The 5 Ideal Destinations for Your Photo Safari in Africa

Breathtaking landscapes, striking scenes of wildlife, incredible light: wildlife photography in Africa has something magical. Whether you are an amateur or experienced photographer, this continent promises you an immersive experience that matches your passion for images. Here are our tips for exploring the 5 most beautiful destinations for a photo safari in Africa.

1. Kenya and Tanzania: the birthplace of the photo safari in Africa

Must-see highlights to photograph

In Kenya, Amboseli offers striking views with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, while the Masai Mara, with its vast plains, plunges you into the heart of the great migration (August–September). Lesser-known reserves are also worth a visit, such as Ol Pejeta (for its rhinos) or Samburu (for the “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, Beisa oryx, and the surprising gerenuk).

In Tanzania, the best time for a photo safari is the dry season, with the great migration (July–October): hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebras cross the Serengeti, offering spectacular images. The Ngorongoro, an ancient volcanic crater, has an unmatched concentration of wildlife.

Flexible photo safaris

In East Africa, you travel with a driver-guide who is available at times that suit you. This is one of the great advantages of photo safaris in Tanzania or Kenya! To maximize opportunities, don’t hesitate to ask for an extended early-morning safari with breakfast in the savannah, or even a full-day game drive with picnic.

2. South Africa: an accessible and diverse photo safari

All ecosystems in one country

With South Africa, you may find less vast spaces – although some regions are not lacking – but a very wide variety of parks and ecosystems. The wildlife is rich, with of course the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), but also marine animals (turtles, penguins, great white sharks, dolphins, whales, seals, etc.).

In addition to the must-see Kruger Park, South Africa abounds with renowned game reserves: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi for its rhinos, Tembe or Addo Elephant Park for elephants, Kgalagadi for big cats, Madikwe or Sabi Sands for high-end services and exclusive safaris. Many parks are malaria-free, a plus when choosing a family trip to Africa.

A photo safari at your pace and budget

Another advantage: budget. Quality infrastructure makes it possible to plan a photo safari at a lower cost. You can camp or stay in rustic cottages, right in the middle of the reserves, and conduct your sessions fully independently in your own vehicle.

If your budget allows, book a stay in a private reserve. With an experienced guide, wildlife tracking is more successful. Even better, you can get much closer to big cats in reserves that allow off-road photo safaris. We particularly recommend Sabi Sands, bordering Kruger: a paradise for photographing leopards!

-> Learn everything you need to know to plan your safari in Kruger Park!

3. Namibia: the art of wildlife photography in grand settings

Capturing the silhouette of an oryx in the red dunes of the Namib, searching for desert elephants, approaching a seal colony on the Atlantic coast, or working with the arid landscapes of Etosha: a photo safari in Namibia is above all a guarantee of exceptional landscapes and wildlife. If you love minimalist atmospheres, this destination is perfect for you!

-> Be sure to protect your camera gear from sand.

4. Botswana: the paradise of high-end photo safaris

A photo journey in Botswana is an authentic immersion in the wild. The country’s conservation efforts allow abundant wildlife sightings, including elephants, hippos, lions, leopards… and of course, birds.

For original low-angle shots on the water, opt for a boat safari on the Chobe River or a mokoro (traditional canoe) in the legendary Okavango Delta. If you prefer arid landscapes, head to the Kalahari!

5. Zimbabwe: a confidential and spectacular destination

With Zimbabwe, you venture into a less touristy part of Southern Africa. By car or on a walking safari with rangers, you witness intense natural scenes: buffalo, elephants, and predators, including the rare wild dogs.

The best regions for a photo safari in Zimbabwe are Hwange National Park, known for its very large elephant herds, and Mana Pools. Located in the north along the Zambezi River, Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of photographers’ favorite destinations!

⚠️ Mana Pools is difficult to reach by road, especially during the rainy season (November–April). We recommend a charter flight from Harare or Victoria Falls.

Our tips for a successful photo safari in Africa

Choosing the right gear before your photo safari

For any wildlife photographer, amateur or experienced, a photo trip to Africa cannot be improvised. Essential gear includes:

• a camera capable of bursts and manual settings;
• a telephoto lens of at least 400 mm;
• a bean bag to stabilize your gear on the edge of the vehicle;
• a polarizing filter.

Renting a long lens or a recent camera body is a good option if you don’t want to invest. You can arrange this before departure or on site.

Choosing the right vehicle

On self-drives, opt for an SUV for better viewing height. On guided safaris, the vehicles are fully open, offering great visibility for all passengers.

Our partner African Eagle has its own safari vehicles in Kenya and Tanzania. Thanks to their pop-up roofs, you benefit from a 180° panoramic view. On request, the vehicle can be privatized.

Multiplying wildlife photography opportunities

In private reserves, or even in national parks (by reservation), you will generally have the opportunity to go on night safaris and observe nocturnal animals or predators on the hunt. Talk with your guide and let them know your needs (type of animals, light, etc.).

Finally, don’t overlook hides! With a little patience, you can photograph animals as they come to drink. With reservation, some even allow you to spend the night there.

All these destinations are invitations to live a unique adventure and capture the wild soul of Africa. If your stay allows, don’t hesitate to combine some of them to diversify your experiences.

✈️ Want a photo safari tailored to you? Discover our custom itineraries!