10 Best Camera For Safaris 2025 in the United States

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a solid choice for safari enthusiasts looking for a versatile camera that excels in capturing wildlife and landscapes. Its 24.1 MP CMOS sensor delivers impressive image quality, especially in good lighting conditions. The 18-55mm kit lens offers a respectable zoom range, allowing for decent close-up shots of animals from a safe distance. Battery life is adequate, with the ability to capture around 500 photos on a single charge, which is decent for a day out in the field. Continuous shooting is limited to just 3 frames per second, which may not be fast enough for capturing action shots of moving wildlife. The camera also features built-in Wi-Fi, making it easy to share your adventures on social media right from the field.

On the downside, the T7 lacks weather sealing, which could be a significant drawback when photographing in unpredictable safari conditions. Although it offers image stabilization, the system might not completely compensate for camera shake during handheld shooting, especially at longer zoom lengths. The autofocus system, with only 9 points, is somewhat basic, and may struggle in challenging lighting. Additionally, while the camera can record video in Full HD, it lacks advanced video features that more experienced users might seek. At 1.04 pounds, it’s relatively portable, but heavier than some compact alternatives, which could make a difference for those trekking through the bush.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is best suited for novice photographers or casual users who want a reliable and user-friendly camera for safari trips, but those seeking advanced capabilities or ruggedness may want to explore other options.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Camera is a strong contender for safari adventures, boasting a powerful 40x optical zoom and a 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor. This combination allows capturing distant wildlife with remarkable clarity. The 4K video capability is a standout feature, enabling high-quality video recordings of exciting moments. The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth make it easy to share your captures on the go, which is a definite plus for travelers. The DIGIC 8 Image Processor ensures fast performance, and the camera's lightweight design (0.3 kilograms) makes it highly portable, an essential factor for safaris.

The 3-inch tilt-type LCD is handy for shooting from various angles, and the optical image stabilization helps to produce sharp images even when zooming in on faraway subjects. The battery life is decent, though not exceptional, and should be sufficient for a day’s adventure if used conservatively. However, the camera lacks weather sealing, which could be a drawback in unpredictable safari conditions. The autofocus system is primarily contrast-based, which may struggle in low-light situations typical of early morning or late evening safari drives. The camera does not include an audio recording feature, so external equipment would be necessary for video enthusiasts.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS offers a comprehensive set of features making it an excellent choice for capturing the majestic wildlife and landscapes of a safari.

The Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera is primarily designed for content creators and vloggers. However, some of its features make it a viable option for safari photography. The ultra-wide 20mm lens is great for capturing wide landscapes, but it lacks a zoom lens which is typically desired for capturing distant wildlife.

The large 1” sensor and F2 lens excel in low-light conditions and produce beautifully defocused backgrounds, enhancing photos taken during dawn or dusk on a safari. Its Eye-AF and autofocus tracking technology ensures sharp images of moving subjects, a crucial aspect when photographing animals in motion. The camera is lightweight at just 9 ounces, making it highly portable for long safari trips. Its digital image stabilization helps reduce blur, though it may not be as effective as optical stabilization for high-movement scenarios.

The side-articulating touchscreen LCD is a handy feature for composing shots in various positions. Additionally, the directional 3-Capsule mic and wind screen accessory provide clear audio, which is beneficial for recording video. While the Sony ZV-1F offers excellent features for general content creation, its limited zoom capabilities might make it less ideal for dedicated safari photography.