African Photography Safaris

Join us in the wildlife hotspots of sub-Saharan Africa for a dedicated wildlife photography safari. With fieldcraft and photography tuition, we can offer photographers of all abilities an amazing ‘bucket-list’ experience.

Unlike a normal ‘tourist’ safari, you’ll have the time you need to immerse yourself in photographing incredible wildlife and behaviours from different angles, in different light and conditions to ensure you come home with plenty of incredible photographs as well as being an improved photographer.

African Photography Safaris Expert Guides

Expert Guides

Qualified, expert safari guides and professional wildlife photographers deliver fieldcraft, sightings, and wildlife photography tuition throughout your safari.

Responsible Travel African Photography Safaris

Responsible Travel

We’re committed to travel that actively supports conservation, local employment, and contributes to predator conservation programmes in the areas we visit.

Fun African Photography Safaris

… And Fun!

Our safaris are also about having fun! Unforgettable sundowners on the savannah and evenings around the fire. Stories, laughs, drinks and food in incredible wild places.

Trusted for More Than 10 years!

What do our guests say?

The whole trip has felt really well organised. I felt re-assured by all of the information Alan and Kaleel sent in advance.

Rachel Stead
Wild at Mattikoko 2022

It is fair to say that every expectation has been exceeded. These are things that will be lifelong memories,

Chris Stead
Wild at Mattikoko 2022

From the moment I booked the photography trip with Kaleel and Alan I was excited and thought this will be a ‘once in a lifetime adventure!’ The dreams I had going there made me so excited and they all became reality. Thinking back on this adventure brings back so many lovely memories and great sightings which enabled us to take wonderful images of the wildlife and the incredible landscapes and sundowners.

Every time when we went out we were rewarded with beautiful sightings, every day had its own big surprise.

Martin van Herwaarden
Maasai Mara 2018

My first trip with Alan, but not my last! He was keen to pass on his photographic knowledge without being condescending, suggesting different angles, techniques etc. What really impressed me was that he always put his clients needs first even if it meant missing his shot. All round a good egg!

Annette O’Connell
Wild at Mattikoko 2024

Thank you both so much for another unforgettable experience. I didn’t think it could get any better than last year, yes it did! I learned new photographic techniques from both of you as well as much more knowledge regarding the wildlife.

I would have no hesitation in recommending this safari to any wildlife photographer and those who also combine it with wildlife conservation. To all those thinking about this kind of safari I would say ‘go for it’. You will not regret making that decision!

Sue Veal
Maasai Mara 2015, 2016, 2017 & Wild at Mattikoko 2022

Joining your 2025 Photography Safari for 11 nights at the Mattikoko Camp (26 Aug – 7 Sept) was a “bucket list” experience for me. Literally everything about the Safari met or exceeded my expectations. The information and email assistance you provided prior to the safari was detailed and accurate. Health and safety was managed professionally. Everything was as you had presented it. This was really appreciated as it gave me confidence on what was my first travel experience in Africa.

The Mattikoko Camp and its staff were outstanding. The warmth of their welcome and the way they looked after everyone during our stay was in itself a highlight, as were the meal times and the food.

Every game drive seemed to bring at least one wildlife encounter that made us feel “how lucky were we to see that”! The knowledge and experience of our guides, Moses and James was terrific.

As a photography experience it was excellent. Alan and Kaleel were always ready and interested in assisting with their knowledge and experience when asked no matter your level of photography experience. The informal workshop sessions during the day were very helpful and enjoyable.

I really enjoyed sharing the experience with the other guests on the safari and learned much from them as well. What a great group we had.

Thank you for running a wonderful Safari.

John Hoad
Wild at Mattikoko 2025

Thanks for a fantastic week! I learned lots, I saw the most beautiful and memorable sights the Mara has to offer and met new friends. Oh, and captured much of this on “film”. Thanks to you both, I appreciate a tour like this requires a lot of planning, logistics and that you’re always on call. It was great!

For me, an unforgettable and rewarding experience. Champion! Thanks and safe travels!

David Callaghan
Maasai Mara 2019

This was something I have always dreamed of doing. The whole experience of this trip has surpassed my expectations, I had to continually nip my arm to see if I would wake up. Our guides got us into the right spot to take our photos and Alan and Kaleel were always on hand to give you tips and as much instruction time as you needed, even with the editing over a beer or two.

Will we endorse this trip and would we go back? Definitely!

Paul & Debbie Kidd
Maasai Mara 2018

Alan was a breath of fresh air compared to my other non UK experiences on Photo Tours. Alan was always there for us and only took photos if he had finished with supporting us and testing the conditions. As we were out and about, he commented generally on photography conditions and recommended settings and opportunities without being annoying ;-)!

