Mine was a day long Safari at the Amboseli Reserve during a trip to Kenya this past summer. One of my favorite shots was this one of five giraffes walking together. We also had the privilege of seeing lions twice during the day. Lions are often more difficult to find. The female lion in this pic was about 80 yards =/- away from us. Our closet encounter was with an elephant. He was a huge. According to our guide, he was a loner from the herd who had likely lost a tusk in a fight. He came within 25 feet of our vehicle, turned to look at us, and motioned with his trunk as if saying hello, before moving on. (A bit nerve-wracking, but our experienced guide wasn't worried). The last elephant photo isn't the best framed pic, but gives you an idea of how close he was. I also captured video of the elephant encounter.

Happy New Year!

Yes, there is an entrance fee. There is also a negotiated fee for the safari guides who supply the vehicle, and know where to find the animals at various times of the day. Our group leader is experienced traveling in East Africa, so he made all the arrangements. The primary purpose of our trip was actually humanitarian/missions, working with kids and adults in the schools and villages of Kenya. (Providing water, food, education, etc.) The Safari was just a one day fun excursion for us. Truly a treat for someone like me who loves to take scenery and wildlife photos! After all, you can't travel to Africa and not go on a Safari!

Yes, It was in Amboseli National Park, in Kenya. It is in the wild, in the sense that they have to hunt for their prey just like anywhere else. The difference is that they are protected from hunting within the reserve areas. People are not a threat to them. The animals soon learn that the most dangerous thing carried on the safari rigs are cameras! However, there are no fences to keep the animals confined to the National Parks, they can roam freely.

Chris T., We were stopped. She seemed indifferent to our presence. I think they get used to the safari vehicles coming through. There were several members of the pride in the area...The younger lions were active and playful, she was just watching their antics.

Chris T., Thanks! We were about 80 yards (+/-) away, in a safari rig.

I would recommend the Canon SX60. It has a 65X Zoom and a price point under $500.00. I own the SX50 (Previous model) with a 50X zoom and was able to get some amazing shots with the long zoom on a safari during a trip to Kenya this past summer. I noticed other people struggling with huge 600mm lenses, and my zoom was double that without the hassle of the huge lens. The quality of the pictures it produces is very good, even with the small sensor.

I only use Lightroom Classic.