Brand New Release
Dates For 2025-2026
Reservations Available Now
Limited Availability
Reservations Available Now
Limited Availability
Find Your Next Photo Adventure
Trip Calendar Most Popular Photography Tours 2024 Photography Tours 2025 Photography Tours 2026 Photography Tours 2027 Photography Tours Spring Photography Tours Summer Photography Tours Fall Photography Tours Winter Photography Tours Landscape Photography Tours Wildlife Photography Tours International Photography Tours
Stay Up To Date On All Things
Backcountry Journeys
Backcountry Journeys
Our Photography Community
Our Blog
From articles on the latest camera gear, to trip reports from our latest expeditions, our blog is meant for all interested in travel photography.Our Webinars
Our regularly hosted webinars provide photography instruction from our own guides on a wide range of topics.Our Education Portal
Explore our library of articles that cover everything from common questions, to in-depth guides on how to achieve that perfect shot.Community Testimonials
We're proud to foster an amazing group of photo travelers, and here you can find their stories from their past adventures.About Backcountry Journeys
Why Choose Backcountry Journeys
If you're considering a photography tour, hear why Backcountry Journeys delivers the best experience in the industry.Frequently Asked Questions
If you're new to photography tours, or new to BCJ, you can find our common travel questions here.Fitness Levels
Our trips vary on physical intensity, and by reviewing our fitness levels, you can find out which trips may be more challenging, or aligned more closely with your comfort level.Meet The Crew
We've built an amazing team of experienced guides, and dedicated office staff that elevate your travel experience. Get to know their backgrounds, and hear their stories.Travel Desk
You can review our various payment, and travel policies here, along with resources regarding international travel.Gift Certificates
Give the gift of photo adventure! We offer gift certificates that can be applied to any of our upcoming tours.Contact Us
If you need to get in touch with our office staff, or have additional business inquiries, you can find our information here.Resources For Photographers
About Our Company
JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP - THE BCJ TRIBE
JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP - THE BCJ TRIBE
The Top 5 Photography Destinations in Africa
The Top 5 Photography Destinations in Africa
by Keenan Hursh
Africa, a continent of unparalleled beauty, wilderness, and biodiversity, beckons photographers to explore its vast landscapes and witness nature in its rawest form. From the sun-kissed plains of the Serengeti to towering peaks and sand dunes that kiss the sky, Africa is a visual feast for nature and wildlife photographers.
In today’s article, we’ll embark on a comprehensive journey through the top five photography destinations on the continent, diving into the unique wonders each country and specific locations within have to offer. It’s worth noting that Africa is an incredibly diverse continent (arguably the most diverse on earth) when it comes to culture, wildlife, and landscapes. Of course, there are countless destinations throughout Africa with exceptional photography opportunities but these 5 are the ones we’re the most excited about here at Backcountry Journeys.
With that being said, let’s get right into it and take a look at the top 5 photography destinations in Africa!
In today’s article, we’ll embark on a comprehensive journey through the top five photography destinations on the continent, diving into the unique wonders each country and specific locations within have to offer. It’s worth noting that Africa is an incredibly diverse continent (arguably the most diverse on earth) when it comes to culture, wildlife, and landscapes. Of course, there are countless destinations throughout Africa with exceptional photography opportunities but these 5 are the ones we’re the most excited about here at Backcountry Journeys.
With that being said, let’s get right into it and take a look at the top 5 photography destinations in Africa!
Botswana: Where the Wild Heart Beats
Botswana, often referred to as the jewel of Southern Africa, is a land of untamed beauty and pristine wilderness. Renowned for its commitment to conservation and low-impact tourism, Botswana is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking authentic wildlife encounters. From the prolific Mashatu Game Reserve to the meandering Chobe River and the enchanting Okavango Delta, Botswana is a photographer's dream. Let’s take a look at some of the specific places within this vast country that stand out as wildlife photography hotspots:
Mashatu Game Reserve:
In the heart of Botswana, the Mashatu Game Reserve stands as a testament to the country's dedication to preserving its natural heritage. This expansive reserve nicknamed the "Land of Giants," is home to massive herds of elephants, imposing lions, and elusive leopards. Photographers can easily traverse the diverse landscapes, from savannas to riverine forests, capturing the dynamic interplay between predators and prey.
Chobe River National Park:
Chobe River National Park, along the picturesque Chobe River, boasts one of Africa's highest concentrations of wildlife. Embark on a river safari to photograph elephants engaging in playful water antics, crocodiles basking on the banks, and many diverse bird species in flight. The juxtaposition of water and wilderness creates a canvas for captivating compositions.
