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4 September 2025 by Norire Arakelyan
Whether you're an avid photographer or simply love snapping that perfect shot for the memories, Africa offers a rich tapestry of photographic opportunities, from stunning landscapes to diverse cultures and wildlife. In fact, many of our trips across the continent take you to some of its most extraordinary scenery, offer ample opportunities to soak in the majesty of its wildlife on safari and capture the true warmth and diversity of its people, whether through the lens of a camera or in your mind’s eye. Below, we share 16 destinations that should be top of your photographic - and travel - bucket list when booking your next African holiday.
1. Kruger National park, South Africa
Herd of elephants in Kruger National Park
South Africa's iconic Kruger National Park offers some of the world's best photographic opportunities and wildlife viewing experiences. Indeed, one of the best things about the park is its sheer abundance of animals, meaning you're never too far from a potential photo opportunity. You'll have plenty of chances to capture animals in their natural habitats, whether they're hunting, resting or playing. This includes all members of the Big Five as well as countless other species. What's more, covering over 7500 square miles, the landscapes are as varied as they are beautiful, from thick bushy plains to dry savannah panoramas – allowing you to capture a wide range of photos.
2. Namib Naukluft National Park, Namibia
Fossilised camel thorn trees in Deadvlei, Namibia
Captivating in size, and totally breathtaking with its nature, Namib Naukluft National Park is Africa's largest game park. At the heart of it lies the oldest desert in the world – the Namib Desert – with its remarkably coloured sand dunes, some of the largest found anywhere in the world. Its landscapes also include towering mountains, naturally carved canyons and expansive gravel plains. For both landscape and wildlife photographers, it is simply a must-see destination. Key to any visit to Namib Naukluft National Park are Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, remote white salt pans surrounded by sweeping vivid red sand dunes. Deadvlei is also home to a collection of iconic fossilised camel thorn trees which have been present for centuries. The sunsets in this part of the desert are among the most iconic, so be sure to stick around with your camera at the ready. Despite its reputation for harsh conditions and drought, it still allows for a surprising amount of diversity when it comes to flora and fauna.
3. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen, the "blue pearl" of Morocco
Imagine a town bathed in blue. Chefchaouen – nicknamed the "Blue Pearl" – is a photographer's dream. The labyrinthine medina with its walls and houses painted in every shade of azure creates a visually stunning scene quite unique to anywhere in Africa, and indeed the world. Winding alleyways open into squares adorned with vibrant flowers, all begging to be captured by the avid photographer. Best of all, it's a car-free town – yet more reason to pay a visit. Beyond the blue, the town has a rich history and culture that is reflected in everything from its food to traditions. Explore the Kasbah, a fortified citadel that now houses a museum, or visit the Grand Mosque, a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. For those looking for epic landscape shots, Chefchaouen nestles in the Rif Mountains, which means endless opportunities to capture rugged backdrops, scenic olive groves and impressive vistas.
4. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls – seen from both Zimbabwe and Zambia
At over a mile wide and 100 metres tall, Victoria Falls boasts the largest curtain of falling water on Earth. Huddled in between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the falls are impressive from either side, but in particular from Zimbabwe between the months of March and May where they're at full flow. Capturing their immense scale is a challenge, but its breathtaking panoramas, endless cascading water and rainbow-drenched vistas are all hugely rewarding. The surrounding parks such as Zambezi National Park also offers an abundance of wildlife viewing potential with animals including elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and several species of antelope. You'll also have a chance to photograph a variety of animals against the backdrop of the falls, such as elephant herds silhouetted against the cascading water or resident birds in mid-flight, soaring above the mist. Over in Zambia, visitors can enjoy thrilling game drives as well as immersive river safaris.
5. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Zebra, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
With an enticing combination of stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater is a photographer's dream. The crater itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the world's largest intact caldera, formed when a massive volcano collapsed millions of years ago. The crater rim rises over 600 meters, and its floor is home to an incredible variety of animals, with over 20,000 large mammals living within its walls. This includes all of the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo), as well as zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and many more. Photographers will have the chance to capture these animals in a stunning setting.
