Bui Xuan Viet, a photographer from Dong Nai Province in southern Vietnam, spent over VND100 million (US$4,000) on a trip to Africa in late November.
His destination was the Masai Mara National Reserve in western Kenya, spanning 1,500 square kilometers. Known for its biodiversity, the reserve is home to the "Big Five" (lions, rhinos, elephants, leopards, and buffalo) alongside wildebeests, hyenas, and more.
In one scene, Viet and his group's safari vehicle stopped beside a herd of giraffes as they roamed across the plains.
Viet captured a moment of a kingfisher enjoying its caught fish. These birds are known for their hunting skills, watching prey from branches before diving into the water. After catching its prey, the kingfisher often returns to its perch to savor the meal.
One of Viet's favorite shots was a photograph he titled "The eagle and the moon". Taken from a boat in the middle of a lake, the composition was challenging due to the unsteady conditions.
Safari tours in Masai Mara start at $600 per night and can go up to $20,000, depending on luxury levels. Popular activities include wildlife drives, forest treks, and hot-air balloon rides.
A lion rested beneath Viet's safari vehicle. The reserve's strict rules prohibit visitors from leaving their vehicles for safety reasons, even for restroom breaks, which are allowed only at designated safe zones.
In another scene, a lion feasted on its prey while an older lion stood guard nearby. This teamwork is typical behavior, as hyenas and vultures often attempt to steal food mid-meal.
"Witnessing predators in action and understanding their habits made the trip worth every penny," Viet said.
Photographing a lion drinking water is a rare feat, Viet said, as these animals hydrate just once or twice a week, obtaining most of their water from their prey.
Viet also captured a moment of a sleeping cheetah, undisturbed even as he stood nearby. Though often mistaken for leopards, cheetahs are distinguishable by their black “tear marks” running down their faces. These predators can sprint up to 100 km/h in short bursts during hunts.
Viet documented two leopards observing prey, showcasing their muscular builds and climbing abilities.
He also witnessed a rare moment: a leopard dragging its kill up a tree to feast. Viet did not expect to see this, but as his group was leaving the reserve at 5 p.m., they received word of the sighting. Rushing back, they drove for 20 minutes and managed to capture the event.
Hyenas also provided fascinating moments. At first, Viet was puzzled when he saw a hyena standing in the middle of a lake. Then, more hyenas appeared, and upon closer inspection, he noticed a hippo carcass in the water.
Viet titled the shot "The poolside feast", which depicted the hyenas tearing into the carcass. Some hyenas, however, appeared cautious, lingering at the lake's edge.
Reflecting on his trip, Viet described himself as "truly satisfied" with the wildlife moments he witnessed. He plans to return in August next year to photograph the Great Migration.
"I'm deeply impressed by Kenya's wildlife conservation efforts," he said.