Okavango Delta:
The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unfolds as a watery labyrinth of channels and islands. Explore this unique ecosystem by traditional mokoro (a type of wooden canoe), capturing reflections of acacia trees in mirrored waters and documenting the diverse wildlife throughout. The annual flood transforms the delta into a thriving oasis, offering photographers an ever-changing canvas of life and color.
At Backcountry Journeys we offer several exceptional photography tours in Botswana including our Ultimate Botswana Wildlife Safari, our Big Cats of Africa trip, and our Botswana: Land of Giants workshop. All of these trips are absolutely exceptional and travel to the best locations for respective wildlife subjects.
Botswana, often referred to as the jewel of Southern Africa, is a land of untamed beauty and pristine wilderness. Renowned for its commitment to conservation and low-impact tourism, Botswana is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking authentic wildlife encounters. From the prolific Mashatu Game Reserve to the meandering Chobe River and the enchanting Okavango Delta, Botswana is a photographer's dream. Let’s take a look at some of the specific places within this vast country that stand out as wildlife photography hotspots:
Mashatu Game Reserve:
In the heart of Botswana, the Mashatu Game Reserve stands as a testament to the country's dedication to preserving its natural heritage. This expansive reserve nicknamed the "Land of Giants," is home to massive herds of elephants, imposing lions, and elusive leopards. Photographers can easily traverse the diverse landscapes, from savannas to riverine forests, capturing the dynamic interplay between predators and prey.
Chobe River National Park:
Chobe River National Park, along the picturesque Chobe River, boasts one of Africa's highest concentrations of wildlife. Embark on a river safari to photograph elephants engaging in playful water antics, crocodiles basking on the banks, and many diverse bird species in flight. The juxtaposition of water and wilderness creates a canvas for captivating compositions.
Okavango Delta:
The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unfolds as a watery labyrinth of channels and islands. Explore this unique ecosystem by traditional mokoro (a type of wooden canoe), capturing reflections of acacia trees in mirrored waters and documenting the diverse wildlife throughout. The annual flood transforms the delta into a thriving oasis, offering photographers an ever-changing canvas of life and color.
At Backcountry Journeys we offer several exceptional photography tours in Botswana including our Ultimate Botswana Wildlife Safari, our Big Cats of Africa trip, and our Botswana: Land of Giants workshop. All of these trips are absolutely exceptional and travel to the best locations for respective wildlife subjects.
Kenya: A Symphony of Life Beneath Kilimanjaro
Kenya, the land of the Maasai Mara and Amboseli's iconic elephants, is a wildlife photographer's paradise that encapsulates the spirit of East Africa. With the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as a constant companion, Kenya's national parks and reserves provide a stunning backdrop for capturing the diverse wildlife shots below the canvas of the African sky. If you want to capture gorgeous wildlife images with the best backgrounds in all of Africa then check out these specific locations within Kenya:
Amboseli National Park:
Amboseli, known for its large elephant herds, offers a surreal setting with Mount Kilimanjaro towering in the background. Photograph elephants against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, creating images that showcase the grandeur of both wildlife and landscape. The park's open plains also provide opportunities to capture lions, cheetahs, and giraffes in their natural habitat.
Masai Mara National Reserve:
The Masai Mara, synonymous with the great annual migrations of Africa, invites photographers to witness the ebb and flow of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and the many predators that follow herds. The expansive plains dotted with acacia trees provide the perfect stage for documenting the circle of life in the animal kingdom.
Kenya is a truly special nation that houses incredible biodiversity and stunning scenery. At Backcountry Journeys we recently launched our brand-new Masai Mara & Amboseli: Icons of Africa photography workshop and we couldn’t be more excited to travel to these incredible places with a handful of lucky guests!
Kenya, the land of the Maasai Mara and Amboseli's iconic elephants, is a wildlife photographer's paradise that encapsulates the spirit of East Africa. With the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as a constant companion, Kenya's national parks and reserves provide a stunning backdrop for capturing the diverse wildlife shots below the canvas of the African sky. If you want to capture gorgeous wildlife images with the best backgrounds in all of Africa then check out these specific locations within Kenya:
Amboseli National Park:
Amboseli, known for its large elephant herds, offers a surreal setting with Mount Kilimanjaro towering in the background. Photograph elephants against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, creating images that showcase the grandeur of both wildlife and landscape. The park's open plains also provide opportunities to capture lions, cheetahs, and giraffes in their natural habitat.
