Skip to content

Porini Art Safari Kenya : Brushstrokes of the Wild Across Kenya’s Conservancies

Expertly guided by wildlife artist and conservationist, Michelle McCune.
25th February - 7th March 2027

Ever dreamed of capturing Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes and majestic wildlife through your lens and brush? Now’s your chance!

Led by renowned wildlife artist and conservationist Michelle McCune, this immersive 11 day journey combines expert tuition with unforgettable game viewing across Amboseli, Ol Pejeta and Maasai Mara.

Highlights include:
– Exploring exclusive conservancies like Selenkay, Ol Pejeta & Olare Motorogi for intimate wildlife encounters.
– Photographing and sketching elephants beneath Mount Kilimanjaro and predators on the plains.
– Learning how to work with light, composition, and animal behaviour in real-time.
– Connecting deeply with Kenya’s wild habitats and local Maasai communities.

This is more than a safari—it’s a chance to refine your creative skills, expand your portfolio, and experience Africa’s iconic wildlife in a respectful, sustainable way.

Michelle McCune artist and conservationist.

Reaching out and scratching the hide of Sudan – the last male northern white rhinoceros – at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya in 2016, profoundly encapsulates Dr. Michelle McCune’s mission as an artist. Her work centers on animals in their wild habitats, highlighting their lives and their challenges.

Currently based in northern California, Michelle developed a strong connection with animals early in life. Her passion for animals led her to a career in veterinary medicine. 

While in veterinary school, Michelle was fortunate enough to travel to Namibia in 1993 and work with the Cheetah Conservation Fund. This trip ignited a passion in her for conservation efforts and the flora and fauna of the African continent. Although she didn’t start painting until 2001, her first subjects were from this trip, and wildlife became the ongoing theme of her work. 

All of her work is based on experiences from her travels and direct encounters with animals. She takes photographs which are used as anchors to her memories, then returns home to her studio to recreate a moment in time using oil paints on canvas. Her paintings provide the viewer with a bridge into the world of marvelous animals portrayed, prompting reflection on personal experiences and connection to nature.

Dr. McCune’s work has received many awards and been internationally recognized. She is a signature member of the Artists for Conservation.

Michele Eldridge

I had the privilege of going to Kenya on a trip that Michelle planned. I myself have done some extensive traveling around the world, and up until this trip I would say they were all equally great. However, this trip with Michelle was without a doubt, the most amazing trip I have ever been on. Michelle’s knowledge and expertise about Africa and the animals were instrumental in creating this amazing adventure. I also really appreciated how she chose a company that is environmentally focused, that supports conservation, protects wildlife habitats, and benefits local communities in Africa. In addition, Michelle is a wonderful mentor and I really appreciated her expertise. She is a talented, skilled artist, and I very much enjoyed seeing some of her pieces.

Sharal Riggs

I would highly recommend going on safari with both Michelle and Gamewatchers as they go above and beyond to deliver an exceptional and rewarding experience while supporting local communities and animal conservation!

25 February - 7 March 2027

Lone elephant in the foreground with an acacia tree behind, taken on a grave drive from Porini Lion Camp, in Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Kenya, Photo credit Sara Jenner
Art-Focused Safari Experience
  • This specialist safari combines wildlife viewing with creative expression, offering the opportunity to photograph, sketch, paint and draw inspiration directly from Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife.
Guidance from Professional Artist
  • Travel with experienced artist Michelle McCune who will provide guidance and encouragement, helping you develop your techniques while capturing the essence of the natural environment.
Wildlife Encounters in Private Conservancies
  • Stay in three private conservancies, where low vehicle numbers allow for quieter, more immersive wildlife viewing and uninterrupted time for observation and creativity.
Time to Observe, Sketch & Create
  • Enjoy a relaxed pace with time set aside for sketching and painting, whether in camp or out in the landscape, allowing for a deeper connection with your surroundings.
Authentic Safari Camps in Natural Settings
  • Stay in intimate tented camps that offer comfort while keeping you close to nature, providing an inspiring environment for both wildlife experiences and artistic work.
Price Includes
  • Accommodation and board basis as described.
  • Art materials.
  • Meet and greet on arrival in Nairobi.
  • All internal flights & transfers.
  • Exclusive 4×4 safari vehicle.
  • Park and Conservancy fees..
  • AMREF Flying Doctors medical evacuation cover
  • Art mentorship (as much or as little as you like) from Michelle McCune
Price Excludes
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Visa
  • International Flights
  • Travel Insurance
  • Any personal items or anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Make An Enquiry

Contact Us for a detailed breakdown of the safari rates, inclusions, and key details. 

