A Journey into the Heart of Kenya’s Wilderness at Cottar’s
In the depths of Kenya's untamed wilderness, over the plains where early humans first walked, and nestled on the edge of the Maasai Mara, lies Cottar's 1920s Safari Camp
By Ahmed Gouda, Co-founder Satopia Travel
Call of the Wilderness
Cottar’s 1920s Camp and Cottar’s Bush Villa are a haven where heritage and conservation merge into a unique African safari experience. The beauty of Kenya and its terrain has been unparalleled, and Satopia’s journey at Cottar’s left an unforgettable mark, forging a connection to the land of the Mara, its red soil, and the wildlife that thrives around its fertile lands. The unforgettable experience of the warming rays of the early sun guiding us to awe and a sense of wonder, marvelling at the wildlife that has roamed these plains and rivers since life began.
It’s been more than just a destination; it’s a testament to the profound connection between humans, wildlife, and nature during this safari experience in Kenya.
Upon arrival, we immediately sensed the energy of the place and heard the call of the wild that greets guests with an unspoken promise of adventure. Here we found ourselves in a space of open horizons that opened our heart and senses to nature and the elements.
The private conservancy camp, spread over a sprawling 7600 acres, offers a window to nature’s untamed beauty in this private conservancy safari, providing an authentic experience. Here, the wildlife roams free, and the landscape stretches as far as the eye can see. Cottar’s reserve provides unique opportunities to witness an incredible collection of different animals and especially the elegant giraffes, one of the strong bases for these elegant and fascinating creatures.
Image credit: Cottar’s 1920’s Camp
Warmth Beyond Measure
The heart of Cottar’s beats in its people – a team who brings the warm welcoming spirit of Kenyan hospitality to everyone who visits. Greeted with heartfelt ‘Jumbo’ and ‘Karibu’, each smile, each gesture from the staff, reminds you of the genuine human connection that thrives here. Rangers like Douglas and Enock, deeply rooted in his Maasai heritage, bring the wilderness to life with stories and insights, making every safari drive a Maasai Mara adventure and a learning journey into the heart of conservation-focused travel.
A Century of Safari Tradition
With over a hundred years of history, Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp is more than a destination; it’s a living legacy. Established and continuously managed by the Cottar family since the early 1900s, it reflects the evolution of safari from its inception to the modern-day. Kelvin Cottar, a fourth-generation custodian of this safari tradition, continues to uphold the family ethos of conservation, hospitality, and authentic African experiences.
“With Cottar's, we're not following radios or roads; we're going with our instincts, following the game, what's happening, and one of the marks of a good guide is if he has the confidence to say we're gonna wait here, trust me.”
CALVIN COTTARGOLD LEVEL GUIDE, DIRECTOR & OWNER
The Great Migration
The experience of witnessing the annual Great Migration Safari between June and August is surreal. Watching millions of wildebeests, zebras, and predators navigate the perilous journey across the Mara River is an awe-inspiring sight that speaks volumes about the resilience and beauty of nature.
Embark on a Journey of Discovery
Experience the magic of Kenya with Satopia Travel. Secure your spot on our exclusive guestlist for the Kenya experience in 2025. Dive into the heart of the African wilderness at Cottar’s and create memories that will last a lifetime. Apply on the guestlist for Pre-Launch Access Now!
