

KENYA
SAMBURU - MARA - TSAVO
PHOTOGRAPHIC SAFARI
Join professional wildlife photographers Mark A. Fernley and Jaren A. Fernley on a thrilling photographic safari through Kenya’s most diverse landscapes. In Samburu National Reserve, capture rare and unique species found nowhere else, including the Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra, and Beisa Oryx, along with a high density of leopards. Journey onward to the iconic Masai Mara, world-renowned for its big cats and dramatic predator encounters. Conclude in Tsavo West National Park, where an exclusive photo hide experience brings you eye-level with elephants and predators for truly unforgettable images.
DATE
AUGUST 10 - 19, 2026 / 2027
10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS
2026 PRICE (2027 TBA)
$12,890 USD
+ $1,700 USD SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE (if applicable)

SAFARI DETAILS
We begin in Samburu National Reserve, a remote and rugged landscape home to rare northern species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and gerenuk. The arid terrain, striking rock formations, and golden light make it a dream setting for creative wildlife photography.
Next, we venture into the Masai Mara, where we’ll focus on some of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife interactions. This central region is rich in predator-prey dynamics, with regular sightings of lion, leopard, cheetah, hyenas, and jackals. During the migration season, this area also offers front-row access to the drama of the Great Migration, including potential river crossings and the movement of vast wildebeest and zebra herds. From intense big cat encounters to chaotic crossings, the Mara delivers high-impact photographic moments day after day.
The journey concludes in Lumo Conservancy, where we’ll spend two nights photographing from a professionally designed underground photo hide. Positioned at eye-level with a wildlife waterhole, the hide provides an extraordinary opportunity to shoot elephants, predators, and elusive nocturnal species up close—often just meters away. Expect intimate encounters with hyenas, jackals, and perhaps even leopard under the cover of darkness.
Designed for photographers of all skill levels, this safari blends action, artistry, and access like never before.
LOCATION
This tour is situated in three wildlife hotspots located in Kenya - Samburu National Reserve, the Masai Mara National Reserve, and Tsavo West National Park/Lumo Conservancy Samburu’s arid beauty and rugged landscapes are home to rare northern species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and the long-necked gerenuk. It’s a quieter, more intimate destination perfect for focused photography, with fewer vehicles and clean, natural backdrops. The addition of underground hide photography offers a unique perspective—ideal for capturing wildlife up close, including nocturnal visitors under the stars. The central Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most action-packed photographic arenas, especially during the Great Migration. This region offers easy access to dramatic river crossings and predator-rich territories, ideal for capturing lion hunts, cheetah chases, and massive herbivore herds in motion. Soft light, sweeping savannahs, and dynamic wildlife behavior make every drive full of potential. Lumo Conservancy offers exclusive access to a private underground hide, where you’ll photograph wildlife at eye-level as they approach a waterhole—day and night. From elephants and buffalo to hyenas and nocturnal predators, this setting is perfect for capturing rare behavior and low-light drama.
EXPERT GUIDES
This trip is expertly guided by Mark Fernley, a highly regarded professional wildlife photographer known for his exceptional skills in capturing the beauty of nature through his lens. With years of experience in the field, Mark brings not only his technical expertise but also a profound passion for wildlife and conservation. He has travelled to numerous remote locations around the globe, documenting the intricate behaviours and habitats of various species, which allows him to share invaluable insights with participants during the trip. In addition to Mark's guidance, the journey is enriched by the presence of local experts in each location we visit. These knowledgeable individuals possess a deep understanding of the local ecosystems, cultural significance, and the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. Their first-hand experiences and connections to the land provide participants with a comprehensive perspective, enhancing the overall learning experience. Together, Mark and the local experts create a dynamic and informative environment, ensuring that every moment of the trip is not only enjoyable but also educational, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world around us.
EQUIPMENT TO BRING
Guests are encouraged to bring one or two camera bodies with a minimum of 24-megapixels to guarantee the best results. This can be mirrorless or a DSLR. Guests are encouraged to bring a camera body with a minimum of 24-megapixels to guarantee the best results while on safari. This can be mirrorless or a DSLR, as your photo host is experienced with both and will be able to offer assistance whenever need be. A second camera body is always a great consideration, however, this is not mandatory. This can be used as a backup, or you can keep a second lens attached and switch back and forth between cameras. LENSES: 70–200mm lens: Perfect for hide photography in Samburu, where you'll often be photographing animals at close to mid-range. This lens provides ideal framing for tight compositions, portraits, and behavior shots in intimate hide settings. 500mm lens (prime or zoom): A must-have for the Masai Mara, especially during the Great Migration, when you'll want maximum reach to capture dramatic river crossings, predator interactions, and large herds on the move. The 500mm allows you to photograph from a respectful distance while still producing high-impact imagery.


