Cottar's Safari Camp

Location: Cottar’s Safari Camp lies in a private 7,600-acre conservancy that borders both the Masai Mara National Reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti, in one of the most untouched corners of Kenya’s southern Mara ecosystem. This borderland position gives the camp access to extraordinary wildlife viewing without the busier feel of the main reserve - you get the same incredible game, but in a much more exclusive setting. The area is wild, remote, and spectacularly scenic, with rolling hills, river valleys, and sweeping savannahs. It’s also a critical wildlife corridor and one of the few places where conservation, culture, and tourism genuinely work in harmony.

Rooms: Cottar’s offers just ten tents, including two romantic honeymoon tents and five spacious family suites, each with its own private living and dining areas. The design is a beautiful blend of vintage elegance and safari authenticity - think cream canvas, antique furniture, brass fittings, and steamer trunks, all recalling the golden age of safaris without compromising on comfort. Ensuite bathrooms come with hot showers and full bathtubs, and the service is discreet but ever-present. The tents are positioned for privacy and views, and it’s not uncommon to see giraffe or zebra wandering past as you enjoy your morning coffee on the veranda.

Amenities: This is a camp where everything has been thoughtfully designed to evoke the charm of 1920s safari style, while still delivering a modern, luxurious experience. There’s a central mess tent with an elegant dining area, bar, and lounge filled with books and campaign-style furniture, plus a stunning pool and spa area tucked into the hillside with views over the savannah. Dining is flexible and personalised - private meals, bush breakfasts, and sundowners are all part of the experience. Service is exceptional, with a ratio of nearly three staff to every guest, and a genuine sense of warmth and pride from the whole team.

Activities: Cottar’s offers one of the most diverse and well-rounded safari experiences in Kenya. Day and night game drives are led by some of East Africa’s most highly qualified guides, with opportunities to see lion, leopard, elephant, cheetah, and more. The camp also specialises in guided bush walks, running safaris, and fly camping for the adventurous. Cultural visits with local Maasai communities are authentic and respectful, and guests are actively encouraged to engage with the people who call this land home. You can also visit a nearby waterfall, enjoy time in the spa, or simply unwind with a sundowner in hand and the sounds of the bush all around you.

Sustainability: Cottar’s is a pioneering force in sustainable, community-led conservation. As a founding member of the Global Ecosphere Retreats and a Gold-rated EcoTourism Kenya property, its commitment goes far beyond the surface. The Cottar family has worked in this region for over 100 years, and today they help manage the Olderkesi Conservancy in partnership with the local Maasai, ensuring landowners are supported while critical wildlife corridors are protected. The camp is solar-powered, avoids single-use plastics, and runs a charitable foundation supporting education, healthcare, and female empowerment initiatives. Staying here isn’t just a memorable safari - it’s a direct investment in the future of both people and wildlife.