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Masai Mara Migration Photo Safari 2021
The Masai Mara is known as Africa’s greatest wildlife reserve. During migration season it is arguably the greatest destination for wildlife photography on the planet and the experience we offer to you is unparalleled. Our The intimate group size of only 7 guests on this safari allows for greater freedom, more flexibility, better group dynamics, and the feel of a private safari. Each participant is guaranteed an entire row for in the safari vehicles with unrestricted access to both sides and plenty of space for your gear. This is a VIP, front row seat to the dramatic cycle of life as it unfolds on the grasslands of Africa. Witness and photograph every incredible moment, from the sun breaking the horizon at dawn and sending its golden glow over plains filled with Wildebeest, to the playful Jackal kits at their den; Cheetahs executing a well orchestrated hunt, to Giraffes against a sky of giant clouds; Lions challenging another pride for territory, to a Leopard and her cubs coming out of their lair at sunset to drink at a creek on the edge of a rich riparian area. The Masai Mara during migration season has it all. You will receive instruction directly from Nathaniel Smalley, an award winning wildlife photographer and finalist Judge for the prestigious 2017 Nature’s Best Africa Photo Contest. His eagerness to teach and outgoing personality ensures safari participants a wonderful experience. He will work side-by-side with you, giving informal instruction throughout the safari to help you capture dynamic and stunning images that go beyond the documentary style wildlife photograph. Nathaniel focuses on ensuring that his clients capture the very best images possible during their time with him and have sufficient time to work through image processing as well. The Maasai Mara is truly the jewel in Africa’s crown and host to the most spectacular array of wildlife. Here three hundred and twenty square kilometers of open savannah, woodlands and tree-lined rivers creates an eco-system which supports huge numbers of bird and mammal species. The western border of the park is the spectacular Syria Escarpment, and together with the acacia dotted plains, creates scenery of stunning beauty. Lion are found in abundance throughout the park as are elephant, giraffe, a variety of gazelle species and zebra. Cheetah and leopard are also regularly seen and, if lucky, you may also find rhino. Game viewing is never dull in the Mara, and patience is often rewarded with unique sightings: a pride of lion stalking their prey; a solitary leopard retrieving its kill from the high branches of an acacia tree; male wildebeest sparring to attract females into their harem; or even a herd of elephant protecting their young from opportunistic predators. The annual wildebeest migration traditionally is present in the Mara from July – September and at this time nature’s dramas unfold before your very eyes at every turn. Besides wildlife, the Masai Mara is also home to many members of the colorful Maasai tribe who may be seen around the borders of the park – morans (warriors) loping across the plains, young boys herding goats, or the elders grouped under a tree discussing matters of the day.
You don’t need to worry about being packed into a cramped safari vehicle as we have two private 4×4 Land Cruisers reserved exclusively for our group. This guarantees each photographer an entire row in the vehicle with access to both sides allowing for freedom of movement and plenty of room for your gear. Nathaniel will be with you every day for each game drive and provides his professional guidance with everything from suggestions on composition, camera settings to capture the best images and tips for anticipating African wildlife behavior. Our drivers are the best in the region and have amassed decades of knowledge in identifying the top locations for the most action. They’re acutely aware of the difference between the needs of clients on a wildlife photo safari compared to those on a sightseeing game drive and their radio contact with other safari vehicles ensures you don’t miss out on incredible sightings.
The element of relaxation during the safari is equally important to the quality of of your experience. For this reason we have reserved your accommodations at the best camps in the Masai Mara, assuring you an authentic safari experience without compromising on luxury or service. Kichwa Tembo is the epitome of style and comfort and features the very finest that a safari camp has to offer. From the smallest detail in your room, to the views from the dining area and the mouth watering cuisine, there is nothing better. With a maximum of only 80 guests allowed at this facility we are guaranteed privacy and a quiet, peaceful stay.
ITINERARY
Masai Mara Migration Photo Safari 2021
* In order to provide participants with the best photographic opportunities the itinerary is subject to change based on weather, lighting and other variables.
