Tanzania is one of the world's premier destinations for wildlife and landscape photography. The country's rich biodiversity, vast savannas, majestic mountains, and unique ecosystems offer an unparalleled opportunity to capture raw, natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a beginner looking to hone your skills, a photography safari in Tanzania will provide experiences that are as visually stunning as they are personally enriching. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know to make your safari a success, from timing your trip to choosing the right equipment and safari vehicle.
Why Tanzania is a dream for photographers
Tanzania offers a variety of ecosystems that are home to diverse wildlife species, making it an ideal location for photographers. The open plains of the Serengeti, the lush forests of the Usambara Mountains, and the unique landscape of the Ngorongoro Crater create a natural backdrop unlike any other.
The country's rich animal life includes the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as a wide array of birds, reptiles, and other creatures. And year-round the Great Migration can be captured, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles journey across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing grounds.
Beyond wildlife, Tanzania offers a cultural tapestry with more than 120 indigenous tribes, bustling markets, and historic streets—ideal for photographers looking to expand their cultural portfolios.
Whether you’re capturing intimate animal portraits, emotion-filled people portraits, or stunning landscapes, Tanzania gives you endless opportunities, year-round, to get that perfect shot.
Photographing the big cats
Big cats, particularly lions, cheetahs, and leopards, are among the most sought-after subjects for wildlife photographers. Tanzania is a top location for photographing these majestic animals, and here’s where and when you can get the best shots:
Best locations: The big cats can be found in parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Ruaha and Nyerere. Though for the highest concentration of lions and cheetahs, head to the Central Serengeti where tree-climbing lions are no myth. If you like a more remote and intimate experience with fewer tourists, consider the East of the Serengeti or Ruaha National Park.
Best time to capture big cats: These predators can be spotted year-round and will be most active in the early mornings and late afternoons when it's a bit cooler outside. The dry season from June to October will offer good conditions for photography in terms of light and visibility. During January to March, chances are higher of witnessing a hunt since it is calving season for the wildebeest and predators are never far away. And the rainy season (November-December and April-May) turns the environment lush green and can create unmatched spectacles with dramatic clouds, rain and even thunderstorms in the background.
Capturing the Great Migration
Few wildlife spectacles are as dramatic as the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti in search of greener pastures. This phenomenon offers photographers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture nature's grandeur.
Best time & locations: The migration is a year-round event, but the most photogenic moments happen during July to October when herds cross the Mara River in the Northern Serengeti, risking attacks from crocodiles. If you're looking for a more serene experience, January to March is calving season in the Southern Serengeti, where you'll witness thousands of newborn wildebeest take their first steps.
Pro tip: Patience is key when photographing the migration. A telephoto lens (400mm or more) can be convenient to capture close-ups of the herds and predators in action, and a wide-angle lens to show the sheer scale of the event.
Photos by Ineke Smeulders
Birdwatching and bird photography
Tanzania is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 1,000 bird species. Bird photography requires patience, quick reflexes, and the right environment. Here's how to get the best shots:
Best time for birdwatching: Migratory birds flock to Tanzania from November to April, coinciding with the wet season when the landscapes are lush and vibrant. Resident species are visible year-round, making Tanzania an excellent choice for bird photography no matter when you visit.
Best locations: For an incredible variety of species, visit Tarangire National Park and the Usambara Mountains. These areas offer a mix of wetlands and forest habitats, attracting everything from flamingos to raptors. For more breathtaking backgrounds, visit the Ngorongoro Crater and if you want to witness big flocks of flamingos in an otherworldly environment, add Lake Natron to the list.
Landscapes photography
Tanzania offers breathtaking landscapes year-round, with conditions that vary by season. For dramatic shots, Mount Kilimanjaro is ideal for capturing towering peaks against wide skies. The Ngorongoro Crater, with its lush, enclosed ecosystem, provides sweeping views that change with the light, perfect for golden hour shots. Lake Natron stands out for its eerie beauty, with its reddish hues and flamingo populations providing vibrant contrasts to the stark landscapes. And not to forget the magical sunsets in the Serengeti!
Cultural photography
Tanzania is home to more than 120 indigenous tribes, with the Maasai and Hadza villages as prime locations for portraiture and documenting traditional lifestyles. You can also visit bustling local markets and the historic streets of Stone Town in Zanzibar, which offer endless opportunities for vibrant street photography.
Please do remember, for ethical portraiture, to always ask for consent before photographing individuals.
Photos by Ineke Smeulders
Photographing lesser-known hidden gems
While most tourists focus on well-known parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania is home to several off-the-beaten-path locations that are perfect for photographers looking for something unique. Here are a few lesser-known but equally stunning locations:
Lake Eyasi: Situated near the Rift Valley, Lake Eyasi offers a unique opportunity for both landscape and cultural photography. The lake’s reflective waters and surrounding mountains create stunning visuals, and it’s also home to the Hadzabe people, one of Africa’s last hunter-gatherer tribes.
