Ruaha and Katavi work beautifully together because they offer two distinct photographic worlds. Ruaha brings baobabs, dry riverbeds, open country, elephants, predators and dramatic light. It is a park where wildlife photography is often shaped by space, dust, warm tones and the raw feeling of Southern Tanzania.
Katavi adds another dimension: an even stronger sense of isolation, broad floodplains, hippo-filled waterways, large buffalo herds, crocodiles, birds and a rare atmosphere of wilderness with very low tourism pressure. It is one of those places where the landscape itself becomes part of the photographic story.
By flying between the parks, this safari avoids long road transfers and keeps the focus where it should be: in the field, with time for light, behaviour, patience and composition. The itinerary is especially suited to photographers who are not looking for a standard checklist safari, but for a deeper and more atmospheric visual experience.
This departure is limited to a very small group, allowing more space, better positioning and a quieter rhythm in the vehicle. The goal is not simply to see wildlife, but to return with stronger, more personal images from two of Tanzania’s most authentic wilderness areas.
Safari Dates
June 3 -10, 2027
Group size
Maximum 4 guests
This 7-day fly-in photographic safari in Southern Tanzania combines the remote wilderness of Ruaha National Park with the extraordinary wildlife concentrations of Katavi National Park, one of Africa’s most untouched safari destinations.
Immediate availability
Price without discount6,890 $
Itinerary Ruaha-Katavi - June 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
Why this route works so well for photography
Ruaha and Katavi complement each other exceptionally well. Ruaha brings baobabs, dry riverbeds, open country, warm tones, dust, dramatic light, and some of Tanzania’s most rewarding elephant and predator encounters.
Katavi adds a deeper sense of remoteness, with broad floodplains, seasonal waterways, hippo pools, crocodiles, buffalo herds, birdlife, and a raw wilderness atmosphere that is increasingly rare. The result is a short but visually powerful safari with real contrast rather than more of the same.
Safari highlights
- Two remote and highly atmospheric ecosystems in one week
- Fly-in logistics to maximise time in the field
- Small group and photographer-friendly pace
- Baobab, savannah, floodplain, riverbed, and dry-country scenery
- Strong opportunities for elephants, predators, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, birds, and atmosphere
- A route designed for photographers looking for space, wilderness, light, and authentic field conditions
Route overview
You fly from Dar es Salaam into Ruaha National Park, where the first part of the safari focuses on baobab landscapes, dry riverbeds, open country, elephants, predators, giraffes, antelopes, birds, and the dramatic light of Southern Tanzania.
A bush flight then links to Katavi National Park, where the scenery becomes broader, more remote, and more isolated. Floodplains, seasonal waterways, hippo pools, crocodiles, buffalo herds, and birdlife create a very different photographic mood. This strong change of environment is one of the great strengths of the journey.
Who this safari is for
This departure is ideal for photographers and wildlife lovers who want a compact but high-quality South-Western Tanzania experience. It works for experienced photographers, but also for travellers who mainly want stronger images, more time at sightings, and a more thoughtful safari rhythm.
What is included
- Private vehicle
- Photographic guidance by Gabriel
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Two shared game activities in an open vehicle/on foot with a guide per night (walking, game drives)
- Domestic Flights
- Airstrip Transfers
- Tea and Coffee
- Laundry
- Park and Concession fees
What is not included
- international flights
- gratuities
- anything not mentioned as included
Prices
- Rates are based on currently published park fees,taxes and reserve fees and USD exchange rate.
Should these be increased by TANAPA or Wildlife Dept this increase will be added to the cost. - For indication only, today a flight from Europe to Tanzania is approximately 800 USD/person (economy)
Ask for the full program
If this route matches your style of travel, send a short enquiry and I will share the detailed itinerary, accommodation concept, and booking terms.
Gallery
Ruaha Portfolio
Katavi Portfolio
