All You Need to Know About Drone Filming in Tanzania Safari
Introduction
Tanzania is home to some of the most beautiful and exciting safaris in the world. With its vast savannas, breathtaking wildlife, and stunning landscapes, it’s no surprise that more people want to capture these moments on camera. One of the best ways to do this is through drone filming.
In this guide, we will show you everything you need to know about drone filming in Tanzania’s safaris. From the rules and regulations to the best spots for capturing stunning aerial footage, we’ve got you covered!
What is Drone Filming?
Drone filming means using a small flying camera (a drone) to take videos and pictures from above. Drones give you a bird’s-eye view of wildlife and landscapes, something that regular cameras cannot do. This is especially important for safaris, where you can film animals in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
Why Drone Filming is Great for Tanzania Safaris
Amazing Views: Tanzania is famous for its incredible wildlife and natural beauty. Drones allow you to capture sweeping views of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. From the top, you get a perspective that is simply unforgettable.
Unique Wildlife Footage: Filming animals like elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras from above provides unique angles that make the footage more exciting. It also helps you spot animals in large herds or hidden in the thick bush, which can be hard to see from the ground.
Great for Documentaries and Travel Videos: If you’re making a film or a video for your social media, drones can help you tell a more complete story. Aerial shots add drama and excitement to your travel videos and make them look more professional.
Rules and Regulations for Drone Filming in Tanzania
Before you pack your drone and head off for your safari, it’s important to know the rules and regulations to avoid any problems.
1. Drone License Requirement
In Tanzania, you need a license to fly a drone. If you’re planning to film in national parks or game reserves, you must get permission from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA).
Application Process
- Email your details to drones@tcaa.go.tz to access the drone application system.
- Ensure you include your full name, email, physical address, phone number, passport number, and nationality.
- You will then be granted access to the online application system and can move to the next step.
Registration and Permit Fees
There are two parts to the fees: the registration fee and the permit fee. The registration fee depends on the weight of the drone and can range from USD 100 to USD 300. The permit fee is a per day/month/year fee and ranges from USD 10 to USD 20 per day, with options for monthly or annual permits as well. For the latest fee details, please refer to the Drone Import Procedures.
2. National Park Rules
Flying drones in national parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater is heavily regulated. In many cases, drones are not allowed without special permits. The goal is to protect the wildlife and not disturb the animals.
3. No-Fly Zones
There are certain places where you cannot fly drones, such as near airports, military areas, and government buildings. Always check the airspace restrictions before taking off.
4. Respect the Wildlife
While drones can capture stunning footage, it’s important to remember that the animals in Tanzania are wild. Flying drones too close to animals can cause stress and disrupt their natural behavior. Always keep a respectful distance.
Best Locations in Tanzania for Drone Filming
Now that you know the rules, let’s talk about where to go for the best drone filming opportunities.
1. Serengeti National Park
Serengeti is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world, and it’s perfect for drone filming. The park is known for its vast grasslands and incredible wildlife, including the annual migration of wildebeest. From above, you can capture the endless herds and the stunning landscape.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is often called the “Garden of Eden” because of its stunning beauty and rich wildlife. Filming from a drone here allows you to capture the crater’s vast floor and the animals that roam it, such as lions, rhinos, and buffaloes.
3. Mount Kilimanjaro
If you want to film something unique, try flying your drone around Mount Kilimanjaro. The snow-capped peak against the lush green slopes below is a sight to behold. Filming the mountain from above will give you a whole new perspective.
4. Selous Game Reserve
Selous is another great place for drone filming, especially if you want to capture a mix of wildlife and river scenes. The reserve is home to elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and wild dogs. Drones can help you get a view of these animals from above the trees and along the riverbanks.
Tips for Capturing Great Drone Footage
To get the best footage on your Tanzania safari, here are some helpful tips:
1. Use the Right Drone
Make sure your drone is capable of filming in high-quality resolution. Drones like the DJI Mavic Air or the DJI Phantom 4 are great for capturing stunning 4K videos and images.
All You Need to Know About Drone Filming in Tanzania Safari
2. Timing is Everything
The best times for drone filming are early morning or late afternoon. The soft lighting at these times creates beautiful colors in your footage, and animals are often more active during these hours.
3. Plan Your Shots
Before you start flying your drone, plan what you want to capture. Do you want to follow a herd of elephants or get a sweeping view of the landscape? Knowing what you want will help you get the best footage possible.
4. Respect the Environment
Don’t disturb animals or people when flying your drone. If you see wildlife getting agitated, it’s time to pull back and give them space. Remember, the safari is about respecting nature.
Drone Filming Safety Tips
Safety should always come first when flying your drone in Tanzania.
1. Check Weather Conditions
Strong winds or rain can make flying dangerous. Always check the weather forecast before you take off.
2. Maintain Line of Sight
Always keep your drone in your line of sight. This will help you avoid obstacles like trees, animals, or other drones.
3. Don’t Fly Too High
While it’s tempting to fly as high as possible for better views, don’t go beyond the recommended altitude for drones. This ensures you stay within legal limits and avoid causing interference with other aircraft.
4. Have a Backup Battery
Drones use a lot of power, especially when filming. Make sure to bring extra batteries with you to avoid running out of power during a shoot.
Conclusion: Drone Filming in Tanzania Safari
Drone filming in Tanzania offers a unique and exciting way to capture the beauty of safaris. With breathtaking views, exciting wildlife, and advanced technology, you can create stunning videos and photos. But remember, it’s important to follow the rules, respect wildlife, and plan your shots carefully. Whether you’re filming the Serengeti or Mount Kilimanjaro, your drone will help you tell a story that will last a lifetime.
Ready to film your dream safari? Plan your trip with Seko Tours today, and let us guide you through an unforgettable adventure!
