7 Days Kenya Big Cat Photo Safari

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Overview

  • Duration:7 days 6 nights
  • Tour Type:Package tour, Private tour
  • Language:English, Kiswahili
Embark on a luxury, photography-focused safari designed to capture Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural element. This 7-day adventure takes you from Nairobi to the renowned Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the legendary Masai Mara, two of Kenya’s premier destinations for predator sightings and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Tailored for photographers, this journey combines expert guiding, private safari vehicles, and carefully timed game drives to maximize golden-hour light and photographic opportunities. From the last northern white rhinos to dramatic predator-prey interactions on the savannah, every moment is crafted to deliver exceptional wildlife shots.
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Highlights

  • Arrival in Nairobi – Rooftop sunset photography & safari briefing.
  • Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Black rhinos, last two northern white rhinos, chimp sanctuary.
  • Full-day Ol Pejeta safari – Lions at dawn, elephants with Mt. Kenya backdrop, sunrise silhouettes.
  • Masai Mara adventure – Golden-hour predator shots, Big Five encounters.
  • Full-day photo safaris in Mara – Lions, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeest migration, predator-prey action.
  • Optional hot-air balloon safari – Aerial shots of the Mara plains.
  • Final sunrise shoot – Silhouettes, birdlife & farewell to Kenya.

Includes/Excludes

  • Accommodation as mentioned (luxury lodges/camps)
  • Meals on full board while on safari
  • Professional driver-guide with photography expertise
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle with open roof for photography
  • All park fees & conservancy fees
  • Airport transfers in Nairobi
  • Domestic flights (if included)
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Hot air balloon safari (optional)
  • Tips & personal expenses
  • Extra activities not listed

How To Book

Booking your safari with Safari Travel Plus is simple and flexible:

90 Days or More Before Your Safari: Secure your booking with a 35% deposit.

45 Days Before Your Safari: If you paid 35% earlier, a further 15% deposit (making a total of 50%) will be required.

Within 45 Days of Your Safari: A 50% deposit secures your booking.

Balance Payment: The remaining 50% is payable upon arrival, before your safari begins.

Payment Methods

We make payments easy and convenient. You can pay using:

Bank transfer, Credit or debit card and Mobile money (M-Pesa)

Itinerary

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Day 1 – Arrival in Nairobi

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport where you’ll be met by our Safari Travel Plus representative. Transfer to Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport for overnight stay. Evening briefing on the safari and photography tips from your guide. Photography Highlight: City sunset skyline from rooftop bar (optional).

Day 2 – Nairobi to Ol Pejeta Conservancy

After breakfast, drive (approx. 4–5 hrs) or fly to Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Afternoon game drive in this unique reserve, home to East Africa’s largest population of black rhinos and the last two remaining northern white rhinos. Overnight at Sweetwaters Serena Camp. Photography Highlight: Rhino close-ups, chimpanzee sanctuary portraits.

Day 3 – Ol Pejeta Photography Safari

Spend a full day in Ol Pejeta with game drives at dawn and dusk – the best times for wildlife photography. Capture lions in golden light, elephants against Mt. Kenya, and unique conservation projects. Overnight at Sweetwaters Serena Camp. Photography Highlight: Sunrise silhouettes, rhinos, elephant herds.

Day 4 – Ol Pejeta to Masai Mara

Fly to the Masai Mara National Reserve. Afternoon game drive focusing on golden-hour predator photography. Overnight at Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Naibor Camp (luxury tented option). Photography Highlight: Big cats at sunset, elephant herds in soft light.

Day 5–6 – Masai Mara Full-Day Photo Safaris

Two full days dedicated to wildlife photography. Early morning and late afternoon game drives maximize light conditions. Optional hot air balloon safari for aerial shots of the savannah. Private safari vehicle ensures flexibility to wait for the perfect shot. Overnight at Mara Serena Safari Lodge / Naibor Camp. Photography Highlights: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeest (seasonal), dramatic predator-prey interactions.

Day 7 – Sunrise Photography & Departure

Final morning game drive for sunrise silhouettes and birdlife photography. Fly or drive back to Nairobi. Connect with your international flight or extend your stay.

Frequently asked questions

What makes this safari ideal for photographers?

This itinerary focuses on predator-rich regions like Ol Pejeta and the Masai Mara. Game drives are timed for golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) when lighting is best for photography. You’ll also have a private 4x4 vehicle, giving you flexibility to wait for the perfect shot.

Do I need to be a professional photographer to join?

No — this safari is designed for all levels, from beginners to professionals. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a high-quality smartphone, your guide will position the vehicle for the best angles.

What photography equipment do you recommend bringing?

We recommend:

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with telephoto lens (200–400mm)

A wide-angle lens for landscapes and silhouettes

Extra memory cards and spare batteries

A beanbag or monopod (tripods are not ideal in vehicles)

Protective gear for dust and weather

If you don’t have professional gear, don’t worry we can help you hire or use the equipment you have can still capture stunning shots.

When is the best time to take this safari?

January–March & June–October: Best light, clear skies, and high chances of predator sightings.

July–October: Migration season in the Mara, offering dramatic predator-prey interactions.

November & April–May: Green season, fewer crowds, excellent photography with lush landscapes.

How many people are in the safari vehicle?

This is a private photo safari. You will not share your vehicle with strangers, ensuring maximum space for gear and freedom to focus on your photography.

Can I charge my camera batteries on safari?

Yes. Most safari vehicles and lodges have charging points (12V or 240V). We recommend bringing a car adapter and power bank to ensure your devices are always ready.

Can I extend my safari or add other destinations?

Yes. This itinerary can be customized. Popular extensions include:

Lake Naivasha & Nakuru for bird photography

Amboseli for elephants against Mt. Kilimanjaro

Zanzibar for post-safari beach & culture photography
from$3,200.00 /person

Start your booking inquiry by filling in your travel details below

Why book with Safari Travel Plus?
Giving Back: 1% of bookings support wildlife conservation & communities.
Local Expertise: Guided by local specialists with authentic insights.
Tailor-Made Safaris: Customized for budget, luxury, family, cultural, or romantic trips
Seamless Travel: All logistics handled for a worry-free experience.
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