Tanzania for photographers
Tanzania is a unique destination for photographers looking to capture the wild beauty of Africa. Whether you're photographing the massive elephants in Tarangire, following the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti or climbing Kilimanjaro, Tanzania offers endless opportunities for breathtaking images.
Serengeti
The Serengeti is synonymous with African safaris and is one of the best places in the world for wildlife photography. It's home to the 'Big Five' (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo) and you can capture millions of wildebeest and zebra crossing the savannah during the Great Migration. For photographers, this is the perfect place to capture dramatic scenes of hunting, herd movement and iconic African sunsets.
With careful preparation, the right technique and a little patience, you can take home not only unforgettable memories, but also beautiful photographs that will tell the story of the African wilderness.
Best locations for photography in Tanzania
Kilimanjaro
Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, is every landscape photographer's dream. The sight of a snow-capped mountain peak rising out of the African savannah is an iconic image that never gets old. Climbing the mountain offers photographers the chance to capture diverse ecosystems - from tropical forests to glaciers at the summit.
Zanzibar
After the wild nature of Tanzania, the island of Zanzibar offers tranquil scenery of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. For photographers, you'll find stunning beach scenery, bustling markets in historic Stone Town and vibrant underwater worlds. The blend of culture and nature makes Zanzibar the perfect place for those who want to capture the diversity of Tanzania.
Tarangire and Lake Manyara
Tarangire National Park is famous for its huge herds of elephants and iconic baobabs, while Lake Manyara offers photographers the chance to capture flamingos covering the surface of the lake in pink. Both parks are great places to photograph not only animals but also unique landscapes.
Tips for successful photography in Tanzania
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A long lens (200–400 mm) for wildlife photography from a distance.
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A wide-angle lens for landscapes and large animal herds.
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A tripod, especially for low-light conditions such as sunrise and sunset.
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Chargers and spare batteries—since you’ll be in remote areas with limited electricity access. Most safari vehicles are equipped with USB charging ports, and lodges usually have generators.
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Dust protection—Tanzanian safaris can be dusty, so it's good to have a cover for your camera and regularly clean your lenses.
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The best light for photography is early in the morning and late in the afternoon when the sun creates soft and warm lighting. Midday sun can be too harsh, making it challenging to achieve great results.
To capture unique moments, it helps to understand the behavior of the animals you are photographing. Knowing when they are most active, where they gather, and their routines can help you anticipate interesting situations and be in the right place at the right time.
Wildlife photography requires a lot of patience. Often, you’ll need to wait for the perfect moment when the animal appears or performs an interesting action. Stay patient and keep observing your surroundings—the best shots often come unexpectedly.
What not to forget
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Respect nature: When photographing wildlife, it's important to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals or their natural environment. Follow the instructions of guides and rangers, who will help you find the best viewing spots without disrupting the wildlife.
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Get permits: Some places in Tanzania, such as national parks, may require special permits for professional photography. Check in advance if you need permits and arrange them ahead of time. Drones are not allowed in national parks.
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Backup your photos: In remote areas, transferring data can be difficult, so bring enough memory cards and, if possible, an external hard drive to back up your images regularly.
Photo safari Program
Day 1
Departure from a hotel in Arusha to Tarangire National Park for safari. Overnight in Tarangire, with an option for a night safari.
Day 2
Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park for photographing the famous tree-climbing lions. Overnight at a hotel overlooking the lake on the Rift Valley escarpment.
Day 3
Full-day safari in Ngorongoro Crater. Drive up to the crater rim, overnight at a hotel with views into the crater.
Day 4
Transfer to Serengeti National Park for a full-day safari. Overnight in the Seronera/Ndutu area, depending on the movement of the Great Migration.
Day 5
Full-day safari in the Serengeti. Overnight in the Seronera/Ndutu area.
Day 6
Transfer to northern Serengeti for safari in the Kogatende area. Overnight stay at a lodge.
Day 7
Transfer from Serengeti to the Natron Lake area. Afternoon photography around Lake Natron. Overnight at a lodge.
Day 8
Morning activities around Lake Natron, followed by an afternoon transfer to Mto wa Mbu. Overnight stay in Mto Wa Mbo.
Day 9
Photography of local life in Mto wa Mbu, including visits to farms and Maasai villages. Evening return to Arusha.
Ngorongoro Crater
This huge volcanic crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only a haven for wildlife but also a visually stunning landscape. With its steep slopes and flat bottom, it offers unparalleled views of wildlife and the surrounding mountains. The crater is great for photographing both wildlife and spectacular panoramic views.