Africa Safari: Tanzania
February 1st - 10th, 2027

Explore Tanzania on a small-group photography safari with expert guidance, exceptional wildlife viewing, and carefully planned immersive experiences.

Explore diverse regions

The Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is a vast, self-contained caldera in northern Tanzania that supports one of the most diverse and productive ecosystems in Africa. From the forested crater rim and highland grasslands to the open savanna, wetlands, and soda lake on the crater floor, the habitat sustains an extraordinary concentration of wildlife year-round. This unique environment is home to both black and introduced white rhino, large lion populations, elusive small cats such as serval and caracal, elephants, and a rich variety of birdlife including flamingos, crowned cranes, and numerous waterbirds. The crater’s enclosed geography, permanent water sources, and fertile soils create a remarkably stable ecosystem, offering an exceptional window into the natural balance of the East African Rift Valley.

Ndutu Forest and Southern Plains of Serengeti

The Ndutu region and the southern Serengeti form a richly varied landscape where open short-grass plains blend seamlessly into acacia woodland, seasonal marshes, and shallow alkaline lakes. Set between the Ngorongoro Highlands and the Serengeti ecosystem, this area supports an exceptional diversity of wildlife and birdlife, especially during the wildebeest calving season when vast herds spread across the plains. Lakes Ndutu and Masek attract abundant waterbirds, while the surrounding forests, valleys, and marshes provide habitat for large predators, elephants, giraffes, and numerous antelope species. This mosaic of habitats, combined with expansive horizons and changing light, makes the Ndutu and southern Serengeti one of East Africa’s most dynamic and visually striking ecosystems.

Eastern and central Serengeti

The eastern and central Serengeti are defined by vast open plains punctuated by granite kopjes, shallow valleys, and seasonal waterways that create one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife landscapes. Areas such as the Gol, Zebra, Barafu, and Sametu Kopjes provide critical habitat for large and small predators, while the surrounding grasslands support elephants, giraffes, buffalo, antelope, and abundant plains game. The Seronera Valley adds riverine vegetation and permanent water, attracting a high diversity of birds and mammals year-round. This combination of rocky outcrops, rolling savanna, and fertile valleys makes the Serengeti a visually dramatic and biologically rich ecosystem.

Having led many tours myself, it was an absolute delight to take a step back and fully immerse myself in this incredible journey. Adi crafted a wealth of opportunities to truly capture the essence of Costa Rica. Even when the weather didn’t cooperate, his thoughtful and well-prepared backup plans ensured everything stayed on track effortlessly.If you ever have the chance to explore Costa Rica with Adi, don’t miss it—it’s an unforgettable adventure!

Adi’s tour in Costa Rica was a lot of fun! There was a lot of rain but Adi was able to rearrange the schedule and plan new activities. He also took into consideration what everyone in the group wanted to do when the schedule was changed or the weather wasn’t ideal. I really enjoyed the small group, too! Adi had obviously spent a lot of time researching and planning for our trip. The accommodations were really great for bird watching (and monkey watching!) and the food was delicious. We spent all morning watching the wildlife right from the deck at breakfast, and Adi made sure that everyone was getting the right angle for the perfect shot 🙂

I joined Adi and a group of photographers on a bird watching tour in Costa Rica. We had some unforeseen bad weather, but Adi was able to regroup and take us to beautiful alternate sites. I do not consider myself a photographer, but love to take shots of flora and fauna. The others in the group had professional cameras and took amazing shots, while Adi helped me capture some frame-worthy stills and videos from my iPhone. I was very impressed by Adi's knowledge of his craft, the location and the wildlife.

Enjoyed a wonderful photography adventure this November in Costa Rica with Adi Ringer our group leader. We went to three different regions ( Rain, Dry and Cloud forest) and saw so many various species of birds, and opportunities to photograph them was awesome along with other animal species. Also, I learned a few new photography tricks for capturing images, great feedback on my images shared and enjoying Costa Rica with my husband and meeting and making new friends as well.

Thank you, Adi, for such a wonderful experience. I took over 14K photos and learned so much from you. I improved my photo techniques over the trip to Costa Rica. I did come home tired, but what a great time we had. Food, animal sightings, and oh, the places we stayed. I would have never found any of those without you as our guide! A trip of a lifetime! I highly recommend this trip to photographers of all levels, because Adi is an exceptional teacher.

Details:

Skill Level

Technical

This tour/workshop is for all levels of photographers. To maximize your photo opportunities, I recommend:

Know your gear. Familiarity with your camera will allow you to apply techniques more quickly and avoid frustration in fast-changing situations. Be comfortable adjusting basic settings such as exposure compensation, metering modes, shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.
Practice the fundamentals. Spend time before the trip adjusting exposure for different lighting conditions so these decisions feel intuitive in the field.
Reach out ahead of time if needed. If you’re unsure about your skills or equipment, please contact me before the trip. I’m happy to make recommendations or help you prepare.

Photography instruction

Participants will arrive with a wide range of photography experience. Some may want minimal input, others occasional guidance, and some more hands-on help. Because of this, there will be no formal classroom setting.

