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Magical Masai Mara

Magical Masai Mara
Kenya &

Early Booking Promotion

Are you planning ahead? This is one of our signature photo safaris, offered each year - book and pay your deposit for the 2028 departure before 31 Dec 2026 to receive a USD $250 per person discount.

Overview

This 9-night Kenya photo safari is based entirely in the Masai Mara Triangle during late January and February, a productive time for wildlife photography. Your safari is led by Mamai John, a respected local guide from the Maasai tribe, whose deep knowledge of the Mara and photographic awareness help you position for light, background, and behaviour.

The Mara Triangle offers access to the Mara River, open plains, and striking backdrops along the Oloololo Escarpment. With off-road driving permitted in selected areas, you’ll have the flexibility to work sightings of lions, leopards, cheetah, elephant, buffalo and a lot more.

Your journey begins and ends with scenic flights between Nairobi and the Mara, both including additional luggage allowance for camera gear, with an overnight stay at the start and a day room before your evening departure.

An optional Amboseli extension is also available.

Why Choose This Safari

  • Maximum of just 3 photographers per vehicle for space, comfort, and full shooting flexibility
  • Led by Mamai John, a Maasai guide with great photographic awareness and field positioning skills
  • Nine nights based entirely in the Masai Mara Triangle for consistent sightings you can follow up on
  • Access to the Mara River, open plains, and dramatic Oloololo Escarpment backdrops
  • Off-road driving is permitted in designated areas for improved positioning and creative angles
  • Focus on light, behaviour, and thoughtful image-making rather than rushed sightings
  • Opportunities to photograph the Big Five, cheetah, and a wide range of Mara wildlife
  • Travel outside peak migration season for a less congested photographic experience of the Mara

Tour Leader

Mamai John is a Maasai guide with over 20 years’ experience across Kenya’s wildlife reserves.

Skilled in predicting behaviour and positioning vehicles for photography, he is also a capable photographer.

While he doesn’t offer in-depth tuition, Mamai's knowledge of wildlife and Maasai culture creates a relaxed, welcoming safari experience.

Learn more about Mamai on the Tour Leaders Page → HERE

Location

MARA TRIANGLE - MASAI MARA

The Masai Mara Triangle is a protected section of the Masai Mara, bordered by the Mara River and Oloololo Escarpment. It offers a mix of open plains, riverine areas, and elevated backdrops for varied photography. Managed and patrolled by park rangers, the Triangle maintains a well-regulated environment.

Off-road driving is permitted in designated areas, allowing careful positioning for Big Five sightings and cheetah.

Photographers Per Vehicle

SAFARI VEHICLE

  • Only three photographers will be on this safari in ONE safari vehicle
  • Each photographer will have their own row, with plenty of room for equipment and access to both sides of the vehicle for unobstructed photography

Vehicle Congestion

MASAI MARA

  • Vehicle congestion is typically moderate
  • The safari is timed outside the now extremely busy “peak migration season”
  • Park rangers are often present at key sightings, helping to maintain order and fairness

Accommodation

MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE – MASAI MARA

Mara Serena Safari Lodge is set high on a ridge within the Masai Mara, offering sweeping views across the plains and excellent access to diverse wildlife areas, including the Mara River.

  • Style: Brick & Mortar
  • Power: 24/7
  • Recharging: In-room (UK Type G)
  • WiFi: Available in common areas & rooms
  • Workspace: Desk in room
  • Bathroom: Private en-suite
  • Toilet: Flush toilet
  • Vanity: Running water in sink
  • Shower: Hot water shower (24/7)

Weather

☀️ MASAI MARA (KENYA)

Late January and early February in the Masai Mara bring warm temperatures, green landscapes, clear mornings with soft light and active wildlife, and afternoons with some cloud and occasional showers that add atmosphere.

  • Daytime: Warm and comfortable, typically 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
  • Night/Early morning: Cooler, usually 13°C to 17°C (55°F to 63°F), so a warm jacket is recommended

A Day On Safari

MASAI MARA

  • Early start before sunrise with tea or coffee
  • Head out in the cool morning when predators are most active and light is at its best
  • We always take packed breakfasts to allow us to stay at a good sighting, or take a break under a designated picnic tree
  • Return to camp around midday, unless a key sighting is unfolding (e.g. cheetah hunting)
  • Midday at leisure: rest, download images & charging
  • Afternoon game drive as temperatures cool and wildlife becomes active again
  • Returning just after sunset
  • Evenings: shower before meeting for dinner
  • ☀️ Sunrise: ± 06:45 am
    ☀️ Sunset: ± 18:55 pm 

Gear List

CAMERA BODY:

  • 24 megapixels or higher recommended for this wildlife photography safari
  • Two camera bodies strongly recommended – backup if one fails, and avoids changing lenses in the field
  • Mirrorless or DSLR cameras are suitable

LENSES:

  • 24mm: Great for environmental shots and dramatic skies
  • 70–200mm f/2.8: Versatile for big cats, behaviour, and low light
  • Up to 500mm (prime or zoom): Essential for distant wildlife and predator action

ACCESSORIES:

  • Professional bean bags will be provided
  • Binoculars recommended
  • Spare batteries and memory cards
  • Laptop (recommended) for image review & downloading
  • Rain covers for wet conditions

For more in-depth guidance on what to bring we are happy to discuss your setup via Zoom or email.

VISA

Visas are required for parts of this safari, and it is your responsibility to ensure they are in place before departure.

Regulations can change, so we recommend checking official government websites prior to travel.

Passport must be valid for 6 months after travel with a minimum of 4 blank pages.

