Cottar’s Safaris-Masai Mara
Positioned on the untamed edge of Kenya's Masai Mara, Cottar's Safaris stands as a testament to Africa's golden age of exploration. This distinguished property, managed by the continent's oldest established safari family, masterfully balances 1920s vintage luxury with contemporary refinement. The camp commands a privileged position on a 7,608-acre private conservancy that borders both the Masai Mara and Serengeti, offering guests exclusive access to one of Earth's most dramatic wildlife theaters.
Each canvas tent serves as a private sanctuary, appointed with carefully curated antique furnishings and stately four-poster beds that echo the romance of early safari expeditions. The property's thoughtful design ensures complete privacy, whether accommodating honeymooners seeking seclusion or families embarking on multi-generational adventures.
What elevates Cottar's beyond conventional luxury is its profound commitment to conservation paired with highly personalized service. The camp maintains Africa's highest concentration of Gold-level safari guides, ensuring guests experience wildlife encounters that transcend ordinary game drives. From canvas bush baths overlooking the savanna to intimate gourmet picnics staged in remote locations, each moment is orchestrated to create an indelible impression of wild Africa.
Practical Details
- Rates: From $1,146 per person/night
- Flexible check-in/out accommodating flight schedules
- Complimentary airstrip transfers
- Direct access to Masai Mara National Reserve
- Year-round migration viewing opportunities
Essential Information
Location and Access
- Situated in Olderkesi Conservancy, bordering Masai Mara National Reserve
- Private airstrip with dedicated transfers from Keekorok
- Coordinates: -1.3641, 35.1960
Accommodation
- 5 Luxury Double Tents (180 sq m)
- 4 Family Tents (230 sq m)
- 2 Honeymoon Tents (200 sq m)
- Cottar's Bush Villa (exclusive use, 10 guests, private pool)
Dining Experience
- Main mess tent offering fine dining
- Private bush breakfasts and dinners
- Customized menu planning
- Extensive wine cellar
Signature Facilities
- Canvas bush baths with savanna views
- Swimming pool and wellness spa
- Cottar's Warrior School for young adventurers
- Photography hide and equipment rental
Luxury Signature Details
Luxury Experience Details
Exclusive Services
- Personal butler assigned to each tent
- Gold-level safari guides for private game drives
- Customized safari itineraries
- Professional photography sessions
- Maasai cultural immersion experiences
- Spa treatments with panoramic views
Conservation & Community
- Supports 7,000-acre Olderkesi Wildlife Conservancy
- Partners with The Long Run and Global Ecosphere Retreats
- Employs local Maasai community members
- Pioneering sustainable tourism practices
- Active wildlife monitoring and research programs
Property Classifications
- Category: Luxury Tented Safari Camp
- Star Rating: 5-Star equivalent
- Business Model: All-Inclusive Luxury Safari
- Accommodation Type: Luxury Tents and Private Villa
Safety and Trust
Security Measures
- 24/7 armed security personnel
- Emergency medical evacuation services
- On-site medical support
- Satellite communication systems
- Comprehensive guest insurance coverage
Health & Safety
- COVID-19 safety protocols
- Food safety certification
- Regular staff health training
- Clean water certification
- International safety standards compliance
Environmental & Social Commitments
- Gold Eco-Rating Certification
- Global Ecosphere Retreat accreditation
- Fair Trade Tourism certified
- Sustainable energy initiatives
- Community development programs
Industry Affiliations
- Member of The Long Run
- Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association
- African Travel & Tourism Association
- Kenya Wildlife Service-approved operator
- Sustainable Tourism Council member
Guest Privacy
- Strict privacy protocols for high-profile guests
- Secure payment systems
- Data protection compliance
- Discretion-trained staff
- Private arrival/departure options
Awards & Recognition
- "Best Tented Camp in the World" - Tatler Magazine
- "Top Guides of Africa"—Conde" Nast Traveller
- Africa's Leading Luxury Private Villa 2016—World Travel Awards
- Global Ecosphere Retreat certification
- Gold Eco-Rating (Ecotourism Kenya)
