new canvas tents are 538 sq ft. Approximately 40% larger than the previous classic tents. They boast spectacular views across the Savannah, an outdoor deck with comfortable seating, stylish dark wooden floors, sumptuous living spaces and large en-suite bathrooms with beautiful wallpaper, all whilst maintaining Cottar’s Safaris’ iconic and romantic 1920s aesthetic.
Cottar’s 1920s Camp now comprises 11 luxury tents in total: five luxury double tents, two romantic honeymoon tents and four open plan family tented suites. The Luxury Double Tents can accommodate 1 x extra single sleigh bed for a child. Plus; 1 of the doubles can be a twin.
The 3 x Luxury Family Tents have 2 x en-suite bedrooms. The 2 bedrooms share a living room with a fireplace. They can sleep 5 or 6 people.
Standard Tent
Honeymoon Tents
Cottar’s has two stunning honeymoon tents (Molo and Kiboko). ‘Molo’ is set apart from the main camp for added exclusivity, and includes a romantic outdoor bathtub. They can accommodate an extra 2 x single sleigh beds for up to 2 x children under 12 yrs.
Honeymoon Tent
Cottar’s Private Bush Villa
Cottar’s Bush Villa Experience (pre hot tub addition)
Cottar’s Bush Villa is on an exclusive basis and comes with 8 x dedicated staff. The Villa has won the World Travel Award for the Leading Luxury Private Villa in Africa. And it is Global Eco-sphere Retreat accredited. The villa sleeps up to 12 x guests and has its own private 25 meter swimming pool. It boasts breathtaking views of the Savannah plains, and the annual wildebeest migration. With a backdrop of Olentoroto Hill.
It is designed by Louise Cottar using indigenous and Eco-friendly materials. Guests can enjoy the same levels of service and standards as Cottar’s 1920s Camp. Cottar’s Bush Villa offers the only real private luxury villa in the Masai Mara.
Cottars Private VillaWood fired hot tubMain bedroom
The villa is over 10,000 square feet in size! It has a large living room, dining room, and a magnificent viewing deck. There are 5 x en-suite bedrooms. All with stunning views. The villa has internet access throughout, satellite TV and DVD. And uses electric and solar energy. With a private chef, dedicated game drive vehicle(s), and guide(s) for guests throughout their stay.
Think I-max and 3-D scenes from the Discovery Channel / National Geographic to get a real time idea of Kenya’s Masai Mara.
Bush Villa dining and lounge areaCottars Bush Villa pool
Cottar's Family Safari and Child Policy ↓
Masai Mara Family Safari
With action packed itineraries and all-included logistics; we’ve got every family member covered. From grandparents to grandchildren.
Going on a safari with your children is sure to be one of the most unforgettable trips you’ll ever have. What could be more magical than a child’s delight at seeing a lion for the first time? Or sharing tales with a Maasai warrior by the campfire? Nature can provide a lifetime of bonding experiences and memories. Days on safari at Cottar unfold at your own pace. Depending on your interests and the time of year. Nothing is set in stone, and the only schedule is your own. You’ll feel right at home, and with guides who’ll ensure everyone has fun!
Bush Walk
Cottars are child friendly camps and accept children of all ages. Your family safari is extremely important. Therefore; a lot of time, care, and attention is taken to ensure it will be a holiday of a lifetime. Early dinners and children’s menus can be arranged. There a childrens program, Maasai Warrior school program. There are special activities for the active older children (through but not limited to the Maasai Warrior school program) too. A nanny is available (free of charge) on request to babysit when you are out for meals or activities.
Family Safari costs
Children 0-5 yrs are free of charge; a child in his/her own room will be charged a single room rate. A child 12 year and under sharing a Luxury Double Tent with two other people pays the ‘child in the third bed’ rate. In the Family Tents, additional children up to 12 years are charged the per-child sharing rate. 4 people or more staying in a family tent will get exclusive use of a vehicle.
Family Tent exteriorFamily Tent
More Than Just A Place To Stay In The Masai Mara – Responsible Tourism
Cottar’s Safari is proud to be one of The Long Runs nine Global Ecosphere Retreats (GER) in the world. It is certified at a Gold Ecotourism standard in Kenya. The GER standard is one of the most rigorous sustainability standards in the tourism industry. This standard was granted recognition by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council in 2015. It is only awarded to organizations that demonstrate a holistic balance of the ‘4Cs; Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce. To excel in conserving nature and improving the well-being of the communities they belong to.
