Tsavo, Amboseli & Masai Mara
The Wildlife
Accommodation
Transport
Photo Safari Map
Overview
This 14-day Tsavo, Amboseli, and Masai Mara photo safari is led by professional local guide James Langat and is designed for photographers who value time in the field.
The journey moves through three distinct ecosystems, offering varied wildlife and scenery - from Tsavo West’s red elephants, lava flows, and rugged volcanic hills, to Amboseli’s large elephant herds set against Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Masai Mara’s open plains with lions, cheetahs, leopards, and abundant plains game.
The focus is on light, distance to subject, and behaviour, with time at sightings to work scenes carefully rather than rushing.
James understands how to position the vehicle for clean backgrounds and good angles, and he enjoys photography himself.
This safari suits photographers who are confident with their own equipment and settings, as in-depth tuition and image review are not part of the experience.
Why Choose This Safari
- Three of Kenya’s most famous parks, each offering different landscapes & wildlife
- Only 3 photographers, each with clear access to both sides of the vehicle
- Led by local professional guide James Langat, experienced in working with photographers
- Time in the field is the priority, with early starts and flexible schedules around wildlife activity
- Strong focus on working a sighting without rushing
- A combination of road transfers and internal flights for efficient travel between locations
- Ideal for intermediate to advanced photographers
Tour Leader
Your safari is led by James Langat, a highly experienced Kenyan guide with over 20 years in the field.
A keen photographer himself, James understands light, behaviour, and how to position the vehicle for good angles.
He is calm, knowledgeable, and an excellent wildlife spotter.
Learn more about James on the Tour Leaders Page → HERE
Location
TSAVO WEST – KENYA
Tsavo West is a rugged landscape of volcanic hills, lava flows, and natural springs in southern Kenya. Known for its red elephants and varied habitats, it offers a quieter, more remote setting with dramatic light.
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK – KENYA
Amboseli is one of Kenya’s most iconic parks, set beneath Mount Kilimanjaro. Known for its large elephant herds and open plains, it offers clean backgrounds and classic compositions, especially in soft morning and evening light.
MASAI MARA – KENYA
The Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most productive wildlife reserves, known for open savanna, river systems, and high predator density. Lions, cheetahs, and leopards are regularly seen, along with large herds of plains game.
Photographers Per Vehicle
A maximum of three photographers in just one safari vehicle.
You'll enjoy generous space for your equipment and unhindered access to both sides of the vehicle.
Vehicle Congestion
TSAVO WEST – KENYA
- Low vehicle density across most areas
- Many sightings with few or no other vehicles
- Quiet conditions allow time to work scenes
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK – KENYA
- Medium to high vehicle density at big cat sightings
- Not nearly as crowded as peak migration season (July to September)
- General game and bird sightings are usually quiet
MASAI MARA – KENYA
- Medium to high vehicle density at big cat sightings
- Not nearly as crowded as peak migration season (July to September)
- General sightings are often quieter and less crowded
Accommodation
KILAGUNI SERENA SAFARI LODGE – TSAVO WEST
Located within Tsavo West with views of a waterhole often visited by wildlife, Kilaguni Serena offers a peaceful setting with quick access to key areas of the park.
- Style: Brick & Mortar
- Power: 24-hour power
- Recharging: In-room plug points available (British Type G)
- WiFi: Available in common areas & rooms
- Workspace: Small desk/table in room
- Bathroom: En-suite bathroom
- Toilet: Flush toilet
- Vanity: Basin with running water
- Shower: Walk-in shower with hot water (24/7)
AMBOSELI SERENA SAFARI LODGE – AMBOSELI
Set within Amboseli National Park, this lodge is in the best location for quick access to the best wildlife areas of Amboseli.
- Style: Brick & Mortar
- Power: 24-hour power
- Recharging: In-room plug points available (British Type G)
- WiFi: Available in common areas & rooms
- Workspace: Small desk/table in room
- Bathroom: En-suite bathroom
- Toilet: Flush toilet
- Vanity: Basin with running water
- Shower: Walk-in shower with hot water (24/7)
MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE – MASAI MARA
Positioned on a hill with a stunning view of the Mara plains, this lodge provides excellent access to key wildlife area.
- Style: Brick & Mortar
- Power: 24-hour power
- Recharging: In-room plug points available (British Type G)
- WiFi: Available in common areas & rooms
- Workspace: Small desk/table in room
- Bathroom: En-suite bathroom
- Toilet: Flush toilet
- Vanity: Basin with running water
- Shower: Walk-in shower with hot water (24/7)
Weather
☀️ TSAVO WEST (KENYA)
June brings cooler, dry-season conditions with clear skies and good visibility. Mornings are fresh with soft light, while afternoons are warm and dry.
