Did we really get that close?
Probably the most asked question about this photo is “did we really get that close to that lion?”. The answer is yes. Actually the lion got close to us as we sat in our vehicle when he moved towards us.
Kati was the closest at about a meter (a little over 3 feet) from her window. And I was sitting next to her.
In fact Kati was so close that her lense would not focus correctly. Here is the story about how that happened while visiting in the Maasai Mara:
As we ventured into the heart of the Maasai Mara, we are always filled with anticipation and the thrill of the unknown. We headed towards the black rock prides hangout but nothing could prepare us for that breathtaking moment when we encountered a magnificent lion just a breath away. The male lion was initially with the females and the cubs, but moved slowly down towards us and sat just feet away.
Obviously, he was protecting his family and guarding his domain.
It was surreal to share such an intimate space with this wild creature, a fleeting connection that felt like stepping into a dream where the boundaries between observer and observed blurred, leaving us in awe of nature’s raw beauty and unyielding spirit.
As the sun dipped low over the horizon, casting a glow across the Maasai Mara, we witnessed a captivating dance of life and play among the black rock pride, where we watched affectionate nuzzles and playful pounces by the cubs, reminding us of nature’s purest moments, all set against a backdrop that feels like a dream come to life in this enchanting sanctuary of wildlife.
Nestled in the heart of the Mara, we always stay at a small photography camp named Fisi Camp. Fisi Camp offers an intimate experience that transforms every moment into a photographic masterpiece, where the symphony of nature unfolds before your eyes. Each sunrise invites a new adventure as the landscape awakens, and the skilled hands of our Masai guides, Daniel and Allison, allows us to guide our lens to capture the raw beauty of wildlife in their natural habitat. With their deep understanding of animal behavior and the art of photography, they ensure that every outing is not just a journey but a storytelling experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of the Mara’s unparalleled wilderness.