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Mark A Fernley
Mother lioness and her cubs walking the ope plans of the masai mara  during a masai mara photographic safari with photo host and wildlife photographer Mark A Fernley

KENYA

SAMBURU - MASAI MARA
PHOTOGRAPHIC  SAFARI

Join professional wildlife photographers Mark A. Fernley and Jaren A. Fernley on a remarkable photographic safari from Samburu to the Masai Mara. In Samburu National Reserve, enjoy a mix of hide and game drive photography as you capture leopards, lions, and rare species such as the Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy’s Zebra, and Beisa Oryx. Continue to the world-famous Masai Mara, where the Great Wildebeest Migration and big cat action provide endless opportunities for dramatic images. With expert guidance throughout, this safari delivers the perfect balance of rare species encounters and iconic East African wildlife.

DATE

SEPTEMBER 10 - 17, 2026 / 2027

8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS

2026 PRICE (2027 TBA)

$10,495 USD

+ $1,500 USD SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE (if applicable)

Three male lions come together to reunite in the northern masa mara during a photographic safari with Mark A Fernley

SAFARI DETAILS

This immersive photographic safari is designed for wildlife photographers eager to capture the drama of the Great Migration and the intimacy of hide-based shooting - all in one unforgettable journey. 

First, you'll travel north to the rugged beauty of Samburu National Reserve, a stark contrast in both landscape and subject matter. Over two nights, you’ll explore this unique ecosystem in search of rare northern species, and spend some time (day or  night) focused on underground hide photography. From striking low-angle portraits of elephants and oryx to elusive nocturnal visitors, Samburu offers creative opportunities that push beyond traditional game drive photography.

Then, take a quick flight south to spend four nights in the Central Masai Mara, timed to align with the peak of the migration. Here, you’ll photograph massive herds of wildebeest and zebra, dramatic Mara River crossings, and the predators that follow in their wake—including lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas.

LOCATION

This tour is situated in two wildlife hotspots located in Kenya - Samburu National Reserve and the Masai Mara National Reserve. 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.

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

    • Guests arrive in Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO))

    • Transfer to Nairobi airport hotel (Approx. 10 min drive from airport)

    • Meet and Greet with photo host at 6:00pm

    • Overnight in Nairobi

      (Guests must arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport no later than 4:00pm on arrival day)

    • Road transfer to Samburu National Reserve

    • Afternoon photographic safari in Samburu

    • Evening and overnight in specialised overnight photographic hide

    • Overnight in Samburu (Larsen's Photo Hide)

    PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: The 'Samburu Special Five' including species that are not found in typical safari locations: Grevy's Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Somali Ostrich, Gerenuk along with the commonly spotted predators - leopard, cheetah and lion. 

    • Sunrise in photo hide

    • Mid morning brunch and rest & refresh

    • Image selection and post processing with photo host at the lodge 

    • Evening photographic safari in Samburu

    • Overnight in Samburu

    ​​​
    PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: The  'Samburu Special Five' including species that are not found in typical safari locations: Grevy's Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Beisa Oryx, Somali Ostrich, Gerenuk along with the commonly spotted predators - leopard, cheetah and lion. 

    • Chartered flight: Samburu to Masai Mara (Central Region)

    • Afternoon photographic safari in Masai Mara

    • Image selection and post processing with photo host in dedicated photo studio at lodge

    • Overnight in Masai Mara​


    PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: General wildlife of the Masai Mara such as elephants, lions, leopard, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, etc. 

    • Full day photographic safari in Masai Mara Central Region

    • Image selection and post processing with photo host in dedicated photo studio at lodge

    • 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.

    • Chartered flight: Masai Mara to Nairobi Wilson Airport

    • Transfer to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport - NBO (or accommodation of choice in Nairobi)
       

    END OF TOUR​


    (Guests must depart no earlier than 9:00pm on this day)

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 $10,495 USD per person sharing accommodation.

 

If you are a solo traveller, there is an additional $1500 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! 

ENQUIRE NOW

SAMBURU + MASAI MARA PHOTO SAFARI

SEPTEMBER 10 - 17, 2026 / 2027

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