Day 1 : August 20th, 2021 – ARRIVAL
~ Dinner Provided
Welcome after arrival into Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport where you will be met by a company representative and transferred to Ole Sereni Hotel for your overnight accommodation. Guests will rest and relax for the remainder of the day and prepare for departure the following morning. Located just off Mombasa road Ole-Sereni is the only hotel bordering a national game park. The title of the hotel is taken from the Masai name for the area meaning ‘Place of Tranquillity ’. Ole-Sereni captures the essence of Nairobi, which is the only city in the world that boasts a natural game park within its precincts. The hotel offers its guests views of animals in their natural surroundings at the waterhole in the park from the restaurants, bar, swimming pool and other parts of the hotel. Overnight at Ole Sereni Hotel.
ACCOMMODATIONS: – Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel
Day 2-10 : August 21st – August 29th, 2021
~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided Daily
Our African safari gets underway with the dawn the new day, you will awaken refreshed and well rested for the journey ahead. We will meet at breakfast for a briefing with Nathaniel before our ground transfer and charter flight to the Masai Mara. Seeing the vast African grasslands from the sky will only further increase your anticipation. Upon our arrival you will be brought via road transfer to our next accommodations at Kichwa Tembo. The Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp is situated in the beautiful Masai Mara National Park. In addition to the excellent year-round concentration of wildlife, Kichwa Tembo lies directly in the path of Africa’s spectacular Great Migration. The camp boasts tents look out onto the open grasslands or the shady forest surrounding the Sabaringo River. The generously sized swimming pool is set among the trees and surrounded by lush lawns and spectacular views. Opening up onto incredible Masai Mara views, the guest areas feature a double-storey bar and lounge area with oversized windows offering spectacular panoramas. The dining area surrounds an interactive kitchen and vegetable garden, making cuisine an integral part of your safari experience. We will settle into our luxurious accommodations before heading out on our first game drive of the safari.
Over the next 8 days we will awaken with the rising sun to photograph the beauty of Masai Mara during the migration season. Each day will have a morning and afternoon photography session with plenty of time in between to relax and or work on processing files from the previous day. Nathaniel will be offering processing instruction as well as critique sessions throughout the safari. Overnight at Kichwa Tembo Camp.
ACCOMMODATIONS: – Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel
Day 11 : August 30th, 2021
~ Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Provided
We will rise early for one last amazing game drive in the Masai Mara. After breakfast, you will be transferred by road to the Kichwa airstrip in time for your scheduled charter flight back to Nairobi. Our group will fly directly from the Masai Mara into Wilson Private Airport in Nairobi. We will make the brief transfer to our hotel where we can relax for the remainder of the day. Overnight at Ole Sereni Hotel.
ACCOMMODATIONS: – Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel
Day 12 : August 31st, 2021 – DEPARTURE
~ Breakfast Provided
After breakfast, you will be transferred via road to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in time to check in for your international flights home or continue on to your next destination with a new group of friends, wonderful experiences and memory cards loaded full of image files to remember it all by. Bon Voyage!
CANCELLATION POLICY
Masai Mara Migration Photo Safari 2021
This cancellation policy protects our business losses and as such is strictly adhered to. Exceptions will not be made. We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip. At his discretion, Nathaniel may lead the tour even if it does not meet the minimum number of participants required.
1). Cancel more than one year prior to the original tour start date:
Full refund, minus any initial deposit and all PayPal transaction fees. Refunds will be paid via PayPal and processed within 72 hours of the request being approved.
2). Cancel less than one year prior to the original tour start date:
A refund will only be issued if the tour is sold out and your vacated spot filled by another participant signing up. This refund would exclude your initial deposit, single supplement payments and any PayPal transaction fees.
* Should you fail to complete the payments as scheduled for this tour you will forfeit your deposit, all payments and your spot on this tour.
** You’ll be promptly notified and provided a full refund (including your deposit) should the tour be canceled by Nature Odyssey Worldwide Tours.
TRAVEL PLANNING
Masai Mara Migration Photo Safari 2021
• Participants must arrive in Nairobi, Kenya prior to 11:59pm on August 20th, 2021!
• We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip.
• Traveling in remote locations can present challenges that may require slight changes to the itinerary. We will always try to run the tour as the initial itinerary. In the event, beyond our control, such as political unrest, natural disasters, over bookings by the lodge, where a change is required, we will do our best to keep you close to the original shooting location. It is our intention for you to have the best possible experience. We will try to notify you of any changes as soon as we are made aware of them. If, however these changes cause an increase to the price, the increase will be passed on to the participant.