Masai Mara National Reserve:
The Masai Mara, synonymous with the great annual migrations of Africa, invites photographers to witness the ebb and flow of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and the many predators that follow herds. The expansive plains dotted with acacia trees provide the perfect stage for documenting the circle of life in the animal kingdom.
Kenya is a truly special nation that houses incredible biodiversity and stunning scenery. At Backcountry Journeys we recently launched our brand-new Masai Mara & Amboseli: Icons of Africa photography workshop and we couldn’t be more excited to travel to these incredible places with a handful of lucky guests!
Tanzania: The Theater of Great Migrations
Tanzania, a land of contrasts, encompasses the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, the sweeping plains of the Serengeti, and the awe-inspiring Mara River. It is here that the great annual migrations of wildebeest and zebra unfold, creating a visual spectacle that draws photographers from around the globe. Tanzania is quite simply the stage of one of the largest and most impressive movements of life on the entire planet. Period. Let’s take a look at some of the specific locations that stand out as truly exceptional:
Ngorongoro Crater and Conservation Area:
Step into the ancient caldera of the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater hosting an abundance of wildlife. Frame shots of rhinos, lions, and flamingos against the dramatic backdrop of the crater's walls. The unique landscape offers photographers a chance to capture intimate moments in a confined yet diverse ecosystem.
Serengeti National Park and Mara River:
The Serengeti, an expansive savanna that stretches into Kenya as the Masai Mara, is the stage for the Great Migration. Follow the thundering herds as they cross the Mara River, confronting crocodiles and predators in a primal struggle for survival. The Serengeti's vast plains provide a canvas for sweeping panoramas and close-up shots of Africa's most iconic species.
Here at Backcountry Journeys, we’ve had our eyes on this part of the world for a long time and we’ve officially launched an epic wildlife adventure like no other. Be sure to check out our new Serengeti Wildlife Safari: Great Migration trip that visits these iconic locations at the perfect time of year to witness these migrations in full force. If you want raw, untamed nature on full display then this trip is for you!
Tanzania, a land of contrasts, encompasses the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, the sweeping plains of the Serengeti, and the awe-inspiring Mara River. It is here that the great annual migrations of wildebeest and zebra unfold, creating a visual spectacle that draws photographers from around the globe. Tanzania is quite simply the stage of one of the largest and most impressive movements of life on the entire planet. Period. Let’s take a look at some of the specific locations that stand out as truly exceptional:
Ngorongoro Crater and Conservation Area:
Step into the ancient caldera of the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater hosting an abundance of wildlife. Frame shots of rhinos, lions, and flamingos against the dramatic backdrop of the crater's walls. The unique landscape offers photographers a chance to capture intimate moments in a confined yet diverse ecosystem.
Serengeti National Park and Mara River:
The Serengeti, an expansive savanna that stretches into Kenya as the Masai Mara, is the stage for the Great Migration. Follow the thundering herds as they cross the Mara River, confronting crocodiles and predators in a primal struggle for survival. The Serengeti's vast plains provide a canvas for sweeping panoramas and close-up shots of Africa's most iconic species.
Here at Backcountry Journeys, we’ve had our eyes on this part of the world for a long time and we’ve officially launched an epic wildlife adventure like no other. Be sure to check out our new Serengeti Wildlife Safari: Great Migration trip that visits these iconic locations at the perfect time of year to witness these migrations in full force. If you want raw, untamed nature on full display then this trip is for you!
Namibia: A Desert Canvas of Wonders
Namibia, a land of stark contrasts, juxtaposes towering red dunes with desolate coastlines, surreal landscapes, and unique wildlife. From the otherworldly Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, Namibia offers photographers a diverse array of subjects against a backdrop of hauntingly beautiful terrain. If you want to photograph both wildlife and stunning landscapes on the African continent, then this is the place. Here are our favorite locations within the vast and diverse nation of Namibia:
Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei:
Sossusvlei, with its towering red dunes, stands as a testament to the sculpting hand of time. As the sun bathes the dunes in warm hues, photographers can capture the interplay of light and shadow, creating mesmerizing patterns on the sand. And venture into Dead Vlei, a surreal landscape filled with ancient camelthorn trees, offering photographers an ethereal setting for unique compositions against the backdrop of massive red dunes.
Skelton Coast and Swakopmund:
The Skeleton Coast, with its haunting landscapes and shipwrecks, provides a dramatic setting for photographers seeking a blend of desolation and beauty. The coastal town of Swakopmund, nestled between the dunes and the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique juxtaposition of desert and sea.
