For a photographic safari in the Masai Mara, a flexible and reliable camera setup will ensure you’re ready for a wide variety of wildlife encounters and lighting conditions.

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with fast, accurate autofocus is ideal. Many photographers choose to bring two camera bodies to avoid changing lenses in dusty conditions and to quickly switch between focal lengths. A telephoto lens in the 300–600mm range is strongly recommended for photographing wildlife at a distance, particularly during river crossings and for smaller or more cautious animals. A mid-range zoom (such as 70–200mm) is extremely versatile for larger mammals, behavioural interactions, and closer encounters, while a wide-angle lens (24–70mm or similar) is useful for environmental portraits, landscapes, and dramatic skies.

Fast lenses with good low-light performance are beneficial for early morning and late afternoon game drives. Be sure to pack plenty of memory cards, spare batteries, and a reliable image backup solution such as a laptop or portable hard drive, as photographic opportunities are frequent and fast-paced.

Tripods are generally impractical on safari vehicles, but a bean bag is highly recommended for stabilising longer lenses from the vehicle. Dust protection, lens cloths, and a weather-resistant camera bag will help protect your equipment in the Mara’s dry conditions.

Most importantly, bring equipment you are comfortable using. Familiarity with your gear will allow you to focus on composition, behaviour, and storytelling rather than technical settings—often making the biggest difference to your images.

For a safari in the Masai Mara in August, comfort, practicality, and layering are key. August falls within the dry season, with cool early mornings and evenings and warm, sunny days.

Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, olive, or muted greens) is ideal, as it blends into the environment and avoids attracting insects. Breathable long-sleeved shirts and lightweight trousers are recommended to provide sun protection and warmth during early game drives, while also offering some protection from dust.

Early mornings can be surprisingly cool, especially on open safari vehicles, so be sure to pack a warm fleece or insulated jacket, along with a lightweight windproof layer. By mid-morning, temperatures rise and layers can easily be removed. A wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential for daytime sun protection.

Comfortable, closed-toe footwear is sufficient—there is very little walking on safari, so sturdy trainers or lightweight walking shoes are ideal. Thick socks are useful for cooler mornings. In the evenings, casual, comfortable clothing is perfectly acceptable around camp.

Additional useful items include a light scarf or buff for warmth and dust, sleepwear suitable for cool nights, and a small daypack for personal items in the vehicle. Laundry facilities are often available at camps, allowing you to pack lighter.

Overall, think practical, comfortable, and adaptable—clothing that allows you to stay warm at dawn, cool during the day, and relaxed in the evenings.

Although our camp is located in a remote area, the lodge staff are incredibly accommodating and happy to cater to any specific dietary requirements.

Prior to departure, all guests will be asked to complete a general contact form. This provides an opportunity to inform us of any dietary needs, allergies, or medical conditions we should be aware of to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the tour.

In August, the Masai Mara is at its most dramatic, as the Great Migration reaches its peak and the ecosystem is teeming with wildlife. Visitors can expect to witness vast herds of wildebeest and zebra, often numbering in the tens of thousands, moving across the plains and gathering at river crossings in search of fresh grazing.

This abundance of prey attracts an exceptional concentration of predators. Lions are frequently seen, often hunting or resting near migration routes, while cheetahs take advantage of the open plains for high-speed chases. Leopards are also regularly encountered, particularly along riverine areas and in larger trees. Along the rivers themselves, Nile crocodiles and hippos are a constant presence, especially during the famous crossings.

Beyond the migration, the Mara’s resident wildlife remains incredibly rich. You can expect to see elephants, giraffes, buffalo, topi, eland, impala, and gazelles, as well as hyenas and jackals following the herds. August is also an excellent time for birdlife, with raptors, vultures, storks, and colourful savannah species taking advantage of the seasonal activity.

The combination of migrating herds, active predators, and clear, dry-season conditions makes August one of the very best times to experience — and photograph — the wildlife of the Masai Mara.

Fitness level: Basic

This tour requires only a basic level of fitness. The majority of activities take place from safari vehicles, with very little walking involved. Guests should, however, be comfortable spending extended periods in the vehicle, as for safety reasons it is often not possible to exit while on safari.