Tanzania Safari Photography Tips Capturing Lions & Herds
A safari in Tanzania is a dream come true for wildlife photographers. From powerful lions lounging under acacia trees to herds of wildebeests thundering across the Serengeti plains, the photo opportunities are endless. At Mandari Travel, we specialize in crafting safari experiences that give you the best chances to capture unforgettable moments in the wild.
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a passionate beginner, these Tanzania safari photography tips will help you snap the perfect shot—especially when focusing on lions and large herds.
1. Gear Up for the Wild
For safari photography, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (200mm to 600mm) is ideal. Lions and other predators often rest far from the vehicle, so you’ll want that zoom range. Don’t forget extra batteries, memory cards, and a lens cloth to deal with dust.
Tip: A bean bag or window mount is useful for steady shots during game drives.
2. Photographing Lions Like a Pro
Lions are one of the top highlights on any Tanzania safari, especially in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. The best times to capture lions in action are early morning and late afternoon when they’re most active.
Tips for capturing lions:
- Focus on the eyes for powerful portraits.
- Use continuous shooting mode to catch yawns, roars, or cubs playing.
- Frame lions against the landscape for dramatic wide-angle shots.
Pro Tip: Golden hour lighting (just after sunrise or before sunset) creates warm, striking tones that elevate your lion photos.
3. Capturing Herds on the Move
Whether it’s elephants, zebras, or the Great Wildebeest Migration, photographing herds requires planning and patience. The key is to anticipate movement and find a unique angle.
Tips for photographing herds:
- Use a wide-angle lens to showcase size and scale.
- Capture dust trails for dramatic storytelling.
- Frame the herd with the landscape—especially in Serengeti or Tarangire.
Pro Tip: For action shots like stampedes or river crossings, use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 or more) to freeze motion.
4. Respect Wildlife & Embrace the Moment
Great wildlife photography also means being ethical and respectful. Stay quiet, follow your guide’s instructions, and avoid disturbing animals for a shot. Sometimes, the best moments are the unplanned ones—so always keep your camera ready!
5. Book a Photography-Friendly Safari with Mandari Travel
We understand the needs of wildlife photographers and provide:
- Experienced guides who understand positioning and lighting
- Customizable game drives for flexible timing
- Vehicle setups with open roofs or window space for better shooting angles
Whether you’re focusing on big cats, massive herds, or the perfect sunset shot, Mandari Travel ensures you’ll have every opportunity to capture Tanzania’s wild beauty.
Ready to Book Your Photo Safari?
Join us for a tailored photography safari across Tanzania’s top parks.
📧 Email us at info@mandaritravel
📞 Call/WhatsApp: +255 750 900 811
👇 Fill out the form below to request a personalized quote and start planning your dream safari with Mandari Travel.
