What is a photography safari holiday?

A photography safari holiday is a specialised journey designed for photographers of all levels. It focuses on maximising photographic opportunities with expert guidance, ideal locations and schedule flexibility to capture wildlife, landscapes, light and culture.

Do I need photography experience to join a photography safari?

No. Gamewatchers Safaris photography safaris are suitable for beginners as well as experienced photographers. Expert guides help with composition, lighting and wildlife behaviour, so you get the most out of every photographic moment.

What makes Gamewatchers Safaris photography safaris unique?

Gamewatchers Safaris photography safaris combine conservation‑led travel with expert guiding and access to private conservancies. They offer fewer vehicles, personalised attention, ideal light conditions and the flexibility to spend extended time on compelling photographic subjects.

Can I bring my own camera gear?

Yes. Guests are encouraged to bring their own camera gear, lenses and accessories. Your specialist can advise on the best equipment and any accessory needs based on your photographic goals.

Are photography safaris suitable for all ages?

Yes. Photography safaris are suitable for most ages and experience levels. Itineraries can be tailored to suit individual or group needs, including families, couples and solo travellers.

Luxury African Photo Safari Tours

Flexible, ethical photography safaris designed around lighting, time, and freedom, rather than crowds and constraints.

Our photo safaris in Africa are specially tailored for professional photographers shooting for exhibitions, selling fine art prints, people looking to update or build a portfolio, or anyone highly invested in photography as a hobby. They are all-inclusive of food and drink, and you’ll be staying at comfortable lodges or camp sites with modern amenities.

Safari’s built around light, not schedules.

Start before sunrise and get into a fantastic position as the light arrives. Shoot in golden and blue light rather than harsh mid-day sun and stay out into the late afternoon and evening, not returning until after sunset.

Specialist photography safari vehicles.

Spacious vehicles allow plenty of room to move side to side and to rest and steady your camera without jostling with another photographer.

Guides are collaborators, not drivers.

Safari with professional guides who understand animal behaviour and can anticipate movement rather than chase sightings. They all know how to position the vehicle perfectly for the right angle and light.

Everything you need as a professional photographer.

Including media tents with charging points, space and time to review your images, reliable power sources for your batteries and memory cards, wildlife hides at waterholes and night photography opportunities.

The camps and the staff offer close to nature experience whilst providing first class service and personalised care. For photographers the camps provide plenty of charging and a photographers work area, the camp staff understand your needs - from an early morning coffee to a G&T while editing your images in the evening. The drivers, spotters and vehicles are tuned for photographers and the ability to be off road and close to the animals offers unrivalled photographic opportunities. To sit and wait and observe natural behaviour and interactions in an undisturbed environment is a the heart of photographic opportunity.

Safari’s built around light, not schedules.

Specialist photography safari vehicles.

Spacious vehicles allow plenty of room to move side to side and to rest and steady your camera without jostling with another photographer.

Guides are collaborators, not drivers.

Everything you need as a professional photographer.

Enjoy almost zero restrictions on your photography safari at our Porini camps in Kenya.

Porini Camps are set within exclusive private conservancies, not national parks, giving photographers a level of freedom that is increasingly rare in East Africa.

Here, you can go off-road, stay with sightings, and leave camp before sunrise or return after sunset, allowing you to work with light, movement and behaviour rather than fixed schedules.

With strict limits on vehicle numbers (only one safari vehicle per 1,400 acres), wildlife encounters are calmer, less crowded, and far more natural. Combined with expert guides who understand both animal behaviour and photographic positioning, Porini’s conservancies give photographers the time and space to wait for the right moment, not rush past it.

Wildlife Photography Hides in Kenya

Wildlife photography hides offer a low-impact way to photograph animals at close range while allowing them to behave naturally and undisturbed.

Positioned at waterholes or natural wildlife corridors, hides provide eye-level perspectives that are rarely possible from a safari vehicle, resulting in more intimate and authentic wildlife images.

For photographers, hides encourage patience, observation, and respect for the environment. They also support conservation by reducing vehicle pressure and human presence around wildlife. In Kenya, several camps and lodges — particularly within private conservancies — feature purpose-built photographic hides that offer exceptional opportunities for ethical, high-quality wildlife photography.

Safari photography holidays across Eastern, Southern and Central Africa.

The only problem is that there isn’t enough time to see them all. Here are some of our favourite locations and notable landscapes for an African photography tour:

Kenya – Our Porini conservancies in Selenkay, Mara, Ol Pejeta and other areas cap tents at one per 700 acres and vehicles at one per 1,400 acres, giving photographers crowd‑free, Big Five encounters. Key landscapes include Amboseli’s elephant‑dotted plains, the savannahs of the Maasai Mara and the rhino sanctuaries of Laikipia.

Tanzania – Serengeti National Park (site of the Great Migration) and the wildlife‑rich Ngorongoro Crater headline most itineraries.

Uganda – the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park shelter over half the world’s mountain gorillas. Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, boat safaris on the Nile at Murchison Falls, chimp trekking in Kibale National Park, and the rugged Kidepo Valley also offer stunning photographic variety.

