What to Pack for Safari Photos in Tanzania
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Going on a Tanzania safari is a dream for any photographer. The wildlife, the landscapes, the light – it’s pure magic. But the African bush is tough on camera gear. Dust, heat, and bumpy roads are part of the adventure.
This simple packing list is made for your Tanzania safari. We’ll show you exactly what you need to capture stunning photos of the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and beyond. Pack smart and shoot brilliantly with Travel Wise Safari.
1. Your Camera: Don't Go Without a Backup
Your camera is your most important tool. For a Tanzania safari, we tell all our guests one golden rule: bring a backup camera body. Why? If your main camera fails from dust or a simple fault, your trip isn't ruined. A second body also lets you keep two lenses ready at all times – so you never miss a shot of a running cheetah or a quiet elephant moment.
2. The Best Lenses for Tanzania Safari Photos
You don’t need many lenses, just the right ones.
- The Wildlife Lens (100-400mm or 200-600mm): This is your most used lens on safari. It gets you close to lions, leopards, and eagles without disturbing them. It’s essential for wildlife photography in Tanzania.
- The Landscape Lens (24-70mm): Use this to capture the wide, beautiful views of the Serengeti plains, your safari camp, and dramatic African sunsets.
- Extra Reach (A 1.4x Teleconverter): This small device makes your wildlife lens longer. It’s a lightweight and cheaper option than carrying a huge, heavy lens.
3. How to Keep Your Camera Steady in the Safari Vehicle
Forget a tripod – you can’t use it during game drives. The best tool for the job is a bean bag. You fill it and rest it on the vehicle's window sill. It’s the perfect, stable platform for your big lens. Your Travel Wise Safari guide will help you use it for the sharpest photos.
4. Must-Have Safari Accessories
- Memory Cards: You’ll take thousands of photos. Bring more storage than you think you need! Several 64GB or 128GB cards are better than one large card.
- Power Banks & Batteries: There are no power outlets in the bush. A large power bank (20,000mAh+) and 3-4 camera batteries are essential for long days on your Tanzania safari.
- Dust Cleaning Kit: The red dust of Tanzania is everywhere. A rocket blower and lens cloths are your best friends for keeping your gear clean.
- Your Camera Bag: A strong, comfortable, and weather-proof backpack is best for travel and game drives.