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Mark A Fernley
Best Photographic Hides in Africa

KENYA

SHOMPOLE HIDE
PHOTOGRAPHIC  SAFARI

Photographic hides have become one of the new photographic safari trends. The Shompole hide his a great way to spend time in Africa as you get to experience and photograph wildlife up close without interfering with their natural ways. This hide photo safari allows you to photograph African wildlife from below the ground, during the day and night with studio lighting to help enhance your creativity.  

DATE

SEPTEMBER 2-6, 2026

5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS

PRICE

$3,495 USD

+ $500 USD SINGLE SUPPLEMENT FEE (if applicable)

Photographic Hide Safari - Untamed Photo Safaris

SAFARI DETAILS

Join this epic underground and overnight photo safari hide safari with Mark A Fernley as your photo host. This most talked about photo hide safari is most different from all other photo tours and will guarantee that you will return with outstanding images along with unique wildlife experiences like no other. 

LOCATION

This tour is situated in a unique and private wildlife hotspots located in the South West of Kenya known as the Shompole Conservancy. The Shompole conservancy is situated in a remote spot just south of the Great Rift Valley and is located between Lake Magadi to the north and Lake Natron to the south, two alkaline lakes. The Shompole Reserve offers an underground photographic waterhole hide that is designed at a professional level. Not only is it a hide, it offers you the ability to photograph lions and leopard at night.

EXPERT GUIDES

This trip is expertly guided by Mark Fernley, a highly regarded professional wildlife photographer known for his exceptional skills in capturing the beauty of nature through his lens. With years of experience in the field, Mark brings not only his technical expertise but also a profound passion for wildlife and conservation. He has travelled to numerous remote locations around the globe, documenting the intricate behaviours and habitats of various species, which allows him to share invaluable insights with participants during the trip. In addition to Mark's guidance, the journey is enriched by the presence of local experts in each location we visit. These knowledgeable individuals possess a deep understanding of the local ecosystems, cultural significance, and the unique wildlife that inhabits the area. Their first-hand experiences and connections to the land provide participants with a comprehensive perspective, enhancing the overall learning experience. Together, Mark and the local experts create a dynamic and informative environment, ensuring that every moment of the trip is not only enjoyable but also educational, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world around us.

EQUIPMENT TO BRING

Camera equipment for the Shompole Hide is rather unique. As this part of the trip is based in an underground hide, lenses are specific to obtain the best results. During the day, a simple 24-105mm lens is perfect for capturing larger animals and herds with their full reflection. Close up images of animals drinking during the day can be achieved with a reach of 300mm. During the night, a recommended equivalent of the canon 70-200mm f2.8 lens would be ideal for this night photography.

ITINERARY

    • Guests arrive in Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO))

    • Transfer to Nairobi airport hotel (Approx. 10 min drive from airport)

    • Meet and Greet with photo host at 6:00pm

    • Overnight in Nairobi

      (Guests must arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport no later than 4:00pm on arrival day)

    • Road transfer to Shompole Conservancy (Approx. 4 hours drive)

    • Evening introduction to the photographic hide

    • Overnight in the photographic hide​

      PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Photographic opportunities in the hide include many species of African wildlife including predators such as lion and leopard

    • Early morning in the photographic hide

    • mid-morning rest and refresh at the lodge with photo editing and critique with photo hosts

    • Evening in the photographic hide

    • Overnight in the photographic hide​​

      PHOTOGRAPHY FOCUS: Photographic opportunities in the morning include many birds, giraffe, zebra, baboon, and much more. Evening photo opportunities in the hide include many species of African wildlife including predators such as lion and leopard

    • Early morning in the photographic hide

    • mid-morning rest and refresh at the lodge

    • Transfer to Nairobi

      END OF TOUR​

      (Guests must depart no earlier than 9:00pm on this day)

Availability

The maximum group size for this trip is just four guests and spots are limited.

 

RESERVE YOUR PLACE!

To ensure that you are able to attend this trip, please be sure to book ahead of time to guarantee your spot.

Pricing

This trip is prices at $3,495 USD per person sharing accommodation.

 

If you are a solo traveller, there is an additional $500 USD single supplement fee.

Rates are based on an all inclusive basis

Payment

A deposit of 25% is due at the time of booking to reserve your place on this photo safari and secure your trekking permits.

 

25% installment due 180 days before arrival

50% remaining balance due 90 days prior to arrival

Confirmation

Once a deposit is received, you are officially confirmred on this trip.

CONGRATULATIONS!

You will receive official confirmation via email w along with important details and information you need! 

ENQUIRE NOW

SPECIALISED HIDE PHOTO SAFARI

SEPTEMBER 2 - 6, 2026

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