Republic of the Congo – The Congo Basin is a seldom-visited wilderness and contains the world’s second‑largest rainforest; lowland gorilla treks, forest elephant sightings and remote bai clearings in parks such as Odzala–Kokoua.

Zambia – South Luangwa National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park and Lake Kariba offer intimate wildlife encounters. The country’s low population density and landmarks like Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River also offer dramatic backdrops.

For more information on finding the perfect trip, arrange a consultation with one of our safari specialists.

Book a photography safari tour with our expert Alison Mees.

These tours are open to photographers of all levels, including beginners.

Alison Mees is a wildlife conservationist, qualified guide and award-winning photographer, who gained the ARPS (Associate of the Royal Photographic Society) in 2021.

Here are the trips Alison is running in 2026 & 2027.

October 2026 Alison Mees Photographic Safaris

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June 2027 Alison Mees Photographic Safari

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Mother greets her baby hyena. Taken on safari in Kenya by Alison Mees

February 2027 Women Only Photographic Safari

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Photography Safari Stories

Explore inspiring blogs and guest stories about photography safaris in Africa. From first-hand reviews to expert tips explore how a photographic journey can offer a unique blend of creativity, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounter.

Porini’s Masai Guides – a photographer could not hope for more!

Travel Guide Porini’s Masai Guides – a photographer could not hope for more! Here, first-time Porini Safari Camps guest Todd Martin from Canada shares his thoughts on his safari experience

Photo Ready Safari Vehicles at Porini Camps

Discover Porini Lion Camp’s custom photographic vehicle, designed for capturing perfect wildlife shots.

Unleash Your Photography Skills at Porini Camps: A Photographer's Review

Experience the ultimate paradise for photography enthusiasts at our camps. Jeevan, a talented photographer from the USA, shares his first-hand experience and insights from a photography enthusiast’s perspective.

Photographing the big cats from Porini Mara and Porini Lion camps

Jim Coda, wildlife photographer spent eight nights (seven full days and two half days) at Gamewatchers’ Porini Mara and Porini Lion Camps.

Porini’s Masai Guides – a photographer could not hope for more!

Travel Guide Porini’s Masai Guides – a photographer could not hope for more! Here, first-time Porini Safari Camps guest Todd Martin from Canada shares his thoughts on his safari experience

Photo Ready Safari Vehicles at Porini Camps

Discover Porini Lion Camp’s custom photographic vehicle, designed for capturing perfect wildlife shots.

Unleash Your Photography Skills at Porini Camps: A Photographer's Review

Photographing the big cats from Porini Mara and Porini Lion camps

Jim Coda, wildlife photographer spent eight nights (seven full days and two half days) at Gamewatchers’ Porini Mara and Porini Lion Camps.

Enhance your safari photography with our practical tips. Make the most of golden-hour light, compose with intention, and use wildlife behaviour to capture stronger, more impactful images.

Talk to a Specialist

Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari.

Man feeding a giraffe in a wildlife park with other giraffes in the background

Rick McIntyre

Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.

You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.

Rachel Chambers

Rachel Chambers

Hi, I’m Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams!

You can contact me at rae@gamewatchers.com

Smiling woman in a woven cowboy hat posing in front of rustic wooden cabin wall

Julie Roggow

Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.

Woman wearing a green hat and poncho sitting outdoors on grassland with colourful beaded bracelets

Item #1

Andrea Landaeta

Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I've had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you're eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com

Let's connect and embark on a journey through Africa's wild wonders together.

Smiling man with glasses and moustache wearing a black Trailblazer hoodie standing indoors

Pranay Chandra

Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.

You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or by phone at +91 801 788 5256

Kristy Thomson

I’m Kristy Thomson, your Australia-based Safari Expert, with 25 years in wildlife conservation and a deep love for Kenya’s landscapes, wildlife, and communities. I specialise in authentic, conservation-focused safaris across East and Southern Africa, creating experiences you’ll never forget.

With hands-on knowledge of Kenya’s private conservancies, National Parks, Porini Camps, and like-minded properties, I’ll help you plan your ultimate safari adventure. I also lead our small-group safaris — Porini with Purpose and Maarifa Kusudi — which are a guaranteed way to immerse yourself in Kenyan culture while getting behind-the-scenes insights into the wildlife and wild places we explore. Every Porini safari I plan supports local conservancies and the people who protect them. Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call +61 419 175 672

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Talk to a Specialist

Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Africa.

Rick Mcintyre

Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me. My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your very first safari, I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience. Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014. Let's embark on an unforgettable safari journey together, where the wild beauty of Africa awaits to enchant and inspire you.

Julie Roggow

Hi, I'm Rae, based on the West Coast of Canada, on beautiful Vancouver Island. I’m a passionate traveler who has explored nearly 30 countries, but it was a solo journey to Africa that truly transformed my perspective. From the moment I arrived in Botswana, I felt an undeniable connection to the continent and was inspired to spend more time experiencing its extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultures. My solo travels have since taken me through Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya, where I experienced Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps firsthand. It was during these immersive and unforgettable journeys that my passion for Africa evolved into a clear vision: to join the Gamewatchers team and help others discover the magic of safari. I’d love to connect and plan your wildest dreams! You can contact me at rae@gamewatchers.com

Rachel Chambers

Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@saririterra.com

Let’s connect and embark on a journey through Africa’s wild wonders together.