LENGTH

10 Nights I 11 Days

SAFARI DATES

25th Feb - 7th Mar 2027

LENGTH

10 Nights I 11 Days

SAFARI DATES

25th Feb - 7th Mar 2027

Itinerary in Detail

DAY BY DAY

Send An Enquiry

Short Contact Form (Michelle McCune )

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Full Name(Required)

Tour Experiences

Day 1 - Nairobi

You will be picked up from Nairobi Airport or central Nairobi and transferred to Nairobi Tented Camp where you will meet Michelle.  Nestled within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally located for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions.

Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)

Day 2 - Nairobi

A full day in Nairobi exploring with Michelle. 

Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)

Days 3 - Selenkay Conservancy

Your adventure begins with an early breakfast before heading to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport for a scenic 40-minute flight to the private airstrip at Selenkay Conservancy, part of the greater Amboseli ecosystem. Upon landing, your Maasai guide will meet you for your first game drive — a thrilling introduction to Kenya’s wildlife — as you make your way to Porini Amboseli Camp, your home for the next two nights.

After settling in and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch, you’ll set out on an escorted walk to a nearby Maasai village. This is a rare opportunity to step into the daily rhythm of the community, learning first-hand about their traditions, stories, and deep connection to the land.

As the afternoon unfolds, you’ll venture back into Selenkay Conservancy — a protected haven known for its thriving populations of big cats, elephants, giraffes, zebra, and antelopes. Keep an eye out for the conservancy’s rarer residents too, including the elegant gerenuk, elusive lesser kudu, and the African wildcat.

As the sun dips behind the iconic silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro, pause for a classic safari sundowner at a breathtaking viewpoint. The day doesn’t end there — once darkness falls, you’ll embark on an exciting night game drive, offering a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife rarely seen by day. Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for a delicious dinner and fall asleep to the sounds of the African night.

Day 4 - Selenkay Conservancy

Awake to the noisy calls of the birds. After an early breakfast, we drive through the bush on our private track into Amboseli National Park, for a full morning of game viewing. Following a picnic lunch in the park, we return to camp later in the afternoon. In the evening you will go on a game drive in Selenkay Conservancy, stopping for a sundowner at a scenic viewpoint, followed by a night game drive.

Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 5/6/7 - Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airstrip for the flight back to Nairobi, connecting onto the flight to Nanyuki. You will be met on arrival and transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy and  Porini Rhino Camp for 3 nights (fully inclusive of meals, beer, wine, soft drinks, mineral water, gin & tonics, day and night game drives, guided walks, sundowners and park fees).

Game drives and walks will be taken in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy  to photograph and paint the wildlife with Michelle. Night game drives will also be taken.

Days 8/9/10 - Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Masai Mara

Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airstrip for the flight back to the Maasai Mara. You will be met on arrival and transfer to Olare Motorogi Conservancy and  Porini Lion Camp for 3 nights (fully inclusive of meals, beer, wine, soft drinks, mineral water, gin & tonics, day and night game drives, guided walks, sundowners and park fees).

Game drives and walks will be taken in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy  to photograph and paint the wildlife with Michelle. Night game drives will also be taken.

Day 11 - Nairobi

Final early morning game drive followed by breakfast and then transfer to the airstrip to fly back to Wilson Airport in Nairobi, arriving at around 12h20. Met on arrival and transfer to The Crowne Plaza Hotel, to rest and freshen up before your onward connection.
**End of Tour**

You may choose to extend your safari by flying to the Kenya Coast or the  Island of Zanzibar, where you can unwind on the pristine white beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Tour Experiences

Day 1 - Nairobi

You will be picked up from Nairobi Airport or central Nairobi and transferred to Nairobi Tented Camp where you will meet Michelle.  Nestled within the lush woodlands of Karen, ideally located for visits to Nairobi National Park, the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Centre and other attractions.

Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)

Day 2 - Nairobi

A full day in Nairobi exploring with Michelle. 

Overnight at Nairobi Tented Camp (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast)

Days 3 - Selenkay Conservancy

Your adventure begins with an early breakfast before heading to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport for a scenic 40-minute flight to the private airstrip at Selenkay Conservancy, part of the greater Amboseli ecosystem. Upon landing, your Maasai guide will meet you for your first game drive — a thrilling introduction to Kenya’s wildlife — as you make your way to Porini Amboseli Camp, your home for the next two nights.

