10-Day Photography Safari Itinerary in Kenya: Exploring the Wild North
OVERVIEWThis 10-day photography safari takes you on a captivating journey through Kenya's northern circuit, starting in the bustling capital of Nairobi and heading into the diverse and remote landscapes of Meru National Park, Samburu National Reserve, and the little-known but rewarding Aberdare National Park. With rich biodiversity, rare wildlife species, and striking scenery, this route offers an exciting blend of classic safari experiences and off-the-beaten-path photographic opportunities.
Day 1-2: Nairobi National Park – Urban Wilderness Photography
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Nairobi. After a restful night, you’ll start your safari in Nairobi National Park, a unique wildlife haven just minutes from the city center. Here, you can photograph rhinos, lions, giraffes, and buffalos with the surreal backdrop of city skyscrapers. The park is especially photogenic during early morning and late afternoon, when the golden light illuminates the acacia-dotted savannah. A visit to the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage or Giraffe Centre can also offer meaningful wildlife portrait opportunities.
Day 3-4: Meru National Park – Untamed Wilderness
Next, travel northeast to Meru National Park, one of Kenya’s most scenic and least-visited reserves. Famous as the setting of the book and film Born Free, Meru offers lush landscapes, meandering rivers, and rare sightings of species such as the Grevy’s zebra, lesser kudu, and gerenuk. With fewer tourists, Meru provides a quiet, intimate environment ideal for immersive photography. Sunrise and sunset game drives present the best light for capturing elephants, lions, and flocks of birds in motion along the Tana River.
Day 5: Aberdare National Park – Misty Forests and Waterfalls
En route to the north, make a detour to the lush highlands of Aberdare National Park. Known for its dense forests, moorlands, and cascading waterfalls, this park offers a dramatic change of scenery. It’s ideal for photographing forest elephants, giant forest hogs, and the elusive bongo antelope. Overnight at a tree lodge such as The Ark or Treetops gives you a chance to capture wildlife visiting waterholes at night using low-light or night-photography techniques.
Day 6-8: Samburu National Reserve – Unique Northern Species
From the highlands, descend into the warm and arid landscapes of Samburu National Reserve. Set along the Ewaso Nyiro River, Samburu is known for its striking scenery and the “Samburu Special Five”: the reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and Beisa oryx. Over two full days, explore this rugged reserve with your camera in hand, capturing elephants bathing in the river, leopards lounging in trees, and birds in vibrant plumage. The golden light in Samburu creates spectacular contrasts and shadows, perfect for dramatic photography.
Day 9: Buffalo Springs & Shaba Reserves – Sister Sanctuaries
Cross the river to explore Buffalo Springs and Shaba National Reserves, adjacent to Samburu. These lesser-known reserves offer similar wildlife and fewer crowds, making for peaceful and rewarding photography sessions. The landscape here is dotted with doum palms and natural springs, attracting herds of elephants and flocks of birds. This day adds depth and diversity to your photographic portfolio.
Day 10: Return to Nairobi
After a final early morning game drive in Samburu, begin your journey back to Nairobi. Take time to reflect on the dramatic landscapes, rare species, and memorable photographic moments you've captured over the past 10 days. You may choose to end with a farewell dinner in Nairobi or an optional short visit to the Karen Blixen Museum or local art galleries before your departure.
Cost includes:
•9 Night accommodation as per the itinerary
•All airport transfers
•Transport and game drives in a 4×4 Land Cruiser
•Meals on full board basis
•Professional tour guide
•Drinking water throughout
•All park entry fees as per itinerary
•Maasai Village tour
Cost excludes:
•International and local flights
•Visa fee
•Guide’s tip (not mandatory, but recommended)
•Anything not mentioned
•We also offer hot air balloon safari at a cost of 480 USD per person