Cottar's Safaris

The guiding was among the best I've experienced, and I'd gladly recommend Kitipa. Each vehicle has its own spotter, and their sharp eyes and skill made a real difference. Ours picked out a cheetah from 3km away. In the private conservancy we saw only Cottar's vehicles, so the sightings felt wonderfully intimate. We saw large lion prides, cheetahs, elephants, a huge buffalo herd, loads of zebras, and the first migratory herds of the Great Migration. Our honeymoon at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp, which was my wife's first safari, exceeded anything I imagined. It's an authentic, magical place, and being family owned and operated, you can feel the generations of care in it. Their commitment to conservation, protecting wildlife and land, and supporting local communities made the stay feel meaningful too. The food was a dream, the best we've had at a safari camp, even compared with Botswana. Everything was organic, very fresh, and picked from their onsite shamba. The Maasai wagyu tacos were a standout, and could fit right into a top London restaurant. The staff were warm and attentive, making us feel pampered and special while still at home. For our honeymoon they arranged a romantic bush bath on our private balcony. We also took a walking safari with a member of the Ndorobo, who explained the medicinal and symbolic uses of local plants. We finished with a private bush dinner featuring ingredients we'd just learned about. There are too many people to name, but heartfelt thanks to Calvin, Louise, Donald, Kitipa, Eugene, Liz,Topoti, Nana, Peris and Grace. The thoughtfulness of the hospitality was extraordinary. Cottar's is a must for anyone wanting a deep connection with Kenya and the pioneers who began the safari industry. We loved every moment and can't recommend it enough!