Tips for Having a Great African Photo Safari Adventure
If you want to get up close and personal with the lions, cheetahs, elephant or any type of wildlife or just photography the, landscapes you should consider going on an African photo safari. it’s an absolute must for any photographer no matter what their skill level is.
It is a well-known fact that Africa is a place of great natural beauty and wonder. One of the most popular things to do while vacationing there is to go on a photo safari. If you’re planning your first trip to Africa, this blog will give you some tips on how to have the best time possible. From safety considerations to packing appropriately, we cover it all!
Ready? Let’s get started!
Why Africa?
The continent of Africa is home to many unique animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The sunsets are a photographer’s dream, and the variety of landscapes provides spectacular photographic opportunities for adventure seekers. Guides and rangers are highly skilled in tracking, use their knowledge and experience because they are usually passionate photographers as well. Following their instruction should allow you to take amazing photos with little effort on your part.
How to Choose a Safari Holiday
Photographing wildlife in Africa is a great experience, but it can be difficult to find the perfect safari. To make sure that you’re going on a great adventure, try these tips for having a successful African photo safari:
1) Decide on what you are interesting in photographing. Is it the wildlife, landscape, sunset, sunrises the culture, the people?
2) Figure out your mode of transportation. Game vehicles or a closed vehicle, airplane, boat, or will it be a self-driven safari?
3) Know when to go, research the best month for a particular location
4) Know your budget, how much are you willing to spent. Don’t forget to include gratuities, for the guides and drivers.
5) How many days of travel. The more days the higher the cost
6) Consider choosing a dedicated photo tour, as most are accompanied by a professional or semi-pro photographer.
7) Take advantage of professional photographer, ask lots of question remember the W5
8) When booking your trip, find out what kind of animals are likely to be in the area where you’ll be going on safari.
4) Look at taking 2 lens a telephoto and wide angle, wildlife is unpredictably
10) Reach out to the tour companies for travel advice, some African Photo Safari tours offer a free 30 minute consultation.
Our Top Destinations for the Best African Photo Safari
The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Kruger – these are just a few of the most popular national parks for an African photo safaris. Whether you want to visit these well-known sites or take your African Photo Safari somewhere different, there is something for everyone. But what do you need to consider when looking for an African photo safari vacations? How can you make your decision? Read on.
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is home to the big five and cheetah, making it one of the top destinations for a South African photo safaris. You can also go on game drives or bush walks to photography the wildlife. To make the most out of your time, consider heading out during the morning or evening on a safari drive. You will have less competition with other tourists. There are lots of option for accommodations, stay in a lodge, not a tent. Bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves at dusk or dawn. Dress for the weather with sunblock, hat and sunscreen.
Visiting Kruger during the dry season is a fantastic opportunity to witness wildlife close-up. Due to lack of water, animals will gather at the watering hole giving you a better chance at photographing the top 5.
Kruger National Park is a great place to visit whether you’re looking for wildlife in its natural habitat or just some peace and quiet.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the most famous private game reserve in Africa. It includes the Big 5: Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and Buffalo. The possibilities of seeing these animals are unparalleled. Located in South Africa it is the perfect place for a photographic safari. This reserve offers everything from beautiful landscapes to amazing wildlife, with plenty of photo opportunities throughout your stay.
The Sabi Sands is one of the most iconic game reserves in South Africa. For its size, it has an incredible number and variety of wildlife to see; around 300 bird species alone! The leopard population here makes them a common sight on your drive through this area. You’re almost certain not only bring home some stunning memories but also enough photographs for everyone who loves seeing these beautiful creatures up close.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve is an excellent destination for your next African Photo Safari. There are many other attractions that will make this trip worth it!
Moremi and Okavango Region
The Moremi and Okavango region of Botswana is a land full of adventure. The delta is home to a variety of wildlife, filled with game-viewing opportunities. Vast herds of impalas, buffalos, wildebeest, elephants and zebra live here.
