Top wildlife safari destinations for photographers in 2026
Planning your wildlife photography adventure for 2026? Choosing the right safari destination can transform your trip from great to unforgettable.
With over 15 years of experience guiding photographers, I’ve hand-picked the world’s most rewarding destinations for capturing extraordinary wildlife moments.
Keep reading to find out more about my private and small-group photo safaris in Kenya, India, Uganda - safari destinations I consider to be the very best for wildlife photographers.
Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, but these destinations consistently deliver unforgettable encounters. That’s why they remain my top safari destinations. They offer unrivalled wildlife sightings and immersive experiences in nature.
Seeking an unforgettable wildlife photography trip?
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the world’s most extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat, while capturing stunning photographs under expert guidance, my international wildlife photography trips are designed for you.
These trips are perfect for both wildlife photographers and non-photographers alike. They are wildlife photography holidays for those who want to experience authentic wildlife encounters, away from the crowds.
Wildlife photography trips: Now booking for 2026 and beyond
My wildlife photography trips can take you to breathtaking destinations, including:
Africa: Explore the vast savannahs and abundant wildlife of the Maasai Mara in Kenya, or in Amboseli National Park.
India: Discover the elusive beauty of tigers and diverse wildlife in its lush reserves.
Uganda: Trek through the forested hills to encounter majestic mountain gorillas.
Related reading: Upcoming Africa photography safaris
Unforgettable wildlife photography trips
Each of these safari destinations offers unique wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable photographic opportunities. I recommend them so highly as they continue to deliver for me and my safari tour guests year after year.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the safari destinations I recommend, highlight what makes each wildlife safari destination special and what wildlife you can expect to capture.
1. Maasai Mara, Kenya - The Great Migration & Big Cats
Why it’s exceptional: The Maasai Mara is one of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves, celebrated for its iconic savannah landscapes and incredible biodiversity. From lions and cheetahs to elephants and wildebeest, there’s no shortage of wildlife or photographic opportunities.
The Masai Mara is a place I have visited countless times over the past 15 years. Undoubtedly, it’s a premier destination for wildlife photographers.
If you’re keen to capture photographs of some of the Big 5 of African wildlife, including elusive Big Cats, or the dynamic scenes of the Great Migration, the Maasai Mara is a must-visit.
Related: The New Big Five Book
In the Maasai Mara, wildlife photography trip highlights include:
The potential for a wide variety of wild African animal portraits in their natural habitat
Dramatic sunrises and sunsets – the early morning and late afternoon light delivers the best quality images
Fascinating predator-prey interactions
We visit during February, March and November to see Big Cats, and in September for all the action of the Great Migration.
2. Amboseli National Park, Kenya – Elephants & Mount Kilimanjaro
Why it’s exceptional: Amboseli National Park in Kenya is famed for its large elephant herds and its expansive landscapes, as well as the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
My 7-day safari to Amboseli each September focuses on photographing these majestic creatures and their interactions. There’s also plenty of opportunity for a mix of wildlife and landscape photography while we are there.
In Amboseli, wildlife photography trip highlights include:
The potential to capture elephant families crossing dry lake beds and interacting in their natural environment, including Africa's giant Tusker elephants
Opportunities to photograph an abundance of birds and other African wildlife
Chances to photograph dramatic skies over open plains, and wildlife photography with the stunning mountainous backdrop.
We visit during the dry season in September. This time of year offers clear skies and optimal visibility of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Related: Tusker elephants: Your chance to witness the Giants of Amboseli
3. Uganda -Primate Encounters in Kibale & Bwindi
Why it’s exceptional: Uganda is a haven for primate photography, including mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in lush rainforest settings. It’s one of the few places where you can capture close-up portraits of these incredible creatures in the wild.
My 10-day safari in October and November focuses on chimpanzee tracking in Kibale and gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
In Uganda, wildlife photography trip highlights include:
The potential to capture the behaviours of playful chimpanzees in their natural habitat in Kibale.
