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Photography Safaris: Tips, Equipment & Best Locations
October 26, 2025  By Oloi Shorua- The Blessed One 

Photography Safaris: Tips, Equipment & Best Locations

Photography safaris are an amazing way to blend adventure, beauty and creativity—whether you’re an enthusiast with a DSLR or simply love capturing epic moments on your smartphone. For those interested in a photography safari, Africa’s rich landscapes, dramatic wildlife and golden-hour light make it a photographer’s dream. If you are planning a photography safari in Africa, in this post, we’ll walk you through what to pack, how to choose locations, and two top lodges that go the extra mile with pro-camera gear and photo-studio facilities.

Why choose a photography safari?

  • Nature’s light: Early morning and late afternoon light in the savannah is magical for wildlife photos.

  • Wildlife action: From buffalo herds to lion hunts, Africa offers thrilling subjects that make for powerful images.

  • Unique lodges: Some properties now cater specifically to photography-minded guests with high-end gear and expert support.

Top lodges with photography amenities

  • At Ishara Mara, guests gain access to their on-site Canon Brand Experience Centre with complimentary high-end Canon cameras, lenses, a photo-editing suite and three resident professional photographers.

  • JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge also offers a branded Canon photography studio where guests borrow Canon mirrorless cameras and lenses, guided by in-house professional photographers.
    Worth noting: While both are Canon-based, there’s no strong indication that Nikon gear is similarly supplied.

Equipment & packing tips

  • Bring a 70-200mm lens plus a 100-500mm zoom if possible—wildlife often stays a distance.

  • Tripod or bean-bag: Useful for low-light or dawn shoots.

  • Extra SD cards and batteries: Africa’s long days and drives demand spares.

  • Neutral-coloured clothing to minimise reflections, and a lens-clean cloth for dusty conditions.

Best locations for shots

  • Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve & Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park: Migration, big cats, plenty of drama.

  • Botswana’s Okavango Delta: Elephants in water, flooded plains, reflection shots.

  • Namibia’s Sossusvlei & Etosha National Park: Desert light, minimal crowds, epic landscapes.

Pro-photography safari advice

  • Book at least 3-4 nights at a dedicated photography-lodge like Ishara or JW Marriott to justify the gear and time.

  • Schedule drives during dawn and dusk for best light.

  • Ask your guide for vantage points—e.g., backside of a migration ridge or water-crossings where wildlife patterns repeat.

  • Editing matters: Use RAW format, edit exposure and contrast early, and consider bringing a lightweight laptop or tablet.

Why we include photography-friendly lodges

At Oloi Shorua we understand that a luxury safari isn’t just about spotting the Big Five—it’s about preserving memories. That’s why we recommend lodges with dedicated photography support, letting you come away with gallery-worthy images, not just snapshots.
We handle the logistics—flights, transfers, use of gear—so you can focus on capturing the moment.

🎥 Want to see these lodges and experiences in action?
Check out our Oloi Shorua YouTube channel for real safari footage, lodge reviews, and expert travel tips.

📧 connect@oloishorua.com
📱 WhatsApp: +971 54327 1152

Disclaimer

This post is for travel-educational purposes only. Gear availability may vary; always check with the lodge in advance. Wildlife behaviour is unpredictable—safety and environmental respect always come first.

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Discover Luxury Travel in Hanoi: Vietnam’s Timeless Capital
March 27, 2025  By Oloi Shorua- The Blessed One 

Why Hanoi is the Perfect Start to Your Vietnam Luxury Tour

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Southeast Asian experience filled with cultural charm and elegant comfort, look no further than luxury travel in Hanoi. The capital city of Vietnam offers a compelling blend of historical depth, colonial architecture, lush green boulevards, and refined experiences tailored for discerning travelers. Whether it’s sipping Vietnamese coffee in a French-style café or exploring ancient temples with a private guide, Hanoi welcomes you with grace and grandeur.

Historical Elegance and Cultural Riches

At the heart of Hanoi lies its rich heritage. Begin your journey at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you’ll witness the revered leader’s preserved resting place. Just nearby, visit the tranquil One Pillar Pagoda and the traditional Ho Chi Minh Stilt House—a true homage to Vietnamese simplicity. Don’t miss the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a symbol of centuries-old scholarly tradition.

