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Mark A Fernley
Lions cometo drink at night during a night photographic hide safari with Mrak A Fernley

KENYA

SHOMPOLE HIDE
PHOTOGRAPHIC  SAFARI

Join professional wildlife photographers Mark A. Fernley and Jaren A. Fernley in one of Africa’s most exclusive photographic safari hides. Set in Shompole Conservancy in Kenya’s Rift Valley, this unique experience is dedicated to specialist hide photography. Using advanced front and back lighting, you’ll capture striking images of nocturnal wildlife and develop new creative techniques. Unlike any traditional safari, this hide offers an intimate and innovative approach to wildlife photography you won’t find anywhere else.

DATE

OCTOBER 21-25, 2026

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

PRICE

$3,990 USD

+ $500 USD SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE (if applicable)

Shompole Hides - Mark A Fernley

SAFARI DETAILS

This exclusive photographic safari is designed for experienced wildlife photographers ready to take their skills to the next level through the unique art of underground hide photography. With only four guests, you'll spend three nights rotating between two professionally designed photo hides, set in the  thriving Shompole Conservancy known for its diverse and often elusive wildlife.

This is not your standard safari. You’ll be photographing from the hides for extended sessions - including full nights - capturing wildlife at eye level in low-light conditions. From elephants and giraffes to hyenas, civets, genets, porcupines, and even leopards and lions, the opportunities for creative and impactful imagery are exceptional.

The experience is co-led by Mark and Jaren Fernley, resident photographers of Shompole Hide, both of whom are unmatched in their understanding of this location. With their expertise in lighting setups, behavioral prediction, and hide photography strategy, every detail is optimized to help you produce visually striking, technically challenging images.

 

This safari offers a rare chance to work alongside two of the best in the field - quietly, confidently, and without compromise.

LOCATION

This tour is situated in a unique and private wildlife hotspots located in the South West of Kenya known as the Shompole Conservancy. The Shompole conservancy is situated in a remote spot just south of the Great Rift Valley and is located between Lake Magadi to the north and Lake Natron to the south, two alkaline lakes. The Shompole Reserve offers an underground photographic waterhole hide that is designed at a professional level. Not only is it a hide, it offers you the ability to photograph lions and leopard at night.

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

Camera equipment for the Shompole Hide is rather unique. As this part of the trip is based in an underground hide, lenses are specific to obtain the best results. During the day, a simple 24-105mm lens is perfect for capturing larger animals and herds with their full reflection. Close up images of animals drinking during the day can be achieved with a reach of 300mm. During the night, a recommended equivalent of the canon 70-200mm f2.8 lens would be ideal for this night photography.

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 Shompole Conservancy (Approx. 4 hours drive)

    • Evening introduction to the photographic hide

    • Overnight in the photographic hide​

      PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Photographic opportunities in the hide include many species of African wildlife including predators such as lion and leopard

    • Early morning in the photographic hide

    • mid-morning rest and refresh at the lodge with photo editing and critique with photo hosts

    • Evening in the photographic hide

    • Overnight in the photographic hide​​

      PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Photographic opportunities in the morning include many birds, giraffe, zebra, baboon, and much more. Evening photo opportunities in the hide include many species of African wildlife including predators such as lion and leopard

    • Early morning in the photographic hide

    • mid-morning rest and refresh at the lodge

    • Transfer to 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 $3,990 USD per person sharing accommodation.

 

If you are a solo traveller, there is an additional $500 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

SPECIALISED HIDE PHOTO SAFARI

OCTOBER 21 - 25, 2026

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