Top Photography Competitions and Exhibitions for

For photographers eyeing photographic safaris in the Kruger, with an aim to compete in photo competitions, 2026 promises a calendar brimming with opportunities to share their best and wildest moments. 

With entries opening soon, now is the moment to plan that trip, camera in hand, ready to frame stories that resonate worldwide.

What is a Photographic Safari?

A photographic safari revolves around game drives that focus on helping travellers capture images of animals in their natural settings, often with guidance from seasoned pros who know just about everything there is to know about photographing the wild. 

These outings prioritise quiet approaches, optimal lighting, and ethical practices to yield sharp, evocative pictures. 

In places like South Africa, participants might spend hours tracking elephants or birds, learning techniques such as panning for motion or using long lenses for intimate portraits. 

Statistics from the World Wildlife Fund highlight that over 70% of Africa’s iconic species thrive in protected areas, making these safaris ideal for building portfolios rich in authenticity. 

Photographers with stakes of images as well as a deeper connection to conservation.

Where is the Best Place to Take a Photo Safari in Africa?

The Kruger National Park is one of the best places for photo safaris in Africa, thanks to its abundant animal populations and beautifully varied landscapes. 

Covering most of South Africa’s north-east corner, along the border with Mozambique, the Kruger is well-known for being home to the Big Five, as well as almost 150 animal species and over 500 species of birds.

The park’s dry winters from May to September bring creatures of all kinds to waterholes, creating clustered scenes that are just perfect for dramatic compositions. 

For photographers looking for more structured game viewing, tours led by professional photographers ensure access to the best places to see wildlife and they can also give you excellent photography advice so that you can make the most of the Kruger’s unique environment. 

List of Competitions for 2026

2026 brings a lineup of prestigious platforms for African wildlife imagery, each with deadlines and themes to spark creativity. Here are standout ones, complete with entry links from trusted organisers:

Africa Geographic Photographer of the Year 2026

This contest celebrates Africa’s animals, scenery, and people. Entries open 16 February to 7 May 2026, with prizes including a primate trek in Rwanda. Ideal for photos of predators or herds.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026

Run by London’s Natural History Museum, it welcomes global submissions but features strong African categories. The competition is free for under-26s from select regions. Past winners include South African hyena shots.

Africam’s Monthly Photo Competition 2026

A rolling series starting January, the competition is themed around subjects like sunrises or interactions. Subscribers can submit virtual or field images of African species. Monthly winners gain community spotlight.

Safari365 Africa Photo Competition 2026

Open to travellers, focusing on wildlife, plants, and landscapes.

For exhibitions, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2026 tours globally, including at the Royal BC Museum from February to April, displaying African highlights like Namibian scenes (you can view the schedule here). Another competition to look at is the Discovering African Wildlife Gallery Exhibition in California on 13 February, blending photos with conservation talks (RSVP here).

Many entrants falter on rushed compositions or poor light; a guided photographic safari sidesteps this, by helping photographers hone their skills amid the real action.

At Wild Photo Africa Safaris, we are conservation focused and we are passionate about wildlife photography. 

We travel with small groups, we know the best places to take wildlife images and we can help photographers like you create photo entries that stand out. 

Book a photo safari now and make sure that you bookmark this blog so that you can enter some of these competitions after your safari.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes photographic safaris different from regular wildlife tours?

Photographic safaris focus on image-making, with flexible schedules for golden hours and tips from guides on composition and gear, unlike standard tours that prioritise quick sightings.

How can a photo safari in Kruger Park prepare me for 2026 competitions?

The Kruger’s reliable animal encounters allow practice in real scenarios, building a strong portfolio; guided sessions teach ethical approaches valued by judges.

Are there specific tips for beginners on wild photo Africa safaris?

Start with a sturdy tripod for stability, experiment with shutter speeds for motion blur on moving herds, and always respect distances to avoid stressing animals.

What gear is essential for a successful photographic safari?

A telephoto lens (300mm+), weather-sealed camera body, and extra batteries are key; consider a bean bag for vehicle-based stability in bumpy terrain.

Why choose guided photo safaris over self-drive options?

Guides spot elusive subjects and share local knowledge, maximising shot opportunities while ensuring safety and minimal environmental impact.