For most of us, going on safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or at least once every ten years. Finding the best camera for safari and going there is one of the most magical things you will do and an unforgettable memory.
A moment like that deserves to be captured in high-quality photos and videos that you can share with friends and look back on in the future.
Again, speaking from experience, many of us buy our first camera or update our current one for the trip. Before my first safari trip, I invested in a new camera and a slew of new accessories, and I have no regrets about doing so.
In this post, I’m delighted to share what qualities make the best camera for safari, why, and some of my favorite options currently on the market based on my experience.
This essay has been divided into several sections, emphasizing readers with little camera experience. I’ll detail the various camera kinds in this piece, including point-and-shoot, mirrorless, DSLR, and cameras specifically designed to record video.
I’ll list my favorite options and explain my decision-making process for each part below. All of this should assist you in determining the kind of camera you require and finally locating the ideal camera for your safari.
Which are the best camera for safari?
1. Sony Alpha A6000
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Sony | Model Name: ALPHA A6000 | Form Factor: Mirrorless | Effective Still Resolution: 24.3 | Special Feature: BIONZ X Image Processor; Fast Hybrid AF & 179 Phase-Detect Points | Optical Zoom: 1 x | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI, NFC | Screen Size : 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: APS-C | Product Dimensions: 4.72 x 1.77 x 2.64 inches | Item Weight: 12.2 ounces | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. | Date First Available: February 12, 2014 | Manufacturer: Sony |
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I’ll start this list with the Sony Alpha a6000, a cost-effective mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. Despite being quite modest, this camera has provided some good features and qualities to various photographers, and it is the best camera for safari and will perform admirably.
Great photos may be produced by the Sony Alpha a6000 thanks to its wonderful 24.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor and Bionz X image processing. Additionally, you can purchase a set of them for a reasonable price, and they are compatible with various lenses from the company’s catalog.
This camera boasts a hybrid autofocus mechanism that combines 179 phase-detect focus points with 25 contrast-detect points to provide speed and sensitivity. The continuous drive mode can also produce 11 frames per second, which is ideal for our requirements. With its incredibly lightweight 344-gram body and excellent ergonomics, you have a performance that you can count on.
2. Canon EOS 80D
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Canon | Model Name: 80D | Form Factor: DSLR | Effective Still Resolution: 24.2 MP | Special Feature: Alcohol-Free | Optical Zoom: 1 x | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI, NFC | Screen Size: 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: APS-C | Product Dimensions: 3.09 x 5.47 x 4.14 inches | Item Weight: 1.4 pounds | Item model number: 1263C004 | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery are required. (included) | Date First Available: February 18, 2016 | Manufacturer: Canon |
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The Canon EOS 80D was introduced as an enthusiast-level DSLR camera with several fantastic features that I, along with other photographers, fell in love with. To begin with, this camera is fairly lightweight and compact for what it delivers, measuring 5.474.133.11 inches and weighing only 730 grams with the battery inside. This battery offers 960 images on a single charge.
A 24MP APS-C-sized CMOS sensor that resolves a lot of detail is included in the Canon EOS 80D. Additionally, it comes with the successful Digic 6 image processor. No one even matches Canon’s widest selection of lenses for their EOS family.
This camera’s contrast-detect sensor, which uses 45 AF points, all of which are cross-type, super-fast, super-sensitive focus points, provides autofocus performance. It establishes itself as a valuable camera by producing a reasonable 7 frames per second in continuous drive mode.
3. Sony Alpha a7 III
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Sony | Model Name: Sony a7 III | Form Factor: Compact | Effective Still Resolution: 24.2 MP | Special Feature: Portable | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, NFC | Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm) | Flash Memory Type: SD Card, SDHC | Item Weight: 5.57 Pounds | Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 6.1 x 5.7 inches | Item Weight: 5.57 pounds | Item model number: Alpha a7 III | Date First Available: December 4, 2018 | Manufacturer: Sony |
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The Sony Alpha a7 III is one of the cameras I have long been a fan of. This Sony model is a favorite of many photographers since it makes everything perfect. First and foremost, despite being a full-frame model, this camera weighs only 650 grams and is weather- and dust-sealed.
A brand-new 24.2MP back-illuminated full-frame CMOS sensor, which produces excellent detail reproduction, is included in the Sony Alpha a7 III. This camera has a Bionz X image processor inside. Sony has assembled a sizable lineup of lenses for its mirrorless line of cameras, and you will have no trouble deciding.
