This Great Migration photography safari puts you on the banks of the Mara River in crossing season, with four nights to wait for the moment the herds jump.
This Great Migration photography safari runs from July to October, when huge herds of wildebeest and zebra reach the Masai Mara. The highlight is the river crossing: thousands of animals plunging into the Mara River while crocodiles wait below.
Crossings are unpredictable. A herd can gather on the bank for hours and then turn away. Four nights give you several full days at the river, which is the best way to come home with the shot.
Why choose this Great Migration photography safari?
On a crossing day, patience wins. With a private vehicle you can stay at the river as long as you like, with a packed lunch and no one asking to leave. Your guide reads the herds and moves you to the crossing point with the best angle.
- River crossings: leaping wildebeest, splashing water and crocodile strikes.
- Big cats: lions and cheetahs follow the herds, so hunts are common.
- Endless herds: lines of animals across the plains for wide-angle images.
- Packed lunches: full days in the field without returning to camp.
How to photograph a river crossing
Use a fast shutter speed, at least 1/2000 s, to freeze animals in mid-air. Shoot in bursts and keep both eyes open for the next jump. A zoom lens lets you switch between tight action and the full scene.
Respect the rules at crossing points. Vehicles must keep back so the herds can cross, and a good guide never blocks their path.
Where you stay
We choose camps near the Mara River so you spend less time driving to the crossing points. Ask us about tented camps or lodges to suit your budget.
Best time for a Great Migration photography safari
The herds usually arrive in the Mara in July and stay until October. August and September are often the busiest months for crossings. Our Great Migration month by month guide and wildebeest migration guide explain the timing in detail.
Want more luxury? See our 7 day Mara River crossing safari. Travelling outside crossing season? Try the Northern Tanzania migration safari. You can also read about the reserve on the Magical Kenya tourism site.
How much does the Great Migration photography safari cost?
Price on request. The cost depends on your travel dates, group size, the season and the lodges you choose, so we prepare every quote personally rather than showing one fixed price.
WhatsApp us on +254 706 223888, email [email protected] or send the enquiry form on this page, and we will share a detailed quote for your dates.
Highlights
- Wildebeest and zebra river crossings on the Mara River
- Full days at the river with packed lunches
- Lions and cheetahs hunting along the migration
- Camps close to the main crossing points
- Private pop-up roof 4x4 so you never leave a crossing early
