Safari Planning

A few African safari camps are upping the ante for wildlife photography immersion. Perks include camera gear, custom-built photography vehicles, hides and expert equipment to suit everyone from novices to professionals. Here are a few camps leading the charge in photography-friendly safaris.

National Geographic filmmakers and photographers Dereck and Beverly Joubert have put extensive thought into making photography a greater part of every guest's journey to their Botswana and Kenya camps. In each tent at Zarafa Camp and Duba Plains Camp in Botswana as well as Mara Plains Camp in Kenya, the Jouberts provide high-end Canon camera kits, including camera body and lenses, for free use during your stay—and camp staff will help download your images before you depart. The camps also offer pro photo lessons for a fee.

In southern Botswana, Mashatu Main Camp and Mashatu Tent Camp offer provide exclusive photography hides that accommodate just four guests at once. Located near waterholes, the hides enable you to capture up-close wildlife images like playful elephants and colorful birds from otherwise inaccessible angles. The experience leaves you with incomparable pictures. Mashatu has several hides in a variety of different locations—and each hide visit is accompanied by a skilled photography guide. Hides can be booked in advance for a fee, and cameras and lenses are available for rent as well. Reserve half- or full-day sessions, plus optional tutoring in camp--or book a hide for your private use all day. An exclusive photography vehicle can be reserved for an extra fee as well.

In South Africa's famous Sabi Sand, the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve features a two-day photography course with a professional safari guide. The field course for up to six guests includes exclusive use of a customized photography vehicle and the expertise of a pro photographer. Camera gear is also available for rent. Contact a Safari Specialist for more information and tuition.

Call Us to Speak to a Safari Specialist – 1-800-543-8917