The flagship Sony Alpha A9’s 193-point phase-detect focusing mechanism, which is quick and precise even in the darkest environments, is used by the Sony Alpha a7 III. This camera’s burst mode, which can take up to 10 frames per second, enables you to record every moment of your safari.
4. Fujifilm X-T3
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Fujifilm | Model Name: X-T3 Body – Black | Form Factor: Mirrorless | Effective Still Resolution: 26.1 MP | Special Feature: Image-stabilization | Optical Zoom: 3 x | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB, HDMI | Screen Size: 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: 1.5-inch | Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.6 x 6.4 inches | Item Weight: 1.19 pounds | Item model number: X-T3 Body – Black | Batteries: 1 Lithium Metal battery required. (included) | Date First Available: September 7, 2018, | Manufacturer: FUJIFILM |
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The Fujifilm X-T3 is the second-best mirrorless camera on this list and also my absolute favorite because it does the majority of things well and offers excellent value for the money. What’s not to appreciate about a camera that weighs only 539 grams overall, is comprised of die-cast magnesium alloy, and is weatherproof?
The 26.1MP back-illuminated APS-C CMOS sensor of this camera is one of the best in the manufacturer’s lineup. Additionally, it works nicely with the X-Trans colour filter array and the X-Processor 4. There are many different lenses for this camera, so you may choose one that suits you.
With 425 AF points that cover 99 percent of the area and 2.16 million phase-detect pixels, the Fujifilm X-focusing T3’s system is fairly quick. It uses a hybrid phase and contrast-detect autofocus system. In summary, this camera’s 20 frames per second continuous drive mode solidify its excellence.
5. Nikon D5
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Fujifilm | Model Name: X-T3 Body – Black | Form Factor: Mirrorless | Effective Still Resolution: 26.1 MP | Special Feature: Image-stabilization | Optical Zoom: 3 x | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB, HDMI | Screen Size: 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: 1.5-inch | Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.6 x 6.4 inches | Item Weight: 1.19 pounds | Item model number: X-T3 Body – Black | Batteries: 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included) | Date First Available: September 7, 2018, |Manufacturer: FUJIFILM |
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The Nikon D5 is at the top of the ranking. Despite being introduced in 2016, this camera is among the best on the market today. Although this camera weighs in at a hefty 1415 grams on our scales and is fairly pricey, surprisingly, it is quite pleasant to hold.
With a 20.8MP full-frame CMOS sensor and an ISO range of 50 to 3,280,000, this camera excels in low-light conditions. It also works well with the Expeed 5 image processing. You have a wide array of lenses to choose from, and the lens range is pretty extensive.
The contrast-detect sensor in the autofocus system has 153 focus points, 99 of which are cross-type, and a sensitivity range of -4EV. The 12 frames per second burst shooting mode, which operates flawlessly and is unquestionably the best on the market, is this camera’s main selling feature.
6. Canon R5
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Canon | Model Name: Canon EOS R5 Body | Form Factor: Mirrorless | Effective Still Resolution: 35.4 MP | Special Feature: DIGIC X Image Processor; Sensor-Shift 5-Axis Image Stabilization; Subject Tracking with Deep Learning DIGIC X Image Processor; Sensor-Shift 5-Axis Image Stabilization; Subject Tracking with Deep Learning | Screen Size: 3.2 | Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm) | Product Dimensions: 5.45 x 3.84 x 3.46 inches | Item Weight: 1.62 pounds | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery required. (included) | Manufacturer: Canon USA |
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The flagship model of Canon’s mirrorless series, the R6, is supported by an excellent selection of lenses ready to capture wildlife. It’s great for everyone looking for a top-notch camera, from pros to enthusiasts. The sturdy camera can handle various pictures, including landscapes, animals, and portraiture.
A full-frame mirrorless sensor with a 45MP resolution and 8K video capability is housed inside the weather-resistant chassis. The body is based on Canon’s prior 5D range, a tried-and-true design that is comfortable in the hands. It feels capable of handling challenging weather conditions, such as dust, while on safari because of its strong grip and rigid body.
With the Dual Pixel II AF system’s machine learning-trained person and animal identification, it’s simple to miss the shot while on safari. It is a unique system that feels quite skilled when shooting lions in the jungle. Apart from the Canon R5’s high price, there isn’t much to criticize. Only prosumers and enthusiasts willing to invest in the Canon series can afford the pricing point.