Instead, instruction will be flexible, practical, and tailored to individual needs. I will work one-on-one or in small groups with anyone who would like assistance, and I’ll regularly check in throughout the day to answer questions, offer suggestions, or help troubleshoot challenges in the field.

An optional post-processing tutorial using Lightroom Classic will also be offered.

Lodging information

Because trips are planned far in advance, lodging may change due to availability, weather, or animal movement, but any adjustments will always be to equal or higher quality accommodations.

Mount Meru Game Lodge

Set on spacious, landscaped grounds near Arusha, Mount Meru Game Lodge offers a peaceful and comfortable introduction to Tanzania. The lodge features well-appointed rooms, gardens visited by resident wildlife, and views toward Mount Meru. It is an ideal place to recover from international travel and ease into the safari experience with attentive service, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Embalakai Tented Lodge

Embalakai Tented Lodge is perched near the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering sweeping views of the highlands and easy access to the crater floor. Spacious safari tents provide comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and a quiet retreat after time in the field. The elevated setting, warm hospitality, and excellent dining make it a rewarding base for exploring one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife areas.

Canopy Migration Camp, Ndutu

Canopy Migration Camp is a seasonal tented camp positioned close to the heart of the migration calving grounds. The camp offers classic safari comfort with spacious tents, ensuite bathrooms, and thoughtful touches that cater to photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Its location allows for early starts and quick access to prime wildlife areas, while evenings are spent enjoying meals, conversation, and the sounds of the African bush.

Canopy Wilderness Camp

Canopy Wilderness Camp is a small, intimate tented camp set in the remote Nyabogati Valley of the eastern Serengeti. Surrounded by open plains and kopjes, the camp offers an authentic wilderness experience with comfortable tents, private bathrooms, and a welcoming campfire atmosphere. Its secluded setting places us close to excellent big cat habitat while providing a quiet, immersive stay under the Serengeti sky.

Travel requirements

As of now, there are no special COVID requirements to enter Tanzania.

Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months and has at least one blank page. Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. While visas can be obtained on arrival, applying online in advance makes arrival smoother and less stressful. Official Tanzania e-Visa website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz

Before travel we recommend you consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on your travel route. Other common recommendations include Hepatitis A and B and typhoid. Malaria exists in some areas of Tanzania. Many travelers take anti-malarial medication and use insect repellent, especially in the evenings.

Insurance

Trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage, and medical/accident insurance is highly recommended. Adi Ringer and Adi Ringer Photography are not responsible for any damage or loss of luggage or gear; injuries or extra expenses not specifically outlined in this document before, during or after the program. Please research coverage and costs, we have no recommendations or affiliations.

Gear

For those who are more serious about photography, it is important to come prepared with the equipment needed to bring home strong images. The following is a recommended packing list for photographers who want flexibility, reliability, and peace of mind while in the field.

Bring a primary camera and, if possible, a backup or secondary camera. Having two camera bodies allows you to keep different focal lengths ready at the same time without changing lenses, and it also provides a backup in case of equipment issues. Lens choices should include a long zoom lens in the 400 to 500mm range, with a longer focal length recommended if birds are a primary focus. A zoom lens offers more flexibility than a fixed lens as animals are constantly moving. A medium to wide angle zoom lens, roughly in the 24 to 105mm range, works well for landscapes, environmental images, and situations when wildlife comes close to the vehicle.

Pack plenty of spare batteries and chargers, with enough capacity to last a full day of shooting, and make sure all batteries are fully charged each evening. Bring an ample supply of memory cards, keeping in mind that it is common to shoot 500 to 1,000 images or more in a single day. Planning for more storage than you expect to need is strongly recommended. UV or clear protective filters for each lens are helpful for protecting front elements from dust and damage.

A thorough lens and camera cleaning kit is essential and should include brushes, microfiber cloths, lens pens, an air blower, and sensor cleaning supplies. An auxiliary flash with a Better Beamer, MagMod, or similar extender can be useful for low light situations or subtle fill flash, though this is optional. Having a PDF or bringing camera and flash manuals can be helpful for troubleshooting in the field.

For image management, plan to bring a laptop or other device for downloading images each night, along with a portable external hard drive for backups. Having a second external hard drive as an additional backup is recommended. A fast memory card reader will speed up downloads and reduce downtime. Electrical adapters are required, as Tanzania uses UK-style three flat prong outlets.

Tripods and monopods are not needed on this trip, as all photography is done from the vehicle. Beanbags are provided and are the preferred support method for stabilizing long lenses while shooting.

Weather

Tanzania boasts a tropical climate, offering a diverse weather experience across its regions. Coastal areas embrace a hot and humid atmosphere, providing the perfect backdrop for seaside adventures. Meanwhile, the highland areas offer a cooler ambiance, creating a refreshing retreat. Understanding Tanzania’s distinct rainy seasons adds a layer to your travel preparations. The long rains usually grace the land from February to May, while the shorter rains make an appearance from November to December. These climatic nuances contribute to the dynamic beauty of Tanzania, providing a unique backdrop to your exploration of its captivating landscapes and cultural wonders.

