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Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Timeless safari elegance on the edge of the Masai Mara

Cottar’s 1920s Camp is a luxurious, vintage style safari camp that transports guests back to the golden age of safari, offering a blend of old world charm and modern comfort. Located on a private 7,608 acre conservancy bordering the Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park, the camp provides exclusive access to wildlife rich areas away from the crowds. Established by the Cottar family, pioneers in East African safaris since 1919, this camp maintains a legacy of exceptional guiding and conservation efforts, making it one of the most prestigious safari destinations in Kenya.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp features nine elegantly furnished tents, including one unique honeymoon tent, four double tents, and four family tents with their own living rooms and fireplaces. Each tent is beautifully decorated with antique furniture, luxurious bathtubs, and private verandas that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding savannah. Guests enjoy a personalized experience with butler service, private game drives, and access to some of the best wildlife viewing in the Mara ecosystem. Beyond traditional game drives, visitors can experience walking safaris, night drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits to Maasai villages.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp is also recognized for its commitment to sustainability and conservation. It actively supports the Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust, which works with local communities to promote wildlife protection and sustainable tourism. With its award-winning guiding team, a stunning location, and a deep rooted legacy in Kenyan safaris, Cottar’s 1920s Camp provides an authentic, elegant, and unforgettable safari experience.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Best Time to Visit Cottar’s 1920s Camp

July to October (Great Migration Season) – This is the best time to visit for witnessing the dramatic wildebeest migration, as thousands of animals cross the Mara River, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles.

December to February (Dry Season, Best for Big Cats) – Ideal for spotting big cats and other predators, as the dry conditions make wildlife easier to track. The weather is warm with minimal rain.

March to May (Green Season, Fewer Crowds) – Although this is the rainy season, the landscape is lush and vibrant, offering incredible photography opportunities and fewer tourists.

June & November (Shoulder Seasons) – These months offer a good balance of great wildlife viewing, mild weather, and fewer tourists, making them a great time for a more private safari experience.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp

How to Get to Cottar’s 1920s Camp

By Air

The easiest way to get to the camp is by taking a scheduled or private flight from Wilson Airport (Nairobi) to the Ol Kiombo, Keekorok, or Cottar’s Private Airstrip. The flight takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, followed by a 30 to 60 minute game drive to Cottar’s 1920s Camp, depending on the chosen airstrip. Domestic airlines such as Safarilink, AirKenya, and Governors’ Aviation operate daily flights to the Masai Mara.

By Road

Cottar’s 1920s Camp is about a 5 to 6 hour drive from Nairobi, depending on road conditions. The last stretch requires a 4×4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season.

Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Highlights of Cottar’s 1920s Camp

  • Exclusive Private Conservancy – Located on a 7,608 acre private conservancy, guests enjoy off-road game drives, walking safaris, and night drives, which are not allowed in the main Masai Mara Reserve. This ensures a more intimate and uncrowded safari experience.

  • Authentic 1920s Safari Experience – Cottar’s 1920s Camp is designed in a classic 1920s style, featuring antique furnishings, Persian rugs, and luxurious bathtubs, offering a unique blend of history, elegance, and adventure.

  • Award-Winning Guiding Team – Cottar’s has some of the best safari guides in Africa, including Gold Level-certified guides, ensuring exceptional wildlife encounters and deep insights into the ecosystem.

  • Sustainable & Community-Focused Tourism – The camp actively supports wildlife conservation and Maasai communities through the Cottar’s Wildlife Conservation Trust (CWCT), ensuring a positive impact on the environment and local people.

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Activities at Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Walking Safaris / Balloon Safaris / Bush Dinner / Bush Breakfast / Bush Lunch

Ameneties at Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Swimming Pool / Wi-Fi / Laundry Facilities / Spa / Electricity (generator or solar-powered)

Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp
Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Expert Insights on Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Cottar’s 1920s Camp stands out as a perfect blend of history, luxury, and exclusivity. Unlike many lodges in the Masai Mara, it offers a truly private safari experience with access to untouched wilderness, top-tier guiding, and meaningful conservation efforts. If you’re looking for a safari that goes beyond game drives and one that immerses you in classic safari elegance while supporting sustainability this is the place to be.

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