Spitzkoppe:
The granite peaks of Spitzkoppe create a surreal playground for photographers. As the sun sets, the rocks glow with warm hues, offering a breathtaking backdrop for capturing the rugged beauty of Namibia's interior. Photograph ancient rock paintings, unique geological formations, and the expansive starlit sky over Spitzkoppe, creating images that evoke a sense of timelessness.
Damaraland:
Damaraland, characterized by rocky landscapes and ancient petroglyphs, presents photographers with a canvas of geological wonders. Capture the contrast between the rugged terrain and the hardy desert-adapted wildlife, including desert elephants and oryx. The warm, earthy tones of Damaraland offer a rich palette for photographers to compose images that tell the story of survival in a harsh environment.
Etosha National Park and Okonjima Nature Reserve:
Etosha National Park, a vast salt pan surrounded by grasslands, is a haven for wildlife photographers. The park's waterholes attract a diversity of species, providing ample opportunities to capture elephants, lions, and zebras against the stark, white landscape. Journey to Okonjima Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for rescued big cats, where photographers can document these apex predators in their natural environments ensuring the survival of Namibia's carnivores.
Namibia is a truly diverse and incredible place nestled on the western coast of Africa. With a vast array of locations to visit presenting stunning landscape and wildlife photo opportunities, it’s no surprise that this place is on our shortlist. If you want to experience this diversity for yourself then sign up for our Wild Namibia Photo Safari!
Namibia, a land of stark contrasts, juxtaposes towering red dunes with desolate coastlines, surreal landscapes, and unique wildlife. From the otherworldly Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich Etosha National Park, Namibia offers photographers a diverse array of subjects against a backdrop of hauntingly beautiful terrain. If you want to photograph both wildlife and stunning landscapes on the African continent, then this is the place. Here are our favorite locations within the vast and diverse nation of Namibia:
Sossusvlei and Dead Vlei:
Sossusvlei, with its towering red dunes, stands as a testament to the sculpting hand of time. As the sun bathes the dunes in warm hues, photographers can capture the interplay of light and shadow, creating mesmerizing patterns on the sand. And venture into Dead Vlei, a surreal landscape filled with ancient camelthorn trees, offering photographers an ethereal setting for unique compositions against the backdrop of massive red dunes.
Skelton Coast and Swakopmund:
The Skeleton Coast, with its haunting landscapes and shipwrecks, provides a dramatic setting for photographers seeking a blend of desolation and beauty. The coastal town of Swakopmund, nestled between the dunes and the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique juxtaposition of desert and sea.
Spitzkoppe:
The granite peaks of Spitzkoppe create a surreal playground for photographers. As the sun sets, the rocks glow with warm hues, offering a breathtaking backdrop for capturing the rugged beauty of Namibia's interior. Photograph ancient rock paintings, unique geological formations, and the expansive starlit sky over Spitzkoppe, creating images that evoke a sense of timelessness.
Damaraland:
Damaraland, characterized by rocky landscapes and ancient petroglyphs, presents photographers with a canvas of geological wonders. Capture the contrast between the rugged terrain and the hardy desert-adapted wildlife, including desert elephants and oryx. The warm, earthy tones of Damaraland offer a rich palette for photographers to compose images that tell the story of survival in a harsh environment.
Etosha National Park and Okonjima Nature Reserve:
Etosha National Park, a vast salt pan surrounded by grasslands, is a haven for wildlife photographers. The park's waterholes attract a diversity of species, providing ample opportunities to capture elephants, lions, and zebras against the stark, white landscape. Journey to Okonjima Nature Reserve, a sanctuary for rescued big cats, where photographers can document these apex predators in their natural environments ensuring the survival of Namibia's carnivores.
Namibia is a truly diverse and incredible place nestled on the western coast of Africa. With a vast array of locations to visit presenting stunning landscape and wildlife photo opportunities, it’s no surprise that this place is on our shortlist. If you want to experience this diversity for yourself then sign up for our Wild Namibia Photo Safari!
Rwanda: The Enchanting Gorilla Kingdom
And last but certainly not least we have arrived at the fifth and final destination on our list. Rwanda, often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is synonymous with the conservation success story of the mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. Volcanoes National Park provides a rare opportunity for photographers to capture the intimacy and vulnerability of these magnificent creatures.
Volcanoes National Park:
In the lush forests of the Virunga Mountains, embark on a trek to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Photograph the expressive faces and intricate social interactions of these gentle giants only feet away from your lens. The challenging terrain and close encounters create a unique and emotionally charged photographic experience, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance between humanity and wildlife.
