Combining Amboseli and the Masai Mara, this wildlife photography tour showcases two of Kenya’s finest wilderness areas and all of their iconic species.
In both Amboseli National Park and the Masai Mara, we use beautiful tented camps, situated in private conservancies with unrivalled access to some exceptional wildlife. This should, in turn, give use plenty of opportunities to enjoy world-class wildlife photography opportunities. Our visit is timed to coincide with the end of the short dry season in March, maximising the chance of encountering and capturing images of sought-after wildlife that calls these areas home.
It's a great time in Amboseli to find some of Africa's last 'big tuskers' - large elephants with tusks that touch the floor. These huge males are some of the last of their kind and combined with the stunning landscapes of the Amboseli ecosystem, and Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, we can expect to enjoy some excellent photography.
Meanwhile, in the grasslands and acacia forests of the Mara ecosystem, water levels should be low, bringing many species in conflict with the large predators found here, including lion, leopard, spotted hyena and cheetah. It's also during this time that the resident wildebeest of the Mara give birth to their calves, and so we may be in luck to witness and photograph this natural spectacle.
Travelling with our wildlife photography tour leader, Bret Charman, the tour is run in much the same way as a traditional safari, with both morning and afternoon safaris. The tour leader is on hand throughout to provide guidance and photographic tuition whilst rotating between the vehicles each day (dependent on group size) or during workshops, in-between excursions or photographic sessions.
Typical Itinerary
-
Day 1:
Depart UK & fly to Nairobi
This morning we depart the UK and fly to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city.
On arrival, we're met and transferred to our accommodation nearby, where we overnight.
Accommodation: Eka Hotel, 1-night
-
Day 2:
Fly to Amboseli
It's an early start today as we're transferred to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. From here, we catch a light aircraft flight to Amboseli National Park.
After landing at the airstrip in Amboseli, we're transferred to our camp, where we spend the next three nights. We have some time to settle into our new accommodation before an afternoon game drive in the Selenkay Conservancy and our first opportunity to photograph the area’s wildlife.
Accommodation: Porini Amboseli Camp, 3-nights
-
Days 3-4
:
Explore Selenkay Conservancy & Amboseli National Park
We have two full days to enjoy the wildlife and landscape of Selenkay Conservancy and Amboseli National Park. We wake early each morning and head out into the surrounding landscape in search of exceptional wildlife sightings. By departing before sunrise, we hope to find our subjects in the best light and spend time with them, building up an in-depth portfolio.
In addition to the big tuskers that Amboseli has become famous for, the area is also home to a healthy population of lions, plus leopard, buffalo and Masai giraffe.
For those with a passion for birds, the region supports a staggering 400 species; as opportunities arise, we photograph those of interest such as secretary bird, African fish eagle and grey-headed kingfisher.
-
Day 5:
Fly to Masai Mara
Today, we depart Amboseli and fly to Masai Mara via Nairobi on light aircraft.
Once we land at the airstrip in the Masai Mara, we're met and transferred to our next camp, where we stay for the next four nights.
Depending on the flight schedule today, we hope to enjoy an afternoon safari within the Ol Kinyei Conservancy. The area is a mix of open plains, riverine forest and acacia scrub, supporting a fantastic array of mammals and birds, including a resident pride of lions.
Accommodation: Porini Mara Camp, 4-nights
-
Days 6-8
:
Explore Ol Kinyei & Naboisho Conservancies
We have three full days to explore the stunning surrounds of both Ol Kinyei and Naboisho Conservancies, with a particular focus on finding the resident big cats. It's an ideal place to search for lion, leopard and cheetah, alongside a host of familiar antelope species, elephant and giraffe. The birdlife here is exceptional. In between photographing our primary targets, there should be plenty of opportunity to add to our portfolio with some of these avian delights.
Each morning, we head out just before dawn, to ensure we make the most of the spectacular morning light. We spend three to four hours out on safari, hopefully photographing the resident predators, or making the most of any opportunity that comes our way.
Working closely with our Masai guides, we can manoeuvre the vehicles into the best positions, getting low where possible and moving off-road to make the most of the light. This is one of the best places in Africa for photographing the continent's iconic predators. What's more, there are strict controls on vehicle numbers and we often enjoy exclusive sightings.
From traditional, close-up portraits to images of wildlife in the environment, we endeavour to make the most of the stunning scenery and magnificent wildlife. With two vehicles for the group, there's plenty of space to spread out and maximise our chance of finding standout sightings. We work together, and are in contact by radio, to ensure that both vehicles can enjoy the very best photography opportunities.
After a busy morning on safari, we return to the camp and enjoy some downtime during the heat of the day. There's a communal lounge and dining area, which is the perfect place for any impromptu digital darkroom advice from your tour leader. These sessions are on an ad-hoc basis, otherwise the time is yours to unwind and enjoy the wildlife around the camp. We enjoy a delicious lunch, before heading out once more for an afternoon drive.
-
Day 9:
Return to Nairobi & departure
Following a final morning game drive and breakfast, it's time to depart. We head to the airstrip and board our light aircraft back to Nairobi.
On arrival in Nairobi, we're transferred to the city’s international airport in time to check in for our return international flights to the UK.
-
Day 10:
Arrive UK
Please note: The itinerary could change whilst out in the field due to weather conditions and recent wildlife sightings.
