Among the world’s epic wildlife events, few can match Tanzania’s Great Migration. And for nature photographers, there is simply nothing like being in the midst of thousands upon thousands of wildebeest and zebra as they make their annual trek over the Serengeti Plains in pursuit of new grass. Agile predators steal behind, poised to seize the young and the weak that trail the great herds. To truly capture the wonder of the migration, it’s essential to photograph it from key locations that offer a close-up vantage on the action—and our private safari camps ensure that, situated in the remote bush near the herds and far away from crowds. Other wildlife abounds, too, and we expect plenty of opportunities to capture exciting shots of big cats, elephants, giraffe, gazelle and so much more. Our Expedition Leaders, who are both top naturalist guides and wildlife photographers, are by your side every step of the way to help you get the coveted shots you're after!
Trip Highlights
Itineraries Designed Around the Migration
Our route is adjusted seasonally for proximity to the herds, maximizing your chance to photograph Africa’s most dramatic wildlife phenomenon at close range
Private Serengeti Camps Far from Crowds
Enjoy unparalleled seclusion, comfort, ambience and photo action at Nat Hab's own private camps, including our luxury mobile camp near the migration route
Capture Your Best Shots with Our Superb Guides
No matter your skill level, our Photo Expedition Leaders will help you take your photos to the next level, sharing their trove of tips and techniques with personalized coaching
All Migration Photo Safaris Are NOT the Same!
No wildlife event on the planet rivals Africa’s Great Migration for sheer drama. Twice each year the huge herds make a great circuit across the Serengeti Plains, following the grass that sprouts with the seasonal rains. To capture action shots of this phenomenon is on many a wildlife photographer’s bucket list. But it’s crucial to choose the right trip—because all Tanzania migration safaris are not the same! Here's why you'll get better photos with us:
An Itinerary Designed for Optimal Migration Photography
Many companies operate the same standard “migration” tour year-round, driving the entire northern circuit of Tanzania with no concern to be in a particular place at a time that jibes with the arrival of the herds. We focus on the best time to see the animals, then build our safari itinerary and dates around that, attempting to time our presence for peak photo opportunities, without rushing.Fly from Arusha to the Serengeti to Maximize Time on Safari
Our Safari Expedition Leaders meet you in Arusha, then we fly to the Serengeti, meeting our vehicles and trackers in the bush. And we return by air, too, avoiding long, dusty drives over often-rough roads. Many companies drive you to and from the Serengeti, a trip that can take 6-8 hours one way. By flying, we maximize time for what you’ve come to Africa for: watching wildlife on safari!An Open Window Seat for Every Guest
Every traveler is guaranteed a window seat. We know how important unimpeded views are when you've come all this way to see and photograph the migration. That's why we split our group into separate top-of-the-line 4x4 safari vehicles, so no one is stuck in a middle seat. With just four guests per vehicle, each person gets an open side view with plenty of room for your personal belongings and photography equipment.Each Traveler Gets a Whole Row in Our Vehicles
With just four guests per vehicle (and sometimes fewer), each Photo Expedition guest gets not just a side view but an entire row, enabling unobstructed views out both sides, and plenty of space for your gear. Enjoy room to spread out and angle for perfect shots—because we know how important unimpeded views are when you've come all this way to see and photograph the migration!Remote Private Camps for Proximity to the Migration
Rather than using crowded lodges where vehicles depart each morning in large numbers, often surrounding the same animals all at once, we enhance your experience with our own small luxury bush camps located in remote spots where wildlife is prolific. Natural Habitat's mobile Migration Camp and Serengeti East Camp give us proximity to the migration others miss out on—not to mention closer encounters with a host of other wildlife, too, including feline predators.A Maximum of Just 8 Travelers—Divided into Three Vehicles—Ensures Intimate Wildlife Encounters
A small group is essential for optimal wildlife photography, and Nat Hab boasts the smallest groups in the industry. We take a maximum of 8 guests, and we divide into multiple vehicles with radio contact to track the migration. Small groups mean we get closer to the herds for better photos, with more personalized photography guidance from our Expedition Leader.Additional Weight Allowance—Take All Your Photo Equipment
Most airlines and safari companies in East Africa strictly limit luggage to 33 pounds per guest, including carry-on bags, with even the highest priced trips having this limitation. On our Photo Expedition, we have reserved extra seating permitting a special luggage allowance of 60 pounds per guest—making it easier to carry all your essential camera equipment.The World's Finest Photo Safari Guides
Natural Habitat Adventures is known worldwide for employing the finest naturalist guides on the planet, and on our Photo Expeditions, they are also expert wildlife photographers adept at helping guests capture the best possible images. Among the most highly trained guides in Africa, they are renowned for providing exceptional service—and superb photography coaching. With you from beginning to end, our Expedition Leaders average approximately 15 years' guiding experience. Their training is further enhanced by the resources of WWF’s premier scientists. See Expedition Leader bios with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Superior Photo Safari Experience
Natural Habitat Adventures offers an exclusive guarantee, which states that we will meet the lofty expectations we set forth in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise.Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey
We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.