6. River Nile, Egypt
Traditional felucca sailing the River Nile, Egypt
The mighty Nile is not only Africa’s longest river, but also a place rich in history and culture. Photography along its banks offers an unmatched blend of natural and human scenery, from the slow, graceful glide of traditional feluccas to vibrant riverbank markets and lush islands dotted with palm trees. Sunrise and sunset on the Nile are particularly magical, painting golden light over the water while fishermen cast their nets or locals go about their daily routines. Beyond the river itself, nearby temples, ancient ruins, and towering monuments add rich historical context, making the Nile a destination that showcases both natural and man-made beauty
7. Table Mountain, South Africa
Table Mountain, overlooking the city of Cape Town
Table Mountain dominates the Cape Town skyline, offering panoramic views that stretch from the bustling city streets to the Atlantic Ocean. Photographers will delight in the diverse angles the mountain provides, from dramatic cliff edges to sweeping views of the surrounding bays. Its unique flat summit is often crowned with a “tablecloth” of clouds, creating an ever-changing canvas for landscape photography. Trails and cable cars offer accessible vantage points, while the rich flora of the mountain itself paints the perfect contrast to the city below.
8. Himba communities & culture, Namibia
Himba women near Opuwo, Namibia
In the arid north of Namibia, the Himba people provide an extraordinary cultural photography experience. Known for their intricate hairstyles, red-ochre body paint, and traditional jewellery, the Himba are both visually striking and deeply connected to their environment. Photographing daily life here – with permission, of course – offers insight into centuries-old customs, from milking cattle to ceremonial gatherings. The stark beauty of the surrounding landscapes – sandy plains punctuated by distant mountains – provides a stunning backdrop for portraits and candid shots alike. Respectful engagement is key, and the result is a collection of photos that capture a rare authenticity.
9. Avenue of the baobabs, Madagascar
An alley of Grandidier's baobabs on Madagascar's iconic Avenue of the Baobabs
Located in the south-west of the island, Madagascar’s Avenue of the Baobabs is a living forest of giants. These ancient, towering trees, sometimes over 800 years old, create surreal silhouettes, especially at sunrise and sunset when the light softens and shadows stretch across the red earth. Walking the dirt road between the towering trunks is an experience in itself, and the trees hold cultural significance for local communities as well as ecological importance for the surrounding area. Beyond the trees, the surrounding landscape of savannah and distant mountains provide a beautiful backdrop, certainly worthy of inclusion if you are planning a Madagascan adventure.
10. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Some of Africa's best beaches are found on Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a tropical paradise that feels almost otherworldly. Located in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean about 10 miles off the east coast of Mozambique, turquoise waters lap against pristine, white sand beaches, while coral reefs just offshore are teeming with marine life, from colourful fish to majestic dugongs. Photographers can capture the vibrant hues from above on boat tours, or dive underwater for a completely immersive perspective. Sandy dunes, palm-fringed islands, and traditional fishing villages add further variety. Whether you’re drawn to aerial photography, intimate wildlife portraits or tranquil seascapes, the archipelago offers endless possibilities in a tropical, sun-drenched setting.
11. Okavango Delta, Botswana
Gazelles in the Okavango Delta, Botswana
Each year, seasonal floodwaters from distant Angola flow down the Okavango River and spill into the Kalahari Desert, transforming a barren region into what is known as the Okavango Delta – a wetland paradise teeming with life. Photographers here can expect to encounter an extraordinary array of wildlife, from elephants and hippos to crocodiles and myriad bird species, all living among an intricate network of channels, lagoons and islands. Water safaris provide opportunities to capture reflections, morning mists and animals in motion, while the seasonal floodwaters create ever-changing landscapes. Better yet, the Okavango Delta is easy to include within a longer Botswana itinerary, visiting such places as the Makgadikgadi Pans and Chobe National Park.
12. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Giraffes with Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance
Mount Kilimanjaro, rising proudly in northern Tanzania, is Africa’s highest peak and an icon of the continent. While many come to climb it, the region around the mountain is just as rewarding, especially for photographers. The surrounding landscapes are a striking blend of rolling savannah, lush farmlands and grassy plains, all watched over by Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit in the distance. The contrast of golden sunsets against the mountain’s silhouette makes for unforgettable scenes. This region is also rich in wildlife. Amboseli National Park, just across the border in Kenya, is famous for herds of elephants wandering beneath the towering mountain backdrop. Closer to Kilimanjaro, you can spot giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and countless bird species. Local Chagga villages on the mountain’s lower slopes offer cultural encounters and a chance to photograph vibrant traditions.
13. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
Namibia's inhospitable Skeleton Coast, home to numerous shipwrecks and whale skeletons
Namibia’s Skeleton Coast is a remote and hauntingly beautiful stretch of coastline that spans over 500 kilometres, famed for its eerie shipwrecks and stark, otherworldly landscapes. Despite its forbidding reputation, the region is a haven for photographers seeking dramatic and unique imagery. Towering sand dunes, rugged cliffs, and rocky outcrops meet the crashing Atlantic, creating stark contrasts of land, sea, and sky. The coastline is home to colonies of playful Cape fur seals, while brown hyenas, dolphins and even desert-adapted elephants provide unexpected wildlife encounters in this harsh environment. Fog rolling in from the ocean often adds a mysterious atmosphere, while scattered shipwrecks, whale bones, and abandoned machinery offer surreal, unforgettable compositions. The Skeleton Coast combines raw natural beauty with haunting remnants of human history, making it an ideal destination for those looking to capture dramatic landscapes, intriguing wildlife and the eerie, isolated character that defines one of Africa’s most unique regions.
14. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Rwanda
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a great location for photographing Mountain Gorillas
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of Africa’s most remarkable natural treasures. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this dense rainforest is thought to be over 25,000 years old, making it one of the continent’s oldest ecosystems. Its name, “Impenetrable,” reflects the thick vegetation, tangled vines, and towering trees that create a dramatic and mysterious landscape. Mist often hangs over the hills, giving it an almost magical atmosphere. The forest is most famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, offering a rare chance to capture powerful yet intimate moments with these gentle giants. But gorillas are not the only stars – chimpanzees, forest elephants, and over 350 bird species bring endless opportunities for wildlife shots. Butterflies, orchids, and waterfalls add striking details to any scene.
15. Garden Route, South Africa
Driving the Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route in South Africa is one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the world, running along the country’s southern shores between Mossel Bay and Storms River. Known for its dramatic landscapes, it combines lush forests, rugged mountains, golden beaches, and sparkling lagoons. The ever-changing scenery creates a stunning backdrop that makes every turn feel like a new photo opportunity. Wildlife and birdlife thrive here too. You might photograph dolphins playing in the surf, whales breaching offshore, or colourful bird species in the forests. Nature reserves offer chances to capture ancient trees, waterfalls, and peaceful rivers. Small towns and harbours add charm with their vibrant culture and coastal views. Best of all, it is a natural inclusion in all great South African self drives.
16. Lake Nakuru, Kenya
Millions of flamingos nest along the shores of Lake Nakuru every year
Lake Nakuru, nestled in Kenya’s Rift Valley, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Famous for its vast flocks of flamingos, which turn the lake’s shores into shimmering pink vistas visible from miles away, it offers a spectacle unlike any other. But Lake Nakuru is more than a birdwatcher’s paradise. Its surrounding national park is a sanctuary for endangered species, including black and white rhinos, as well as giraffes, lions, leopards, buffalo, hyenas and a variety of antelope. The striking contrast of vivid flamingos against the muted acacia-dotted plains and volcanic hills creates endless photographic opportunities, especially in the soft light of early morning and late afternoon.
