Cottar’s Safaris, Africa’s oldest family-run safari company, is proud to announce the launch of Tracks for Tomorrow, a new privately-guided hands-on conservation experience for teens. This unique five-day experience is set at the award-winning Cottar’s 1920s Camp in Kenya’s exclusive Olderkesi Conservancy in the Maasai Mara.
Blending hands-on learning with real-world conservation, this new experience is designed to immerse young people in Africa’s ecosystems while nurturing a deep respect for nature. Hosted by Doug Nagi – one of Kenya’s top Gold-level guides, certified ethnobotanist, astronomer and conservation expert – children will explore biodiversity, sustainability, and cultural heritage through a variety of educational and adventure-based activities.
Founded in 1919, Cottar’s Safaris has been a pioneer of African tourism for over a century, renowned for its conservation leadership and commitment to local communities. As a fifth-generation family-run business, their mission is to safeguard Africa’s wilderness for generations to come. Cottar’s Safaris’ newest safari experience, Tracks for Tomorrow, continues this legacy by inspiring the next generation of conservationists. As co-owner Louise Cottar explains, “In the spirit of David Attenborough’s words – ‘No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced’ –Tracks for Tomorrow gives children the chance to connect meaningfully with nature in ways that are unforgettable, educational, and fun.”
Highlights Include:
● Conservation Experience: Mara Cheetah Education OR Raptor Adventure with Mara-based wildlife experts: Guests will have the opportunity to either deep dive into the fascinating lives of the world’s fastest land animals OR learn about the majestic eagles, owls, and vultures of the Mara, with daily updates on 500 monitored nests.
● Seedball Reforestation: Hands-on reforestation efforts that teach sustainability and conservation.
● Wild Foraging: Discover the edible plants and insects of the region with Cottar’s Safaris’ expert forager.
● Biodiversity Workshops: Sessions where teens can learn about the rich biodiversity of the Maasai Mara, the importance of various species in the ecosystem, and the impact of human activities on wildlife.
● Maasai Warrior School: Learn the skills and traditions of the Maasai people, one of Africa’s most iconic cultures.
● Night Safaris: An opportunity to explore the nocturnal wildlife and understand the importance of preserving natural habitats for all species, not just those visible during the day.
● Bush Walks & Stargazing: Explore the wilderness on foot and marvel at the African night sky, free from light pollution.
● Guided Tours with Conservationists: Talks and guided tours with local conservationists on wildlife protection, anti-poaching efforts, and the challenges of balancing tourism with conservation.
● Daily Reflection Sessions: End each day with a group discussion or reflection session, where families can share their learnings, connect them to sustainability, and consider how to apply these lessons back home.
● Sustainability Challenges: Encourage teens to think critically about sustainability by setting tasks and challenges, such as designing an eco-friendly camp or developing ideas to reduce the carbon footprint of their travel.
As the world faces growing environmental challenges, Tracks for Tomorrow offers a timely and transformative opportunity for young people to become active stewards of the planet. By combining immersive wilderness experiences with conservation education and cultural exchange, Cottar’s Safaris is not only shaping future leaders but also reinforcing its century-long commitment to protecting Africa’s natural heritage. This innovative program empowers teens to return home with a deeper understanding of sustainability, a stronger connection to the natural world, and the inspiration to make a lasting impact—wherever their journey takes them.