Chances to photograph the endangered mountain gorillas in the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
A variety of landscapes which provide diverse and interesting backdrops for wildlife photography.
While in Uganda, fast lenses with wide apertures are essential for low-light rainforest conditions, and patience and respect for wildlife are key to capturing authentic behaviours.
The terrain we hike in Uganda can be challenging, but the results are unforgettable!
4. India - Tigers & Diverse Wildlife
Why it’s exceptional: India’s national parks, including Kanha and Bandhavgarh, offer a rich tapestry of wildlife. They are home to the elusive Bengal tigers, leopards, and a diverse range of other wildlife and unique birds.
We travel to India for the Tigers of India Photo Safari in April to focus on Bandhavgarh. Tigers in particular offer one of the most iconic photographic experiences in the world, and one of the most rewarding wildlife species to photograph.
The 15-day Wildlife of India tour covers Kaziranga, Pench, and Bandhavgarh (travel dates for 2026: 20th April – 6th May). These India tours can be combined.
In India, wildlife photography trip highlights include:
The opportunity to capture the majestic Bengal tigers in their natural habitat within Bandhavgarh National Park
The chance of photographing the one-horned rhinoceros and diverse bird species within Kaziranga National Park
The rich biodiversity and varied landscapes of Pench National Park.
Iconic wildlife and safari experiences
Each of these wildlife safari destinations offers something unique for photographers.
The Maasai Mara and Amboseli provide iconic African wildlife framed by legendary landscapes, Uganda offers rare primate encounters, and India delivers unforgettable big cat experiences.
Choosing the right destination depends on your photography goals, preferred wildlife subjects, and comfort with travel conditions. Each of these tours is designed to maximise your photographic opportunities while providing expert guidance every step of the way.
Why join one of my wildlife photography trips?
Join me on a wildlife safari in 2026 and beyond, and you will get:
Expert Guidance
All my tours include personal photography tuition. You will benefit from hands-on photography guidance and support, tailored to all skill levels. Whether you want to refine your wildlife photography skills or are a photography novice, I aim to ensure you return home with unforgettable wildlife images and as a more accomplished photographer.
Hand-Picked Locations
Each destination is meticulously chosen for its abundant wildlife and unique landscapes, far from the busy tourist trails. From the iconic big cats – leopards, lions and panthers of Africa, to the Bengal Tigers of India, and the primates of Uganda, you’ll witness iconic animals in peaceful, natural settings.
Small Group Experience
With limited spaces on each trip, you’ll enjoy a more intimate safari than you will on other ‘group’ wildlife photography trips, with more space in the safari vehicles so you can move around and get a great view from both sides.
Related: Why small group safari tours are the best choice for wildlife photographers
What could be better than a guided wildlife photography holiday where you can witness the beauty of nature and wild animals in breathtaking destinations around the world?
Top wildlife photo safari destinations
Ready to capture the wildlife of your dreams in 2026? Explore my guided safari tours to India, Uganda, and Africa, and secure your spot today.
These wildlife photography trips are crafted for nature and wildlife enthusiasts who:
Dream of seeing some of the world’s rarest and endangered wild animals in their natural environments
Care about responsible tourism that respects wildlife and habitats, and are seeking a safari experience that puts the animal’s welfare first, above all else
Want the convenience and confidence of being guided by an award-winning wildlife photographer with the security of knowing that all trips are tried-and-tested and fully insured.
Whether you’re a passionate photographer or simply a nature lover, these photo safari tours offer an unforgettable opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the wild and capture moments that will last a lifetime.
Book your 2026 wildlife photography safari
As ever, spaces are limited on all these wildlife photography trips, and interest is high, with many almost sold out already for 2026.
Please continue to browse my website for details on specific tours and destinations, and for dates and pricing information. When you are ready, get in touch for more information or to reserve your place.
It would be great to have you join me on an upcoming wildlife photography trip in 2026.
David