7. Sony RX10 IV
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Sony | Model Name: Sony Cyber‑Shot RX10 IV | Form Factor: Ultrakomposite | Effective Still Resolution: 20 MP | Special Feature: Fireworks, Food, Handheld Night, Landscape, Night Landscape, Night Portrait, Portrait, Sports, SunsetFireworks, Food, Handheld Night, Landscape, Night Landscape, Night Portrait, Portrait, Sports, Sunset | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth / WI-FI | Screen Size: 7.5 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: 1-inch | Product Dimensions: 5.22 x 3.7 x 5.02 inches | Item Weight: 2.32 pounds | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) | Date First Available: September 14, 2017 | Manufacturer: Sony |
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A bridge camera is this. It bridges the gap between point-and-shoot cameras from the past and systems with interchangeable lenses. A bridge camera’s fixed lens gives users access to a flexible zoom lens. It offers point-and-shoot simplicity with better image quality.
A superb superzoom bridge camera with a 24-600mm 2.4-4 zoom range is the Sony RX10 IV. It has a 20MP 1′′ stacked BSI-CMOS sensor as a backup. Phase-detect autofocus for depth awareness is crucial when focusing at large focal lengths. It can photograph 24 frames per second with auto exposure and find focus more quickly. Additionally, it has a respectable 4K video capability that ought to surprise most amateurs.
This camera is a wonderful choice if you’re seeking a simplistic device that will be simple to operate as a photographer. A camera is a superb option for safari visitors who desire high-quality photographs without requiring specialized photographic skills or specific lenses. The camera’s drawbacks include its high price and limited opportunities for photographer advancement.
8. Canon EOS 90D
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Canon | Model Name: Canon 90D BODY | Form Factor: DSLR | Effective Still Resolution: 32.5 MP | Special Feature: Live View | Color: Black | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | Screen Size: 3 Inches | | Flash Memory TypeSingle Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) | Product Dimensions: 3 x 5.5 x 4.1 inches | Item Weight: 1.32 pounds | Item model number: 3616C002 | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) | Manufacturer: Canon USA |
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Despite its age, the Canon 90D is the best camera for safari. The camera has numerous sturdy features that make it a superb safari camera. Because it is weatherproof, your camera won’t be caught off guard by the dusty roads and thunderstorms in Africa.
It has a cropped sensor and can capture images with a massive 34MP resolution and a wide dynamic range. With the high processing power of the most recent Canon cameras and the cropped sensor that provides a longer focal length, it can take rock star shots. Many lenses are available for Canon cameras with an EF mount. A wide range of quality and pricing points.
Users can take pictures from their phones thanks to the camera’s WiFi connection. A cute flip screen that’s perfect for taking videos and taking low-angle ground photos. Focusing and tracking in live 4K video is a pleasure, thanks to the touchscreen LCD. Therefore, it’s likely one of the best safari cameras available, and birders adore it!
9. Sony RX100 III-VII
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Sony | Model Name: Sony DSCRX100 III | Form Factor: Compact | Effective Still Resolution: 20.1 MP | Special Feature: Fireworks, Food, Handheld Night, Landscape, Night Landscape, Night Portrait, Portrait, Sports, SunsetFireworks, Food, Handheld Night, Landscape, Night Landscape, Night Portrait, Portrait, Sports, Sunset | Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI, NFC | Screen Size: 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: 1-inch | Product Dimensions: 4.02 x 1.61 x 2.28 inches | Item Weight: 10.2 ounces | Batteries: 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included) | Date First Available: May 15, 2014 | Manufacturer: Sony |
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Despite its small size, the Sony RX100 is renowned for its powerful punch. There are numerous camera models with various functions and prices. The versions have a one-inch sensor and a reliable lens for high-quality images. It is a great camera that can capture beautiful 4K video and 24 pictures per second.
The camera can manage low light conditions and capture photographs with a shallow depth of field thanks to a built-in lens with a 2.8 aperture. The sensor stabilization ensures smooth hand-held video and pictures. Despite being a point-and-shoot, users have full manual control and can capture RAW photographs.
The camera’s size makes it hard to use for long periods. However, it is good for capturing landscapes. It also has a small viewfinder and only one lens. The viewfinder is difficult for me to use in poor lighting, difficult to use all day, and irritating without a backup battery. If you’re a budding photographer, it leaves much to be desired in image processing with new lenses. It also doesn’t have the optimum zoom at 70mm; I prefer a longer lens when taking pictures on safari.