After settling in and enjoying a freshly prepared lunch, you’ll set out on an escorted walk to a nearby Maasai village. This is a rare opportunity to step into the daily rhythm of the community, learning first-hand about their traditions, stories, and deep connection to the land.

As the afternoon unfolds, you’ll venture back into Selenkay Conservancy — a protected haven known for its thriving populations of big cats, elephants, giraffes, zebra, and antelopes. Keep an eye out for the conservancy’s rarer residents too, including the elegant gerenuk, elusive lesser kudu, and the African wildcat.

As the sun dips behind the iconic silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro, pause for a classic safari sundowner at a breathtaking viewpoint. The day doesn’t end there — once darkness falls, you’ll embark on an exciting night game drive, offering a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife rarely seen by day. Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for a delicious dinner and fall asleep to the sounds of the African night.

Day 4 - Selenkay Conservancy

Awake to the noisy calls of the birds. After an early breakfast, we drive through the bush on our private track into Amboseli National Park, for a full morning of game viewing. Following a picnic lunch in the park, we return to camp later in the afternoon. In the evening you will go on a game drive in Selenkay Conservancy, stopping for a sundowner at a scenic viewpoint, followed by a night game drive.

Return to Porini Amboseli Camp for dinner and overnight.

Day 5/6/7 - Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airstrip for the flight back to Nairobi, connecting onto the flight to Nanyuki. You will be met on arrival and transfer to Ol Pejeta Conservancy and  Porini Rhino Camp for 3 nights (fully inclusive of meals, beer, wine, soft drinks, mineral water, gin & tonics, day and night game drives, guided walks, sundowners and park fees).

Game drives and walks will be taken in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy  to photograph and paint the wildlife with Michelle. Night game drives will also be taken.

Days 8/9/10 - Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Masai Mara

Check out after breakfast and transfer to the airstrip for the flight back to the Maasai Mara. You will be met on arrival and transfer to Olare Motorogi Conservancy and  Porini Lion Camp for 3 nights (fully inclusive of meals, beer, wine, soft drinks, mineral water, gin & tonics, day and night game drives, guided walks, sundowners and park fees).

Game drives and walks will be taken in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy  to photograph and paint the wildlife with Michelle. Night game drives will also be taken.

Day 11 - Nairobi

Final early morning game drive followed by breakfast and then transfer to the airstrip to fly back to Wilson Airport in Nairobi, arriving at around 12h20. Met on arrival and transfer to The Crowne Plaza Hotel, to rest and freshen up before your onward connection.
**End of Tour**

You may choose to extend your safari by flying to the Kenya Coast or the  Island of Zanzibar, where you can unwind on the pristine white beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Send An Enquiry

Short Contact Form (Michelle McCune )

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Full Name(Required)

Ready to join us?

Limited places are available for this creative art safari experience

Secure your spot today!

Short Contact Form (Michelle McCune )

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Full Name(Required)

FAQs — Porini Art Safari Kenya

What is the main focus of the Porini Art Safari Kenya?

The Porini Art Safari Kenya offers a journey guided by wildlife artist and conservationist Michelle McCune, emphasizing wildlife conservation, artistic expression, and immersive experiences in Kenya’s conservancies.

Do I need to be an experienced artist to join?

No, the safari is suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced artists, with guidance provided throughout the trip.

Where does the art safari take place?

The safari takes place in Kenya’s private conservancies - Selenkay, Ol Pejeta & Olare Motorogi offering exclusive wildlife viewing alongside creative sessions in natural surroundings.

What art materials are provided on the safari?

All art supplies will be provided as well as easels at the camps for the art “classes”.  

How big is the group for the Art safari?

This group safari is up to 12 people. 

How close can we get to wildlife?

Very close, sometimes within 10-20 feet, but never at the expense of safety or animal welfare. This is made possible by highly trained, certified guides who read animal behaviour in real time and reposition or pull away immediately if any signs of stress are detected.

The priority is always respect for the wildlife first, with great images coming as a result of patience, space and ethical judgement rather than proximity alone.

Where can I get more information or make a booking for the Porini Art Safari?

Our Safari Specialist, Rick can plan, book, and arrange everything on your behalf, so all you have to do is pack your camera, clothes and passport and enjoy the ride. 

You can contact Rick at rick@gamewatchers.com or give him a call at +1-877-710-3014.

Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years