Therefore; it is more than just a place to stay in the Masai Mara. You are also contributing directly to the sustainability of our conservation and social development efforts. These include the restoration of the natural environment to a pristine condition. Re-establishment and protection of biological diversity. Anti-poaching, on-site research and rehabilitation projects. The provision of healthcare services, and a local preschool.
Masai Mara community projects
Cottars also have a charitable trust called the Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust (CWCT). It works towards a sustainable conservancy for the area, in partnership with the community. Such a conservancy would manage the land on behalf of the community. And pay market rates for the land to the community. Management of the conservancy protects the critical wildlife corridor and its species. Mitigating the challenge of overgrazing by wildlife and investing in human development initiatives. Such as schooling, water supply, and medical support.
Cottars promote women’s handiwork for sale to visitors.
Things to do at Cottar's Safaris ↓
Included Activities at Cottar’s Safaris
Day and Night game drives, Bush Walks, Running with a Maasai Warrior, a local school visit, swimming & fishing. Plus, the Maasai Warrior School (for kids of all ages).
The South East Mara has most of the Mara’s Rhino population, so Cottar’s guests see them often. There are also many lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, wildebeests, zebra, gazelle, and other migratory wildlife. The hills are great for hill walks. Verreaux Eagles can be seen on cliff nesting sites. As well as Colobus monkeys and the rare chandlers reedbuck in the moor like hilltops.
Pure wilderness, privacy & uninterrupted views – no cars or other lodges, no balloons. This is what is different about this area.
Lion chasing the vultures away from his killGiraffes
Game drives enable guests to cover more ground. To easily traverse through both the private Olderkesi Conservancy and the Masai Mara National Reserve. In addition to seeing countless species and beautifully diverse landscapes; you’ll learn about the challenges and opportunities present. Ask questions of your guide and explore ways to further engage in sustainability. All game drives will be tailored to your interests and will vary accordingly in time and distance. Game drives are also perfect for photographers. With the guides always positioning the vehicle to give you the best possible viewpoint.
Please note: Cottars is ideally positioned to see the wildebeest migration. However, it is a bit far from the Mara River crossings. Therefore; we recommend that guests who particularly wish to see the migration crossing the river; stay in a lodge closer to the river for a night or two. Thereafter; visit Cottar’s Camp for the traditional migration experience in far more privacy. And away from the mass tourism experience of the crossings.
Wild Movie Nights at Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Guests are invited to immerse themselves in an unforgettable evening. Where the wild beauty of the Maasai Mara meets the magic of cinema. Blending nature, luxury, and film in a truly enchanting experience.
As the sun sets, guests will be guided to Cottar’s Safari’s exclusive outdoor cinema. The vintage Rolls Royce ‘Dugu Dugu’ Bar will be stationed nearby. Serving a selection of refreshing drinks to kick off the evening. The scene is beautifully set with a projector screen, surrounded by flickering lanterns and a crackling fire. Creating a warm and intimate ambiance.
Guests will settle into comfortable canvas bean bags or traditional shuka mats, with cozy blankets provided, as they enjoy a classic African film like *The Lion King* or *Out of Africa*. All beneath a canopy of stars.
To enhance the cinematic experience, gourmet twists on classic movie snacks will be served throughout the film. Think freshly popped popcorn, savory hotdogs, and indulgent homemade chocolates. Once the credits roll, the adventure continues as guests return to camp for a lavish dinner under the expansive African sky, offering the perfect end to a truly magical evening.
Wild Movie Nights
Activities At An Additional Cost
Maasai village visit, Massage and other Spa treatments Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Maasai Mara*
*The day begins with an early morning wake-up call at 3.30 am with tea and coffee. A 4 am departure to the launch site to enjoy a balloon safari over the Maasai Mara. The drive from camp to the balloon site takes about 1.5 hours.