What to pack

While packing and getting ready for your safari to Tanzania, we recommend you choose comfort over fashion. Neutral colors help blend into the environment. Light fabrics keep you cool during the day, while a warm jacket or fleece is important for early mornings. Comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Most camps offer laundry services, allowing you to pack fewer clothes.

Request Daily Itinerary & Full details

This was a great experience for any level of photographer. We encounter a remarkable array of wildlife, from monkeys and sloths to toucans and crocodiles. Adi Ringer is a wonderful guide and with his help I was able to enjoy this adventure in the lush jungles of Costa Rica, capturing unique and vibrant wildlife.

A highly recommended trip whether you are a beginning or an experienced photographer, or not a photographer at all! Adi is always there to point out a good shot and how background, camera setting and patience can capture the best shot; one you can hang on your wall! The tour guides had extensive understanding of the area and were exceptionally knowledgeable about birds, mammals, insects and other animal species. Their ability to spot the different species in a jungle environment among dense vegetation (or while driving on the highway at 50mph!) was something to behold- as was their knowledge of the animal.When is that next trip? Costa Rica- Pura Vida!

We shared several days with Adi tour in Costa Rica. He organized a great animal, bird photography tour, which the inclement weather make it a challenge to follow. Adi was able to still keep the momentum going and found alternatives that worked well. We were still able to take pictures of multiple birds and various animals. He offered valuable suggestions for pictures taking and was always supportive of all participants.

I have a background in photography but not wildlife photography, so when I learned about this excursion with Adi I was both intrigued and hesitant. I had never tried photographing birds in flight, but Adi was very helpful and supportive in every step of the way. As soon as we arrived in Costa Rica it was non-stop photography, taking every opportunity we had while we were there. It was completely new for me, yet by the end of the trip I could see birds and animals like I had been doing this forever. I would recommend this excursion to anyone who loves nature, as we were surrounded by beautiful natural settings and experiencing the best of it. I surprised myself with many of the photos I took, something I didn’t think I could do before this trip. Not having to worry about transportation or accommodations was a big plus, and the driver was very knowledgeable about the nature around us and very accommodating. Adi is the best, and I’m grateful for his teachings.

Great trip to Costa Rica. Saw 133 species of birds, went to the three major regions Caribbean, Pacific, Highlands, explored foothills, mountains, pastures, gardens, forests, rivers and beaches. Saw the big seven, Quetzal, Scarlet Macaw, Toucans, Aracari, Jacamar, Trogon, and Motmot. Adi and Marvin, the driver took good care of us. They were helpful, patient, and flexible, plenty of time for birding and photography. Accommodations were great, ecolodges in garden settings. Costa Rican food excellent. Sign me up, I want to go again.

Payment, fees, expenses & refunds

Tour Fee

The tour fee is $7,500 based on double occupancy. There is a single supplement of $800 if you want your own rooms. Limited to 9 participants.

What Is Included

• All airport, hotel, and ground transfers
• Exclusive use of 4×4 extended Toyota Land Cruiser
• All accommodations and meals as listed in the itinerary
• All national park fees, concession fees, and reserve entrance fees
• All fuel costs
• Unlimited game drives and mileage
• Bottled drinking water and soft drinks provided in the safari vehicle
• Laundry and beverages at Canopy Migration Camp and Nyabogati Wilderness Camp
• Safari wildlife and birding reference books in the vehicle
• Full-time support from ground operations team in Tanzania
• Professional, certified, English-speaking naturalist guide with over 8 years of experience
• Flying Doctors emergency evacuation membership

Photography instruction, pre planning, and post trip follow up related to the trip.

Expenses Not Covered

• International airfare in and out of Kilimanjaro International Airport
• Passenger facilitation fee (usually included in the ticket price of the airline)
• Laundry and beverages at select lodges and camps
• Travel insurance
• Gratuities and items of a personal nature
• Changes or cancellations beyond my control

Deposit and Payment

Deposit: A 25% deposit ($1875.00 per person) is required to reserve your space
Balance Due: On or before October 1^st, 2026
Full payment is required for bookings made after October 1^st, 2026.

Gratuities

Gratuities are not included. They are and not mandatory, and not an expectation as common as they are in the US. However, they can be an important part of someone’s income and are very much appreciated. You may tip to a general fund shared by all the staff at the lodges, or if you felt well taken care of by anyone in particular, you may tip them individually any amount you’re comfortable with. I will provide some general guidelines during our communications prior to departure.

Refund and Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made more than 180 days prior to departure are subject to a non-refundable fee of $1,000 per person to cover administrative costs and pre-paid expenses.
• 50% refund for cancellations made between 90 and 180 days prior to departure
• No refunds within 90 days of departure

On a case-by-case basis, credit toward a future trip, or a refund may be considered if a suitable replacement is found. Determination of suitability is at my sole discretion for the safety and cohesiveness of the group.

Inquiries and booking

Thank you for reaching out and for your interest in this safari. I will personally follow up, typically within 24 hours of receiving your inquiry. Based on your request, I will provide additional information, answer any questions, or schedule a follow-up call to discuss details and address any concerns.

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Africa Safari: Tanzania February 1st - 10th, 2027