5 Kenya Highlights Worthy of Your Next Photo Safari

If you’re a wildlife photographer, Kenya’s most obvious drawcard is a safari tour to see the annual Great Wildebeest Migration, but there’s so much more to capture than that, whatever the season.

Beyond the variety of wildlife, Kenya’s rich cultural heritage also provides photographers with the chance to capture images of colourful tribes, traditional ceremonies, and unique cultural practices.

Some of Kenya’s private conservancies and reserves offer exclusive access to photographers, for an intimate and uncrowded safari experience.

Many lodges offer the services of professional guides who are experienced in catering to the needs of photographers. They’ll take into account critical aspects like lighting, positioning, and the importance of patience.

In some instances, Kenyan safari operators offer specialized workshops and photographic safaris led by professional photographers who share their expertise and guidance for getting the ultimate photo.

Here are our top 5 destinations for a photographic safari holiday in Kenya:

1. Mount Kenya

A safari in Mount Kenya provides an adventure-filled experience for photographers, combining trekking, climbing, and plenty of room for exploration. Capturing a sunrise or sunset from the peaks can make for a powerful image, and the summit region’s glacial features are immediately captivating.

The mountain itself is a UNESCO world heritage site and a biosphere reserve, so nature photographers will never have a shortage of subjects to shoot. Those looking to capture the local culture can visit the Kikuyu, Meru, and Embu tribes in the surrounding areas.

2. Lake Nakuru

Situated in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru’s unique combination of birdlife, big game, and stunning landscapes draws photographers looking for interesting subjects and scenery.

The lake is famous for the periodic migration of large flocks of lesser and greater flamingos. The sight of thousands of these creatures gathered on the shores makes for compelling photographs.

Lake Nakuru National Park is also home to a rhino sanctuary, offering wildlife photographers the chance to capture these magnificent creatures up close. Makalia Falls and Baboon Cliff are great elevated spots for landscape photographers.

3. Diani Beach

Easily accessible from Mombasa, Diani Beach’s blend of natural beauty, marine life, water sports, and culture makes it an ideal spot for photographers.

Its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters offer scenic seascapes and vibrant colours for exceptional shots.

Underwater photographers can look forward to capturing images of marine life along Diani’s coral reefs.

The nearby villages offer a slice of culture and the opportunity to document vibrant traditions, daily life, and local craftsmanship.

4. Masai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara’s sweeping savannahs, acacia-dotted plains, and Mara River create a picturesque backdrop for wildlife photography.

One of the key locations for the Great Wildebeest Migration, wildlife photographers flock to the region every year to capture the dramatic scenes of river crossings and predator-prey interactions.

The Masai Mara is also home to an array of bird species, making it a paradise for avian photographers.

A safari in the Masai Mara National Reserve, such as a hot-air balloon safari, offers photographers the chance to capture stunning shots of wildlife and landscapes all over the reserve.

5. Aberdare National Park

Located in central Kenya, Aberdare National Park’s elevation and varied topography offers photographers the chance to shoot in mountainous terrain and dense forests.

The park’s montane forests are home to unique plant species, ideal for photographers with an eye for macro photography.The park also features a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and a variety of primate species.

Avian photographers will be spoiled for choice, with numerous bird species to capture.

For photographers interested in long-exposure and landscape photography, Aberdare National Park boasts several scenic waterfalls, including Karuru Falls and Gura Falls. Low light pollution makes the park ideal for astrophotography.

We know that Kenya is on the bucket list of many photographers and wildlife lovers. As acknowledged African safari experts, we’ve arranged many memorable and successful photographic safari tours all over Africa for our happy clients. If you want us to do the same for you, contact us at Discover Africa to tailor a Kenya safari just for you.