| Discover the timeless allure of Cottar’s Safaris, where vintage charm meets sustainable luxury. Our team member, Livia Burger, experienced the magic of East Africa with a stay at Nairobi’s tranquil Manzili House and the iconic Cottar’s 1920s Camp – offering unforgettable adventures and a rich legacy. |
MANZILI HOUSE (Nairobi)
This Moroccan-inspired retreat is nestled in a quiet residential area of Nairobi, surrounded by lush gardens. With a swimming pool and a rooftop ideal for sundowners, it offers a serene escape. The property features four bedrooms in the main house and two more in the garden cottage, making it a perfect destination for multi-generational family getaways.
Learn more about Manzili House: https://manzilihouse.com/
COTTAR’S 1920s CAMP
At Cottar’s, Livia experienced a peaceful, unhurried stay that showcased the camp’s unique charm. Upon arriving at the airstrip, the group was greeted by the welcoming lodge staff with refreshing snacks and drinks. A highlight of the visit was capturing memorable moments with the camp’s iconic vintage safari vehicle, adding a touch of nostalgia to an unforgettable experience.
IT’S ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY & LEGACY
Cottar’s Safaris has a remarkable history spanning over 100 years and remains proudly owned by the Cottar family. Today, Calvin and his wife Louise carry the torch, hoping that one day their children will continue this extraordinary legacy.
Discover the full story of the Cottar family journey: https://cottars.com/our-journey/
“Each guest’s visit contributes directly to the sustainability of our conservation and social development efforts. These include the restoration of the natural environment to a pristine condition, re-establishment and protection of biological diversity, anti-poaching, on-site research and rehabilitation projects, the provision of health-care services and a local pre-school.” – Cottar family
VINTAGE, UNIQUE AND PRIVATE.
What sets this lodge apart is its timeless vintage charm, offering a truly unique experience. Unlike any other camp in the region, Cottar’s maintains an exclusive atmosphere with no other safari vehicles onsite, ensuring a private and unparalleled safari adventure.
“The highlight for me was the food and the staff.” – Livia Burger (Grosvenor Tours)
LUXURY & ACTIVITIES AT THEIR FINEST
One of the most memorable highlights was the incredible canvas bath experience. Your personal steward prepares a bath just outside your tent, complete with your favourite beverage and snacks. The bath stays warm for over an hour, letting you soak in ultimate relaxation while immersed in nature.
Activities to Suit Every Adventurer:
– Balloon rides over the Maasai Mara
– Coffee-tasting experiences
– Cottar’s signature canvas bush bath
– Wildlife drives
– Wilderness runs or walks with a Maasai warrior
– Maasai warrior singing and dancing
– Poolside relaxation
– Safari-themed photoshoots
– Spa treatments
– Stargazing under the African sky
– Swimming and fishing at the nearby waterfall
DINING ROOTED IN HERITAGE
Each dish at Cottar’s is a celebration of Kenya’s vibrant culinary traditions. The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from nearby farmers, artisans, and producers. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic breakfast, a bushveld lunch, or an African-style barbecue dinner, every meal is an authentic experience. Guests can opt for private dining on their veranda or gather with others for a communal bush dinner under the stars.
A DEEPER CONNECTION TO THE MAASAI COMMUNITY & A SUSTAINABLE SAFARI EXPERIENCE
Cottar’s takes pride in fostering meaningful engagement with the local Maasai community. With a commitment to having a minimum of 40% female staff, the lodge has inspired more Maasai women to pursue careers as rangers.
“Luxury safaris and Big 5 wildlife experiences are now standard. While these remain important, today’s travellers seek more purposeful adventures. We’ve developed safari experiences that positively impact guests, preserve the unique biodiversity of this region, and support the local Maasai community.
Our new offerings include vulture rehabilitation programs, spending time with the only all-female conservation ranger unit in the Maasai Mara, exploring local medicinal plants, foraging and sampling wild foods, touring the community-owned conservancy, and participating in reforestation seed dispersal bushwalks.” – Louise Cottar
Written by: Livia Burger
