African Safari Camera & Lens Recommendations

[kingsranch]

I know this has been asked before, but I didn't want to steal someone else's post. I am heading on an African Safari in June (Nairobi, Kenya) and I am looking to capture everything (photos & video). I currently have:

Canon EOS Rebel T51 (body)

Canon EF-S 55-250mm

Canon EF-S 18-55mm

Canon EF-S 10-18mm (wide)

Canon 50mm

From the brief bit of research I've done, my budget will probably need to be 3k-4k for a new body and new lenses. So, that's what my budget is. I'm looking to buy a new body and new lenses because this is literally a childhood dream come true and it's a gift from my family, I want to get the most out of it. Also, from what I'm reading and seeing, Africa is dusty and you shouldn't be changing lenses whilst out, so having 2 camera bodies (if you can afford it) is a must. I am currently looking at the Sony A7 III and a few other lenses that I'm seeing from a few videos I've watched. So, I'm looking for advice on what second camera I should buy, what lenses to go with it, and if I should buy any new lenses for the camera I already have.

Also, another tip I've heard repeated is there being weight restrictions. I know the larger tele lenses are going to be heavier so the lighter the body the better. We are going to Amboseli National Park, Ol-Pejeta Conservancy, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Masai Mara G Reserve. I don't think we will be going anywhere by bush plane but if we do, a lighter body would be great.

[kingsranch]

Here are some of the photos I have taken around the yard! You can see more of my work on my business Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/kings_ranch_photography_llc/

[shadowsports]

Great Photos.

[SamanthaW]

These are great, I love the pop of red in that lizard's gullet! (is it a gullet?😂) Consider sharing more to our "Share Your Photos" board HERE. 😊

[shadowsports]

I kept snakes when I was younger.  I believe this is called a dewlap.

[josephmorgan]

For an African safari, two camera bodies are highly recommended to minimize lens changes in dusty conditions. A full-frame mirrorless like the Sony A7 III is an excellent choice light enough for long drives or occasional bush planes, yet powerful with versatile lenses.

For lenses, a telephoto zoom (70-200mm or 100-400mm) covers wildlife up close, while a wide-angle (16-35mm or similar) captures landscapes and scenic shots. Third-party lenses like Tamron or Sigma can offer lighter alternatives without sacrificing quality.

Keeping your existing Canon gear can still be useful for wide shots or casual photos. Position one body with a telephoto lens and the other with a wide-angle to reduce lens swaps.

For social media posts and prints, shooting in RAW and practicing post-processing makes a big difference. Experts at Love Studios NYC provide helpful Information on preparing gear and settings for wildlife photography.

A lightweight monopod also improves stability without the hassle of a tripod.