PAYMENTS & REGISTRATION
Masai Mara Migration Photo Safari 2021
August 20th, 2021 – August 31st, 2021
SOLD OUT! (Maximum 8 Participants)
13,995 USD – Based On Double Occupancy- $3,089.91 Non-refundable deposit is required to secure your spot
- $2,500 Single Supplement charged to any participant not sharing
* A late fee of $250 may be added to the balance for any payments not received by the due date.
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HIGHLIGHTS
• 12 Day/ 11 Night world class itinerary in the iconic Masai Mara, considered one of the premiere destinations for wildlife photography in the world
• Exclusive, premiere safari limited to a maximum of 8 guests
• Luxurious, shared accommodations in beautiful hotels, lodges and camps for duration of the Safari * (Inquire for single supplement availability)
• Gourmet, delicious meals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Please see daily itinerary for meals included on this safari)
• Itinerary that’s structured to maximize photographic opportunities and limit time wasted with travel and transfers
• Private transfers for our group through duration of the Safari
• Safari Vehicles with guaranteed entire row for each participant with unrestricted access to both sides and plenty of space for your gear
• Premiere drivers and guides for the duration of the Safari
• Professional in field mentoring, editing instruction and image critique with Nathaniel
• New friends, incredible images and memories that will last a lifetime!
INCLUDED
1. Pick up in Nairobi, Kenya and hotel transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
2. 12 Day / 11 Night photo safari with luxury accommodations for duration of safari
3. ALL transportation throughout the safari (both air and ground)
4. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner provided
5. Stay at Kichwa Tembo includes house wines, local brand spirit and beers, soft drinks, teas and coffees
6. All National Park fees, Game Reserves entrance fees, and taxes
7. Pro Photographer mentoring by Nathaniel Smalley
8. Editing sessions with Nathaniel
9. Lightroom and Photoshop workflow with Nathaniel
10. Image reviews and critique with Nathaniel
11. Return to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at end of Safari
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EXCLUDED
1. International flights to and from Africa
2. Travel, evacuation or other associated insurance
3. Visas and passport fees (where applicable in preparation for your travel)
4. Any meals not listed in the itinerary
5. Beverages – Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic at Ole Sereni Hotel and Little Governor’s Camp
6. Any additional transfers not mentioned in the Safari itinerary
7. Optional activities (balloon rides, guided walking safaris, etc.)
8. Gratuities for the guides, staff at accommodations, and airport transfers
9. Personal expenses (souvenirs, liquor, telephone calls, internet, laundry etc.)
10. Single room supplement for duration of the Safari – Cost is $2,850 (subject to availability)
11. Pre and post-safari tours or activities, accommodations or meals before or after the safari
12. Items of a personal nature
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WHAT TO BRING
1. DSLR camera with manual mode capability
2. Camera lenses of your choice
3. Cable release or remote control for your camera (Mirror Up and Exposure Delay will also work)
4. Lens filters of your choice (ND, CPL, GRAD, etc.)
5. Extra batteries for your camera & charger
6. Sturdy tripod Head
7. Bean Bag, Lens Mount, Wimberly Head, Clamps, Panning Plate etc.
8. Extra memory cards and external Hard Drive for file backup
9. Laptop with latest version of Lightroom and/or Photoshop
10. Beanie and light gloves for cool morning game drives
11. Sunhat and sunscreen
12. Long pants – 3 pairs
13. Shorts and/or skirts – 2 pairs
14. Lightweight, breathable sleeved shirts to protect you from the sun
15. Underwear & socks
16. Sports bra for women. (Not all roads are well maintained and can be rough)
17. Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
18. Light weight, warm jacket (Temps will average 45°f in the early morning and 90°f at mid-day)
19. Water proof shell for any possible rain showers
20. Polarized sunglasses
21. Guests that wear contact lenses are encouraged to bring along a pair of eye glasses in case you get irritated by the dust
22. Personal toiletries
23. Medications
24. Malaria Tablets if needed (Please check with your physician first!)
25. Antihistamine tablets or eye drops for any allergies
26. Anti-nausea & anti-diarrhea medicine
27. Moisturizing cream and sunblock
28. Insect repellent
29. Tissues/’Wet Wipes’
30. Visas, passports, tickets, money etc.
31. Waterproof/dustproof bag for your camera
32. A great attitude!
* We recommend layering with light clothing. Early morning game drives can be cool. At mid-moring the sun will increase the temperature rapidly, and then cool off quickly once the sun goes down. Please avoid packing bright colors and camouflage, Due to military reasons, camouflage is not allowed in some parts of Africa.
