Immerse yourself in the “Golden Age” of safari at the legendary Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp. Nestled within a vast 6,000-acre private conservancy bordering the Maasai Mara, this award-winning sanctuary offers an unparalleled sense of privacy and old-world glamour. Founded by the Cottar family—pioneers with over 100 years of East African heritage—the camp seamlessly blends refined elegance with a world-class commitment to biodiversity. Recognized by The Wall Street Journal for its innovative conservation model, Cottar’s is not just a stay; it is a journey through time and a masterclass in luxury wilderness preservation.
Masai Mara
28
11
En-suite bathrooms
Not allowed
Non-Smocking Rooms
Cottar’s offers an intimate sanctuary for only 28 guests, hosted in exquisite white canvas luxury tents that stretch across a half-mile of pristine wilderness. This expansive layout, featuring two separate mess tents, ensures a rare sense of space and absolute tranquility. Each tent is a masterpiece of vintage design, boasting private en-suite dressing rooms, opulent bathrooms, and shaded verandas. For families, our expansive suites include a cozy living room anchored by a roaring fireplace, perfect for cool African nights.
For the traveler seeking the pinnacle of seclusion, the Cottar’s Bush Villa stands as the only private luxury home in the Maasai Mara. This contemporary African masterpiece features five en-suite bedrooms, a magnificent viewing deck, and a dedicated private staff of eight to cater to your every whim. Complete with a stunning swimming pool for your exclusive use, the Bush Villa offers a “home-away-from-home” experience for those who demand the finest in the wild.
Cottar’s is a rare sanctuary where the romance of the past meets the sophisticated comforts of today. Your journey is curated by our expert Bush 2 City Safari Directors, whose watchful eyes and deep knowledge unlock the secrets of the Maasai Mara’s spectacular wildlife.
Traditional Soul Embrace the classic safari lifestyle with exhilarating day and night game drives, or reconnect with the earth on a guided bush walk. Between the high-action encounters with the Mara’s iconic creatures, enjoy the quiet elegance of sumptuous alfresco bush meals and scenic sundowners at the “Golden Hour.” For those seeking a touch of adventure, the cool waters of the river offer a chance for swimming and fishing, just as the early explorers once did.
Modern Serenity Beyond the heritage, Cottar’s provides every modern indulgence. Immerse yourself in authentic Maasai culture with village visits, or find your own rhythm at the camp’s sprawling pool. For a moment of pure magic, experience a canvas bush bath under the infinite African sky—a signature ritual that defines safari luxury. To complete your journey of restoration, our bespoke spa and massage services invite you to delve deeper into the profound serenity that is the ultimate safari joy.
The sound of “Ishara” seems to drift effortlessly across the rolling grasses of the Maasai plains. Meaning “sign” in Swahili, the name draws us back time and again to this pocket of African beauty. In Kenya’s Maasai Mara, wildlife is everywhere—hippos, buffalo, hyenas, lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam freely. The camp blends harmoniously into its natural setting, tucked among cooling greenery and anchored by a grand old olive tree. Elevated walkways link the tents, offering both privacy and comfort in a well-concealed retreat—an ideal base for discovering the wildlife-rich Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Set within a private wildlife conservancy bordering Kenya’s legendary Masai Mara, Mara Bushtops offers an exclusive safari experience surrounded by pristine wilderness. Spacious luxury tented suites, panoramic views and attentive personal service create an exceptional retreat, while the camp’s privileged location provides remarkable wildlife encounters throughout the conservancy and the greater Masai Mara ecosystem.
A defining feature of Mara Bushtops is its substantial natural salt lick, situated directly in front of the restaurant and spa. Throughout the day and night, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, impalas, topis and other wildlife gather within metres of the camp to replenish essential minerals, occasionally accompanied by lions and leopards. This ever-changing spectacle allows guests to experience the magic of the Mara without leaving the comfort of camp.
Mara Nyika Camp is a small, exclusive tented camp located in a quiet valley on the edge of the Maasai Mara. To maintain privacy and comfort, the camp accommodates a maximum of 14 guests at a time.
Each tent is designed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped stay, featuring an en-suite bathroom, standalone bathtub, quality linens, bathrobes, writing desk, and a stocked refreshments area. Guests can enjoy views of the surrounding plains and wildlife from their private tent.
The camp’s design reflects the conservation-focused vision of Beverly Joubert and Great Plains Conservation. Shared dining and lounge areas are available for meals, relaxation, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Embarking on an African safari promises an adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the continent’s rich wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures. While safaris are widely considered safe, especially those organized through reputable tour operators, it’s prudent to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Here are some essential safety tips to consider:
Traveling through Africa offers an enriching experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. While it’s generally safe, especially on organized tours or safaris, navigating urban environments requires a bit of savvy to ensure your trip remains worry-free. Here are some straightforward tips to keep in mind, whether you’re exploring bustling metropolises or serene landscapes:
Exploring the wild through a safari adventure is an exhilarating experience that brings you closer to nature’s most fascinating wildlife. Whether you opt for a guided tour with an experienced professional or decide to navigate the trails on a self-drive journey, safety is paramount to ensure an enjoyable and incident-free adventure. Here are some essential safety guidelines and tips to help you navigate your safari safely: