Why Tembo by Jackson is the Perfect Choice for Wildlife Photographers

For a wildlife photographer, the difference between a good safari and a great one is access, timing, and guidance. At Tembo by Jackson, we have built every part of the experience to give photographers the best possible conditions to create world-class images.

Location that gives you the advantage
We are located inside the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of the richest wildlife destinations on earth. This means you do not waste valuable hours driving from outside the gates. At first light, you are already in the middle of the action, ready to capture lions on a hunt, elephants crossing the plains, or cheetahs on the move. Being inside the reserve also allows us to respond quickly to sightings, giving you more chances at rare encounters.

Guides who understand photography
Our guiding team, led by the renowned Jackson Naurori, brings decades of experience in tracking, positioning, and reading animal behavior. They know that photography is about patience and timing, not rushing from sighting to sighting. They understand light and will position the vehicle to make the most of early morning and late afternoon golden hours. Jackson and his team also know every corner of the Mara and beyond, from Amboseli to Samburu, Tsavo, and the great lakes of East Africa, giving you opportunities to diversify your portfolio.

Vehicles designed for photographers
We use customized safari vehicles built with photographers in mind. Wide-open sides,  customized seats, low noise operation, Our safari vehicles are customized for both low and high-angle photography and stable camera mounts give you the freedom to work with your gear without obstruction. These features help you react instantly when action unfolds, whether it is a leopard descending from a tree or birds taking flight.

Patience and respect for the subject
We believe in ethical wildlife photography. Our guides keep a respectful distance, ensuring animals are undisturbed, while still positioning you for the best possible view. They will wait with you for hours if needed, because they know that one perfect frame is worth the time.

Knowledge beyond the Maasai Mara
While the Mara is our home, we extend photography safaris across Kenya and East Africa. We know where to find Amboseli’s iconic elephant herds with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background, Samburu’s rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe, and the seasonal spectacles such as flamingo gatherings at Lake Nakuru.

Why photographers keep coming back

• Reliable access to prime wildlife locations at the best times of day

• Guides who understand both wildlife behavior and photographic needs

• Vehicles adapted for comfort and shooting efficiency

• A culture that values patience, ethics, and storytelling through images

• Opportunities to capture a wide range of species and landscapes

At Tembo by Jackson, we do not just take you on safari. We give you the conditions, expertise, and access that help you produce images you will be proud of for a lifetime. For us, photography is not an afterthought. It is part of who we are.