However, since you only need a memory card and a lightweight tripod, it makes a great travel camera for most people. You may take it with you anywhere, and it fits in a pocket. Hikers, minimalists, or anyone who doesn’t desire a specific camera bag would appreciate its small size.
10. Canon EOS M50 II
Key-Specifications:
Brand: CanonModel Name: Canon EOS M50 Mark II Body Black | Form Factor: DSLR | Effective Still Resolution: 24.1 MP | Special Feature: DIGIC 8 Image Processor; Built-In Flash; Combination 5-Axis Image Stabilization | Connectivity Technology: WiFi, NFC | Screen Size: 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: APS-C | Shooting Modes: Single shooting, Continuous shooting (High-speed continuous shooting, low-speed continuous shooting) | Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 9.1 x 9.1 inches | Item Weight: 1.68 pounds | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required (included) | Manufacturer: Canon USA |
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The EOS M50 Mark II is a fantastic little mirrorless camera that uses Canon’s Dual Pixel focusing and boasts an amazing 24MP APS-C sensor. The camera has a superb EVF/rear screen display and feels comfortable in the hands despite its small size. The M50’s gorgeous auto mode, which may assist amateur photographers in creating stunning shots, is appealing.
The settings are simple to change, yet they have enough features to develop your camera skills. Additionally, it has a handy Bluetooth/WiFi connection that functions properly. The camera’s autofocus is accurate, and Canon’s Dual Pixel AF technology locates its subject swiftly. It produces the high-quality color we anticipate from Canon and its crisp images.
It has some drawbacks. The mount’s limited lens choices and the poor video quality stand out the most. Although it is a terrible pick if you frequently film videos, its well-designed body does capture stunning photos. It also includes a reasonably priced kit with lenses 15-45mm and 55-200mm.
11. Canon 1dx Mark III
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Canon | Model Name: Canon EOS-1D X MARK III Body | Form Factor: DSLR | Effective Still Resolution: 20.1 MP | Special Feature: DIGIC X Image Processor; EOS iTR AF X 191-Point AF System; Dual Pixel CMOS AF, 525 Selectable Areas | Connectivity Technology: 3.5mm audio, Ethernet, Mini HDMI, USB | Screen Size: 3.2 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm) | Shooting Modes: Automatic | Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 7.9 x 7.8 inches | Item Weight: 2.76 pounds | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) | Date First Available: January 30, 2020 | Manufacturer: Canon USA |
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The flagship DSLR from Canon is the 1D X MkIII, a powerful camera. The camera is the strongest, fastest, most adaptable, and highest image quality camera ever created, to put it simply. The full-frame camera is a beast that can capture RAW photographs at a rate of 20 frames per second. The Canon 1D X MkIII is the camera that the men from National Geographic are currently using.
You can view your images in the intense African light because the rear LCD is so brilliant. The screen has a lovely touchscreen for changing settings, focusing videos, and browsing your images. The Canon 1dx MkIII can shoot 1080p at 120 frames per second and 5.5k Raw at 60 frames per second. This will enable you to capture HD photographs in ultra-smooth slow motion.
Canon’s flagship camera has a drawback because the camera body costs more than $6,500. So, when the price of the lenses is included, you’re looking at a sizable expenditure. However, for the price, you get a safari camera that can handle the wilderness and take pictures of a high caliber.
12. Panasonic DC-ZS200
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Panasonic | Model Name: PANASONIC LUMIX ZS200 | Form Factor: Digital Camera | Effective Still Resolution: 20.1 MP | Special Feature: Miniature Effect, Monochrome, Toy Camera Effect | Optical Zoom: 15 x | Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB, HDMI | Screen Size: 3 Inches | Photo Sensor Size: 1-inch | Product Dimensions: 4.38 x 1.78 x 2.61 inches | Item Weight: 1 pound | Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery required. (included) | Date First Available: February 13, 2018, | Manufacturer: Panasonic | Country of Origin: China |
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With its 20.1 MP 1′′ sensor, the Lumix LX DC-ZS200 is a small point-and-shoot camera that can meet the needs of even the most seasoned photographer. It fully uses the tiny Leica zoom lens, which has a range of 24 to 360mm and a maximum magnification of 15x.
The TZ200’s interface is easy enough for beginners to use while still offering incredibly deep manual settings that give specialists unrestricted creative freedom. Its lens’ equivalent aperture ranges from 1.7 to 2.8, making it ideal for low-light and macro photography. The TZ200 also captures footage in 4K ultra-high quality on top of everything else.