Activities That Engage And Positively Impact
Please note: some of these activities attract additional charges One hour learning with female conservation rangers A variety of talks. The subjects include history of safari, Pangolin, Wild dog, and conservancy. Medicinal Plant Walk and Talk Mara Predator Experience Carbon footprint, recycle and up cycle talk and experience Foraging (Learn of the unique natural wild food sources in the Maasai Mara). And foraged dining experience Vulture Rehabilitation and Raptor talk/experience Transect/identification of wildlife during early morning walk Talk about the culture and community of the Maasai people Elephant Experience The Explorers Tent / 4C Center visit Stargazing Reforestation seed dispersal activity Professional Photography Experience
Dining experiences at Cottar’s Safaris
‘Forage to Fork’ dining experience Picnic bush breakfast / lunch / dinner Al fresco lunch at the 1920s Camp Al fresco lunch in the pavillion by the Bush Villa pool African night Candlelight dinner by the pool Group lunch by the pool Cooked breakfast in the bush
Dining at Cottar’s has become an integral part of their sustainability journey. In the kitchen, with every recipe and every menu, chefs are continuously adding to your culinary journey. Every taste is a reminder of Kenya’s rich and flavorful culinary diversity. Interpreted with fresh, modern twists. It’s no easy feat. Creating a refined, seasonal dining experience in the middle of a vast and secluded area of the Mara. It requires resourcefulness, creativity and teamwork. The chefs continue to surprise and tantalize taste buds with magical morsels that are nearly all made from scratch.
Whether out on a wildlife drive, tucking into a picnic breakfast or lunch, or enjoying a barbecue African dinner, the food is consciously and ethically sourced. With regional produce sourced from dedicated, passionate farmers, artisans, makers and producers of all things edible.
At Cottar’s, dining is not confined to regular mealtimes but is part of the everyday experience. And food and drinks are there to be enjoyed at any time. From private dining on your veranda to a bush dinner, the dining experience is tailored to each individual.
When to Visit Cottar’s Safaris?
January Abundant Wildlife Seasonal Rainfall Green with flowers blooming Cats are easy to track Great time for bush dinners and night drives
February Abundant Wildlife Seasonal Rainfall It starts to dry out so animals found near water Cheetahs and lions are rampant
March Escape the crowds Seasonal showers Great birding Mara begins to turn green again Resident populations of Wildebeests and Zebras are full of life
April Escape the crowds Seasonal showers Great birding Mara begins to turn green again Resident populations of Wildebeests and Zebras are full of life Cats are on the move
May Escape the crowds Seasonal showers Great birding Long green grass Huge parades of elephants pass by Swimming and fishing at the waterfall
June Abundant wildlife Beginning of the Sand River migration Lots of predators Good walking safaris: cooler and higher chance to come across game
July Great Migration Mara River crossings Sunny and dry Fantastic cat sightings Abundant wildlife
August Great Migration Mara River crossings Sunny and dry Fantastic cat sightings Abundant wildlife
September Great Migration Mara River crossings Sunny and dry Fantastic cat sightings Abundant wildlife Amazing star gazing and bush dinners
October Great Migration winding down Fat cats everywhere Sunny and dry Abundant wildlife Amazing star gazing and bush dinners
November Abundant wildlife Short rains Great birding Escape the crowds
December Abundant wildlife Seasonal rainfall Great birding Amazing bush walks and bush breakfasts Perfect for a sunny Christmas safari
How to get to Cottar’s Safaris?
Cottar’s Private Airstrip is a 15 minute drive from both Cottar’s Safaris properties. Keekorok Airstrip is a 2.5 hrs wildlife drive through the Maasai Mara. Which adds both travel time and transfer costs to the journey. Whatever you chose, we’ll assist with it all.
Cottar’s 1920s Camp 2024 Accommodation Rates
Cottar’s 1920s Camp 2024 & 2025 Rates
Green Season Rates
11th January until 31st May and 1st November until 19th December
Per person sharing
$ 1 146
Single Room
$ 1 373
Child sharing (6-17 yrs)
$ 858
Child in third bed (6-12 yrs)
$ 574
Honeymoon Tent (2 people)
$ 2 514
Family Tent (4 people)*
$ 4 156
High Season Rates
1st until 30th June and 16th September until 31st October
Per person sharing
$ 1 491
Single Room
$ 1 789
Child sharing (6-17 yrs)
$ 1 119
Child in third bed (6-12 yrs)
$ 747
Honeymoon Tent (2 people)
$ 3 278
Family Tent (4 people)*
$ 5 419
Peak Season Rates
1st July until 15th September and 20th December until 10th January
Per person sharing
$ 1 753
Single Room
$ 2 104
Child sharing (6-17 yrs)
$ 1 317
Child in third bed (6-12 yrs)
$ 879
Honeymoon Tent (2 people)
$ 3 856
Family Tent (4 people)*
$ 6 375
*Family Tent – additional children are charged at the per child sharing rate (a maximum of 6 people)
Cottar’s Bush Villa 2024 & 2025 Rates
Mid-Season: 11th January until 31st May and 1st November until 19th December
Private House (6 people)*
$ 9 011
Per Additional Adult
$ 899
Per Additional Child (6-17 yrs)
$ 736
High Season: 1st until 30th June and 16th September until 31st October
Private House (6 people)*
$ 11 383
Per Additional Adult
$ 1 158
Per Additional Child (6-17 yrs)
$ 986
Peak Season: 1st July until 15th September and 20th December until 10th January
Private House (6 people)*
$ 14 553
Per Additional Adult
$ 1 481
Per Additional Child (6-17 yrs)
$ 1 260
* Private house/villa: A maximum of 10 guests on an exclusive-use basis.