In free periods Alan was there to offer general support and guidance. Always polite, humorous at the right times and took photography and animal behaviours seriously sharing thoughts as we went along.

Two back to back tours that were full, really great fun, informative with great photo opportunities and learning opportunities animal and photography wise. Will not hesitate in joining Alan on any future tours.

Derek Bridel
Wild at Mattikoko 2024

Alan & Kaleel have been absolutely amazing, terrific help. This is my first safari trip and it certainly won’t be my last.

Phil O’Brien
Wild at Mattikoko 2022

I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone thinking about going. Our guides were so knowledgable about the area & wildlife. They knew how to position the vehicles to get the ‘best’ shots & gave us guidance around settings and when cameras weren’t working correctly.”

The wildlife we saw throughout the trip was fascinating and no two days were alike. I would definitely like to return one day.

Ann Tyson
Maasai Mara 2018 & Wild at Mattikoko 2022

We probably saw more species in the first hour than most people will be privileged to see in their life. They relate to me as a person, not as a customer. They look after my wellbeing which is why I am with them for the third time.

Don Vawter
Maasai Mara 2019 & Wild at Mattikoko 2022

I just wanted to say thank you for hosting such a great trip – I have so many lovely memories and I am re-living them now as I sort out my photos. The migration crossing was something that I have always wanted to see so it was fantastic to have such a wonderful view.

Linda Gould
Maasai Mara 2019 & Wild at Mattikoko 2022

The best of any guides I’ve ever come across before.

Richard Drake
Wild at Mattikoko 2022

Meet the Team… And Hear Their Words of Wisdom!

Alan

Alan Hewitt African Photography Safaris

“When you’re looking up at baboons in a tree, keep your mouth closed. Nature has its own way of reminding us who is above you!” ~ Alan

Wildlife photographer, filmmaker, writer & safari leader. Co-presenter of the epic African Photography Safaris podcast, Captain Crayons of the website, renowned beer and biltong specialist and obsessive fieldcraft junkie.

More about Alan…

Kaleel

Kaleel Zibe African Photography Safaris

“Giraffes are wonderfully curious and elegant animals. Until they get too close and sneeze. Then it’s pretty much chaos!” ~ Kaleel

Wildlife Photographer, filmmaker, drone pilot & safari leader. Co-presenter of the epic African Photography Safaris podcast, grandmaster of safari cocktails, red wine, overly complex camera set-ups and spreadsheets.

More about Kaleel…

Latest Wild Insights

More Wild Insights…

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Lioness African Photography Safaris

Our Ethos

Giraffe African Photography Safaris, Our Ethos

At African Photography Safaris, we go beyond teaching photography techniques. We believe that passing on fieldcraft and subject knowledge not only makes our guests better photographers, but it also helps us all work more ethically and promotes conservation too.

We work in areas where there is a constant need to balance the impact of people and the well-being of the natural habitats and eco-systems. Our wildlife photography safaris favour locations where tourist numbers are very carefully managed, where rules are established to avoid disturbance and stress to wildlife, their habitat and local communities.

We also favour camps and lodges in private conservancies and reserves where our presence provides benefits to wildlife conservation groups and helps local community employment, health and education initiatives.

We actively contribute towards the crucial work of the Mara Predator Conservation programme, both financially and also by providing photographic resources. We also visit and donate money to rhino conservation in the Mara Conservancies.

The African Photography Safaris Podcast

African Photography Safaris Podcast

Step into the world of wildlife photography safaris with our podcast. We share real, day-to-day experiences from the field, from early morning drives to unforgettable wildlife encounters across Africa.

Each episode covers what you need to know about photographic safaris: travel tips, gear advice, fieldcraft, shooting techniques, and how to get the best from your time in the bush. We also answer listener questions, review helpful books and apps, and reflect on some of our most memorable moments in the African wilderness.

Whether you’re planning your first safari or reliving past adventures, this podcast brings you the stories, skills, and soul of Africa’s wild places.

  • Episode 15… Question Time for the Podcast – Alan Answers Angrily, Highlights & Exposure, Video Frame Rates and Kaleel Ignores his Doorbell!
  • Episode 14… Image Theft, May in Botswana, Videography and Termite Mounds
  • Episode 13… Bird Photography Special! The Allure of Bird Photography, Swift & Tern Global Migration, Beat About The Bush Birds Book Review & More.
Private African Photography Safaris

Custom designed private photography safaris are perfect for individuals, couples or groups travelling together. We’ll use our expertise and experience, together with our networks and connections to advise and plan your very own bespoke African photography safari.