Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp

Location: Olderkesi Wildlife Conservancy

Step into a world where timeless elegance meets untamed wilderness.

At Cottar’s 1920s Camp, guests are swept into a world of timeless elegance, where gourmet dining, impeccable service, and an intimate, old-world charm redefine the safari experience. Tucked away in the secluded Olderkesi Conservancy near the Tanzanian border, this exclusive retreat offers an unrivaled sense of privacy and adventure. The camp’s breathtaking setting, teeming with wildlife, captivates visitors, many of whom find themselves longing to return and eager to share their unforgettable journey with others.

Where Timeless Luxury Meets Modern Comfort

Just a stone’s throw from the legendary Masai Mara, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp whisks you back to the golden age of exploration. Steeped in nostalgia, this exquisite camp revives the spirit of a bygone era, where adventure was raw, unfiltered, and draped in old-world charm. This 1920s camp pays tribute to the inception of the Cottar safari tradition, where the Cottar safari tradition began, offering an unparalleled safari experience that echoes the past. While the hunting of yesteryears has evolved into the exhilarating pursuit of wildlife photography, the 1920s’ elegance and allure thrive for guests. Nestled in the private concession of Olderkesi Conservancy, this entire camp ensures abundant wildlife encounters, free from the typical crowds of the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

A legacy carved through generations, Cottar’s 1920s Camp is the pride of the renowned Cottar family, pioneers in African safaris for over a century. Now helmed by the fifth generation, the camp continues to set the gold standard for luxury, authenticity, and conservation. Guests revel in the elegance of spacious canvas tents, guided by expert Maasai trackers who bring the wilderness to life with their unparalleled knowledge. Every detail, from the impeccable service to the gourmet cuisine, is a tribute to timeless excellence. As twilight settles, the flickering glow of a fireside gathering beckons—where stories of adventure, legacy, and the untamed beauty of Africa weave an unforgettable spell, transporting you to the heart of safari’s most storied past.

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp offers an intimate blend of nostalgia and opulence with nine spacious, authentic white canvas tents. This exclusive retreat features four double tents, a bush villa, three family suites, and two dreamy honeymoon tents, each exquisitely designed with en-suite bathrooms. The family suites include charming living rooms with crackling fireplaces, creating a cozy haven. Thoughtfully positioned for seclusion, each tent ensures complete privacy. Outfitted with campaign furniture, antique accents, rich oriental rugs, and grand four-poster beds, they also feature dressing rooms, fine porcelain, crystal glassware, and private verandahs that unveil breathtaking panoramas of the savannah and Olderkesi Hills. A dedicated camp manager orchestrates every detail, ensuring a seamless and luxurious bush experience.

This luxurious camp Camp features two grand main mess tent areas, perfect for gathering with other guests. Here, you can enjoy delicious bush meals, sip on your favorite cocktails, or simply relax with a book in hand. The dining experience is exceptional, with dishes prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which come directly from the camp’s organic kitchen garden, including vibrant, sun-kissed fruit salads.

For guests seeking ultimate relaxation, a stunning 25-meter pool provides a refreshing retreat under the African sun. After an exhilarating day of game drives, the camp’s spa offers an indulgent escape, where expert therapists deliver soothing treatments in a tranquil setting. To elevate the experience, guests can luxuriate in a safari bath or shower, immersed in the raw beauty of the surrounding wilderness.

Activities at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp

At Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp, the wilderness comes alive in ways that extend beyond traditional game drives. While the Big Five remain a key attraction, this legendary camp invites guests to immerse themselves in experiences that are both purposeful and deeply engaging.

Beyond the usual bush walks and game drives, Cottar’s offers specialized activities that take the adventure to the next level. Some of these unique experiences may require an additional cost, but each one promises to add an unforgettable layer to your journey.

  • vulture / raptor rehabilitation experience

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

  • local maasai village visits for unforgettable interactions with the local maasai community

  • 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 a local Maasai school

  • professional photography experience

  • hot-air balloon safari

In addition, guests can experience thrilling night game drives during the great migration season, offering a chance to witness Africa’s wildlife in a new light.

Stay 4 Pay 3 at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp

Unveil the Magic of the Masai Mara with an exceptional offer at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp. Relish in a unique opportunity to stay for 4 nights while only paying for 3! Immerse yourself in the remarkable wildlife encounters, luxurious comforts, and the enchanting essence of the 1920s. Book your adventure now and experience the wilderness like never before. This limited-time offer is valid for stays from 1 November to 19 December 2024, between 11 January and 31 May 2025, and from 1 November to 19 December 2025.

Tripadvisor comments Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp

"Had an awesome stay at cottars. It's was a perfect place to relax after I had a busy 10 days. Excellent food and friendly staff. The tent was beautiful, the biggest I've stayed in. Lots if free activities to enjoy, I did the massai warrior school and taught the staff how to play croquet."
"We went to Cottar’s for our honeymoon and truly had the most incredible time. We stayed for 5 days and every day was fantastic. From the impeccable decor of the tents to the food to our incredible guide, our stay could not have been better. The staff was like family by the end of the trip and they all went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable and accommodated. I also have a number of dietary restrictions that they were so respectful of and accommodating for. The game viewing was also great - our guide, Neebo, was fantastic. We saw 4 of the big 5 including leopards (just missed a rhino which is hard in the Mara!) we cannot wait to visit again"

Send Your Enquiry for Cottars 1920s Camp

We hope this information helps you decide that the Cottar 1920s Camp is the perfect destination for your next travel adventure. Please fill out the contact form, and we will respond promptly! You can also reach us through our email at [email protected] or [email protected]. We are also available via WhatsApp or Phone at +254 748 258880.