Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Nestled in the private Olderkesi Conservancy, the camp sits just 1 km from the Masai Mara National Reserve – offering exclusive wildlife access and privacy.

The Olderkesi Conservancy forms part of the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem and borders the Masai Mara. So you can expect to see all the same wildlife as in the Masai like:

Big Cats:

• Lions, including resident prides
• Leopards (often in tree-lined riverbeds)
• Cheetahs, taking advantage of the open plains

Elephants:
Frequent sightings of small family herds and lone bulls, especially around the riverine areas.

Buffalo & Giraffe:
Large herds of Cape buffalo roam the conservancy, while Masai giraffe are often seen browsing acacia trees.

Plains Game:
Includes zebra, eland, topi, impala, grant’s gazelle, and wildebeest (particularly during the migration months of July – October).

Birdlife:
With over 450 species in the broader Mara region, the conservancy is a birder’s haven – look for secretary birds, lilac-breasted rollers, hornbills, and raptors.

Ubuntu Travel Note: Thanks to strict conservation and controlled tourism, wildlife in Olderkesi is abundant, less habituated to vehicles, and more relaxed – ideal for photographers and guests seeking authentic sightings without the crowds.

The camp features 11 luxury cream-canvas tents – five double tents, four spacious family tents, and two secluded honeymoon tents – each with an en-suite bathroom and sweeping views of the river or savannah.

Absolutely – family tents include two bedrooms and a living area, ideal for families of all ages. Children stay free (0–4 years), and the pool is perfect for kids under supervision.

Your stay includes a variety of unforgettable safari experiences: day and night game drives, expert-led walking safaris, scenic bush meals, and authentic Maasai cultural visits. Guests can also enjoy conservation talks and meet the inspiring all-female ranger unit.

Hot air ballooning and helicopter excursions over the Masai Mara is available at an additional cost, and well worth it for the view!

Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp is a year-round safari destination, thanks to its exclusive location in the Olderkesi Conservancy, which supports resident wildlife and healthy big cat populations.

The dry season (July to October) is especially rewarding, as this is when the Great Wildebeest Migration typically passes through nearby Masai Mara. The camp remains open year-round, with April and November seeing heavier rains, though game viewing remains excellent.

With a 100-year family legacy, Cottar’s pairs 1920s safari glamour with forward-thinking conservation. The camp is a multi-award-winner (including Global Ecosphere Retreat status) and works hand-in-hand with the Maasai community to protect the Olderkesi Conservancy, delivering an eco-luxury experience rooted in authentic culture and responsible tourism.