This unique ecosystem of pans, floodplains and lagoons with savannahs was once covered by water. The delta’s rich bird life, as well as the wide variety of wildlife, will leave you feeling like your photographic dreams have come true!
Timbavati Game Reserve
Timbavati Game Reserve is one of the most well-known game reserves in South Africa. It has more than 40 species of mammals and 360 bird species, making it a popular destination for African photo safaris.
Despite the fact that the wild population of white lions was brought down to just over 100, new births continue at the reserve. The Timbavati Game Reserve has been credited as one of South Africa’s most important conservation areas and is home to some other rare species such as black rhinos and cheetahs.
The Timbavati Game Reserve has fewer tourist than other reserves, which makes it more comfortable to visit compared with its counterparts. The reserve offers guided walks and night drives that are great for families looking to explore animals at their natural habitat.
Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park, a reserve in Namibia, again it is one of the best places to go for African photo safaris. The park has a variety of wildlife and beautiful landscapes that photographers will love. The major attraction is its wildlife, such as elephants, rhinos, lions and giraffes roaming freely without fences or any restrictions. Its diverse landscape will stun you with its beauty. It’s not just about the animals, but Etosha has amazing landscapes. Did you know that the park’s salt pan can be seen from space because of its exceptional size?
Are There Different Types of Photographic Safaris?
There are many different types of photographic safaris. Some of the most popular include, but are not limited to, the following:
1) Self guided
2) Airplane Safari
3) Boat Safari
4) Cycling Safari
5) Walking / hiking safari
6) With a tour group
7) With a professional photographer
If you’re looking for an African photo safari with a specific location in mind then it’s important to decide what type you want.
African photo safaris are some of the most sought-after adventures in Africa. There’s a wide variety of photography safari options available, so it can be difficult to figure out which one is right for you and your needs.
However, here are some tips that will help guide you through this process:
1) Choose according to what type of animal or activity interests you the most!
2) Consider where in Africa would be best suited for your particular photographic style.
3) Understand if you want to travel on your own or with a group.
4) Think about how much time you have for the trip.
5) Consider if photography is an important part of your trip.
6) Evaluate what type of camera and lens you’ll need.
7) If traveling in warm weather, think about repellents, cooler clothing, and what colour of clothing to wear.
8 ) Most importantly, choose according to budget.
9 ) Finally, don’t forget that African photo safaris are more than just wildlife watching. There’s plenty to see and do while you’re in Africa!
How much does an African Photo Safari Cost
For many of us, the idea of an African safari is one that fuels our passion for photography. The more time spent exploring this exotic land and its wildlife, might mean lower rates on a per day basis! For budget-conscious travelers it might be worth considering a self guiding safari where your only expense would be food, gas and camp sites.
When planning a photo trip to Africa, one of the most important things you’ll need to consider is your budget. While there are many great African photo safaris offers, not all can be afforded by everyone. There are many safari companies that offer photo tours, but not all of them offer a dedicated photo safari. Also you may want to consider are you looking for a group safari or do you want private safari. I guess what I’m trying to say is – there is a photo safari for everyone and every budget.
Best Months To Go African
January
The hot summer of South Africa’s Eastern Cape provides excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five in malaria-free private game reserves. Kenya, this time of the year, is wonderful. You will want to see the newborn animals in January.
February
Migratory northern carmine bee-eaters are the stars of Nyerere National Park during green season. These colorful birds, which can be found throughout Africa and Asia as well, make their home in Tanzania’s famous game park every February where you will have a chance to witness these incredible creatures diving bomb your safari vehicle while hunting small insects or other prey for food!
March
Witness a few thousand zebras walking for nearly 480 km (300 miles) back and forth from Botswana to Namibia. They are best photographed at the Makgadikgadi Pans in southern Botswana.
April
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is the perfect destination to explore during this month. As one of South Africa’s last remaining wilderness areas, it offers everything you could want from nature and adventure!
