Between the 20th and 23rd of August 2025, I visited Sera Wildlife Conservancy on a photography assignment. The primary aim of this trip was to capture the conservancy’s diverse landscapes, vegetation, and wildlife, while also deepening my understanding of its conservation initiatives and cultural heritage. I was accompanied by Kisio, WildLandscapes’ Field Operations and Logistics Officer, whose support was invaluable. He not only facilitated movement across the conservancy but also guided the game drives, ensuring I could access various locations with ease. His assistance greatly enhanced the success of this assignment.
Sera’s landscapes left a lasting impression on me. The conservancy is dominated by dramatic rocky hills that rise from the plains, interspersed with winding river luggas and valleys. These natural features not only shape water flow but also guide wildlife movement. The vegetation was largely composed of Commiphora trees, including the striking Commiphora samharensis, which, when the bark peels off, leaves behind slashes showing red or pink layers, creating the illusion of bleeding. While the dense bush at times posed challenges for visibility and photography, it remains an essential refuge for wildlife. The land is also imbued with cultural significance, most notably a cave once believed to have housed a warrior from the Laikipian tribe. This feature highlighted the profound connection between the land’s natural elements and the communities that have long coexisted with them.
Wildlife encounters at Sera were equally memorable. Among the highlights was the sighting of pregnant Grevy’s zebras, an encouraging sign for the future of this endangered species. One of the most striking moments was witnessing a herd of about twenty-five giraffes, a breathtaking image of grace and majesty. Rhinos, though elusive, were also observed. Out of the thirty-one rhinos in the conservancy, I was fortunate to spot one black rhino with the help of drone technology and four white rhinos thanks to the guidance of the rhino monitoring team. These encounters revealed not only the importance of patience in the field but also the indispensable role of teamwork and technology in rhino conservation.
My time with the Sera Rangers was deeply enriching. During bush walks, I gained insights into the land, its wildlife, and the challenges of conservation in such a rugged environment. The rangers’ knowledge highlighted their critical role as custodians of the conservancy. An especially memorable moment was engaging with Mzee Mbuyu, who shared oral histories about the origins of Sera’s name and the symbolism of its logo. These stories offered a cultural depth to my journey, showing how heritage and conservation are intertwined.
Another highlight was visiting Kisima Hamsini, the 50 singing wells. These traditional wells serve as essential water sources for pastoralist communities and their livestock. More than that, they are cultural landmarks where herders sing in rhythmic tones to summon their animals to drink. During my visit, however, we did not encounter the Samburu men who traditionally sing while watering their cattle. According to the locals, the wells are mainly visited during the dry season, and at the time of this trip, the conditions were not very dry. Even so, witnessing the wells and learning about their cultural importance was both moving and illuminating, reflecting the resilience and traditions of the communities that depend on the land.
The photography assignment at Sera presented challenges and lessons in equal measure. The dense vegetation, while limiting visibility, taught me to adapt and value patience as I waited for rare glimpses of wildlife. It also reinforced an important truth: what hinders human observation is precisely what ensures the survival of wildlife. Beyond capturing animals, I found myself drawn to the broader story of landscapes, cultural heritage, ranger dedication, and community resilience. Photographing rhinos with the aid of drones and monitoring teams illustrated the growing role of collaboration and technology in conservation photography.
In conclusion, the trip to Sera Wildlife Conservancy was more than a photography assignment; it was a journey into a landscape where biodiversity, history, and culture coexist harmoniously. From observing pregnant Grevy’s zebras and vast herds of giraffes to learning from rangers and listening to the stories of elders, every moment contributed to a richer understanding of conservation. Sera stands out as a conservancy where conservation is not only about protecting wildlife but also about safeguarding heritage, ensuring both can thrive for generations to come.
