9-day Amboseli & Masai Mara photography-focused safari itinerary
The Ultimate Amboseli & Masai Mara Photography safari is a 9 day fly-in Luxury tented lodge photo tour to some of the amazing highlights of Amboseli National Park and Masai Maara National Reserve. Explore the well customized 9 days Kenya Wildlife Photography Safari route to Amboseli National Park to be wowed by the Majestic Mount Kilimanjaro view alongside its large herds of roaming giant elephants, then fly to Maasai mara National Reserve, where you will enjoy photographing the Mara’s diverse wildlife, including the Big Five. Discover the amazing charm of the taking photographs from a hot air balloon flying above the plains of Masai Mara. The migration season (July-October) offers extraordinary opportunities to photograph wildebeest crossings and predator-prey interactions
Detailed 9 Days Amboseli & Masai Mara Photography Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Arrive in Nairobi and transfer to Hemingways Nairobi, a luxurious boutique hotel in the quiet suburb of Karen. This evening, attend a briefing with your photography guide, who will provide tips and discuss your goals for capturing the best shots on this safari. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at the hotel, relaxing before your adventure begins.
Day 2-4: Amboseli National Park
After breakfast, fly to Amboseli National Park, famous for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds. Check into Tortilis Camp, a luxury tented camp that offers unparalleled views of the mountain and excellent proximity to wildlife.
Day 2 (Afternoon): After lunch, head out for your first game drive. The late afternoon light is perfect for capturing the park’s iconic elephants against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Return to the camp for dinner under the stars.
Day 3 (Full Day): Set out early to capture the sunrise over Mount Kilimanjaro, a prime opportunity for landscape photography. Spend the day on extended game drives, focusing on photographing elephants, lions, and other wildlife. With fewer tourists in this area, you’ll have the freedom to take your time and get the perfect shot. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your photographic journey. Return to camp for a sunset photography session and a well-deserved dinner.
Day 4 (Morning): Begin with a final early morning game drive, focusing on the dramatic light as it falls on the wildlife and the landscapes. Afterward, return to camp for a hearty breakfast, then have some downtime to review your photos and discuss techniques with your guide.
Day 5-8: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Fly from Amboseli to the Maasai Mara, one of the most photogenic locations in Africa. Check into Mara Explorer Camp, an exclusive tented camp located in the central part of the Maasai Mara, offering superb game viewing right from the camp.
Day 5 (Afternoon): After settling in, embark on a late afternoon game drive, focusing on the rich golden hour light. The vast savannahs of the Mara offer endless opportunities for capturing predators like lions and cheetahs against the open plains. Return to camp for dinner.
Day 6 (Full Day): Spend the day on a full-day game drive with a packed lunch, allowing you to explore further into the reserve. Early morning and late afternoon light provide excellent conditions for photographing the Mara’s diverse wildlife, including the Big Five. During midday, focus on capturing animal behaviors or the intricate details of smaller species. The migration season (July-October) offers extraordinary opportunities to photograph wildebeest crossings and predator-prey interactions.
Day 7 (Morning): Start the day with a hot air balloon safari, which offers a unique perspective of the Mara at sunrise. Capture stunning aerial shots of the landscape and wildlife below. After the balloon ride, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush, followed by more game viewing and photography. Return to the camp for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps photographing birds and small animals around the camp. Head out for a late afternoon game drive focused on predators as they begin their evening hunts.
Day 8 (Full Day): Dedicate this final full day to capturing any specific shots you may have missed. Consider focusing on specific animal behaviors, such as hunting or interaction with the environment. Visit a Maasai village for cultural photography, capturing portraits and traditional ceremonies, with the consent of the community. Return to camp for a special farewell dinner, where you can review your best shots with your guide.
Day 9: Return to Nairobi and Departure
After a final early morning game drive, capturing the Mara’s early light one last time, fly back to Nairobi. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a visit to a local gallery before transferring to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure
