Image: Pixabay
South Africa is known for its vast and exciting landscapes. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur photographer, a South African safari is the perfect opportunity to capture that once-in-a-lifetime shot.
With the right amount of patience and curiosity, the South African safari could be the best experience you will ever have. From mountain ranges to wildlife, this country has many snap-worthy spots scattered across the landscapes.
Here are a few of the best tours and excursions that South Africa has to experience, specifically geared towards both professional and amateur photographers.
The best South African photography tours
The full South African tourist experience is incomplete without a safari. To see the vast majority of African wildlife might take more than just a 4-hour bush drive. For those who plan to capture the ‘Big Five’ or have an African vacation planned, a lodge may be the best option.
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Kruger National Park – African Photo Safari
This 4.9 million-acre game reserve is the beating heart of South Africa. The diversity of the park is unparalleled anywhere else in Africa and ranks as one of the top wildlife experiences on the continent. Visitors won’t only get the opportunity to capture some of the most spectacular animals on the planet, but also test their wildlife photography skills on baobab and Marula trees.
The park consists of many lodges and campsites to choose from. Ranging from lavish stays, romantic suites, and minimalist camping options, it’s the golden ticket for any photographer waiting to snap the frame of a lifetime. The park offers both day tours and longer stay options. So, take the time and snap as many photos as possible.
Addo Elephant Park
Contrary to the name, Addo Elephant Park is not home to just 550 elephants waiting to be photographed. Its lions, buffaloes, and various antelope species have also been a favorite among photographers for decades.
The area surrounding the park has many accommodations to choose from, leaving you spoiled for choice. Activities range from hiking, river tours, horseback riding, and elephant back safaris, creating the best that any South African photo safari can offer.
The park’s conservation efforts make it possible to get up close to the animals without endangering them, or yourself. Photographing a lion while on horseback is the best way to have a photographic tour of South Africa.
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uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park
Deep in the heart of Kwa-Zulu Natal, surrounded by the magnificent Drakensberg, lies the eco-tourist destination – uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park.
These 600 000 acres of an undisturbed landscape captures the true essence of Africa. Photographers are lured to this spot year after year due to its spectacular views and hiking spots.
The halo of mountain ranges and uninterrupted bush run for miles, so there is always a perfect shot lined up around every corner. The African sunset is a great backdrop to any hiking trail waiting to be photographed.
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South African Photo Safari – Day Tours
If you are crunched for time but still want a full photo safari experience, day trips might be a great option. Offered by the best conservation organizations in South Africa, these parks and beaches will give any photographer a reason to fall in love with this diverse country.
Grab your camera and hop on the next available tour for the photo opportunity of a lifetime.
Cape Point and Boulder Beach Penguins
South Africa has no shortage when it comes to beach experiences. With some of the most alluring beaches in the world, you will be able to surf, shark dive, and swim, all on the same day.
But Boulder Beach at Cape Point offers something different – crystalline water, blue African skies, and penguins.
This family-friendly beach is a one-of-a-kind experience and the perfect location for photographers looking to snap these tuxedo-wearing birds.
After paying the $4 cover charge, you will be able to spend the day and photograph as many penguins as you can find, making it one of the most affordable wildlife photographic experiences available.
This beach falls part of The Table Mountain National Park that consists of many attractions all over Cape Point.
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Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
Just outside of the metropolitan area of Johannesburg, Pilanesberg Nature Reserve is the perfect spot for photographers looking for a safari experience.
The reserve offers many packages including a Pilanesbrug day trip consisting of two scenic game drives that will offer you a chance to see all the magnificent animals and still make it back for dinner.
The park is home to more than 7 000 animals, including the Big 5, and over 360 species of birds. This reserve will surely be a short but memorable photographic excursion.
Marine Big 5 Photo Safari
If the idea of marine photography sounds more appealing than a bush safari, Hermanus would be the perfect stop during your South African vacation. Photograph whales, seals, sharks, dolphins, and penguins all during the same boat ride.
A marine photo safari in South Africa is a one-of-a-kind experience and is the perfect opportunity for amateur and professional photographers alike to capture a whale tail sticking out from the water just a few feet away.
Image: Pixabay
Final Thoughts on Photo Safari experiences in South Africa
When planning your next vacation abroad, consider South Africa. Not only will you experience the vast and magnificent landscape, but the friendly locals will also be eager to show you around.
The South African photographic safari opportunities are an exciting way to capture some of the best nature and wildlife shots you can possibly ask for. The extensive list of parks and tours make sure that every kind of photographer can have the best experience.
From hiking trails in the Drakensberg to elephant-back rides in Addo Elephant Park, capturing the African essence has never been easier.
