A photographic safari is a specialized wildlife tour led by a professional photographer or photo-savvy guide. The goal is not just to see wildlife, but to capture amazing images under ideal conditions.
Best Destinations for Photography in Tanzania
Destination Highlights for Photography
Serengeti National Park Big cats, the Great Migration, golden light on endless plains
Ngorongoro Crater High wildlife density in a dramatic volcanic caldera
Tarangire National Park Huge elephant herds, baobab trees, dry riverbeds
Lake Manyara Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, lush forests
Ruaha & Nyerere (Selous) Remote, raw wilderness with fewer vehicles
Zanzibar (optional) Culture, beaches, Stone Town architecture & locals
Best Time for a Photo Safari
Season Months Photography Perks
Dry Season June–October Clear skies, dramatic sunsets, easier wildlife spotting
Green Season December–March Lush scenery, baby animals, moody skies, fewer tourists
Calving Season January–February Predator-prey action in southern Serengeti
Wildlife to Capture
Big cats: Lions, leopards, cheetahs
Great Migration: Wildebeest & zebra herds (especially river crossings)
Elephants, giraffes, hippos, rhinos
Over 1,000 bird species
Cultural portraits (Maasai, Hadzabe tribes)
Features of a Good Photographic Safari
Modified 4x4 vehicle with open sides & roof hatches for shooting
Photo guide or pro photographer to assist with techniques
Flexible timing: More time at sightings, early departures, golden hour focus
Power outlets in vehicles for charging batteries
Handpicked lodges/tented camps near the action
Recommended Camera Gear
Gear Notes
DSLR/Mirrorless Full-frame ideal, crop sensor also good
Telephoto lens 100–400mm or 200–600mm
Wide-angle lens 16–35mm or similar for landscapes
Tripod/Monopod Optional (monopod more practical in vehicle)
Extra batteries/cards Power is precious in the bush
Lens cleaning kits For dust & humidity
Sample 7-Day Photographic Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Safari briefing and gear prep
Day 2: Drive/fly to Tarangire – Elephant photography
Day 3: Lake Manyara – Flamingos & forest shots
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – Big Five & panoramic vistas
Day 5–6: Serengeti – Migration action, predators, golden hour shoots
Day 7: Optional balloon safari, return or Zanzibar add-on