Nakuru and Maasai Mara Kenya Photography safari
Nakuru and Maasai Mara Kenya Photography safari
Duration 8 days 7 nights
Itinerary Nairobi, Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara
Experience the magic of Kenya on the 8-day Charmed photography Kenya Safari, a journey that blends iconic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable cultural encounters. From the vibrant city of Nairobi, to the flamingo-filled shores of Lake Nakuru, and the legendary savannahs of the Maasai Mara, this safari promises a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and incredible photo opportunities.
Safari Highlights & Key Experiences
- Nairobi: Begin with Nairobi National Park’s striking wildlife contrasts, and enjoy visits to the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust for intimate animal encounters.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Capture thousands of flamingos, rare rhinos, and diverse birdlife against the backdrop of the scenic Rift Valley lakes.
- Maasai Mara National Reserve: Witness the Big Five, dramatic predator action, sweeping savannahs, Visit Maasai Village and optional hot air balloon safaris for panoramic views.
This safari combines luxury lodges, expert guides, and seamless logistics to deliver a rich, memorable, and hassle-free experience—perfect for those seeking Kenya’s best wildlife, landscapes, and cultural encounters in one charming journey.
Safari itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – Welcome to Kenya
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you are met and transferred to your luxury hotel in Nairobi. This evening provides time to relax, settle in, and prepare your equipment for the safari ahead. Nairobi’s vibrant energy and world-class accommodations offer the perfect introduction to your luxury Kenya experience.
Day 2: Full Day in Nairobi – Wildlife & Cultural Photography
Spend a full day exploring Nairobi’s wildlife and conservation highlights. Begin with a game drive in Nairobi National Park, where lions, rhinos, giraffes, and zebras roam with the city skyline in the distance—offering unique photographic opportunities. Visit the Giraffe Centre to capture close-range portraits of endangered Rothschild giraffes and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to photograph orphaned elephants in an ethical setting. Golden-hour lighting during early morning and late afternoon drives enhances wildlife, landscape, and bird photography.
Day 3: Nairobi – Lake Nakuru (Road Transfer)
Travel by private vehicle to Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its flamingo-dotted alkaline lake and dramatic landscapes. Arrive at your luxury lodge or tented camp in time for an afternoon game drive. Photograph rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and large herds of buffalo against the park’s rolling hills, lush woodlands, and lake vistas. Sunset drives along the lake shore provide striking lighting for both wildlife and landscape photography.
Day 4: Full Day at Lake Nakuru – Birding & Wildlife Photography
Spend a full day capturing the stunning diversity of Lake Nakuru. Early morning drives take advantage of soft lighting to photograph predators, antelope, and rhinos in their natural habitats. Midday offers an opportunity to focus on the lake’s flamingos, pelicans, and diverse birdlife. Late afternoon and sunset drives allow you to capture breathtaking reflections on the lake, golden light over the escarpments, and wildlife in active, natural settings.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru – Maasai Mara (Road Transfer with Maasai Village Visit)
Travel to the Maasai Mara by private vehicle, stopping at a traditional Maasai village for cultural photography opportunities. Document Maasai customs, attire, and daily life while respecting local protocols. Continue the scenic journey across the rolling landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, arriving in the Mara in the late afternoon. Enjoy your first golden-hour game drive, photographing iconic savannah wildlife against the setting sun.
Day 6: Full Day Maasai Mara – Early Morning & Late Evening Photography Drives
afternoon. Enjoy your first golden-hour game drive, photographing iconic savannah wildlife against the setting sun.
Spend a full day in the Maasai Mara with two dedicated photography-focused drives: an early morning drive before sunrise to capture wildlife bathed in soft morning light, and a late afternoon drive during golden hour for dramatic landscape and action shots. Focus on the Big Five, cheetahs, hyenas, and other plains game, while the Mara’s acacia-studded savannah and riverine forests provide unforgettable backdrops for professional wildlife photography.
Day 7: Full Day Maasai Mara – Hot Air Balloon Safari
Begin the day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride at sunrise, drifting silently over the Mara plains and capturing sweeping aerial shots of wildlife and landscapes. Celebrate your flight with a champagne bush breakfast, then return for guided game drives or leisure photography. The combination of aerial perspectives and low-light drives ensures you capture the Mara at its most dramatic moments, perfect for both still photography and cinematic content.
Day 8: Maasai Mara – Nairobi (No Game Drive)
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip or road for your journey back to Nairobi. No game drive is scheduled today, allowing a relaxed departure and time to review your photography portfolio from the safari. Upon arrival in Nairobi, you are transferred to your hotel or onward international departure, concluding your luxury Kenya safari with a stunning collection of wildlife, bird, and landscape imagery.
Destination | Mi-luxury Hotels | Luxury Hotels | Premium hotels |
Nairobi | Ibis Styles Nairobi Prideinn Azure La Maison Westland’s | Eka Hotel Hilton Garden inn Airport Argile Hotel Nairobi | Radisson Blu Upperhill Kempinski Nairobi JW Marriot Nairobi |
Lake Nakuru | Lake Nakuru lodge Flamingo lodge | Sarova lion hill Sopa lodge Nakuru | The Cliff Nakuru |
Maasai Mara | Simba lodge Mara Fig Tree Mara Maisha Camp Keekorok lodge | Entim Mara Mara Engai Tipilikwani Mara Mara Intrepids | Sand River JW Marriot Mara Angama Mara Ishara Mara |
Package value estimate
Description | Package Value | How to Book / Inquire |
Mid-luxury package | Price on Request | Click to get quote |
Luxury package | Price on Request | Click to get quote |
Premium package | Price on Request | Click to get quote |
Price guide – below are factors that affect our costing
- Safari Style – Prices differ based on whether you choose a budget, mid-range, or luxury safari, with higher-end options offering private guides, premium lodges, and exclusive experiences.
- Accommodation – Safari stays range from standard lodges to luxury and ultra-luxury camps, with location, comfort, and exclusivity influencing the price.
- Season & Travel Dates – Rates are higher during peak seasons such as July–October and December, while low seasons offer better value and fewer crowds.
- Group Size & Privacy – Safari prices are influenced by the number of travelers—the larger the group, the lower the cost per person, while smaller or private safaris cost more due to personalized service and exclusive use of the vehicle and guide.
- Booking Period & Availability – Early bookings often secure better rates and availability, while last-minute bookings may attract higher prices, especially in peak season
- Meal & Beverage Plans – Standard meal plans are usually included, while premium drinks, private dining, or special dietary arrangements may affect pricing.
- Internal Flights & Transfers – Domestic flights between parks or luxury airstrip transfers can increase the overall safari cost but save time and enhance comfort.
- Special Experiences – Activities such as hot air balloon safaris, private bush dinners, cultural visits, or walking safaris are optional add-ons and priced separately.
Total cost inclusions
- Meet and greet
- Transport using an open sided land cruiser ideal for photography
- Hotel accommodation as per above itinerary
- Meals on full board
- Service of a professional photographer guide
- Extended and flexible game drives (early morning, late evening, and golden hours sessions)
- Sightseeing
- Visit Maasai Village
- Hot air balloon
- Sundowner experience and scenic bush stops
Exclusion on the total cost
- International & domestic flights
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Personal photography equipment (cameras, lenses, drones, memory cards, etc.)
- Drone permits and special filming licenses
- Optional activities (balloon safari, spa treatments, night drives, extra excursions, etc.)
- Laundry services (unless specified by lodge)
- Gratuities for guides, drivers and hotel staff
- Any extra nights or services not mentioned in the itinerary