Tanzania, a haven for wildlife photographers, offers unparalleled opportunities to capture the natural beauty and wildlife of East Africa. From the world-renowned Serengeti to the lush landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater, its national parks provide an extraordinary setting for photographers to document the wild. If you’re planning a photographic safari in Tanzania, here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
Why Choose Tanzania for a Photo Safari?
Tanzania is one of the most diverse countries in Africa in terms of both landscapes and wildlife. Photographers will find a rich variety of ecosystems, from grassy plains and dense forests to volcanic craters and the shores of salt lakes. The country's stable weather, abundant wildlife, and dramatic landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise. Tanzania is also home to the famous Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinoceroses—as well as countless other species.Whether you're chasing the action of the Great Migration, capturing a lion in the Serengeti, or photographing the serene beauty of the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania is a destination where a photo safari will deliver extraordinary images that showcase the heart and soul of Africa, along with and memories that will last a lifetime.
Best Times to Go
Choosing the right time for your Tanzania photo safari is essential for optimal photography conditions. Here's an overview of what to expect in different seasons:
Dry Season (June to October)
Widely regarded as the best time for wildlife photography in Tanzania, during this period, animals gather around water sources, making them easier to locate. The clear skies and golden grasslands of the Serengeti and other parks create excellent lighting conditions, ideal for capturing dramatic wildlife shots. The Great Migration (above, the annual movement of millions of wildebeest and zebras across the Serengeti to Kenya´s Masai Mara - the world´s largest terrestrial migration) takes place during this time, offering photographers the chance to capture one of nature's most astonishing spectacles.
Wet Season (November to April)
Late fall through early spring also offers lush, vibrant landscapes and softer light for photography. This is an excellent time for birdwatching, as migratory species are present in the parks. The softer, moody lighting from cloudy skies can result in unique images, and newborn animals in the spring provide excellent opportunities for capturing tender moments. While the rain may create challenges with muddy conditions, the wildlife tends to be less concentrated, offering a more tranquil and intimate experience.
Top Photo Destinations in Tanzania
Serengeti National Park
Famous for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife year-round, Serengeti is a must-see for any wildlife photographer. The wide, sweeping plains offer stunning landscapes, and predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards make it a prime destination for action shots. Whether you're photographing the Migration or the Big Five, Serengeti never fails to deliver extraordinary moments.
Ngorongoro Crater
Often referred to as the "Garden of Eden" (above), this is a collapsed volcano teeming with wildlife. It's one of the best places for wildlife portraits, especially because animals here are often accustomed to vehicles. The incredible backdrop of the crater, combined with a high concentration of animals, gives photographers endless opportunities for breathtaking shots.
Tarangire National Park
Known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees, this park is less crowded than other national parks, allowing for a more relaxed, intimate photographic experience. The dry riverbeds are often filled with wildlife, and the striking baobab trees are perfect for adding drama to your landscape shots.
Lake Manyara National Park
With its lush forests, wide-open savannas, and a large,shallow, alkaline lake that attracts flamingos, this 325-kilometer (125-sq.-mile) swath provides a diverse range of photographic subjects. It’s also famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are a rare and fascinating sight to capture.
Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
For photographers seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, this uncrowded and pristine environment with its vast wilderness, rivers, and diverse wildlife is perfect for photographers who want to focus on the natural beauty and tranquility of Tanzania.
Renzori Mountains National Park
If you're interested in capturing majestic landscapes, these peaks offer some of Africa's most stunning scenery, from misty cloud forests to high-altitude glaciers.
What to Pack for a Photo Safari
Camera Gear
Camera Body
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses will offer the versatility you need.
Lenses
A variety is key for different types of shots. A wide-angle lens (24-70mm) for landscapes, a telephoto lens (100-400mm) for wildlife, and a macro lens for detailed close-ups should cover most needs.
Tripod
As long as it´s lightweight and portable, it´s is great for steady shots during low-light conditions.
Filters
A polarizing filter helps reduce glare, while ND filters can help with long exposure shots.
Spare Batteries and Memory Cards
You’ll be shooting frequently, so ensure you have plenty of spares.
Camera Bag
Ideal for keeping your gear safe in the rugged African environment, make sure it´s both waterproof and dustproof.
Other Items
Binoculars
Essential for spotting wildlife from a distance.
Sun Protection
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential to protect against the sun.
Appropriate Clothing
Lightweight, breathable clothes in neutral colors work best. Avoid bright colors, which can scare wildlife.
Insect Repellent
Particularly during the wet season, mosquitoes can be an issue.
Waterproof Jacket
Weather in Tanzania can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to have a light rain jacket.
Tips for Capturing the Best Shots
"Golden Hours"
Early mornings and late afternoons just before sunset provide the best lighting. The soft, warm light during these times makes wildlife look even more majestic.
Patience
Wildlife photography requires patience. Animals don’t pose on command, so take your time and wait for the perfect moment.
Composition
Think about not just the subject but how to frame it, incorporate the environment and landscape into your images to tell a fuller story.
Shoot in Burst Mode
Animals can move fast! Burst mode increases your chances of capturing fast action shots, such as predators chasing prey or animals in motion.
Choosing the Right Tour Operator
If you’re serious about a photographic safari, it's important to choose an operator who specializes in photography tours. They will provide knowledgeable guides who understand both wildlife behavior and how to get the best shots. They will also have specialized vehicles, often with open roofs or rooftop hatches, giving you the best vantage points.
Comments
I´ve been on safari in the Okavango Delta as well as Zimbabwe and Namibia but I´ve always dreamed of the visiting Ngorongoro Crater. Some day soon, I hope!