➡️ Explore more on Vietnam Tourism – Hanoi

The Old Quarter: Where Luxury Meets Local Life

Wander through the Old Quarter, a vibrant maze of 36 guild streets where tradition thrives. For a luxurious touch, opt for a guided cyclo tour that lets you soak in the ambience without the crowds. Shop for hand-embroidered linens, Vietnamese silks, and artisan ceramics before heading to a rooftop lounge for an aperitif.

🏨 Stay nearby: Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – A five-star colonial-era hotel offering unmatched heritage and hospitality.

Gourmet Vietnamese Dining with a Modern Twist

Hanoi’s culinary scene is an elegant fusion of East and West. Savor haute Vietnamese cuisine at Home Hanoi Restaurant, or opt for a French-Vietnamese tasting menu at La Verticale, housed in a French colonial villa. Many restaurants offer curated wine pairings and private dining rooms.

Premium Day Tours and Excursions

Experience a luxury day trip to the Perfume Pagoda, complete with a private car, cable car access, and an English-speaking cultural expert. Alternatively, enjoy a curated countryside bike tour through rice paddies and artisan villages, finishing with a champagne lunch by the Red River.

Travel with Oloi Shorua

Our signature Vietnam Splendours Tour begins right here in Hanoi. Guests enjoy early check-in at the Grand Mercure Hanoi, guided cultural experiences, and seamless transport to Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.

📧 Email us at connect@oloishorua.com for bespoke Hanoi packages.

Travel Tips for Luxury Travelers

  • Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant weather
  • Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND), though major credit cards are accepted at luxury hotels and restaurants
  • Dress Code: Elegant casual for most upscale venues. Bring modest attire for temples
  • Transport: Private drivers or luxury ride-hailing apps like Grab Premium

 

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Hyena Hunt in Masai Mara – A Raw Encounter with Nature in Kenya
March 10, 2023  By Oloi Shorua- The Blessed One 

Hyena Hunt in Masai Mara

Location: Masai Mara, Narok County
Country: Kenya
Travel Date: February 2023
Watch the video here

An Unforgettable Wildlife Encounter in Kenya’s Masai Mara

During my recent luxury safari in Kenya, I witnessed one of the most intense and unforgettable moments in the Masai Mara National Reserve—a live hyena hunt. This rare and raw spectacle of survival unfolded before my eyes, with two hyenas hunting a Topi antelope, showcasing nature at its most primal.

Guided by Jacob, a seasoned safari guide from Governor’s Camp, we ventured deep into the golden plains of the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. It was there, surrounded by silence and swaying grass, that we spotted movement—two hyenas on the prowl.

The Chase Begins – A Topi in Danger

The hyenas had locked eyes on a lone Topi, a swift and muscular antelope known for its alertness and speed. With calculated stealth, the hyenas crept through the tall grass, closing in silently. From the comfort and safety of our vehicle, I held my breath as the Topi raised its head, sensing danger.

Suddenly, the silence broke. One hyena charged forward in a full sprint, covering nearly a kilometer in mere moments. The Topi bolted, hooves pounding the earth, but the hyena was faster. In a flash, it leapt and attacked, sinking its jaws with surgical precision into the Topi’s underside.

Within seconds, the second hyena arrived, and together they brought the antelope to the ground. It was brutal, visceral, and strangely awe-inspiring.

Hyenas – More Than Just Scavengers

Many people associate hyenas with scavenging, but as Jacob explained, they are efficient and strategic hunters, capable of taking down large prey, including wildebeest, zebra, and even buffalo. Watching this hunt unfold firsthand gave me a new appreciation for their intelligence, coordination, and raw power.

📍 Explore more luxury safaris in Kenya
📍 Contact us to create your tailor-made Masai Mara safari

Nature’s Balance – The Beauty and Brutality of the Wild

This experience reminded me of the delicate balance of life and death that defines the African wilderness. The Masai Mara is not just a landscape of postcard-perfect sunsets—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem where survival is earned daily.

From majestic lions to elusive leopards, and moments like this hyena hunt in Masai Mara, every sighting is a glimpse into the raw beauty of nature. These moments underscore the importance of conservation efforts and the need to protect such extraordinary places for future generations.

🎥 Watch the full video of the hyena hunt here:
[yotuwp type=”videos” id=”pvdZuMh3ikI” ]

Plan Your Luxury Safari in Kenya Today

Let Oloi Shorua take you beyond the expected. Whether you’re dreaming of the Great Migration, Big Five safaris, or witnessing untamed moments like a hyena hunt in Masai Mara, we’ll craft an experience that’s immersive, ethical, and unforgettable.

