Imagine blending the thrill of a wildlife safari with the culinary delights of Kenya’s diverse flavors. This unique combination awaits travelers on an exciting new safari starting next December. Founded in 1919, Cottar’s Safaris takes adventurous palates on a journey that promises to enhance the traditional safari experience with an unforgettable gastronomic twist.
Cottar’s Culinary Safari, a five-night epicurean adventure, is set amidst the stunning landscapes of the 7608-acre private Olderkesi Conservancy. This location borders the famous Maasai Mara and the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve, offering a feast for both the eyes and taste buds. With the participation of celebrity chef Kiran Jethwa, known for his expertise in bush foraging and wilderness cooking, guests are in for a culinary treat. Jethwa, who also happens to be a trained safari guide, adds a layer of expertise to the experience, working alongside Cottar’s seasoned safari guides.
The safari presents not just a chance to observe wildlife, but also to delve into the delicious world of local specialties. Head Chef Boniface Muhati impresses with his elevated bush cuisine, a skill honed at South Africa’s Beau Constantia and Maison restaurants. Meanwhile, Doug Nagi, a gold-level guide and foraging expert, joins guests in exploring the wild’s edible wonders, guided by local Maasai experts.
The itinerary kicks off with a flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Cottar’s private airstrip, followed by a brief wildlife drive to the camp. Guests will embark on a guided walk to explore wild herbs and medicinal plants, an experience enriched by the presence of a Maasai medicine man and an ethnobotanist. That evening, the dinner menu will be crafted from the day’s foraging results, offering dishes like Whistling Thorn Berry and Wild Asparagus. Letilet, a forager-hunter from the Il Dorobo tribe, will share insights into the region’s unique characteristics.
Following days include a diverse array of activities: a coffee tasting, a waterfall picnic, and participation in a rewarding reforestation project. Guests will enjoy a dinner accompanied by a captivating discussion on baboon intelligence and how these creatures inspired the Maasai to identify safe edible plants.
One morning is dedicated to a wildlife drive, followed by breakfast and a visit to a Maasai village. Visitors will learn about local traditions and participate in a warrior school, with an evening culture discussion around a bonfire. Dinner is an immersive experience of Maasai flavors, with dishes cooked using traditional methods and ingredients.
The adventure continues with another wildlife drive and a wild feast brunch. In the afternoon, guests choose between learning about cheetahs, experiencing birds of prey, or exploring the camp’s sustainability efforts. A cocktail-making session sets up the evening for a signature dinner prepared by Head Chef Muhati.
The final day offers a choice of a wildlife walk or drive, culminating in a barbecue and a relaxing afternoon by the pool or at the spa. The concluding dinner takes place in a remote location under the stars, featuring traditional safari cooking and historic explorer recipes. The evening wraps up with stargazing under the clear, dark skies before the journey back to Nairobi.
This safari promises more than just wildlife viewing; it’s a deep dive into the local culture and flavors that make the Maasai Mara a remarkable destination. Combining breathtaking landscapes with unique culinary experiences, this adventure provides a richer understanding and appreciation of the land and its people.
Source: Forbes
