My First Safari: A Photographer's Dream Trip to Kenya

Safari photo inspo - Photo by Laela on Unsplash

“What do you want for your birthday?” my husband asks as we sit in the living room, waiting for dinner to finish simmering. It’s July 8, and my birthday is on July 16.

“Absolutely nothing,” I respond, completely sincere. I’m turning 35. I have all the stuff I could ever want—and when I do want something new, I typically just buy it. These days, I’d rather spend our fun money on experiences—especially travel.

Which is why his next statement is so perfect: “You just want to go to Africa.”

I laugh. “Yes. I want to go to Africa, and I want you to be happy about going with me!”

If you need me, I’m somewhere under this stack of wildlife guides prepping for my East Africa adventure.

Full disclosure: the trip to Africa was already planned. At the time of this conversation, we had 67 days left until departure—Kenya, September 14. I had actually booked the trip with Globus Journeys on September 15, 2023—two full years before we would ever board the plane.

So on July 8, 2025, I had been planning my first safari for 662 days. And dreaming of it for much longer than that.

As for my husband? He was being a good sport—still a little apprehensive. On our very first date in June 2021, I told him I wanted to go everywhere. Travel. Explore. Experience. I emphasized that I really did mean everywhere. He has no one to blame but himself.

That said, I think he secretly (or not-so-secretly) enjoys the ride. After all, he did marry me.

Since we’ve been together, we’ve visited the Bahamas, Costa Rica, and Grenada. I’ve also taken two solo photography workshops: one in Yellowstone National Park, and another in the central Andes of Colombia.

Andean cock-of-the-rock

Sword-billed hummingbird

Andean emerald

Mountain velvetbreast

Some of my favorite captures from Colombia earlier this year. The light, the feathers, the challenge of catching that perfect pause — this is why I keep doing what I do.

But Kenya?

Kenya is a whole new level.

Going on safari in Africa is a major leap for any traveler—including me. It’s wild and unfamiliar. The land is vast, the mammals large and dangerous. It’s primal. Untamed. The base interactions of predator and prey. Of survival. Of life, abundant and raw.

I’m beside myself with anticipation.

While I did some photography in Costa Rica, this will be my first trip where photography is the focus—while still traveling on a general tour my husband can enjoy. It’s the best of both worlds.

A visual representation of our itinerary from Globus Journeys.

Our Safari Itinerary in Kenya:

• September 15–18: Nairobi

• September 18–20: Shaba National Reserve

• September 20–21: Ol Pejeta Conservancy

• September 21–23: Lake Nakuru National Park Area

• September 23–25: Maasai Mara National Reserve

• September 25–27: Amboseli National Park

Even just typing it out… it feels too short.

I already have a feeling Africa is going to get under my skin.

A constant itch.

A steady thrum in my chest:

Return.

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PS - It is now July 16, my birthday, and I am finally publishing this blog. I just had to add the note my sweet husband left in my birthday card. I guess birthday wishes really do come true.