📍 Explore tailor-made Kenya safari experiences
📍 Contact our travel specialists

Your can watch the video here:-

Watch the video here

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🏔️ Snow Leopard Expedition in Ladakh – A Winter Journey into the Himalayas
January 17, 2019  By Oloi Shorua- The Blessed One 

🐾 A Snow Leopard Expedition in Ladakh Like No Other

If you’ve ever dreamed of venturing into the heart of the Himalayas to witness something extraordinary, then a Snow Leopard expedition in Ladakh belongs at the top of your list.

High in the remote reaches of Hemis National Park and surrounding valleys, the elusive Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) roams—rare, endangered, and hauntingly beautiful. With fewer than 5,000 left in the wild and elevations ranging from 3,000 to 4,500 meters, the Ladakh region in India is one of the world’s best destinations to seek out this incredible predator.

As winter sets in—January through March—the snow drives prey animals like Bharal (Blue Sheep) and Shapu (Ladakhi Urial) down to lower elevations. And in their wake, the Snow Leopard follows, silently blending into the snow-draped landscape.

📖 Learn more about Snow Leopard conservation from WWF India
📍 Discover Hemis National Park on Incredible India

❄️ Why Choose Ladakh for a Snow Leopard Expedition?

Ladakh is not just scenic—it’s spiritual, raw, and wild. A Snow Leopard expedition in Ladakh offers a rare chance to explore one of Earth’s most unspoiled high-altitude ecosystems. These expeditions often begin in Leh, with a few days spent acclimatizing before venturing into remote valleys like Rumbak, Ulley, or Gya, all known for Snow Leopard sightings.

You’ll spend long days scanning rocky ridges and snowy cliffs, guided by seasoned local trackers and naturalists. Though sightings are never guaranteed, the anticipation, the immersion, and the occasional thrill of a tail flicking against the white canvas are experiences that stay with you forever.

🦊 Wildlife Encounters Beyond the Snow Leopard

While the Snow Leopard is the crown jewel of this journey, Ladakh’s winter wilderness holds much more:

  • Red Fox, graceful and alert

  • Tibetan Wolf, mysterious and elusive

  • Eurasian Lynx, rare and regal

  • Ibex & Argali (Great Tibetan Sheep)

  • Shapu, the beautiful Ladakhi Urial

  • Himalayan Griffon, Lammergeier, and other raptors soaring above the peaks

These species form a living tapestry that makes the Snow Leopard expedition in Ladakh truly immersive.

🎒 How to Prepare for Your Snow Leopard Adventure

A journey to Ladakh in winter demands both planning and resilience. Here’s what to keep in mind:

🗓️ Best Time to Travel

  • January to March – peak season for Snow Leopard sightings

  • Daytime: -5°C to -15°C, Nighttime: -25°C or lower

📍 Location Essentials

  • Region: Eastern Ladakh, India

  • Base Villages: Rumbak, Ulley, Gya

  • Closest Airport: Leh (IXL) – with daily flights from Delhi

  • Acclimatization: Minimum 2 days in Leh at 3,500m is essential

🎒 Packing List

  • Thermal base layers, down jackets, snow boots

  • Waterproof gloves, balaclava, UV sunglasses, SPF 50+

  • Spotting scope or binoculars

  • DSLR with 400mm+ lens for wildlife photography

  • Altitude sickness medication

  • Power banks, insulated water bottle, hand warmers

🏕️ Accommodation

Expect to stay in cozy village homestays or expedition-style tents, with Ladakhi hospitality, basic comforts, and hearty meals. Hot water and electricity may be limited but the warmth of the experience makes up for it.

🧭 Tracking Snow Leopards with Experts

Your Snow Leopard expedition in Ladakh is led by expert trackers and naturalists who’ve grown up in these mountains. Their ability to read terrain, follow animal signs, and interpret predator-prey behavior is what gives you the best shot at a sighting.

📚 Learn about Snow Leopard tracking from the Snow Leopard Trust

✈️ Book Your Snow Leopard Expedition in Ladakh

Ready to experience one of the most extraordinary wildlife journeys on Earth?

