East Africa Photographic Safari

An East Africa Photographic Safari is an incredible adventure for wildlife and photography enthusiasts. This region is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. While I can’t provide specific, up-to-date packages, I can outline what you might typically expect in such a package:

Duration: East Africa photographic safaris can vary, but a typical package might last anywhere from 7 to 14 days, allowing you to explore multiple national parks and wildlife reserves.
Destinations: East Africa is home to several countries with excellent safari opportunities, including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and more. Common destinations include:
- Kenya: Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Samburu National Reserve.
- Tanzania: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park.
- Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (for gorilla trekking), Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park.
Accommodations: Packages often include a mix of accommodations ranging from luxury lodges and tented camps to more budget-friendly options. These lodges and camps are strategically located for wildlife viewing and photography.
Transportation: Typically, safaris include transportation between parks and reserves, which may involve 4×4 safari vehicles or small aircraft for longer distances.
Wildlife Viewing: The heart of any photographic safari is the wildlife. You’ll embark on daily game drives with experienced guides who can help you locate and photograph animals such as the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), as well as other unique species like giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, and various bird species.
Photography Opportunities: Many packages cater specifically to photographers. They often include photography workshops or guides who can help you get the best shots, offering tips on composition, lighting, and equipment.
Cultural Experiences: East Africa is rich in culture and history. Depending on your chosen package, you may have the opportunity to visit local villages, interact with indigenous tribes like the Maasai, and learn about their traditions and customs.
Gorilla Trekking (Optional): If you’re visiting Uganda or Rwanda, you might have the option to go gorilla trekking, a once-in-a-lifetime experience to observe and photograph mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Meals: Most packages include meals, often buffet-style, with a mix of international and local cuisine.
Park Fees: The cost of park and conservation area fees is usually included in the package price.
Photography Gear: While some tours provide photography equipment, it’s a good idea to bring your camera gear, including a telephoto lens for wildlife shots and a wide-angle lens for landscapes.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is essential to cover unexpected events during your safari, including cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost/stolen gear.

When booking an East Africa Photographic Safari package, it’s crucial to research different tour operators, compare itineraries, read reviews, and ensure the package aligns with your interests and budget. Additionally, consider the best time to visit East Africa for wildlife sightings, as animal migrations and weather patterns vary throughout the year.

Including Uganda’s gorilla trekking experience in your East Africa Photographic Safari itinerary is a fantastic idea. Here’s an extended 14-day itinerary that combines Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda to offer both exceptional wildlife photography opportunities and the chance to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat:

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.
Transfer to your hotel for rest and relaxation.
Briefing with your safari guide and fellow travellers.
Overnight stay in Nairobi.

Day 2: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

After breakfast, depart for the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
Arrive at your lodge/camp for lunch.
Afternoon game drive in the Maasai Mara.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Maasai Mara.

Day 3-4: Maasai Mara

Full days of game drives in the Maasai Mara.
Photography opportunities for the Big Five and other wildlife.
Photography workshops and tips from your guide.
Visit a Maasai village for a cultural experience (optional).
Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and relaxation.

Day 5: Maasai Mara to Serengeti

After breakfast, drive to the Isebania/Sirari border crossing.
Complete border formalities and meet your Tanzanian guide.
Continue to the Serengeti National Park.
Game drive en route to your lodge/camp.
Dinner and overnight stay in the Serengeti.

Day 6-7: Serengeti

Two full days exploring the Serengeti.
Witness the Great Migration (seasonal) or track down resident wildlife.
Morning and afternoon game drives.
Photography opportunities at sunrise and sunset.
Return to your lodge/camp for meals and relaxation.

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive.
Capture the incredible diversity of wildlife in this natural amphitheatre.
Dinner and overnight stay on the crater rim.

Day 9: Tarangire National Park

Drive to Tarangire National Park.
Game drive in Tarangire, known for its large elephant herds and diverse birdlife.
Photography sessions along the Tarangire River.
Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and relaxation.

Day 10: Fly to Entebbe, Uganda

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for a flight to Entebbe, Uganda.
Arrive in Entebbe and transfer to your hotel for overnight.

Day 11: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Fly from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Check-in at your lodge.
Afternoon at leisure to prepare for gorilla trekking.
Dinner and overnight stay near Bwindi.

Day 12: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Early breakfast and transfer to the park headquarters.
Embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi.
Spend a magical hour with a habituated gorilla group.
Return to your lodge for relaxation.
Dinner and overnight stay near Bwindi.

Day 13: Return to Entebbe

Fly back to Entebbe.
Optional visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Center or the Botanical Gardens.
Overnight stay in Entebbe.

Day 14: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you may have free time for last-minute shopping or exploration.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure.

This extended itinerary allows you to experience the best of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, combining thrilling wildlife photography with the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Remember to secure the necessary permits for gorilla trekking well in advance, as they are limited and in high demand.