Give me some advice on booking a photography tour in Namibia

Need some advice on booking a photography tour in Namibia? Read these tips...

Why book a Namibia Photography Holiday?

If you love photography and you’re craving a proper adventure, Namibia is one of those destinations that grabs you instantly. A photography holiday here isn’t just about snapping pictures – it’s about slowing down, tuning into the landscape and experiencing moments most travellers never see. You’ll spend your days chasing beautiful light, learning new techniques and exploring places that look like they belong on another planet. Add in a mix of wildlife, wild coastlines and some genuinely fun off-the-camera activities, and it becomes a trip that fires up both your creativity and your sense of adventure.

What can you expect on a Namibia Photography Holiday?

Expect early starts, late-night Milky Way sessions, and a whole lot of “wow” moments. Most photography tours in Namibia follow a loop through the country, staying in comfortable lodges and camps rather than roughing it.Your days are built around the best light — sunrise at Deadvlei, sunset at Spitzkoppe, blue hour at ghost towns. Wildlife photography is mixed with landscape shoots, and there are opportunities for things like sea kayaking, desert elephant tracking and learning the basics of astrophotography. Plus, there’s always time for image reviews, post-processing sessions using Lightroom or Photoshop, and those helpful little tips that make your photos suddenly click.

Is Namibia good for photography?

In short: yes — ridiculously good. Namibia gives you glowing dunes, empty deserts, skeletal trees, abandoned towns and some of the clearest night skies anywhere on Earth. It’s a playground for minimalists, wildlife lovers, astro shooters, landscape photographers… or anyone who loves a striking backdrop.

What are the highlights of a Photography Tour in Namibia?

Most people return home with a handful of moments they’ll never forget. A few firm favourites include:

• Watching the first sunlight hit the towering dunes at Deadvlei

• Shooting the Milky Way in total silence at the Quiver Tree Forest

• Wandering through sand-filled corridors in Kolmanskop

• Being surrounded by Cape fur seals on a sea kayaking trip

• Tracking desert elephants through dry riverbeds

• Photographing wildlife at Etosha’s waterholes

Are Namibia Photography Tours expensive?

They can be, but the range is wide. Some high-end tours run close to £10,000, while others fall into the mid-range bracket.The real value comes down to what’s included: group size, guiding expertise, accommodation quality, travel comfort and access to unique locations. A small-group tour with real hands-on tuition usually offers far more personalised learning than a larger operation.

Are Namibia Photography Tours good for wildlife?

Yes — especially in the dry season. Etosha is one of Africa’s best parks for photographing wildlife at waterholes, and many tours include private hides or special wildlife excursions. Namibia also has wildlife you won’t see elsewhere, like desert-adapted elephants. Even though it’s not a “big cats on tap” destination like parts of Kenya or South Africa, it offers a wonderfully balanced mix of animals and landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Namibia for photography?

It depends on your priorities.  Namibia genuinely works year-round — it just shifts in personality.

• Dry season: Clear skies, excellent wildlife sightings.

• Green season: More dramatic clouds and fresh colour in the landscape.

• Winter: Prime time for Milky Way photography.

Are Namibia Photography Holidays suitable for beginners?

Definitely. Most tours welcome a mix of beginners and experienced photographers. There’s time to learn, experiment and ask questions, and the scenery is so good that even a simple composition looks impressive.

What camera gear should you bring?

Bring gear that covers landscapes, wildlife and night skies. That usually means:

• A durable camera body

• A wide-angle lens for dunes and astro

• A telephoto for wildlife

• A mid-range zoom for everything in between

• A sturdy tripod

• Filters, batteries, cards and cleaning supplies

Can you combine Namibia with South Africa?

Yes — easily. Many travellers fly between Windhoek and Johannesburg or Cape Town, combining Namibia’s deserts with South Africa’s coastline, big-game reserves, or cities. It does require some planning because distances are big, but the contrast between the two countries is incredible for photography.

Do you need a visa for Namibia?

As of April 2025, yes — many nationalities, including Brits, need a visa. You can get one on arrival or apply online. Check your passport validity and blank pages before travelling.

Is Namibia safe?

Namibia is generally very safe for travellers. Most issues come from long distances, gravel roads or petty theft in towns. With normal precautions — or by travelling with a guide — it’s a straightforward and confidence-inspiring destination.

Why is it called the Skeleton Coast?

Because historically, the coast was littered with shipwrecks and whale bones. The combination of fog, strong currents and an unforgiving desert made it deadly for sailors. Today, those rusted wrecks make for brilliantly atmospheric photos.

How do you photograph the trees at Deadvlei?

 Deadvlei can be one of the most rewarding (and addictive) shoots in Namibia. Some simple tips go a long way:

• Arrive before sunrise

• Use wide angles and clean backgrounds

• Play with shadows and silhouettes

• Avoid harsh midday light

• Bring patience — it pays off

How do you photograph the Milky Way?

You’ll want a fast wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, and a completely dark night. Set your camera to manual, open your aperture wide, use a shutter of around 15–25 seconds, and adjust ISO between 1600–6400. Foreground elements — trees, rocks, dunes — make all the difference.

How do you photograph the diamond-mining ghost town of Kolmanskop?

Kolmanskop is all about light and texture. Try arriving early, using a tripod, and experimenting with frames, doorways, and details. The sand drifts are always changing, so no two rooms look the same.

Give me some advice on booking a photography tour in Namibia with Will Gray Photography.

If you’re thinking about a Namibia photography holiday, this is where Will Gray Photography really shines. These tours are designed for people who want a mix of learning, adventure and unforgettable experiences, without feeling like they’re stuck in a big, impersonal group.

Here’s what makes Will’s Namibia trips special:

Small group size (maximum six photographers)

You’re not jostling for tripod space, and you get genuinely personal attention.

A uniquely varied 17-day itinerary

You cover the best of Namibia: Sossusvlei, Deadvlei, Etosha, Kolmanskop, the Skeleton Coast, Spitzkoppe, the Kalahari, desert wildlife, and some secret spots most tourists miss.

Hands-on photography coaching

From sunrise landscapes to Milky Way sessions, Will offers guidance, friendly feedback, Lightroom help and tailored tips based on your level and style.

Unforgettable experiences beyond the camera

Kayaking with seals, desert-adapted elephant tracking, a 4WD expedition to Sandwich Harbour, a braai in the shadow of Spitzkoppe, and much more — all woven naturally into the journey.

Expert knowledge of wildlife and landscapes

With over 30 years experience as a photographer and writer, plus a background in zoology, Will brings a combination of artistic and scientific insight.

Great value without cutting corners

Comfortable, characterful accommodation; a 4WD vehicle designed for photographers; and a carefully thought-out itinerary packed with highlights.

Find out more here: https://www.willgrayphotography.co.uk/namibia-photography-holidays