Cottar’s 1920s Camp combines timeless elegance with a deep-rooted connection to the wilderness. Located in Kenya’s private Olderkesi Conservancy, the camp offers a unique blend of vintage safari style, personalized service, and exclusive wildlife experiences. Owned and operated by the Cottar family—pioneers of African safaris for over a century—this camp epitomizes the romance of the early safari era while supporting sustainability and community development.
Location: Seclusion in the Wild
- Setting:
- Nestled within the 7,608-acre Olderkesi Conservancy, the camp provides unparalleled privacy and exclusivity, with minimal tourist traffic.
- Bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park, the camp serves as a gateway to some of Africa’s richest wildlife habitats.
- Proximity to Key Attractions:
- Positioned in a migratory corridor, guests enjoy prime access to the Great Migration (July to October).
- The nearby Mara River is ideal for spotting dramatic wildebeest crossings.
- Accessibility:
- By Air: A 45-minute flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Keekorok Airstrip, followed by a scenic 60-minute drive to the camp.
- By Road: A 5–6-hour drive from Nairobi offers an adventurous journey through Kenya’s diverse landscapes.
Accommodation: Vintage Elegance Meets Modern Comfort
Cottar’s 1920s Camp features 11 luxurious tents that transport guests back to the golden age of safari while providing contemporary amenities.
Tent Categories
- Luxury Double Tents:
- Designed for couples or solo travelers.
- Decorated with antique furniture and luxurious fabrics reminiscent of the 1920s.
- Private verandas with sweeping views of the conservancy.
- En-suite bathrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, and vintage-style brass fittings.
- Honeymoon Tents:
- Exclusive and romantic, offering extra privacy and a luxurious outdoor bathtub.
- Positioned for optimal sunrise or sunset views.
- Family Tents:
- Spacious open-plan layouts with two bedrooms, a shared lounge area, and en-suite bathrooms.
- Perfect for families or small groups seeking a comfortable yet intimate stay.
Amenities
- Solar-powered lighting and charging points.
- Complimentary laundry service.
- Writing desks and antique décor that blend seamlessly with the tent’s rustic charm.
- Mosquito netting for added comfort.
Dining: Gourmet Cuisine in the Wild
Cottar’s 1920s Camp emphasizes fine dining, offering meals that reflect the camp’s vintage luxury and commitment to sustainability.
Dining Highlights
- Main Mess Tent:
- Elegant communal dining experiences with silverware, crystal glassware, and crisp linen napkins.
- Gourmet dishes prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Bush Dining:
- Enjoy meals in stunning outdoor settings, such as a breakfast picnic in the savannah or a candlelit dinner under the stars.
- Private Dining:
- Tailored dining experiences can be arranged on your veranda or at scenic locations within the conservancy.
- Special Diets:
- The camp caters to dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Activities: Immersive Safari Adventures
Cottar’s 1920s Camp offers a diverse range of activities designed to enhance your connection with nature, culture, and the camp’s rich heritage.
Game Drives
- Day Drives:
- Explore the conservancy and Maasai Mara with expert guides who provide insights into animal behavior and the ecosystem.
- Night Drives:
- Exclusive to the conservancy, these safaris reveal nocturnal wildlife like aardvarks, hyenas, and bush babies.
- Photography Safaris:
- Vehicles are equipped for photographers, with bean bags, wide windows, and specialized guides to help capture the perfect shot.
Walking Safaris
- Explore the conservancy on foot, led by highly trained guides and Maasai trackers.
- Learn about smaller wildlife, plants, and traditional survival skills.
Cultural Visits
- Maasai Village Tour:
- Interact with the local Maasai community, gaining insights into their customs, beadwork, and daily life.
- Traditional Storytelling:
- Sit by the campfire as Maasai elders share tales of their culture and history.
Spa and Wellness
- Relax in the wilderness with massages, facials, and holistic treatments inspired by African traditions.
- Treatments can be enjoyed in the spa tent or your own accommodation.
Swimming Pool
- The camp’s pool overlooks the plains, offering a serene spot to unwind after a game drive.
Sundowners
- End the day with cocktails and canapés at a scenic location, soaking in the golden hues of the African sunset.
Wildlife: A Haven for Biodiversity
The Olderkesi Conservancy and its proximity to the Maasai Mara provide unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Big Five:
- Regular sightings of lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.
- The Great Migration:
- From July to October, witness wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains in dramatic predator-prey interactions.
- Endangered Species:
- Home to rare species such as the African wild dog and black rhino.
- Birdwatching:
- Over 450 bird species, including lilac-breasted rollers and secretary birds, make this a birder’s paradise.
Sustainability and Community Engagement
Cottar’s 1920s Camp is deeply committed to preserving the environment and supporting local communities.
Eco-Friendly Practices
- Solar power is used for electricity and hot water.
- Rainwater harvesting and eco-friendly waste management reduce the camp’s environmental footprint.
- Awarded Global Ecosphere Retreat (GER) status by The Long Run, recognizing its dedication to conservation.
Community Support
- Employment:
- Employs local Maasai staff, providing jobs and skills training.
- Education:
- Supports schools in the region through funding and scholarships.
- Healthcare:
- Supplies medical resources to local clinics and provides mobile health services to remote areas.
Service and Hospitality
The Cottar family’s century-long history in safari tourism ensures impeccable service and attention to detail.
- Guides:
- Expert guides, many of whom are Maasai, offer deep insights into the region’s ecology and culture.
- Personalized Experiences:
- Activities and dining are tailored to individual preferences, ensuring every guest feels special.
- Family-Friendly:
- Dedicated family tents and child-friendly activities make it ideal for families traveling with children.
Cost and Packages
Cottar’s 1920s Camp provides an all-inclusive luxury safari experience.
Rates (2024 Estimates):
- Luxury Tents: $1,000–$1,500 per person per night (depending on the season).
- Family Packages: Discounts for children under 12 and special rates for families.
- Honeymoon Packages: Romantic extras like private bush dinners and couples’ spa treatments.
Inclusions:
- Full-board accommodation (meals, select beverages).
- Day and night game drives.
- Guided walking safaris.
- Transfers from the Keekorok Airstrip.
- Laundry services.
Exclusions:
- Conservancy and park fees.
- Premium alcoholic beverages.
- Hot air balloon safaris and Maasai village visits (optional at additional cost).
Ideal For
- Honeymooners: Romantic settings, honeymoon tents, and private dining experiences.
- Families: Spacious family tents and engaging activities for children.
- Wildlife Enthusiasts: Year-round game viewing and exclusive access to the Olderkesi Conservancy.
- Luxury Travelers: Vintage charm combined with modern amenities and impeccable service.
Why Choose Cottar’s 1920s Camp?
- Rich History: Over a century of safari experience from the Cottar family.
- Exclusive Location: Private conservancy ensures minimal crowds and personalized wildlife experiences.
- Eco-Conscious: Recognized for its sustainable tourism practices and commitment to conservation.
- Cultural Connection: Opportunities to engage with and support the local Maasai community.
- Timeless Elegance: A unique blend of vintage safari aesthetics and modern comforts.
Conclusion
Cottar’s 1920s Camp offers a safari experience unlike any other, combining the charm of the past with the luxury of the present. Its dedication to sustainability, conservation, and community engagement makes it a standout destination for travelers seeking meaningful and memorable adventures. Whether you’re drawn by the rich history, exclusive wildlife encounters, or the serene beauty of the Olderkesi Conservancy, Cottar’s 1920s Camp promises an unparalleled safari journey.