Lake Natron: Known for its surreal and stark beauty, Lake Natron provides an extraordinary backdrop for photographers. Its alkaline waters, famous for turning deep shades of red, attract thousands of flamingos, making it a dream location for bird and landscape photography. And the surrounding mountains add an otherwordly feel to it.
Usambara Mountains: These lush and green mountains offer cooler climates and scenic trails, perfect for capturing the diversity of Tanzania's landscapes. The dense forests, rolling hills, and traditional villages present opportunities for both nature and cultural photography far from the typical tourist routes.
The importance of a well-equipped safari vehicle
A photography safari isn’t just about being in the right place; it's about having the right setup to capture those perfect moments. Your safari vehicle plays a critical role in your photography experience. Here’s what to look for:
Large open windows and pop-up roof: A vehicle with large, open windows and a pop-up roof provides unobstructed views and a variety of angles for shooting. This setup is crucial for avoiding distractions in your photos. The pop-up roof is essential for offering 360-degree views and the chance to photograph wildlife from above. This feature also allows you to stand up in the vehicle, providing better vantage points for your shots.
Drop-down door: This feature enables you to shoot at eye level with the wildlife, offering unique perspectives and more dramatic images.
Stable shooting support: A good safari vehicle should be equipped with bean bags to help stabilize your camera during photography but also to keep your lenses safe during driving.
Charging ports: Long days in the bush mean your gear will need recharging. Make sure your vehicle is equipped with charging ports to keep your batteries topped up.
Ample storage space: Photography gear can be bulky, so ensure your vehicle has plenty of storage space for your equipment. Compartments for organising gear are a bonus.
Comfortable seating and room to move around: Comfort is key. Look for padded seats with plenty of legroom but also a vehicle where extra seats can be removed so you have more room to move around.
Knowledgeable guides on your photography safari in Tanzania
A good guide can make all the difference, not just in helping you get that award-winning shot, but in making sure you enjoy your trip safely.
A photography guide should be able to read and predict wildlife behavior, positioning you in the best spot for action and proximity, while considering optimal lighting for stunning images.
They also need to drive with respect for the animals and their environment, ensuring your experience is safe and responsible.
And it doesn't hurt if they are seasoned photographers too. It will make the conversations more interesting and he or she will be able to understand your needs better.
Special photo permits & drone licenses
In Tanzania, off-road photography permits and drone licenses are essential for photographers looking to capture unique angles and perspectives, especially in protected areas like national parks and conservation zones.
Off-road driving is generally prohibited without special permits to minimize environmental impact and protect wildlife habitats. These permits can be obtained through the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), allowing limited off-road access for photography. At ReWild Away, we can take care of this for you.
Drone use is also heavily regulated, requiring a drone license from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA). To legally fly a drone, photographers must submit an application in advance (preferably more than 3 months), provide details about their equipment, and pay applicable fees. We can apply for this on your behalf if you can provide us with the necessary information.
Additionally, drone flights are often restricted in national parks due to concerns over wildlife disturbance and visitor privacy, so it's important to confirm regulations specific to each location before planning your shoot.
Final tips for a successful photography safari
To make the most of your photographic safari, follow these final tips:
Pack smart: Bring extra batteries, memory cards, and a dust cover (e.g. a scarf) for your gear. The Tanzanian savannah can be dusty, and you don’t want it damaging your equipment.
Understand your gear: Take the time to master your camera settings before your trip. Quick adjustments in the field can make the difference between a good shot and a great one.
Stay patient: Wildlife photography is about patience. Sometimes, waiting an extra 30 minutes can reward you with a shot that others miss.
Conclusion
A photographic safari in Tanzania is a life-changing experience that offers endless opportunities for capturing the beauty of wildlife, landscapes, and local culture. By carefully planning your trip, choosing the right locations, and ensuring you have the proper equipment, you’ll come away with a portfolio of stunning images and unforgettable memories.
At ReWild Away, we specialize in helping photographers of all levels create the perfect safari experience. With our expert guides, who are also passionate photographers, specialised photography vehicles, and deep knowledge of Tanzania’s hidden gems, we’re here to help you capture the best of Africa.
Ready to experience the adventure of a lifetime?
Whether you're drawn to the thrill of witnessing the Great Migration, capturing breathtaking landscapes, or exploring Tanzania's hidden gems, your dream safari awaits. At ReWild Away, we specialize in crafting tailor-made adventures that cater to photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and explorers of all levels. Our expert guides, specialized vehicles, and deep knowledge of the region ensure you'll have an unforgettable experience.
Don’t just dream it—make it happen! Contact us today to start planning your personalised safari adventure, and let us help you capture the magic of Tanzania.
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