7 Days Kenya Big Cat Photo Safari

Masai Mara Safari Nairobi Kenya

Booking Overview Highlights Includes/Excludes Cancellation Faqs Services Reviews

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Overview

Duration:7 days 6 nights
Tour Type:Package tour, Private tour
Language:English, Kiswahili

Over the next 7 days, you won’t just see Kenya’s iconic wildlife—you’ll follow their stories, anticipate their movements, and witness moments most travelers miss entirely.
Because this journey is designed around one thing:
Getting you as close as possible to Africa’s most powerful predators—without rushing the experience.

Why this safari feels different

Most itineraries try to show you everything.
This one is built to help you feel something.

More time in predator-rich ecosystems
Game drives timed around animal behavior (not schedules)
Photography-friendly pacing (no rushing between parks)
Expert guides who track not just drive

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.

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.

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

Entry Requirements for Kenya

Before traveling, ensure:

You apply for the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in advance
Your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel date
You have a return or onward ticket

Accommodation Options by Destination

📍 Nairobi +

Style	Budget	Accommodation	Why It Works	Best For
Boutique Lodge	Mid-range	Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm	Safari feel near the city, views into Nairobi National Park	First-night safari vibe
City Hotel	Mid-range	Four Points by Sheraton Nairobi Airport	Closest to airport, rooftop pool	Late arrivals
Luxury Boutique	Luxury	Hemingways Nairobi	Spacious suites, quiet suburb	Honeymoon

📍 Amboseli National Park +

Style	Budget	Accommodation	Why It Works	Best For
Safari Camp	Budget	Nyati Safari Camp	Close to Kimana Gate, great value	Short safaris
Lodge	Mid-range	Amboseli Sopa Lodge	Spacious, family-friendly	Families
Luxury Lodge	Luxury	Tawi Lodge	Private conservancy, Kilimanjaro views	Couples

📍 Tsavo West National Park +

Style	Budget	Accommodation	Why It Works	Best For
Lodge	Budget	Ngulia Safari Lodge	Affordable inside the park	Budget
Lodge	Mid-range	Kilaguni Serena Safari Lodge	Waterhole views	Classic safari
Luxury Camp	Luxury	Finch Hattons	High-end tents, spa	Luxury travelers

Flights to Kenya – Nairobi & Mombasa Gateways

Most international travelers arrive in Kenya via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), the main hub for safari departures.

However, depending on your itinerary, you may also fly into:

Moi International Airport (MBA) – ideal for beach extensions (Diani, Nyali, Watamu)

We will always advise the best arrival airport based on your itinerary.

Estimated Flight Costs (Guideline Only)

Flight prices vary depending on season and availability:

Europe → Nairobi: $600 – $1,200
USA → Nairobi: $800 – $1,700
Middle East → Nairobi: $400 – $900

We recommend booking early for the best fares, especially during peak safari seasons.

Recommended Flight Strategy

We actively guide flight selection based on your itinerary:

Arrive Nairobi early morning → connect directly to safari
Arrive Mombasa midday → transfer to beach hotel
Avoid tight connections (<3 hrs) when routing via Nairobi
Consider arriving 1 night before your safari for peace of mind
Choose flights that arrive early morning for the best experience
Use soft luggage for easier handling on safari flights

Expert Planning Insight

Even when flying to Mombasa:

Many itineraries still route through Nairobi first, because:

More flight options
Better pricing
Easier coordination with safari logistics

Book Your Dream Safari

Booking your safari with us is simple and flexible:

1. Send an Inquiry
Share your preferred travel dates, number of travelers, and any specific interests or destinations you have in mind.

2. Receive Your Custom Itinerary & Quote
We’ll design a tailored itinerary for you, including recommended accommodation options, activities, and a detailed price breakdown.

3. Review & Confirm
Once you’re happy with the itinerary, accommodation, and pricing, you can proceed with a down payment to secure your safari.

4. Flights Arrangement (Flexible Options)

We can assist you in booking your international and/or regional flights once your safari is confirmed, or
You may choose to book your flights independently.

If you book your own flights, simply share the details with us, and we’ll align all safari logistics accordingly.

5. Final Booking & Confirmation
Once your deposit is received and flight details are confirmed, we proceed to secure all accommodations and services. You’ll then receive your official booking confirmations and travel documents.

You can then apply for the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Important Booking Tips

Book Early for the Best Rates: Flights are typically more affordable when booked in advance.
High Season Availability: Accommodation—especially in popular areas like the Maasai Mara—can fill up quickly during peak travel periods.
Secure Your Spot: The earlier you confirm, the better your chances of getting your preferred lodges and travel dates.

On Arrival

Your experience is seamless from the moment you land:

Meet & greet at the airport by a Safari Travel Plus representative
Private transfer to your hotel or onward flight
Assistance with luggage and local orientation if needed

Payment Methods

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

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

Extra Activities

Tour maps

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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