The Maasai Mara
An unforgettable photographic adventure
NEW DATES: 26th Nov - 1st Dec 2023
A photographic adventure
The Maasai Mara: Land of the Big Cats
Spend a week in the greater Maasai Mara, combining the joy of safari with an education in photography and conservation on this unforgettable trip in the land of the big cats.
We've partnered with Asilia Africa, to create this photographic adventure. We’ll be based in the Naboisho Conservancy — bordering the Masai Mara National Reserve — a reserve that comprises over 50,000 hectares of unspoilt wilderness in Kenya’s Greater Mara Region. Expect stunning scenery, and most importantly, bountiful wildlife. Both George and I have visited Naboisho on multiple occasions and it is hands-down one of our favourite places in the world.
Encounter Mara Camp
Set in the sought-after Mara Naboisho Conservancy, award-winning Encounter Mara is the stuff safari dreams are made of. Enjoy some of the best game viewing in Africa all year round from the low-key yet lavish comfort of this superb eco-camp. Shaded by a thick acacia forest, Encounter Mara enjoys glorious views of the surrounding savannah, while closer at hand a salt lick attracts a range of animals throughout the day, from plains game to big cats. The sheer comfort of the traditional-style safari camp combined with the opportunity for bush walks and night drives mean that there are few more rewarding places from which to experience this slice of wild Africa.
Experience Africa like never before
The itinerary
Your Photographic & Conservation Safari
Day 1
After arriving in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you'll be met by a representative from Asilia Africa and transferred to Wilson Airport for the light aircraft flight to the Maasai Mara. Upon landing in Ol Seki airstrip, you'll be met by me, George and a guide from Encounter Mara who will game drive us the short distance to camp. Welcome to your home for the next week! Don't worry, you'll arrive with plenty of time to settle in and freshen up before lunch.
Then, we’ll head out on our first afternoon game drive and explore our incredible surroundings!
Days 2-5
Renowned for its bountiful biodiversity and breath-taking natural beauty, Naboisho Conservancy hosts a wide range of wildlife including lions, cheetahs, elephants, leopards, giraffes, wild dogs, and a host of plains game. You can look forward to guided game drives with an expert naturalist, walking safaris (optional), a night game drive in search of elusive nocturnal creatures, and visiting Maasai villages to learn about this fascinating indigenous culture.
At all times, George and I will be there to guide you through those special and breathtaking encounters. Whether it's your first time holding a camera, or you've been using one for years, we'll tailor our tuition to make sure you're receiving the most out of our guidance. Small group sizes mean we'll share intimate experiences with the incredible wildlife in Naboisho Conservancy and you'll come away with incredible memories and those sought-after portfolio shots!
Day 6
On your last morning, you’ll have time for an early game drive with a picnic breakfast before heading to the airstrip in time for your light aircraft flight to Nairobi where we'll wave you off on your next adventure!
When you land at Wilson Airport, you will be met by an Asilia Africa representative and transferred either to the hotel where you're staying, or to Jomo Kenyatta international airport in time for your international flight home.
tailored photography tuition
Photographic Safari
This trip is designed for photographers of all abilities, whether you’re just starting out or are an avid wildlife photographer. We'll be on hand to help at all times, and you’ll receive the education and learning experience suited for your level. Whether that’s getting to grip with manual on your DSLR, or practising more advanced photography techniques, we'll mould the photography portion of the trip to your needs. The same applies to the post-production and/or editing sessions as we will also host one-to-ones tailored to your level, regardless of your experience. In terms of equipment, you will need a DSLR and half-decent long lens — 300 mm and above is perfect. Alongside that, some wider-angle lenses such as the 70-200 mm and 24-70 mm. If you don’t already own the kit, not to worry; there are plenty of reputable lens shops that rent out photography equipment for just such occasion and we're happy to recommend a local outfitter in your country of residence.
Introducing...
Your Workshop Leaders
@lara_wildlife
Lara Jackson (me!)
I'm a conservation biologist and award-winning wildlife photographer whose research has taken me around the world. Although I specialise in black rhino feeding ecology, I have also been fortunate enough to study mouse lemurs in Madagascar and dolphins off the coast of Zanzibar. I am extremely passionate about preserving our world and am determined to ensure that there is a future for all species. I strongly believe that raising awareness, education and working closely with local communities is the key to successful conservation efforts.
@georgetheexplorer
George Benjamin
George is a UK-based wildlife photographer and photographic guide, spending most of his time in East Africa and beyond. His work has taken him from the rainforests of the Congo Basin, through to the northern climes of Canada photographing polar bears on foot. Following a brief stint as a creative in advertising, he has won a number of wildlife photography awards, as well as being widely published both nationally and internationally.
The nitty gritty
Important Info
Dates:
26th November - 1st December 2023 (4/4 spaces available)
Costs:
US $6,500 per person
What's Included?
Tour leaders George Benjamin and Lara Jackson and all planned excursions, night drives, full board accommodation at Naboisho from lunch on day one to breakfast on day six, all house drinks (except premium wines and champagne), transfers to/from Mara Ol Seki airstrip and Naboisho, in-camp laundry service, conservancy bed-night fee, Asilia conservation fee, and Emergency Support Cover.
What's Not Included?
International flights, Kenya tourist visa ($50), Domestic flights and Gratuities/tips.
Other notes
Asilia can happily assist and book your domestic flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport to Naboisho
(domestic hub), as well as transfers to/from Nairobi Wilson airport and JKIA International airport.
Malaria tablets: please consult your doctor/local pharmacy.
Yellow Fever inoculation: if travelling from a Yellow Fever country, please ensure you’re carrying the correct certification.
Our Positive Impact partners
Giving Back To Nature
Our promise to you
We are Covid Secure
When booking workshops, you shouldn't have to worry or fret about Covid-related restrictions. With all our workshops, your money and place is protected.
To secure your place, a deposit of 50% is required. Up until 60 days before travel, should you decide to cancel, this is fully refundable.
Beyond that, the remaining 50% would then be payable. At this point, your payment is now non-refundable but still fully protected.
Should COVID-19 laws mean travel is not possible, we’ll simply postpone and move to a future date, at no extra charge. We’ll decide on that future date as a collective group.
Yay! You're convinced!
Secure Your Spot!
We're so excited to to share the magic of Naboisho with you,!
Please fill out the enquiry form below and we'll be in touch to assist with your booking, as well as answer any questions that you might have.