My escape to an Iconic Safari Camp - Cottar's 1920
Arrival in Nairobi My journey began with an easy daytime flight into Nairobi from Heathrow. After a seamless arrivals process with fast track through security, I was transferred to Eku Hotel, perfectly placed near Wilson Domestic Airport for our early flight to the Masai Mara the next morning (trust me, skipping Nairobi’s infamous morning traffic is the way to go). Eku is a comfortable 4-star option, serving up a delicious breakfast that fuels you for the day ahead. If you have a longer stopover, there’s a pool and beautiful gardens to enjoy, too.
Into the Wild: Cottar’s 1920 Camp, Masai Mara The adventure really began with a 40-minute hop on Governors Air, landing right at Cottar’s own airstrip. Helpful tip: Cottar’s has its own lounge at Wilson and safe luggage storage for anything you don’t want to bring on safari (soft bags only, no hard-shell suitcases allowed). We were greeted by our fabulous guide, Enock, who became a friend by the end of the trip. Alongside his expert spotter, he made every game drive not just educational, but genuinely fun. Fun fact: Cottar’s guides are among the best, with two gold-level guides in camp – a super rare achievement! Enock’s close to achieving his gold qualification too.
Safari in Style Getting to camp is an adventure in itself – a short, wildlife-packed game drive from the airstrip. The trucks are seriously comfy, with charging points, plush seats, and thick ponchos for those crisp morning or evening drives. There are even camera stability holders for the keen photographers among us! Cottar’s 1920 has a unique edge – it’s the only camp in its conservancy, which means you often have the plains and the wildlife almost to yourself. You can be totally flexible with your days: we did two evening and one early morning game drive but, the beauty is, you can tailor your own programme.
The Camp: Warmth, Wonder & Wow Moments Expect to be utterly spoiled: Bonnie the chef serves up food that’s a delight even by luxury safari standards. The pool is a glorious spot to unwind, with a bar close by for a well-earned G&T. Accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes, from romantic honeymoon tents to a fabulous five-bedroom villa – perfect if you’re planning a big family trip or even a once-in-a-lifetime destination wedding (just imagine it!).
So Much More Than Drives There’s so much to do here, you’ll never be bored: Archery lessons, a visit to a Maasai village, local walks and runs in the bush including a foraging trail, junior ranger and kids’ clubs, a Bush bath (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds – I tried it!), coffee tastings, spa treats, and even the option of hot air ballooning, conservation activities with wildlife experts focussed on elephants, cheetahs and even pangolins. We even got to meet female rangers and learn beading with local Maasai women.
Wildlife? Oh yes, it comes to you! I’ll never forget the zebra and waterbuck wandering near our tent or sipping something round the fire as eland trotted by (baboons are kept at a safe distance, thankfully).
What truly set Cottar’s apart, though, were the people. The team makes you feel like part of the family and surprise you every day with a “wow” moment – from breakfast in the bush to storytelling under a star-studded sky. I left a big piece of my heart at this camp, and I can honestly say it’s a unique place I’ll cherish forever.
Ready for your own adventure? Let’s create your unforgettable escape to Kenya. Message me to start planning your own safari adventure.