• Cottars

Simply the Best - Kenya

This extraordinary 13-day safari itinerary takes travelers from Nairobi to some of East Africa's most acclaimed safari camps, including Ngare Serian, Governor’s Il Moran, Serian’s Nkorombo Mobile Camp, and Cottar’s 1920s Camp, offering intimate wildlife encounters and immersive experiences in the heart of the Maasai Mara.

Explore the Essence of Safari with Experiential Travel

Embark on an extraordinary journey through East Africa, crafted by Experiential Travel to capture the true spirit of safari. Beginning with a scenic charter flight from Nairobi, travelers are swept across Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes to the enchanting Ngare Serian. This itinerary features four exceptional properties—each a finalist in The Safari Awards’ Best Safari Experience category—offering an intimate and luxurious immersion into the heart of the wild.

Under the expert guidance of Neville Jones, known for his deep passion for Africa’s wilderness and photography, guests will experience each moment with a new perspective. With a career spanning years of curating authentic African experiences, he brings his insights and commitment to every journey, creating lasting memories for travelers.

Traveling between destinations by luxury safari vehicle, the journey unfolds with unhurried elegance, moving from the secluded beauty of Serian’s Nkorombo Mobile Camp to the exclusive allure of Governor’s Il Moran, and finally to the historic charm of Cottar’s 1920s Camp. Each property, with its unique charm, reflects the essence of safari as few others can.

As the adventure concludes with a charter flight back to Nairobi, travelers will carry with them the unforgettable memories of a true safari experience—one that evokes the essence of travel and celebrates the beauty of East Africa’s wilderness.

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Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Ngare Serian

Your adventure begins with an exhilarating charter flight from Nairobi, soaring over Kenya’s sprawling landscapes until you reach the tranquil oasis of Ngare Serian. Nestled along the banks of the Mara River, this intimate camp welcomes you with open arms and timeless elegance. Upon arrival, settle into your riverside tent, where comfort and wilderness blend seamlessly. Take the afternoon to unwind on your private deck or immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Mara’s vibrant ecosystem. Here, each moment is a peaceful prelude to the wonders that await.

Days 2 - 3

Exploring Ngare Serian

Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the captivating rhythms of the Mara with expertly guided game drives and intimate bush walks. Ngare Serian’s secluded location offers unparalleled encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife—watch for elephants, prides of lions, and the elusive leopard in the quiet hours of dawn and dusk. Between excursions, unwind in the camp’s serene lounges or savor lunch by the riverbank, where hippos and crocodiles glide through the waters. With each drive and each pause, experience a deep connection to the land, surrounded by the beauty and raw energy of the wild.

Day 4

Journey to Il Moran

After a leisurely morning and lunch at Ngare Serian, the journey continues as you set off through the Mara’s scenic landscapes toward Governor’s Il Moran. Traveling by luxury safari vehicle, the route offers glimpses of wildlife and breathtaking vistas, making the drive an adventure in itself. Arriving at Il Moran by late afternoon, settle into your beautifully appointed tent, tucked beneath ancient trees along the Mara River. The evening is yours to relax in this tranquil haven, savoring Il Moran’s intimate ambiance and looking forward to the next chapter of your safari experience.

Days 5 - 6

Discovering the Magic of Il Moran

Over the next two days, immerse yourself in the Mara’s extraordinary beauty with bespoke game drives and quiet moments at Il Moran. Here, game-viewing is at its finest, as experienced guides share their knowledge of the intricate ecosystems and lead you to exceptional wildlife sightings—think herds of grazing elephants, agile cheetahs on the hunt, and the colorful birds that inhabit the riverbanks. Between outings, indulge in the peace of this exclusive camp, nestled in a grove of ancient trees, where each tent offers a secluded sanctuary. Relish the unique blend of adventure and tranquility that defines life at Il Moran, capturing the very essence of safari.

Day 7

Onward to Nkorombo

After a final morning at Il Moran, your journey continues as you make your way to the rustic charm of Serian’s Nkorombo Mobile Camp. Traveling through diverse landscapes, you’ll arrive at this intimate riverside camp by mid-afternoon, where the Mara’s quieter corners reveal a different side of the wilderness. Settle into your classic tented accommodations nestled by the river, close to a prime leopard territory and hippo pools. As the day winds down, soak in the unfiltered beauty of the surroundings, preparing for the raw and immersive experiences that await at Nkorombo.

Days 8 - 9

Immersed in the Wilderness of Nkorombo

Spend the next two days at Nkorombo, where the Mara reveals its most untamed side. Set out on thrilling game drives through this secluded region, renowned for its close encounters with predators and dense wildlife activity along the river. The camp’s location near a prime leopard habitat offers a rare chance to see these elusive cats in action, while the hippos and crocodiles inhabiting nearby pools add to the excitement. In the quieter hours, relax at camp and enjoy the unspoiled views from your tent. With each day at Nkorombo, feel the pulse of the wild and connect with the land in a profound way.

Day 10

Journey to Cottar’s 1920s Camp

Today marks the transition to the storied elegance of Cottar’s 1920s Camp. After a hearty breakfast at Nkorombo, you’ll set out for a scenic drive through the stunning landscapes of the Maasai Mara. Along the way, relish the panoramic views and keep an eye out for wildlife as you pass through the reserve. Arriving at Cottar’s Camp by early afternoon, guests are welcomed into a world of vintage charm and luxury. Settle into your spacious tent, thoughtfully decorated to reflect the glamour of the early safari era. As evening approaches, gather around the campfire to share stories of your journey, setting the stage for a memorable stay in this iconic setting.

Days 11 - 12

Experiencing the Timeless Charm of Cottar’s 1920s Camp

During your stay at Cottar’s 1920s Camp, immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking beauty of the Maasai Mara. Engage in exhilarating game drives led by expert guides, exploring the diverse landscapes that surround the camp. Witness the captivating wildlife that flourishes in this untouched environment, from majestic lions and graceful giraffes to the iconic wildebeest migration, depending on the season.

In addition to game drives, enjoy leisurely afternoons filled with optional activities like guided bush walks and cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages, allowing for a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions. Evenings at Cottar’s Camp are a celebration of the golden age of safaris, with exquisite dining under the stars, storytelling around the fire, and the gentle sounds of the African night creating a magical atmosphere. Each moment spent here is a step back in time, wrapped in the elegance and romance of early safari adventures.