At Backcountry Journeys we’ve been running our Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda photography trip for years and I’m constantly blown away by the images that are captured. If you want to capture the emotions and social interactions of one of the most interesting mammals on earth in an intimate setting then this trip is for you!
And last but certainly not least we have arrived at the fifth and final destination on our list. Rwanda, often called the "Land of a Thousand Hills," is synonymous with the conservation success story of the mountain gorillas in the Virunga Mountains. Volcanoes National Park provides a rare opportunity for photographers to capture the intimacy and vulnerability of these magnificent creatures.
Volcanoes National Park:
In the lush forests of the Virunga Mountains, embark on a trek to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Photograph the expressive faces and intricate social interactions of these gentle giants only feet away from your lens. The challenging terrain and close encounters create a unique and emotionally charged photographic experience, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance between humanity and wildlife.
At Backcountry Journeys we’ve been running our Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda photography trip for years and I’m constantly blown away by the images that are captured. If you want to capture the emotions and social interactions of one of the most interesting mammals on earth in an intimate setting then this trip is for you!
Conclusion:
As we conclude our photographic journey through Africa's top destinations, the allure of the continent's untamed beauty and wild places only grows. Each country, with its unique landscapes and wildlife, beckons photographers to step into the wilderness and capture moments of raw, unfiltered nature.
Africa, with its diverse ecosystems and enchanting creatures, stands as a testament to the beauty that unfolds when humans and wildlife coexist in harmony. So, get ready to pack your camera gear, embrace the adventure, and witness the wild through the lens of your camera. Africa awaits, ready to reveal its wonders to those who seek to capture them.
As we conclude our photographic journey through Africa's top destinations, the allure of the continent's untamed beauty and wild places only grows. Each country, with its unique landscapes and wildlife, beckons photographers to step into the wilderness and capture moments of raw, unfiltered nature.
Africa, with its diverse ecosystems and enchanting creatures, stands as a testament to the beauty that unfolds when humans and wildlife coexist in harmony. So, get ready to pack your camera gear, embrace the adventure, and witness the wild through the lens of your camera. Africa awaits, ready to reveal its wonders to those who seek to capture them.
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
AUTHOR
AUTHOR
Keenan Hursh is a Photographer, visual designer, and creative story teller based out of Bozeman, Montana. He draws inspiration from his frequent excursions into the natural world and always brings his camera along to capture whatever adventures he finds himself in. Keenan is passionate about documenting and sharing fleeting moments from the natural world and focuses primarily on wildlife, landscape, and adventure photography.
When it comes to gear, he primarily shoots digital with his Canon EOS R5 and EOS 6D mark ii but also has several 35mm film cameras that get out every now and then.
At a very young age, Keenan started bringing a camera along on his excursions and immediately fell in love with the art of photography. He started out with his parent’s cheap point and shoot and has continuously improved his craft and gear refining his shooting style and producing more compelling and intriguing images.
Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, surrounded by mountains and wilderness, Keenan has developed a deep passion for many outdoor activities. When he’s not out on a shoot or using his camera, Keenan enjoys skiing, climbing, hiking, backpacking, cycling, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. If he’s outside, away from the distractions of society and civilization, he’s in his happy place.
Keenan studied Emergent Digital Practices at the University of Denver while minoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Since earning his degree in 2019 he was worked with a wide range of clients, companies, and organizations throughout his career. Apart from photography he specializes in content creation, writing, brand development, and graphic design.
You can view Keenan’s portfolio on his website at www.keenanhurshphoto.com
SEARCH THE BLOG
clear
Join our free photo-travel community group on Facebook. A great place to swap stories & share images with fellow photographers!
Live events & webinars from the comfort of your own home. Free webinars on a variety of photography related topics – from photo editing to composition & more.
Check out the BCJ Trip Calendar for all of our upcoming Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris!
FEATURED TRIP:
Ultimate Botswana Wildlife Safari
Discover the ultimate African Wildlife Photography Safari and capture images to last a lifetime!
Ultimate Botswana Wildlife Safari
Discover the ultimate African Wildlife Photography Safari and capture images to last a lifetime!
UPCOMING TRIPS WITH AVAILABILITY
UPCOMING TRIPS WITH AVAILABILITY
[Block//Web Spots Left]
[Block//Trip//Trip Category (Destinations)]
[Block//Start Date %M d %+0]- [Block//End Date %M d, Y%+0]
From [Block//Current Price]
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
READ OUR NEWSLETTER FOR NEW TRIPS, ARTICLES, & PROMOS
READ OUR NEWSLETTER FOR NEW TRIPS, ARTICLES, & PROMOS
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.