Please Note!
* The domestic airline carriers that we will use in Africa are generally lenient towards photographers.
The specific weight allowance for checked luggage in economy class is 44lbs and for business class it is 66lbs.
The maximum dimensions for carry-on hand luggage is 22″ x 13″ x 9″ with a weight restriction of 17lbs.
Luggage to the Masai Mara must be a soft bag such as a large duffle, no hard shell suitcases will be transported!
DIFFICULTY
This is an outdoor nature photography safari, so being fit and in good health will allow you to enjoy the trip more comfortably. However, our planned activities should be within the ability of most people in moderate to good shape. Conditions can be cool in the evening and hot at mid-day, so please pack appropriate clothing for both conditions. Temps will average 45°f in the early morning and 90°f at mid-day.
Participants are required to sign a standard medical and waiver of liability form. Every effort is made to keep participants safe during all stages of the safari, but each person is solely responsible for avoiding personal injury or damaging their equipment during the trip.
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TESTIMONIALS
“A journey to the Masai Mara is a dream come true and laden with anticipation and expectations that in reality are hard to match. Nathaniel exceeded them, turning dreams into a lifetime of memories, images. Perfect planning and the right amount of improvisation consistently put us in the right places at the right time. Nathaniel was always there to provide assistance and guided when wanted or needed without smothering. The Mara really is magical and this is a trip with Nature Odyssey Worldwide not to be missed!”
~ Dan N. | Oregon, USA
“I had the pleasure of being a participant in Nathaniel Smalley’s Elements Of Africa Safari in 2017, where we spent time in Namibia, Botswana and Victoria Falls. The images I returned with are truly amazing and I learned quite a bit, including some new shooting techniques. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?! The trip was a blast, the camaraderie was off the charts. Nathaniel is a great teacher and photographer and loves to share the beauty of nature and his talents with his participants.”
~ Don D. | Arizona, USA
“Earlier this year I traveled with Nathaniel on my first trip to Africa to attend the NOW Tours Migration Safari in Kenya. I simply can’t seem to find the right words to adequately describe the amazing experience we shared. It really was truly magical on all levels. Highly recommended!”
~ Lois C. | Oregon, USA
“I had the pleasure of participating in an African safari with Nathaniel. I came away with amazing images, new skills, and a new friend and mentor in Nathaniel. He is forever upbeat and cheerful, and has a deep love for nature and a willingness to share his considerable talents with others.”
~ Larry K. | California, USA
“In 2016 I attended an African Safari with Nathaniel, he listens to his clients and goes out of his way to accommodate their special requests. He is also very helpful in demonstrating his processing workflow and the different types of processing tools he uses. The overall plan for the trip was EXCELLENT! The accommodation, food, driver/guides could not have been better. I particularly appreciated the long time we spent on each game drive, using our precious time on the trip as much as possible. It was perfect. His choice of where to stay and for how long reflected your experience in the area. The structure gave us the best possible opportunities for photography. We had exceptional opportunities for photographing a variety of animals and amazing action! Cheetah kills, wildebeest and zebras crossing the river with crocodiles lying in wait, lionesses and cheetahs feeding their cubs. Awesome!”
~ Gillian S. | Maryland, USA
“I traveled with Nathaniel in September to the Masai Mara. My experience shooting wildlife is limited so I was in learning mode. Nathaniel was unfailingly helpful, generous with his time and open to other perspectives and shooting styles. We had a lot of fun and many laughs. I look forward to my next trip with him.”
~ Judith F. | Canada
“We experienced a wonderful safari in Kenya with Nathaniel in 2016. He offered excellent teaching and leadership throughout the trip!”
~ Anne C. | Florida, USA
“This was my first safari and I felt so fortunate to have Nathaniel as our trip leader. He is a patient, knowledgeable, talented, and enthusiastic photographer. I appreciated his on-the-fly advice and his editing tips as well as good humor. He is able to work with all levels of photographers. I look forward to future trips with Nature Odyssey Worldwide!”
~ Mindy R. | California, USA
“I recently returned from an African Migration Safari with Nathaniel Smalley in the Masai Mara. A fantastic trip. My wife and I are still editing madly. We’re not wildlife photographers so we found the trip challenging, but learned an amazing amount from Nathaniel. We would highly recommend traveling with him!”
~ Keith P. | Canada