Rates Include:
Accommodation including all meals, Water, tea & coffee, local drinks. This includes soft drinks, house wines, beers, & select spirits, Safari activities, including shared day/night game drives & bush walks/runs, Talks on the area, sustainability and Masaai Culture, Cottar’s Warrior School – Kids entertainment program, Cottar’s private airstrip transfers, Canvas Bush Baths, applies to the 1920s Camp only, Transfers to cultural visits, Laundry, Nanny, All statutory taxes (approx. 25%), including VAT.
Excluded: Champagne, luxury wines & spirits Park & Conservancy fees, Cultural village entry fee, Massage and Spa treatments Exclusive use of vehicle Transfers to and from any other airstrip.
Airlines landing at Cottar’s Private Airstrip: Governors, Safarilink, Air Kenya, Scenic Air, Yellow Wings, and any private charter company. Cottar’s Private Airstrip is only a 15-minute drive from Cottar’s Safaris. Keekorok airstrip is a 2 hour drive (and therefore at an additional cost).
A minimum stay of 2 nights at Cottar’s 1920s Camp and a minimum 3 night stay at Cottar’s Bush Villa.
Cottar’s Safari Accommodation Special Offers
Both offers are valid for travel from 11th January – 31st May, and 1st November – 19th December every year. Conservancy & park fees are not included and are payable for the entire stay.
Stay 4 nights, Pay for 3
A free night in the Masai Mara at Cottar’s 1920s Camp or Cottar’s Bush Villa! Save on your luxury Kenyan safari in the Masai Mara. Being close to the border with the Serengeti, the spectacular wildebeest migration moves through this area every year. Prolific game viewing is guaranteed.
Honeymoon Package
50% discount off accommodation rates for the bride. A minimum stay of 4 nights. Excludes Bush Villa.
Wedding Blessings At Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp
Cottars have had the pleasure of organizing many beautiful blessings for their guests. From small, simple ceremonies involving a champagne celebration at the end of a game drive. To larger 3 day events with over 60 guests. They have become the hottest emerging destination for blessings in the African bush! A stylish ceremony, led by a Maasai elder. Coupled with the vibrant colors of Maasai dancing and celebrations away from the crowds. Yet amidst the herds! This requires very little paperwork and no official certificates are supplied. The ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ are both adorned in traditional Maasai regalia and the entire village joins in your celebration! The traditional ceremony is complete with a gourmet dinner and a mouth-watering cake of your choice.
More Information and costs for Wedding Blessings at Cottar's ↓
Approximate Cost: USD 1000 which includes the following: Organization on site of whatever your requirements for your celebration Bouquets & floral decorations (indigenous). We can hire a professional florist at an extra cost. Special ceremony décor, including decoration on-site with indigenous plants, safari lamps, candles, etc. A wedding cake made in camp (sponge cake). We can provide a professional cake at an extra cost. A gift from the lodge to the bride and groom Music player and speakers (please bring an iPod) A special romantic lunch, sun downers & dinner located in the bush. On your private veranda, or by the swimming pool Bitings or lunch in the tent with sparkling wine on the day of the event Canvas bath prior to the ceremony Sparkling wine prior to the event Ceremony at sundown Blessing by the Maasai Elder and 4 Maasai Warriors Traditional Entertainment (Maasai Dancers)
Professional Bouquets & Floral Decorations Professional Wedding Cake Champagne or additional bottles of sparkling wine Additional Ceremony Leader Professional Photographer and / or Videographer Hairdresser & Make-up Artist
The award-winning Cottar’s Safari Camps are situated in the private conservancy, bordering Maasai Mara in Kenya and Serengeti, Tanzania – rates and offers
