Join Greg and me as we embark on a breathtaking photographic odyssey from Nairobi to the most remote and otherworldly area of northern Kenya, where every frame tells the extraordinary story of ancient tribes and their timeless traditions. We will venture into the heart of Samburu, Rendille, El Molo, Gabra, and Turkana territories, where the arid deserts and rugged mountains create the most stunning backdrops. Capture the vibrant colors of intricate beadwork, the striking facial markings, and the dynamic ceremonies that pulse with life and history.
Africa’s most unique locations are little-known and remote; we will be venturing into some hidden gems. My long-standing relationships with the communities provide an intimate glimpse into this fascinating other world. Immersing yourself in their environment fosters a more profound connection, creating more powerful photographic opportunities. This journey offers stunning visuals and a profound connection with the resilient spirit of these communities, which is a life-changing experience.
Whenever Greg and I team up on a tribal expedition, it is generally over the top!!
Exclusive to this itinerary, we establish a private mobile fly camp along the shores of Lake Turkana and in remote North Horr, nestled among the remarkable tribal communities. Your tent offers ample space to walk in and stand comfortably, furnished with a cozy carpet, a camp bed with proper linens, a table for your gear, and a solar light. Our meals will be scrumptious, and our delightful dining cabana also serves as a spacious portrait studio equipped with a proper charging station for all your devices and batteries. Please relax and enjoy your adventure; our dedicated team handles everything you need.
You will enjoy the comfort of two charter flights, bypassing long and exhausting travel, allowing you to spend more quality time immersed in the communities.
SAMBURU TRIBE
Originally part of the Maasai tribe on the Nile River, the Samburu split off when the Maasai journeyed south to Tanzania. The Samburu, meaning “butterfly people,” not only left their tribe but also enhanced their traditional dress with vibrant colors and intricate beadwork, reflecting their rich heritage. Known for their traditional dances, storytelling, and elaborate ceremonies, the Samburu preserve their cultural legacy and vital community life.
RENDILE TRIBE
The Rendile tribe of northern Kenya are a vibrant, resilient community known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and deep-rooted traditions. Skilled camel herders, they have mastered the harsh desert environment with unique survival practices and a profound connection to their land. Their clan-based society features distinct customs and ceremonies, such as the grand “Naapo” initiation, rich oral traditions, storytelling, and elaborate rituals.
TURKANA TRIBE
The Turkana tribe distinguishes itself with unique traditions, notably seen in the elaborate hairstyles of Turkana women. These intricately braided and adorned hairstyles reflect cultural identity and social status. The Turkana are known for their vibrant cultural ceremonies, including the Ekicholong dance, which celebrates important milestones and fosters community bonds. Their nomadic pastoral lifestyle and resilience in the arid landscapes of northern Kenya showcase a rich cultural heritage that defines the Turkana way of life.
EL MOLO
The El Molo tribe, renowned as the “crocodile hunters,” is one of Kenya’s smallest ethnic groups, residing near Lake Turkana. Traditionally fishermen and hunters, they have a unique relationship with crocodiles, which is central to their mythology and survival. El Molo culture is deeply rooted in lake-based traditions, including fishing techniques passed down through generations. Today, their population faces challenges, but efforts are made to preserve their distinct heritage and way of life.
GABRA
The Gabra, nomadic artisans of northern Kenya, weave their rich heritage into the fabric of their beautifully decorated huts. Vibrant geometric patterns painted with natural dyes adorn the walls, reflecting fertility, courage, and unity. These portable sanctuaries, crafted with natural materials, echo the Gabra’s resilience and harmonious bond with the land. Amidst their nomadic journey, these huts stand as timeless symbols of tradition, carrying stories of generations and the enduring spirit of the Gabra people.
Itinerary
ITINERARY
Day 1 – May 26, 2025
Upon your arrival at the international airport in Nairobi, Kenya, you will be met by a Mackay Africa guide and transferred by private vehicle to Karen’s historical and tranquil area. Built in the architecture of the “Out of Africa” era, your accommodations will make you feel more than just a guest—you’ll feel at home in Africa. It is the perfect place to unwind after your long journey. ***Check in time is 14:00
Day 2 – May 27, 2025
Today, you will awake in a magical new world with the aroma of Kenyan coffee brewing. Your leader/guide will meet you at breakfast for a briefing before transferring you to Wilson Airport for your private charter to the adventurous gateway of the Northern Frontier. A special evening portrait session with the Samburu Warriors.