📩 Email us to design your personalized Snow Leopard expedition
🌐 Explore more rare wildlife journeys at OloiShorua.com

 

 

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Bhutan Red Panda Tour: Into the Misty Heights of Singalila National Park
January 16, 2019  By Oloi Shorua- The Blessed One 

Embark on a breathtaking Bhutan Red Panda Tour through the mist-covered ridges of Singalila National Park—an exotic Himalayan paradise in West Bengal. Located between 7,000 and 12,000 feet above sea level, this protected forest offers the most authentic and luxurious experience for wildlife lovers seeking to spot the endangered Red Panda in its natural Himalayan habitat.

Day 1 – Arrival in Siliguri: Gateway to Your Red Panda Safari

Our journey began in the vibrant town of Siliguri. After arriving at Bagdogra Airport, we were transferred to our hotel. The afternoon was reserved for a relaxing nature walk and orientation session. As dusk settled over the Himalayan foothills, an early dinner marked the beginning of our Red Panda Safari in Singalila.

Day 2 – Siliguri to Manebhanjen to the Lodge: The Ascent Begins

Departing at sunrise, we took a scenic three-hour drive to Manebhanjen, the entry point to Singalila National Park. A packed breakfast kept us fueled as we transitioned to vintage Land Rovers for the thrilling mountain ascent. The drive offered spectacular views of rhododendron forests, snow-capped peaks, and fluttering prayer flags.

By midday, we arrived at our luxury wilderness lodge—our base for the next six nights. After a warm welcome and a hearty lunch, our Red Panda tracking began.

Days 3 to 6 – Red Panda Safari and Birding in Singalila National Park

Each day began with Himalayan sunrise views and aromatic coffee. Our expert trackers set out early to locate Red Pandas, while our group explored various trails led by a skilled naturalist. We encountered rare bird species like the Satyr Tragopan, Fire-tailed Myzornis, and Golden-breasted Fulvetta.

On lucky days, we followed our guides into bamboo thickets to glimpse the elusive Red Panda—arboreal, shy, and endangered. Also known as the Firefox, it captivated us with its reddish coat and graceful gait. With fewer than 10,000 mature individuals remaining in the wild, witnessing one in its natural habitat was truly humbling.

Evenings were spent by a crackling fireplace, sharing stories over traditional local cuisine. Early risers enjoyed birdwatching from a private hide with hot beverages in hand.

Day 7 – Farewell to Singalila and the Red Pandas

Following a final breakfast, we descended from the lodge to Manebhanjen and onward to Bagdogra. Our hearts were full, having experienced one of the finest wildlife safaris in India.

✅ ### Why Singalila is the Best Place for a Bhutan Red Panda Tour

With over 300 bird species and rare Himalayan mammals, Singalila is India’s top destination for Red Panda sightings. Conservation efforts, low tourism pressure, and pristine landscapes make it ideal for both ethical and unforgettable wildlife travel.

For more about conservation work, visit the IUCN Red Panda Programme.

✅ ### Travel Planning Tips for Your Bhutan Red Panda Safari

  • Best Time to Visit: October to April is peak Red Panda season.

  • Altitude Awareness: Stay hydrated and acclimate gradually.

  • What to Pack: Trekking shoes, warm layers, binoculars, long-lens camera, waterproofs.

  • Permits: Required for tracking Red Pandas and visiting Nepal border areas.

  • Connectivity: Minimal. Enjoy an intentional digital detox.

  • Travel Insurance: Essential for high-altitude, remote locations.

Red Panda Safari Tour Highlights

  • 6 nights full-board at a luxury wilderness lodge near Singalila National Park

  • 1 night at a boutique hotel in Siliguri

  • Daily Red Panda tracking with expert trackers

  • Guided birding and wildlife experiences

  • Contribution to Red Panda Conservation initiatives

Inclusions

  • All meals during the expedition

  • Professional naturalist and local expert guides

  • Vintage Land Rover transfers and porter services

  • National park and camera permits

  • Bottled drinking water

  • Nepal entry permissions

Exclusions

  • Flights, visa, and insurance

  • Alcoholic drinks, personal expenses, laundry

  • Gratuities and additional services not mentioned above

Departure Dates

  • 1 Dec – 8 Dec 2019

  • 11 Apr – 18 Apr 2020

✅ ### Book Your Bhutan Red Panda Tour with Oloi Shorua

For curated, luxury wildlife experiences across India and Africa: Oloi Shorua – Bespoke Wildlife & Conservation Travel
📧 connect@oloishorua.com
🌐 www.oloishorua.com

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