Kenya Photography Safaris
A diverse world through the lense
“Photography” and “travel to Africa” are two activities that are inextricably linked together due to the stunning visual locations available, the magical African light and the variety of superb subjects to capture on film. As a specialist operator to Kenya for over 10 years we have been asked more and more for opportunities for clients who are both knowledgeable and those that are new to photography if there are any trips we offer that are more specialised and include help with the use of the equipment as well as guides who are versed in photography.
Fortunately, as one of the most prolifically filmed and photographed countries in Africa, with the long running presence of the BBC and the Big Cat Diaries, there are plenty of great opportunities for photographers in Kenya. Below we have discussed a few of the best ways to make the most of your trip!
A Private Vehicle For Limited Periods
Definitely one of the preferred options for many of our clients is simply to pay a supplement to have your own vehicle and driver for a few of the days of your safari itinerary. Many of the properties throughout Kenya have this as an option these days with the approximate cost running to around the U per day mark. Many of the guides are keen photographers themselves and so, while this is definitely for the more experienced photographer, they can offer help with positioning, apertures and other tips on photographer out here.
A Private Vehicle Throughout
As a slight variation on the above, rather than having a driver/guide from the property you are staying in, you can also look to have your own vehicle for the duration of your itinerary. This option does give you the freedom to do exactly as you like and we have a great range of guides who understand things like positioning of the vehicle. This option does tend to involve more driving between destinations but for visiting places like Lake Nakuru and Naivasha is essential.
A Photography Workshop
Definitely aimed at the more amateur photographer, there are also photography workshop trips that are operated out of certain properties (such as Kicheche Main Camp and Rekero, both in the Masai Mara), that offer both a full, photographic safari, but with sessions in the evenings to run through some of the photos of the day and to offer expert advise on where photos and techniques can be improved. A great example of this is the week long work shop hosted in Little Governors’ Camp in the Mara with Jonathan and Angie Scott who are famed for the BBC Big Cat diaries amongst other accolades.
Photography Lodge
More and more of the properties in Africa are recognising the need to help photographers with the restrictive luggage allowances and the specialist equipment that is required for photography in Africa and so a few of them now offers things like specialist vehicles and even free use of long range photography lenses as part of their rates. This can, obviously, be a very big draw in your decision as to where to stay. Take a look at Alex Walker’s Serian Camp or Ol Donyo Lodge in the Chyulu Hills.
Best camps for photography safaris:
Little Governors Camp, Porini Camp, Ol Donyo Lodge, Great Plains Camp