Andrea Landaeta

Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendors of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges. I’m based in Bangalore, India, and you can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or reach me by phone at +91 801 788 5256, including WhatsApp. Let’s embark on a journey to celebrate the beauty and conservation of our natural world together.

Pranay Chandra

I’m Kristy Thomson, your Australia-based Safari Expert, with 25 years in wildlife conservation and a deep love for Kenya’s landscapes, wildlife, and communities. I specialise in authentic, conservation-focused safaris across East and Southern Africa, creating experiences you’ll never forget.

Kristy Thomson

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FAQs — African photo safari tours.

Do I need to be a professional photographer?

No. Our tours are for professionals and serious, ambitious amateurs. If you’re a beginner looking to experience a tour, then you might be interested in Alison Mee’s trips (see above).

How close can we get to wildlife?

Very close, sometimes within 10-20 feet, but never at the expense of safety or animal welfare. This is made possible by highly trained, certified guides who read animal behaviour in real time and reposition or pull away immediately if any signs of stress are detected.

The priority is always respect for the wildlife first, with great images coming as a result of patience, space and ethical judgement rather than proximity alone.

What’s the vehicle density like on a photography safari that isn’t situated on your Porini conservancies?

Most camps and lodges typically operate vehicles with a maximum of six guests (including our Porini Camps). This setup generally allows each guest a window or open-side seat. For greater flexibility, uninterrupted positioning, and increased privacy—particularly important for photography—it’s recommended to book a private vehicle, which offers a more tailored and exclusive experience.

Is the light good enough outside peak seasons?

Yes, on our Porini conservancies especially. The light is excellent year-round because photography on our private conservancies is not limited by park hours, allowing early starts before sunrise and late finishes when light is best, while wildlife activity remains strong outside peak seasons through waterhole concentrations in the dry months and calving and predator action after the rains.

Where do I charge equipment and backup images?

Most camps and lodges provide facilities for charging camera equipment, as well as suitable areas to edit photographs and back up images. Some camps also offer dedicated media tents for photographers—Porini Lion Camp is one such example, providing a purpose-designed space for charging and editing.

What camera gear is recommended for a photography safari?

A DSLR or mirrorless camera, telephoto lens (300–600mm), wide-angle lens for landscapes, extra batteries, memory cards, and dust protection are recommended. Bean bags are often more practical than tripods in vehicles. See more on Safari Equipment Information

Is Wi-Fi available for uploading images?

Wi-Fi is usually available in most camps & lodges but may be limited or slow due to remote locations. Photographers are advised to rely on portable hard drives rather than cloud backups while on safari.

What’s included in your all-inclusive safari holidays?

Everything you will need! At a glance, here are some of the key things we offer:

Exciting game drives with private-use vehicles ensure you get close to Africa’s wildlife, with plenty of opportunities for photography.
Night drives
Guided walks
All meals and drinks
Conservancy & national park fees (no surprise costs).
Airstrip transfers (seamless transfer from plane to camp).
Laundry in most camps

We can also arrange internal flights and hotel nights on your behalf, reducing your travel planning stress.

Can your Photography Safaris be combined with beach holidays?

Yes — many travellers extend their photography safari with a beach stay, combining wildlife and coastal relaxation.

Explore our beach destinations for more inspiration.

Luxury African Photo Safari Tours

Flexible, ethical photography safaris designed around lighting, time, and freedom, rather than crowds and constraints.

Safari’s built around light, not schedules.

Specialist photography safari vehicles.

Guides are collaborators, not drivers.

Everything you need as a professional photographer.

Safari’s built around light, not schedules.

Specialist photography safari vehicles.

Guides are collaborators, not drivers.

Everything you need as a professional photographer.

Enjoy almost zero restrictions on your photography safari at our Porini camps in Kenya.

Wildlife Photography Hides in Kenya

Wildlife photography hides offer a low-impact way to photograph animals at close range while allowing them to behave naturally and undisturbed.

Safari photography holidays across Eastern, Southern and Central Africa.

The only problem is that there isn’t enough time to see them all. Here are some of our favourite locations and notable landscapes for an African photography tour:

Book a photography safari tour with our expert Alison Mees.

These tours are open to photographers of all levels, including beginners.

Photography Safari Stories

Safari Photography Equipment

Enhance your safari photography with our practical tips. Make the most of golden-hour light, compose with intention, and use wildlife behaviour to capture stronger, more impactful images.

Talk to a Specialist

Rick McIntyre

Rachel Chambers

Julie Roggow

Our Safari Specialists

Item #1

Pranay Chandra

Kristy Thomson

Talk to a Specialist

FAQs — African photo safari tours.

Curating ultimate tailor-made safari experiences for 35 years

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