Filming in Kenya

Filming in Kenya: Kenya Safari Photography and Filming Adventure

Kenya is renowned for being one of Africa’s top destinations for wildlife safaris and safari photography, but what many photographers and filmmakers may not know is that it’s also one of the world’s best locations for bird-watching and bird photography. With over 1,000 recorded bird species, including many endemic species, Kenya offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning wildlife and bird footage in some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Whether you’re filming the Big Five or capturing rare bird species, Kenya’s diverse national parks provide the perfect backdrop. Let Trek Africa Expeditions guide you on a customized safari photography trip that will bring your vision to life, offering a seamless experience from start to finish.

Here are some of the best places to film birds and other wildlife in Kenya:

Best Places for Bird Photography and Filming in Kenya

1. Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s most iconic national parks, famous for its alkaline lake that attracts thousands of pink flamingos. It’s one of the best places in the world to film the vibrant pink flamingo flocks, making it a must-visit destination for bird photographers. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including white rhinos and lions, making it an ideal location for both bird and wildlife filming.

2. Tana River Primate Reserve

Established in 1976, the Tana River Primate Reserve protects the endangered mangabey and Tana River red colobus monkeys, both of which are found only in this area. The reserve is also a haven for bird watchers, with over 300 bird species recorded. It’s accessible via the Malindi-Garissa road, about 250 km north of Mombasa. The Tana River’s lush, riverine forests provide a picturesque setting for both bird filming and capturing unique primates.

3. Kakamega Forest National Reserve

Kakamega Forest, located about 50 km north of Kisumu, is one of the best places in Kenya for filming primates. The forest is home to various species of birds, including olive baboons, blue monkeys, and the rare De Brazza’s monkey. The forest’s rich biodiversity, with its dense canopy and serene environment, offers a perfect opportunity to film unique wildlife and capture intimate moments of nature.

4. Maasai Mara National Reserve

The Maasai Mara is globally renowned for its spectacular wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, and the incredible Great Migration that takes place every year. In addition to the Big Five, over 400 bird species have been recorded here, including vultures, eagles, and migratory birds. During the migration, filmmakers can capture dramatic scenes of predators hunting and wildebeests crossing the river, offering endless opportunities for wildlife photography.

5. Tsavo National Park

As Kenya’s largest national park, Tsavo offers a diverse range of habitats, from savannahs to volcanic mountains. It is known for its prolific birdlife, with over 600 bird species recorded. This park is an excellent location for both bird photography and filming larger mammals, such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. The scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife make Tsavo a photographer’s dream.

6. Amboseli National Park

Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is home to over 400 bird species. It is one of Kenya’s premier bird-watching destinations, with vast wetlands and open savannah providing perfect opportunities for both bird and wildlife filming. Capture beautiful shots of elephants, flamingos, and eagles, all framed by the majestic mountain.

Requirements for Filming in Kenya

Before embarking on your safari photography trip in Kenya, it’s important to obtain a filming permit from the Kenya Film Commission. The process is straightforward and involves submitting an application form along with a letter of request, a story synopsis, a screenplay, and a shooting schedule. The application is processed quickly, with permits for features, documentaries, short films, and music videos typically issued within minutes, while permits for TV series and full-length features are usually processed within 2 to 3 days.

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we can assist with obtaining the necessary filming permissions and liaising with local authorities to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Filming Fees and Costs for Bird Photography in Kenya

When planning a bird photography or filming project in Kenya, it’s essential to understand the filming fees and associated costs. These fees are based on the number of people in your crew and the duration of your shoot. Here’s an overview of the charges you can expect:

• For 5 people (1 week or less): KSH 8,000 ($80)

• For 6–10 people (1 week or less): KSH 12,000 ($115)

• For more than 10 people (1 week or less): KSH 20,000 ($200)

Kenya Filming Rates

Whether you’re shooting a documentary, adverts, or feature films, the filming rates in Kenya vary depending on the type of project. Here’s a breakdown of the standard filming fees:

• Adverts, Documentaries, Dramas, Short Features, and Still Photographs: KSH 5,000 ($50)

• Full-Length Feature Films and TV Series: KSH 15,000 ($150)

• Daily Filming Fees: KSH 1,000 ($10)

These rates apply to different types of filming projects and are designed to ensure a smooth and efficient filming process.

Liaison Officer’s Service Charges

The Kenyan government requires a Liaison Officer to be attached to your film crew during production. This officer assists with all government-related activities and ensures that your filming project proceeds smoothly. The service charge for this officer is:

• Liaison Officer Service Fee: KSH 400 ($5) per day

This service is crucial for coordinating with local authorities and handling any on-the-ground issues that may arise during filming.

Additional Charges for Filming in Kenya

In addition to the basic filming fees, there are several other charges to be aware of:

• Special Pass for Filming:
  Each visitor involved in the filming process must pay a special pass fee of KSH 2,000 ($20) to the Kenyan Immigration Department before beginning any film shooting. We recommend ensuring that all filming paperwork, including the special pass, is arranged before travel to avoid delays.

• Equipment Fee:
  There is a nominal non-refundable fee for filming equipment. The fee is 1% of the equipment’s value or KSH 30,000 ($300), whichever is less. This fee is payable to the Kenya Customs Department upon presenting your film license.

Kenya Visa Requirements for Filming Crews

As a film crew traveling to Kenya, you’ll need to acquire a tourist visa. Many crews prefer to arrange their visas before departure; however, it is also possible to obtain a visa on arrival at Nairobi International Airport. The tourist visa costs USD 51 and is issued immediately upon payment.

Vehicle Hire for Filming in Kenya

For a successful filming experience, transportation is a key consideration. Trek Africa Expeditions can assist in organizing film crew transport based on your filming location, budget, and road conditions. Here are the options for vehicle hire:

• Customized 4×4 Land Cruisers: From USD 200-250 per vehicle per day (includes driver/fixer)

• 4×4 Safari Vans: From USD 200 per van per day (includes driver/fixer)

Our vehicles come with experienced drivers who also act as location fixers, ensuring smooth operations and helping you navigate local conditions during your shoot. We’ll assess your filming schedule and provide an accurate estimate of fuel costs, taking into account the distance and locations you’ll be traveling to.

Filming Fixers in Kenya: Your Local Guide

Our local fixers are experienced professionals who are familiar with all areas of Kenya and can handle any on-location challenges. They act as intermediaries between your crew and our office, providing valuable insights and troubleshooting on the ground to ensure your filming goes as planned.

Accommodation Options During Your Filming Trip

Kenya offers a wide range of lodging options for filming crews, from budget accommodations to luxury safari lodges. We’ll work with you to recommend the best accommodation based on your budget and preferences. Contact us for more information on where to stay during your bird filming safari in Kenya.

Best Time to Film Birds in Kenya

Filming birds in Kenya is possible year-round, but the best times are during the wet months of April to May and late October to November. These months offer great bird sightings and generally easier filming conditions.

Why Choose Trek Africa Expeditions for Filming in Kenya?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we help film crews organize and execute their filming projects in Kenya. As a local fixer company, we are experienced in handling all logistics related to filming in Kenya, from obtaining filming permits to arranging transportation, accommodation, and providing location fixers. We have strong connections with local service providers and government agencies, allowing us to process your filming permits quickly and efficiently.

If you’re looking for a professional, hassle-free filming experience in Kenya, Trek Africa Expeditions is the right partner. Contact us today for more details and to get started on your Kenya filming project.