7 Day Photography Safari in Maasai Mara
This 7-day Maasai Mara photography safari is designed for wildlife and nature photographers seeking to capture stunning images of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. With a private 4x4 safari vehicle, professional guide, and flexible schedule, this safari allows you to focus on the Big Five, big cats, birdlife, and the Great Migration (seasonal) in optimal lighting conditions. Maasai Mara offers some of the best wildlife photography opportunities in the world, making this a dream trip for photographers.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi – Maasai Mara (Scenic Drive & Afternoon Game Drive)
Depart from Nairobi in the morning, driving through the Great Rift Valley, where you can capture breathtaking landscape shots of the escarpment and surrounding terrain. Arrive at Maasai Mara National Reserve in time for lunch at your luxury tented camp or lodge. In the afternoon, embark on your first photographic game drive, focusing on:Big cats (lions, leopards, cheetahs) in soft afternoon light Large elephant and buffalo herds Silhouettes of giraffes and acacia trees at sunset Return to the lodge for dinner and an evening photo review session.
Day 2: Sunrise & Sunset Photography in Maasai Mara
Begin the day with an early morning game drive, capturing:Maasai Mara’s golden sunrise over the vast savanna Predator activity as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunt at dawn Close-up shots of elephants, zebras, and antelopes After lunch and rest, head out for a late afternoon game drive, focusing on: Backlit wildlife photography in golden hour Bird photography (eagles, vultures, secretary birds, and rollers) Dramatic sunset shots of Maasai Mara landscapes
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive & Mara River Photography
Spend the entire day on a full-day game drive, with packed lunch to maximize time in the field. Visit key locations such as: Mara River, known for hippos, crocodiles, and seasonal wildebeest crossings Leopard territory, where you have a chance to photograph these elusive predators Open plains, perfect for capturing the vastness of the Mara with wide-angle lenses
Day 4: Predator & Action Photography in Maasai Mara
This day focuses on big cat action and dramatic wildlife interactions. Your guide will take you to: Cheetah hunting zones for high-speed photography Lions in their natural pride dynamics (hunting, cub interactions, and fights) Scavengers such as hyenas and jackals, offering dramatic shots
Day 5: Balloon Safari (Optional) & Maasai Village Visit
For an aerial photography experience, opt for a hot air balloon safari at sunrise, offering:Stunning bird’s-eye views of the Maasai Mara plains Unmatched perspectives of wildlife herds Later, visit a traditional Maasai village, where you can photograph: Vibrant Maasai cultural attire and daily life Traditional dances and warrior ceremonies Portrait shots of Maasai elders and warriors
Day 6: Special Focus – Birdlife & Landscape Photography
Spend the morning capturing: Diverse bird species of Maasai Mara, including eagles, hornbills, and ostriches Morning mist landscapes, offering moody, dramatic shots The afternoon will be dedicated to: Silhouettes of animals against the setting sun Panoramic shots of rolling savannas and dramatic skies
Day 7: Final Morning en route Game Drive & Return to Nairobi
After breakfast, check out and begin the morning en route game drive and return journey to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
Tour Highlights
- Private safari vehicle with open roof for unobstructed photography
- Sunrise and sunset game drives for best lighting conditions
- Close encounters with Africa’s Big Five and big cats
- Opportunities for action shots of predators hunting
- Diverse wildlife photography, including birds and scavengers
- Optional Maasai village visit for cultural photography
- Scenic landscape photography of Maasai Mara’s rolling savannahs
What’s Included
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for photography
- Professional English-speaking safari guide experienced in wildlife photography
- Six nights accommodation in luxury tented camps or safari lodges
- All park entrance fees
- Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Bottled drinking water throughout the safari
- Pick-up and drop-off from Nairobi hotel or airport
What’s Not Included
- Optional activities such as hot air balloon safari
- Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities
- Extra drinks and snacks
- Photography equipment rental (if needed)
- What to Bring
- Professional camera gear with zoom lenses (200mm-600mm recommended)
- Tripod and bean bag for stable shots
- Extra batteries and memory cards
- Binoculars for spotting distant wildlife
- Safari-appropriate clothing in neutral colors
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Rain cover for camera gear (seasonal)
For last minute booking call/ whatsapp/ Wechat / sms us on +254 734 878643 / +254720650869
