7 Days Photographic Adventure

The best time is during the dry season (June to October) when wildlife viewing is at its best. However, the Great Migration in the Serengeti happens throughout the year, depending on location.

Maintain Distance: Always keep a safe distance from animals. Approaching too closely can disturb them and potentially be dangerous.

Stay Quiet: Keep noise levels down to avoid startling wildlife. Speak in low voices and avoid sudden movements.

Follow Instructions: Listen to your guide’s advice and instructions at all times. They are trained to keep you safe and ensure you have the best possible experience.

Layered Clothing: The weather can vary significantly throughout the day. Wear layered clothing that you can easily add or remove.

Sun Protection: Tanzania’s sun can be intense. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly.

Rain Gear: Even in the dry season, unexpected showers can occur. Carry a lightweight rain jacket.

Drink Plenty of Water: Dehydration can occur quickly, especially under the African sun. Always carry a water bottle and drink regularly.

Balanced Diet: Eat well-balanced meals to keep your energy levels up. Your safari package will usually include meals, but it’s a good idea to carry some snacks as well.

Insect Protection: Use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. Wear long sleeves and pants in the evening.

Medical Kit: Carry a personal medical kit with basic first aid supplies, including band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications.

Know Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures of your tour company. Make sure you know how to contact your guide or ranger in case of an emergency.

Capture the Moment: Always have your camera ready. Wildlife sightings can be fleeting, so be prepared to snap photos quickly.

Respect Privacy: When photographing local people, always ask for permission first. Be respectful of their culture and privacy.

Stable Shots: Use a bean bag or a camera stabilizer for steady shots, especially when shooting from a vehicle.

Leave No Trace: Minimize your environmental impact by following the principles of “Leave No Trace.” Take all your litter with you and dispose of it properly.

Respect Nature: Do not pick plants, disturb animals, or remove anything from the parks and reserves.

Support Conservation: Choose eco-friendly tour operators and lodges that support conservation efforts and local communities.

Language: Swahili and English are the official languages. Learning a few basic Swahili phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and show respect.

Dress Modestly: While on safari, dress comfortably but modestly, especially in local communities or villages.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in Tanzania. Tip your guide, driver, and lodge staff to show appreciation for their service. As a guideline, tip $10-$20 per day for guides and $5-$10 per day for lodge staff.

Stay Inside the Vehicle: For your safety and the animals’ well-being, stay inside the safari vehicle during game drives unless your guide indicates it’s safe to exit.

Respect the Space: Avoid standing up or moving around too much in the vehicle, as this can disturb the animals and other guests.

Quiet Observation: Enjoy the experience quietly and respect the need for silence to observe the wildlife undisturbed.

Patience Pays Off: Wildlife sightings can require patience. Animals may not always appear immediately, so enjoy the journey and be patient.

Stay Observant: Keep your eyes peeled and stay alert. Wildlife can often blend into the surroundings, and you might spot something others miss.

Stay Present: Immerse yourself in the moment and soak in the incredible sights and sounds of the African wilderness.

Share Stories: Interact with fellow travelers and guides, share stories, and learn from each other’s experiences.