The Maasai Mara is one of Africa’s prime safari destinations. Situated within the expansive Great Rift Valley, it boasts a diverse array of habitats which are home to the Mara’s remarkable concentration of herbivores such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, elephant and much more. African photo safaris really don’t get much better than this.
This wildlife haven also serves as a corridor for one of the most spectacular animal sightings on earth – the great wildebeest migration. An astonishing 1.2 million wildebeests, 300,000 zebra, and other herds of smaller herbivores set the scene for the greatest show on earth as they begin their trek along age-old routes, moving from the southern part of Tanzania’s Serengeti Desert up and around to Maasai Mara in Kenya, then back again. The curtain rises on a wildlife photographer’s dream scene, and although we can’t predict the exact movement of the animals, our photo safaris run within the right season to photograph this dramatic spectacle. And beyond the wildlife, the Maasai Mara’s cultural richness adds depth to any photo safari experience.
Experience this iconic destination in a unique way.
Shoot the Mara like a pro – lions, leopards, and the Great Migration await.
Mar 11, 2026 (7 or 11 nights)
Aug 26, 2026 (7 or 11 nights)
At Penda, we know photography and we know travel. And we certainly know what makes an amazing photo tour or safari; it's all about the details. It's about making sure you've got the right light and angle for that perfect shot. It's about keeping it small and exclusive. It's about giving you photographic tutoring at your level, so that you can hone your craft in the way that works for you.
Find out moreThe Maasai Mara offers incredible game viewing throughout the year. However, the best time is during the dry season from July to October, especially during the Great Migration. Wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, and skies are typically clear for optimal lighting.
Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a telephoto lens (at least 300mm) for wildlife, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, and plenty of memory cards and batteries. A bean bag for camera stability is also useful. Here are some detailed tips on what to bring on a photo safari by photographer Alan Hewitt.
This depends on the specific workshop, but we only work in small groups – the average being about 6 participants per instructor. This ensures a lot of individual attention from our workshop leaders, so that we can cater for people with different skill levels. It also ensures that the photography opportunities are exclusive, and that we have the personal and relaxed dynamics that come with a small group.
Yes! We welcome photographers of all levels on our photo safaris. Because of our small group sizes, our photography guides have time to cater their tutoring to everyone’s individual level. So you can learn at your own level and pace.
You can fly from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to one of the Mara’s airstrips (45-minute flight), or drive (6–7 hours). Flying is quicker and more convenient for most visitors. We’ll be here to guide you when booking your flights!
The Mara is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, and more than 450 bird species—making it ideal for diverse photography.
Wear neutral colors (khaki, olive, beige), lightweight layers, a hat, and comfortable shoes. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bring a warm jacket.
Yes, all the camps and lodges we use have charging stations or in-room power points. They’re usually run on solar power. It’s wise to bring a universal adapter and a portable power bank just in case.
Yes, most international travelers need a visa to enter Kenya. As of 2024, Kenya has implemented an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, which replaces the traditional visa. You must apply online before your trip via the official Kenyan government portal.
Recommended vaccinations include Yellow Fever (required for some countries), Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Malaria prevention is also strongly advised, especially if you’re visiting lowland areas like the Mara or the coast. Always consult a travel health clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure.
BACK
DESTINATIONS
AFRICA
THE AMERICAS
EUROPE
ASIA