Day 3 – May 28, 2025
Rise early and enjoy a full morning in Samburu National Reserve. Filled with large, iconic umbrella acacia trees in a stunning, arid environment among the rich, red African soil, Samburu Reserve evokes the traditional vision of “I Dream of Africa.” As the wind blows through the stunning doom palms, one instantly knows they are in a magical place home to the colorful Samburu Tribe. They are incredible conservationist; this is their heritage and an essential part of your journey in learning about the northern tribes.
A special evening with the Samburu village
Day 4 – May 29, 2025
Sunrise at a Samburu village. After a delicious breakfast you begin your drive up in the beautiful Mathews range and the remote tribal regions.
Afternoon visit with the Rendile Tribe.
DAY 6&7 – May 30&31, 2025
You will spend two full days with this unique Rendile community surrounded by Samburu villages.
Day 8 – June 1, 2025
Sunrise in the village, followed by breakfast. Your adventure journey continues to the shores of Lake Turkana. Afternoon village El Molo or Turkana
DAY 9&10 – June 2 & 3, 2025
You will have two full days with the four tribal communities in the Turkana area.
Day 11 – June 4, 2025
Sunrise Village visit. After breakfast, your journey continues to North Horr, home to the Gabra people. Afternoon village visit
Day 12 – June 5, 2025
Full day in the Gabra community
Day 13 – June 6, 2026
Sunrise village visit, breakfast, charter flight back to Nairobi. You will be transported to the Four Points hotel at the airport, where you will have dayrooms. You can enjoy a leisurely afternoon reflecting on the fantastic experience you had on the expedition, nap, enjoy a delicious meal, relax at the rooftop pool and bar, and have time to clean up before your flight back home later in the evening. You will be transported to the international airport to catch your flight home in the evening.
****FLIGHTS SHOULD BE BOOKED AFTER 6:00 PM
Important Details
The Price
The price of this unique tribal expedition is $14,895.00, based on double occupancy (two people sharing one room).
The price of this unique tribal expedition based on single occupancy (one person in a private room) is $15,790.00
A single supplement is $895.00 ” if available”. Single accommodations are limited.
If a solo guest wishes to share a room, we will do our best to match them with another guest of the same gender. If we cannot match a solo guest with another guest of the same gender, then the single supplement of USD$895.00 will be charged.
***The cost of this safari is based on a minimum of 7 participants. Due to the cost of the charter flights, if there are fewer than 7 participants, a small supplement fee of $995.00 will apply. The expedition needs a minimum of 5 clients to operate.
A USD $4,000.00 Non-refundable deposit is due at the time of registration to secure your spot. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance that will refund your deposit if you must cancel your trip for any reason.
- USD $4,000.00 non-refundable deposit to confirm your place on this safari
- 2nd payment of USD $6,000.00 is due October 31, 2024
- Final payment/Balance is due Feb 28, 2025
******We highly encourage you to protect your investment with proper trip cancellation insurance because life isand you never know what surprises it may have in store that might change unpredictable, your plans.
Included:
- Accommodations on days 1 – 12
- Dayroom on day 13
- All meals from breakfast on day 2 – breakfast on day 13
- All drinks and laundry while in the mobile camp (5 days)
- 2 Private charters
- Airport transfers on arrival/departure dates
- Community visits – Samburu, Maasai, Turkana, El molo, Rendile, Gabra
- Village donations
- Entrance fees and game drives in Samburu Game Reserve
- Transportation and exclusive use of deluxe custom safari built, 4-wheel drive Landcruiser vehicles.
- Evacuation insurance to a Nairobi hospital – cost of hospitalization payable direct
- Bottled drinking water in transport vehicles
What’s Not Included:
- Visas
- Travel and Medical Insurance
- Personal purchases (such as Curious, spirit liquors, telephone calls, internet, laundry…)
- Gratuities for guides, camp and lodge staff
- Optional extra activities and photo excursions
- Pre- and post-safari tours
- Meals or accommodation before or after the expedition
- International flights to and from the African Continent
-
REGISTRATION AND DEPOSIT
If you are excited to join this tribal odyssey, now is the time to secure your spot. Use the buttons below to fill out your online e-registration form and to make your deposit. We must receive your completed registration form and deposit/s to confirm your spot.
Registration form –
Please complete all the required fields. At the end of the form, you will be asked to confirm your email address, which will complete the registration. A copy of your registration will be emailed to you and Piper Mackay Photo Safaris.Deposit–
Click the deposit button under the registration button to make your deposit. You do not need a PayPal account to use this payment service. You may make more than one deposit at a time by changing the quantity of the purchase details that will appear once you click the deposit button.