Should I bring a drone?

Most national parks in Africa prohibit drones entirely. They are often confiscated at the border or airport upon arrival. Leave it at home unless you have a specific filming permit from the local wildlife authority.

How do I keep my gear clean while on a game drive?

Keep your gear covered with a light, non-synthetic cloth when not actively shooting. Use the air blower at the end of every drive, but avoid deep cleaning in the field to prevent blowing dust deeper into the sensor.

Is it safe to leave my gear in the safari vehicle?

Yes, while you are out on a game drive, your gear is generally safe with your guide. However, never leave it unattended in common lodge areas. Use a bag that doesn't look like a typical 'camera bag' to avoid unwanted attention.

How to Pack Camera Gear for an African Safari

Prioritize a weather-sealed camera body, a lens with at least 400mm of reach, and a robust dust-prevention system. Pack everything in a carry-on size hard-shell case and bring a dedicated 'bean bag' mount instead of a tripod.

Protect against fine dust. Safari dust is incredibly fine and works its way into everything. Bring multiple rolls of high-quality gaffer tape to seal your camera bag zippers and a supply of Ziploc bags for your backup lenses and memory cards.
Choose your lenses. You need reach. A 100-400mm lens is the industry standard for safari. If you only have a 70-200mm, bring a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter. Do not waste space on wide-angle lenses unless you are specifically planning to shoot landscapes.
Use a bean bag instead of a tripod. Tripods are useless inside a safari vehicle. Buy an empty 'bean bag' mount online, pack it flat, and fill it with dried beans or rice once you arrive at your lodge. This stabilizes your camera perfectly on the vehicle's window frame.
Manage your power. Lodges often have limited charging times (or solar power). Bring at least three camera batteries and a dual-slot charger. If your lodge uses generator power, a small portable power bank for your backup battery is a lifesaver.

Should I bring a drone?: Most national parks in Africa prohibit drones entirely. They are often confiscated at the border or airport upon arrival. Leave it at home unless you have a specific filming permit from the local wildlife authority.
How do I keep my gear clean while on a game drive?: Keep your gear covered with a light, non-synthetic cloth when not actively shooting. Use the air blower at the end of every drive, but avoid deep cleaning in the field to prevent blowing dust deeper into the sensor.
Is it safe to leave my gear in the safari vehicle?: Yes, while you are out on a game drive, your gear is generally safe with your guide. However, never leave it unattended in common lodge areas. Use a bag that doesn't look like a typical 'camera bag' to avoid unwanted attention.