Top Photography Spots on a Kenya–Tanzania Safari (Wildlife & Landscape Guide)

A Kenya–Tanzania safari isn’t just a wildlife adventure — it’s a photographer’s dream. From golden savannahs lit by sunrise to dramatic river crossings and up-close wildlife encounters, East Africa offers some of the most iconic photographic backdrops in the world.

Whether you’re using a smartphone or a DSLR, this guide reveals the top photography spots in Kenya and Tanzania, tips for capturing stunning images, and where to go for that perfect shot.

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Why It’s Perfect:

• Home to the Great Migration (July–October)
• Big cats like lions and cheetahs at golden hour
• Endless plains with dramatic skies

Photo Tips:

• Visit during early morning or late afternoon for golden light
• Use a telephoto lens (200mm+) for close wildlife shots
• Consider a hot air balloon safari for aerial perspectives

Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Why It’s Perfect:

• Iconic elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background
• Shallow water pans attract reflections and birdlife
• Dusty sunsets that silhouette wildlife beautifully

Best Time:

• Dry season (June to October) for clear Kilimanjaro views

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Why It’s Perfect:

• Rolling savannahs with migrating herds
• Dramatic predator action during the Great Migration
• Acacia trees that anchor landscape shots

Best Regions:

• Central Serengeti for lion prides
• Northern Serengeti (July–Sept) for river crossings
• Southern Serengeti (Jan–Mar) for wildebeest calving season

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Why It’s Perfect:

• Stunning crater views from the rim
• Easy spotting of Big Five (rhinos, lions, elephants, etc.)
• Contrasting green floor against dark crater walls

Photography Tips:

• Bring a wide-angle lens for panoramic landscapes
• Best light is between 8–10 AM due to the crater’s depth

Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Why It’s Perfect:

• Flamingos create a pink carpet across the lake
• Excellent white rhino and giraffe photo ops
• Dramatic reflections on the lake’s surface

When to Visit:

• June to August for flamingos and dry scenery

Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

Why It’s Perfect:

• Huge elephant herds and baobab trees
• Lesser-known, so fewer vehicles = clean shots
• Stunning golden light during dry season

Best Time to Shoot:

• Late dry season (August–October) near the Tarangire River

Maasai Village Visits (Kenya & Tanzania)

Why It’s Perfect:

• Candid portrait photography of Maasai tribespeople
• Colorful shukas, beadwork, and rituals
• Cultural storytelling through images

Photography Etiquette:

• Always ask for permission before taking portraits
• Support communities by purchasing local crafts

Hot Air Balloon Safaris (Masai Mara or Serengeti)

Why It’s Perfect:

• Bird’s-eye view of wildlife and winding rivers
• Sunrise lighting over the savannah
• Aerial compositions unlike any ground safari

How to Do It:

• Book in advance during peak migration season
• Use lightweight gear and shoot with fast shutter speeds

Photography Tips for Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

✔️ Gear Checklist

• DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses
• Telephoto lens (200–400mm) for wildlife
• Wide-angle lens (16–35mm) for landscapes
• Extra memory cards and batteries
• Bean bag or monopod for vehicle shooting

✔️ Timing Is Everything

• Golden hours (6–8 AM & 4–6 PM) for the best light
• Overcast days work well for big cat portraits — less harsh shadows
• Rainy season (March–May) gives lush greenery and dramatic skies

✔️ Ethical Photography

• Avoid flash near wildlife
• Don’t interfere with animals or guides for the “perfect short”
• Respect local customs when photographing people

Ready to Book a Photography Safari?

Whether you’re a professional photographer or just want Instagram-worthy wildlife shots, Kenya and Tanzania offer unmatched opportunities for visual storytelling. We can help you plan a custom safari focused on photography, with expert guides and prime lodges near the best locations.

Get a Custom Photography Safari Quote
View Our Photo-Friendly Safari Packages
Speak with a Safari Specialist

FAQs: Safari Photography in East Africa