Trip of a Lifetime

Our stay at Cottar's Bush Villa was unforgettable in every way. From our initial greeting at their private airstrip until our departure one week later, every detail was seamlessly orchestrated with the utmost of planning and grace. The combination of the opulence of the villa, superb game drives, and wonderful meals created the perfect vacation. The villa itself is a marvel of architectural and interior design, with large elegantly furnished gathering spaces, and it is situated on a hillside (far away from the rows of other camps) with sweeping views to Tanzania. The entire experience is very coddling due to the efforts of the amazing staff of five who care for you like family. Chef Patrick prepares healthy and delicious meals and the on site masseuse Fanisse is a treat .....when you are able to fit her in between game drives and sundowners! I wish I could have taken William (waiter/bartender) and his ever-present smile home with me to California. Our Maasai guide Henoch joined us for almost all of our meals and shared his knowledge not only of flora and fauna, but also of his unique culture. We were fortunate to share a bush lunch with Calvin Cottar and hear his perspective on Kenya and the Maasai Mara. Just read the previous reviews posted by Pat and Catherine as I feel exactly the same way about this magical experience. Thank you for hosting us for the bucket trip of a lifetime”

Cottars bush villa, kenya

This was our third visit to Cottars Camp, and the second to the Bush villa. The whole experience is incredible, from the beautiful villa, itself, to the amazing staff and delicious food and the safari. We were so lucky as our visit was in early June and the migration started early this year so we were treated to the sight of thousands of zebras and wildebeests and many kills. Absolutely spectacular and not to be missed! Our guides Ken and Lucy and spotters, Super Star, and LaLassie were true pros and made sure we saw everything. The bush breakfasts were held in beautiful plains locations and one morning we had a cook with us who made everything to order. This, in addition to lovely sundowners, where the bar was always set up and comfortable chairs arranged around a campfire with lions growling in the near distance. We also had delicious lunches with fresh salads from the organic garden, set up in different locations around the camp as well as in the bush. The chef Levi prepared excellent fresh food and William, the waiter and bartender and man-of-all trades, was always with us, and with a welcoming smile! Our family of 8 loved every minute! ”

Cottars Masai Mara

Absolutely amazing stay and experience. Amazing views. The wild life was healthy and abundant. We saw over 50 different animals up close, and took over 3,000 photos. The Masai village tour is not to be missed. The house was gorgeous, the food was fabulous, and the staff was universally wonderful. Our whole group was absolutely thrilled with the trip. Can't thank the Cottars enough. ”

Magical and Unforgettable Experience

To put our review in context it is written by an urban couple who have had extensive global travel experiences, always using the best quality resources available when travelling. This is our 4th visit to Africa, The Cottars homestead is exceptional. The house, just recently completed and situated within the Cottars 1920’s Camp , is magnificent. It is beautifully situated on a hillside, west facing, with a spectacular view of the Masai Mara and Serengeti. All 5 very-spacious bedrooms have this view from their private terraces. The photos of the property understate the elegance and quality of the house which draws upon its’ surroundings for design inspiration. Every aspect of the house is beautiful. All bedrooms have luxurious baths ensuite. The public rooms are very large and tastefully and caringly decorated, down to the last detail. The house is supplemented by a staff of five professional, attentive people who care for all your needs. The cuisine is exceptional, drawing its inspiration from its own fruit and vegetable gardens. It would be impossible to overstate the quality of the consistently varied and delicious meals, from breakfast to sundown cocktails served around a campfire, arranged by the guides, and overlooking the Mara as the sun sets. You then return to the home for more cocktails around a roaring fire and a delicious dinner, expertly served. Of course our visit was provoked by our interest in the safari experiences -- viewing the wide range of animal life -- and it is spectacular. The knowledgeable, experienced guides at Cottars make all this happen with a seamlessness and ease that enables you to plan your experiences to your specific tastes, inclusive of balloon rides, walking , helicopter trips, side visits to other areas of interest such as a Masai village or fishing on Lake Victoria, a short plane ride away. To sum it all up: this was one of the most elegant, magical and unforgettable experiences we have ever had.”

Out of this world

I am just coming back down to earth after our week at Cottars. This is not just a fabulous house it is a fascinating opportunity to understand a unique community and way of life (Maasai meets Eco meets heritage) that the fourth generation of the Cottar family are creating. If its the house you are interested in then I'm sure you will be impressed. Masses of space, great combination of contemporary style, local art and home comforts. Jaw dropping views from almost every room. If you like a bit of pampering then you'll love the crew looking after you. I definitely recommend going for the food package - Chef Boniface does an excellent job. Your fire will be lit in the evenings, your bed made, your smells laundered -and all done with such warmth and by personable staff who make you feel like an old family friend come to visit. The wildlife is a given. We saw everything - from the big 5 to 5 kinds of ants (out on a walk, not in the house!) The guide and driver did heroic work tracking down even the elusive leopard for us and maintaining a great attitude - friendly, optimistic and informative - even after 13 hours in the jeep. Lastly, because of the options and the size of the property, this is a good choice for a mixed group. I took my mum, my three kids and a family friend. Between the game drives, the beautiful camp pool, the massages and the excellent food, all we're delighted with the experience. Our heartfelt thanks to the Cottars and their very able team. ”