Given that most modern cameras on the market now have a tilting touchscreen as standard equipment, one would assume the TZ200 would also have one for its many sophisticated features. Be prepared for the battery to deplete quickly if you rely on the EVF (electronic viewfinder). The weight-to-performance ratio of this camera, which weighs only 340g and can compete with larger format cameras, is astounding.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Camera For Safari
Before investing in a camera for a safari, there are several things you should be aware of. They are not particularly difficult to follow, and if you do, you will be able to get one of the greatest cameras available. So let’s get started.
Price/Value
Establishing your budget is the first step before purchasing the best camera for safari. It would help if you decided how much you can afford to spend on a camera and how frequently you’ll use it. If the situation is one-time, you should avoid purchasing an expensive model and stick to the less expensive options.
However, you may choose a more expensive and sophisticated model if you plan to use your camera more frequently and believe it will be useful in various situations. Be realistic in everything you do; many people acquire expensive equipment only to sell it a month later; don’t be one of them. Purchase a camera, indulge in your pleasant new activity, and enjoy yourself.
Sensor
The camera’s sensor is its beating heart, so without it, you couldn’t capture the mouthwatering pictures in your head. The quality of the results increases with the camera’s sensor. Not only should you look for the camera with the most megapixels, but you should also see what kind of sensor it has. Although bigger is better, it doesn’t necessarily equal better because full-frame cameras are far more expensive than crop models. However, keep your spending in check and purchase the greatest item your budget will allow.
Compatible Lenses
Your camera’s lens compatibility will bring out its best features. You may find that certain cameras perform better when used with specific lenses in some situations, so the more options you have, whether you’re going on a safari or not, the better.
This is crucial for individuals who already own a camera and a few lenses. I always advise that kind of photographer to purchase a camera from the same manufacturer as their current one. They will be able to experiment with more lenses thanks to this, and the price of purchasing additional lenses will be lower.
A few photographers have thought about switching brands only to discover they couldn’t utilize their current lenses. Of course, suppose you have Sigma lenses available to you. In that case, that’s great because they are compatible with most market players, particularly the two major players in the camera industry, Canon and Nikon.
Speed
The difference between a flawlessly composed photo and a poor one can be determined by the speed at which your camera can fire. The focusing system and the burst or drive shooting speed of the camera in issue will determine how quickly you can snap pictures. Let’s talk about them.
The number of photos your camera can take in a second will depend on the burst shooting speed or frames per second it can capture. Choose a camera with a frame rate higher than 6 frames per second to achieve the greatest results on a safari. The more shots you can take quickly, the greater your chances of getting a decent shot are because you are typically in a moving vehicle, and the animals are moving as well.
The speed of the lens is another crucial factor. For instance, you don’t need a specific lens to take pictures of elephants. However, if you want to take pictures of something moving quickly, like birds, you need a specialized lens.
All of it will be for naught if the camera’s autofocus technology is slow and incapable of accurately focusing on the target. The pain of losing out on some stunning images. That will never occur with a reliable and quick autofocus system. It will provide great subject focus and let you shoot sharply focused pictures.
Build Excellence
Safari may be taxing, and you’ll spend much of your time on unforgiving terrain, so your camera needs to be well-built. Although you might assume that you won’t drop your camera or that you’ll take good care of it, most damage on safari is caused by dust, heat, humidity, and rain rather than dropping it and being damaged by shock.
Therefore, at the very least, you must own a camera resistant to dust and water. Of course, water and dustproof cameras are even better and will provide you with constant access to all of their features, even in the worst conditions. Additionally, most cameras with dust and waterproofing have incredibly sturdy bodies that can withstand shock.
Comfort and ergonomiy
Whether you can take good photos depends greatly on ergonomics and comfort. Additionally, no one will appreciate taking pictures with a heavy or difficult-to-hold camera. Remember that you’ll usually pair your camera with a huge lens, perhaps even a telephoto one, which will only worsen matters.
Check the camera’s ergonomics before buying it to ensure it has a good handgrip and that the weight is spread evenly throughout the body. You can read customer reviews because they will describe something in detail.
Verdict
That’s it, my brethren photographers. You are prepared to move forward and purchase the best camera for safari. Using the advice mentioned above, you can find an excellent practical model that will enable you to take the best safari photos.
However, don’t for get to look at the best picks, as I’ve included some highly regarded models that will offer adequate performance for a safari and much more. Go ahead and enjoy your safari now.
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