Daytime: Warm and comfortable, typically 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
Night/Early morning: Cooler, usually 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F), a warm layer is recommended
☀️ AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK (KENYA)
June offers dry conditions and some of the clearest views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Mornings are cool and crisp with excellent light, while afternoons remain mild and comfortable.
Daytime: Warm and pleasant, typically 23°C to 27°C (73°F to 81°F)
Night/Early morning: Cooler, usually 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F), a warm layer is recommended
☀️ MASAI MARA (KENYA)
Mornings are often clear with soft light, and wildlife is active throughout the day.
Daytime: Mild and comfortable, typically 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F)
Night/Early morning: Cool, usually 10°C to 13°C (50°F to 55°F), a warm layer is recommended
A Day On Safari
TSAVO, AMBOSELI & MASAI MARA
- Early wake-up before sunrise with tea or coffee
- Head out in cool morning light when wildlife is most active
- Packed breakfasts allow you to stay with sightings or pause at a scenic picnic spot
- Return to camp around midday, unless activity keeps you out longer
- Midday break to rest, review images, and recharge equipment
- Afternoon game drive as temperatures drop and wildlife becomes active again
- Return to the lodge shortly after sunset
- Evenings: time to freshen up before dinner
- ☀️ Sunrise: ± 06:30 am
☀️ Sunset: ± 18:30 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 beginners?
This safari is best suited to intermediate and advanced photographers who are confident using their own camera equipment and settings. Your safari is led by James Langat, a highly experienced local professional guide. James understands light, behaviour, and positioning, but this is not a teaching workshop, so photography guidance is limited.
- How many photographers are in each vehicle?
This safari is limited to just 3 photographers in one vehicle. This ensures plenty of space for gear, access to both sides of the vehicle, and flexibility at sightings.
- How much time do we spend at sightings?
Time in the field is a priority on this safari. Wherever possible, you will spend extended time at good sightings, allowing you to work behaviour, light, and composition without rushing.
- What are the logistics for when we move from Amboseli to the Masai Mara?
At the end of your stay in Amboseli, you will be dropped off at the airstrip and will fly to the Mara via Nairobi. You will be collected by the lodge transfer vehicle at the airstrip. On the afternoon you arrive and the following morning, you will have shared game drives with other clients and a guide from the lodge. Our guide and vehicle will only be able to meet up with you again for the afternoon game drive on your first full day. This is due to the long driving distance between Amboseli and the Masai Mara. It cannot be done in a single day.
- What wildlife might I see on this photo safari to Tsavo, Amboseli & the Masai Mara?
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- ➤ TSAVO WEST (KENYA) - MAMMALS - June
• Lion
• Leopard
• Cheetah
• Spotted Hyena
• Black-backed Jackal
• Elephant
• Cape Buffalo
• Masai Giraffe
• Plains Zebra
• Lesser Kudu
• Kirk’s Dik-dik
• Impala- ➤ TSAVO WEST (KENYA) - BIRDS - June
• Lilac-breasted Roller
• Golden-breasted Starling
• Von der Decken’s Hornbill
• Kori Bustard
• Secretary Bird
• Bateleur
• Martial Eagle
• African Hawk-Eagle
• White-bellied Go-away-bird
• Northern Red-billed Hornbill
• Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse
• White-browed Coucal- ➤ AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK (KENYA) - MAMMALS - June
• Lion
• Cheetah
• Spotted Hyena
• Black-backed Jackal
• Serval
• Elephant
• Cape Buffalo
• Masai Giraffe
• Plains Zebra
• Blue Wildebeest
• Thomson’s Gazelle
• Grant’s Gazelle- ➤ AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK (KENYA) - BIRDS - June
• Grey Crowned Crane
• Kori Bustard
• Secretary Bird
• Saddle-billed Stork
• Yellow-billed Stork
• African Fish Eagle
• Goliath Heron
• Grey Heron
• Sacred Ibis
• Spur-winged Lapwing
• Black-winged Stilt
• Pied Kingfisher- ➤ MASAI MARA (KENYA) - MAMMALS - June
• Lion
• Leopard
• Cheetah
• Spotted Hyena
• Black-backed Jackal
• Bat-eared Fox
• Elephant
• Cape Buffalo
• Masai Giraffe
• Plains Zebra
• Blue Wildebeest
• Thomson’s Gazelle- ➤ MASAI MARA (KENYA) - BIRDS - June
• Lilac-breasted Roller
• Superb Starling
• Secretary Bird
• Kori Bustard
• Grey Crowned Crane
• Bateleur
• Martial Eagle
• White-backed Vulture
• Black-winged Kite
• Saddle-billed Stork
• Hadada Ibis
• African Darter
Summary
This Tsavo, Amboseli, and Masai Mara photo safari is a small-group Kenya wildlife photography tour led by local professional guide, James Langat.