We will provide an official itinerary and booking confirmation to support your application.

We recommend applying at least 3 weeks prior to travel.

KENYA
> A visa (eTA – Electronic Travel Authorisation) is required for most travellers.
> Apply online via the official system: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/
> Cost: Approx. USD $30**
> Valid for single entry (typically up to 90 days)
> Always check current requirements before travel as these are subject to change without notice.

Travel Insurance

  • All guests must have travel insurance in place prior to departure
  • Your policy should cover medical emergencies, delays, and photographic equipment
  • Trip cancellation cover is recommended for added protection
  • Some insurers require this cover to be arranged soon after your deposit is paid
  • For full details, please refer to our Booking Terms & Conditions for details of what happens if you have to cancel.

Medical

  • *** A yellow fever vaccination certificate or a doctor’s exemption letter is required for this safari as Kenya is classified as a Yellow Fever risk country. If you are aged 60+ or unable to receive the vaccine, we recommend an exemption letter.
  • No strenuous walking is involved; however, guests should be comfortable sitting for extended periods in a safari vehicle
  • It is your responsibility to consult your doctor or travel clinic well in advance for vaccinations and malaria advice.

FAQ

Is this safari suitable for my level of photography experience?

Yes, this safari is well suited to photographers with a basic to good understanding of their camera.

Mamai John focuses on positioning, light, and behaviour rather than camera tuition, so you should feel comfortable managing your own settings while benefiting from his field experti

How physically demanding is this safari on a daily basis?

This safari is not physically demanding. Most time is spent in the vehicle on game drives, with minimal walking required. It is suitable for guests with a reasonable level of general mobility, but you will need to be able to spend extended time in the safari vehicle.

Can this safari be combined with other destinations, such as Amboseli National Park?

Yes, this safari can be extended to include other destinations such as Amboseli National Park, offering opportunities to photograph elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.

What wildlife might I see on this photo safari to the Masai Mara?

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➤ MASAI MARA (KENYA) - MAMMALS - January/February

• Lion
• Leopard
• Cheetah
• Spotted Hyena
• Black-backed Jackal
• Elephant
• Cape Buffalo
• Masai Giraffe
• Plains Zebra
Topi
• Thomson’s Gazelle
• Impala

➤ MASAI MARA (KENYA) - BIRDS - January/February

• Lilac-breasted Roller
• African Fish Eagle
Secretary Bird
• Saddle-billed Stork
Grey Crowned Crane
Kori Bustard
Bateleur
• Martial Eagle
• White-backed Vulture
• Superb Starling
Northern Carmine Bee-eater
• Grey Heron

Summary

This Masai Mara photo safari is a small-group Kenya wildlife photography tour based in the Mara Triangle and led by experienced Maasai guide Mamai John.

Designed for photographers who value positioning, light, and behaviour, it offers excellent access to iconic wildlife, including big cats, elephants, buffalo, and cheetah.

With nine nights in one of Africa’s most productive ecosystems, this safari provides the time and flexibility to create strong, high-quality wildlife images.

Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi – Overnight

You will be met at Jomo Kenyatta Airport and transferred to your nearby airport hotel for an overnight stay.

1 night in Nairobi at TAMARIND TREE HOTEL.

→ Breakfast is included

→ Lunch & Dinner NOT included

→ Drinks NOT included

→ Laundry NOT included 

Days 2–9: Masai Mara Game Reserve

Fly into the Masai Mara and spend eight nights exploring one of Africa’s most productive wildlife regions. Rolling grasslands and riverine forests support high predator densities, offering excellent opportunities to photograph lions, cheetahs, leopards, and plains game.

Early starts and flexible time in the field give you the opportunity to follow behaviour, work with light, and capture great moments across open plains and along the Mara River.

8 nights in the Masai Mara at MARA SERENA LODGE.

 All meals included

Drinks NOT included

 Laundry NOT included 

Day 10: Return to Nairobi & Depart

Fly back to Nairobi. A day-use room is available before you transfer to the airport for your onward international departure.

The complimentary shuttle bus will take you the short 5 min journey to the airport.

Dayroom at FOUR POINTS SHERATON HOTEL.

→ Room only - NO meals, drinks or laundry included

Step 1 – Review Our Booking Terms

We recommend beginning by reading our Booking Terms & Conditions, located under the Prices section on each safari page. This outlines how our safaris are structured, including our booking and cancellation policies.

Step 2 – Get in Touch

Once availability is confirmed and you’d like to proceed, we’ll email you a personalised, secure link to access our Client Area. Here, you’ll create your account and be directed to complete your online booking form.

Step 3 – Create Your Client Account

Once availability is confirmed and you’d like to proceed, we’ll email you a personalised, secure link to access our Client Area. Here, you’ll create your account and be directed to complete your online booking form.

Step 4 – Complete Your Booking Form

Please complete one booking form per participant. Once received, we’ll provisionally reserve your place, pending deposit payment.

Step 5 – Secure Your Place with a Deposit

A deposit is required to confirm your booking. The deposit amount varies depending on the safari and will be clearly advised before you commit.

Payments can be made securely by credit card (subject to a 5% handling fee) or by international bank transfer. Your place is confirmed once both your completed booking form and deposit have been received.

Step 6 – Final Balance Payment

After your deposit is received, your outstanding balance will be displayed in your Client Area. The final payment is due 90 days before departure, with reminders sent in advance.

For bookings made within 90 days of the safari start date, full payment will be required at the time of booking.

If you have any questions at any stage, please don’t hesitate to get in touch — we’re always happy to help and look forward to welcoming you on one of our African photo safaris.