May
The iconic Kruger National Park is in its dry season. As the vegetation thins out, travelers can enjoy a savanna safari with their family to spot some of nature’s most fascinating creatures hidden by dense foliage and cool mornings.
This change-of -the season provides ideal conditions for those who want an up close look at these magnificent animals as they roam free through South Africa’s largest open space!
June
Victoria Falls is a sight any time of year, but when the water levels are considerably lower, there’s no mist or spray obstructing the view.
Victoria Falls is a one-of-a kind experience that captivates everyone who sees its beauty firsthand.
July
The annual dry season in East Africa and Southern Africa is the perfect time for a photo safari, as visitors get to witness nature at its most beautiful.
The rains in Botswana are so heavy that they flood the Okavango Delta. This phenomenon occurs every July as river overflow and flood the grassland.
August
On their great migration from Tanzania to Kenya, the vast herds of wildebeest and zebra make for a visual spectacular as they cross the Mara River.
September
It’s not too late to enjoy a month-long safari in September. Our favorite for wildlife photography is South Luangwa National Park, Zambia where you can photography leopards and other wildlife. Mornings are chilly, so be sure to get out early before temperatures rise and the wildlife heads for shade.
October
October is the best time to visit Namibia! As you know, it rains there in October and this creates greenery on an otherwise desert landscape. Tourist numbers have declined, allowing amazing experiences without crowds to get in your photos.
November
The end of the dry season has arrived, and with it comes a return to normal rainfall. Peak bird season is just beginning in Mahale Mountains National Park in western Tanzania. Watch as the forest comes alive with migratory birds and butterflies.
December
Time for an African safari that will leave your wallet full and satisfied! December is the perfect time to photograph wildlife in Kenya. The short rainy season, high temperatures (perfect weather!), and local holidays make this destination more attractive than most other places.
The African Photo Safari Experience
The African safari is an amazing experience that can be conducted in a variety of ways. It’s the perfect way to see the vastness and raw beauty of Africa, while also getting up close and personal with wildlife. Whether it’s your first time on safari or you’re trying to add another adventure to your list, here are six tips for having a great African photo safari Adventure.
1) Be prepared – Bring sunscreen, bug spray, hats/gloves/waterproof gear, snacks, and a camera.
2) Book your safari through reputable companies – Make sure you’re booked with a reputable company that has an excellent reputation for customer service.
3) Consider the timing of your trip – If you want to see animals in their most active season or if it’s important to see particular animals, make sure you choose the right time of year for your safari.
4) Check what kind of services are offered by each company – Some companies offer camps that are more luxurious, while others have a great variety of activities to keep you entertained.
5) Prioritize what matters most to you – If your safari is just for fun and enjoyment, then make sure that’s the priority when booking it.
6) Pack light – There is no need to pack anything in excess on your African photo safari. The weather can change quickly in Africa, so be prepared for unexpected changes with light clothing and items like sunblock.
Frequently Asked questions
Where are the best African photo safaris?
- Kruger National Park, South Africa.
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda.
- Etosha National Park, Namibia.
- Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe.
- Ngorongoro National Park, Tanzania.
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia.
- Okavango Delta, Botswana.
What is included in a typical African (photo) safari?
A typical African safari is an all-inclusive experience, meaning that every aspect of the trip is included in the price. The amount of time spent on activities and sightseeing varies depending on the type of safari that you choose.
What is the best camera lens for an African photo safari?
Pondering what photo equipment for African safari? The best camera lens for an African photo safari depends on the type of photography you want to take. If you are planning a wildlife-based safari, a Telephoto or superzoom something like a 600mm lens is recommended. If you are looking to capture a wide range of landscapes photos, a wide angle 16-36mm would be more appropriate.
What tips do people have for taking photos at an African safari?
Taking photos on an African photo safari can be difficult, but with a few photo tips, you may find success in capturing the memories that any winning professional wildlife photographer would be proud of. The most important tip of all is to find an area with a lot of light, so that the animals are easy to spot. The choice of camera also matters, as different cameras have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to capturing certain animals in the wild.