From Tsavo’s volcanic landscapes to Amboseli’s elephants beneath Kilimanjaro and the predator-rich plains of the Masai Mara, it offers a well-paced mix of environments and wildlife.
With only three photographers in one vehicle, the focus is on space, time in the field, and the freedom to work each sighting properly.
Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi – Overnight
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and transfer to the nearby FOUR POINTS SHERATON hotel for an overnight stay before the safari begins.
→ Breakfast is included
→ Lunch & Dinner NOT included
→ Drinks NOT included
→ Laundry NOT included
Days 2–4: Tsavo West National Park
Depart early by road for Tsavo West National Park, a dramatic wilderness of volcanic hills, lava flows, and freshwater springs. Photograph hippos at Mzima Springs, plains game, and birdlife, with game drives timed for optimal light and activity.
3 nights in Tsavo West at KILAGUNI SAFARI LODGE
→ All meals included
→ Drinks NOT included
→ Laundry NOT included
Days 5–8: Amboseli National Park
Travel by road to Amboseli National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Spend four nights capturing classic elephant imagery, intimate wildlife scenes, and expansive landscapes.
Staying at AMBOSELI SERENA LODGE (all meals included)
4 nights in Amboseli at AMBOSELI SERENA LODGE
→ All meals included
→ Drinks NOT included
→ Laundry NOT included
Days 9–13: Masai Mara Game Reserve
After a short morning game drive in Amboseli, fly via Nairobi to the Masai Mara, arriving in time for a late lunch at Mara Serena Lodge, where you will stay for five nights in comfortable en-suite rooms. As your regular guide and vehicle travel overland to the Mara and overnight en route, you will enjoy an afternoon game drive with a professional lodge-based guide and vehicle on your first day.
Rolling grasslands, riverine forests, and high predator densities create exceptional opportunities for photographing lions, cheetahs, leopards, and plains game in classic savanna settings. Early starts and extended golden-hour drives allow time to follow behaviour, work carefully with light, and capture dynamic interactions across open plains and along river systems.
5 nights in The Masai Mara at MARA SERENA LODGE
→ All meals included
→ Drinks NOT included
→ Laundry NOT included
Day 14: Return to Nairobi & Depart
Fly back to Nairobi (with extra freight allowance for all your luggage). Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and transferred to the FOUR POINTS SHERATON AIRPORT HOTEL. A day room will be at your disposal until departure, and the complimentary shuttle bus will conveniently transport you on the brief 5-minute journey to the airport for your international flight home.
Dayroom at FOUR POINTS SHERATON HOTEL.
→ Room only - NO meals, drinks or laundry included
STEP 1 - PLEASE READ OUR BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS
We first recommend that you read and become familiar with our booking terms & conditions, which can be found on this page, under the PRICES box.
STEP 2 - GET IN TOUCH
Get in touch with us to confirm that there are still spaces available on the photo safari that you are interested in. Click on the “ENQUIRE NOW” button above.
STEP 3 - AWAIT A REPLY FROM US & THEN CREATE YOUR CLIENT ACCOUNT
Once we confirm with you that there is space available, and you would like to join the safari, we will send you a direct link via email. Follow this unique link to sign up to our CLIENT AREA. After you have registered with your name, email address and a password of your choice, you will then be asked to complete our online booking form.
STEP 4 - COMPLETE A BOOKING FORM
As soon as we receive your completed booking form/s (1 per participant) then you will be required to send us the deposit to secure your place on the safari.
STEP 5 - SEND YOUR DEPOSIT
Deposits can be paid via credit card, PayPal or international bank transfer. We will notify you as soon as your deposit arrives. Places on the safari will only be confirmed once we have received both a completed booking form and deposit payment.
STEP 6 - FINAL BALANCE PAYMENT
As soon as your booking form and deposit are with us, we will update your CLIENT AREA to display the outstanding balance amount. This amount will be due 90 days before the start date of the safari.
- Tour Leader
-
James Langat
