Masai Mara, Africa, Kenya

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. ”