ITINERARY
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Guests arrive in Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO))
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Transfer to Nairobi airport hotel (Approx. 10 min drive from airport)
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Meet and Greet with photo host at 6:00pm
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Overnight in Nairobi
(Guests must arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport no later than 4:00pm on arrival day)
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Road transfer to Samburu National Reserve
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Afternoon photographic safari in Samburu
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Introduction to image selection and post processing with photo host
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Overnight in Samburu National Reserve
PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Samburu's 'special five' Grevy's Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, and Gerenuk. Option to spend evening/night in photographic hide for rare species sightings such as the Striped Hyena-
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Morning photographic safari in Samburu
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Evening photographic safari in Samburu
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Image selection and post processing with photo host at the lodge
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Overnight in Samburu - option to spend the night in photographic hide
PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Leopards of Samburu along the Samburu's special five. Potential to visit photographic hide (depending on wildlife movements/behviour) - option to spend the night in the photo hide.-
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Chartered flight: Samburu to Masai Mara (Central Region)
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Afternoon photographic safari in Masai Mara
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Image selection and post processing with photo host in dedicated photo studio at lodge
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Overnight in Masai Mara
PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: General wildlife of the Masai Mara such as elephants, lions, leopard, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, etc.-
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Full day photographic safari in Masai Mara Central Region
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Image selection and post processing with photo host in dedicated photo studio at lodge
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Overnight in Masai Mara
PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: The Great Migration of Wildebeests focusing on mega herds and iconic river crossings as well as photographing the predators that follow the herds.-
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Chartered flight to Tsavo West
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Evening photographic safari in Lumo Conservancy
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Overnight photo hide experience
PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: General African wildlife during daylight. Photograph predators, elephants, and nocturnal wildlife species in the overnight photo hide.-
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Sunrise in the photo hide for golden hour shots
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Brunch, refresh and post processing at the lodge
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Afternoon photographic safari in Lumo Conservancy
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Overnight photo hide experience
PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: General African wildlife during daylight. Photograph predators, elephants, and nocturnal wildlife species in the overnight photo hide.
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Sunrise in the photo hide for golden hour shots
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Chartered flight - Tsavo West to Nairobi Wilson Airport
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Road transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) approx. 45 min. drive
END OF TOUR
(Gusts must depart no earlier than 6:00pm on this day)
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Availability
The maximum group size for this trip is just four guests and spots are limited.
RESERVE YOUR PLACE!
To ensure that you are able to attend this trip, please be sure to book ahead of time to guarantee your spot.
Pricing
This trip is prices at $12,890 USD per person sharing accommodation.
If you are a solo traveller, there is an additional $1,700 USD single supplement fee.
Rates are based on an all inclusive basis
Payment
A deposit of 25% is due at the time of booking to reserve your place on this photo safari and secure your trekking permits.
25% installment due 180 days before arrival
50% remaining balance due 90 days prior to arrival
Confirmation
Once a deposit is received, you are officially confirmred on this trip.
CONGRATULATIONS!
You will receive official confirmation via email w along with important details and information you need!