What to bring on safari to Botswana?

[@simon_dentremont]

What would you like to see from Africa in an upcoming video? I'd love to know!

[@cptlonesong3211]

Lion photos, naturally.

[@souma_sinharoy]

Obviously more magnificent pictures but also some behind-the-scenes too

[@susannewerner8462]

Some behind the scenes! I will be in Kenia in 4 weeks ❤ with my new Sony A7r5, I need to buy a tele for this, and I’m still not sure which…

[@pepper6253]

Everything , just everything . you have the best youtube photography videos .. Have a great trip & be well .

[@SS-sh6ww]

Yes pls ! 🥰

[@jimenycricket8431]

To be honest, your channel is perfect: informative, cutting through the nonsense, always straight to the point, and you're French-Canadian... what's not to like? This is what YT should be like.

[@avibongo]

Canon R5 with the 100-500 and the 1.4 is the only lens needed from my experience. Safaris are highly controlled and the guides take you close. There is no hiking ( since you won’t return alive) or use of tripod. No need for camouflage on the lenses. Having an extra battery in your pocket works for a full day. I took a 24-105 for evening landscape- amazing light.

[@sswildlifevideos]

I agree, until I can afford the 400 2.8 the 100-500 and R5 an R7 are all I need, but sometimes feline activity occurs very late and the f7.1 of the 100-500 can be a challenge.

[@colintraveller]

Nail on the Head .

[@tonyfluertynaturephotograp5272]

I would rather have the f4 prime due to my experience with the 100-500 and the 1.4 at F10 performing really bad with heat haze. It's a versatile combo though.

[@digitalperson108]

Agreed. Last time in Tanzania and Kenya, I brought a 70-200, 100-400, a 1.4TC, 24-70 and a 50. Tired to bring the 300/f2 but KLM dinged me on weight. This year, likely just the 100-400 and 24-70. It is true, when with a tour company, they get as close to animals as possible which is often quite close. Big primes are nice, but hard to travel with, given all the baggage restrictions. High quality zooms give you light weight and versatility. Save the weight for a second body if you feel you need it….sure is nice to have.

[@fun3000able]

EOS6D, Tamron 70-200F2.8 + Canon 24-105Lf4 and 50F1.4 with Sandisk extreme pro card (1 per Week) and that was it for Kruger park in 2017.

[@PangolinWildlife]

We are all super excited to be hosting you….not long now…..its going to be an amazing safari! Team Pangolin in Botswana.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks so much! Can’twait!

[@hywel3143]

Wow! Simon and the Pangolin team: two of my favourite wildlife YT photo channels in one...

[@cotar4407]

Currently watching from Botswana ❤

[@simon_dentremont]

nice!

[@andreleroux7484]

Being from South Africa, I find having the 100-400 on one body and the 24-105 on another close and handy does the job in most cases. Have a great time.

[@Bambootattoo]

I agree, these are my two go-to lenses for safaris, plus a 17-40 and 1.4x extender. Anything else is largely superfluous.

[@pauljansen6650]

Enjoy it Simon, welcome to our beautiful continent!

[@manoftheserengeti3052]

I spent four days this past February with Pangolin and really enjoyed the accommodations and the instruction. Plenty of wildlife along the Chobe river and I think you’ll really enjoy the sunsets from the photo boats.

[@DrLoneyDal]

Can’t wait to see your photos! Have fun!

[@Michael_Robinson]

On one of my longer trips abroad I decided to bring a 2-prong, 2m extension cord. I rolled my eyes at myself thinking it was overkill but it turned out to be a great choice. If I find myself in a hotel room with no convenient outlets, I plug an adapter into the distant outlet, then the extension card and the power cord on my multi-port USB charger allows me to set-up a charging area up to 3m away from the outlet. Once in Asia the ONLY outlet was in the tiny, damp bathroom, so being able to route power to a more appropriate (and dry) flat surface was amazing. I hope you had a great trip!

[@timharrison4155]

Simon, I’m also heading to Botswana next month. However, I’m travelling in the interior on a couple of small plane flights, because of this I’m limited to 20kg all up. I’ve done safari before, you really don’t need that much kit. A good zoom and maybe a TC really is sufficient.

[@rudolphsteyn8667]

Hi Simon - I am from South Africa and made several trips to the places you mention. Since you are into bird photography I can almost guarantee that you will have a terrific trip, and that you will make several return trips. The birdlife is next level! Fortunately Pangolin is known to be an excellent service provider in terms of bird watching.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks! The owner Toby was telling me about the amazing bird action in Nov-Jan as all the migratory birds are down there. I may have to go back for that!

[@Crafty_Chops]

Enjoy your trip Simon. I live in South Africa and I've been to the Kgalagadi in South Central Botswana. I think you're going to have a blast and some great photography.

[@mikebartow9415]

Have an enjoyable trip. Look forward to your return video.

[@LoneWolfimagesCanada]

Enjoy your trip to the fullest and come back home healthy. I can't wait to see all your new pictures from Africa. Stay safe and God Bless.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks very much!

[@jamc666]

a gear video !! yay !!! 😃

[@helenedwards9304]

I love your channel and your teachings. I was in the Sahara and found it useful to change my lens in a gallon zip lock bag. Worked really great lol. Hope it helps someone.

[@jerryeisner1]

Good luck on your trip. Sounds like you are really prepared!! Bring back some Iconic Photos!!!!

[@yomismo1945]

Have a safe and enjoyable trip Simon. Looking forward to seeing your images.

[@Sleepwalker1963]

Very informative, and *so* appropriate. I will be in Kenya in 6 week's time. Don't have pro gear, so will be taking my R7 with RF 100-400 (+1.4x), and my 80D with EF-S 17-55 f/2.8

[@MykhailoShmahailo]

My bird photo hobby started from phone and tele lense for phone in February of this year After your videos I bought body and lenses, several items like tripod, gimble , rain cover for lense and intervalometer for timelapse photo. GoPro and sound recorder for environment shooting. Thank you for a lot of information about wildlife photo and video🤝

[@dkhawk5417]

You are going to love the Chobe, and Pangolin!!! It’s an amazing experience!

[@simon_dentremont]

I expect so!

[@wellingtoncrescent2480]

In 2017, we visited South Africa, taking in the big five in Hluhluwe and the UNESCO world heritage marine preserve in St Lucia. It was a once-in-a-lifetime trip, and I'm sure you will have a fabulous time. I'm envious :)

[@shapshot1]

Wow Simon…trip of a life time! Stay safe…getting out of the HRM…fire zone …good luck🎉❤

[@j-md-b6e]

Always good to have you talk about your gear. Knew that you would be well planned and prepared.

[@Twobarpsi]

Please share with us the pictures when you get back!! Can't wait to see them!!

[@six66red14]

Merci pour cette vidéo et Bon voyage avec Pangolin Wildlife Photography

[@mvubu6823]

You are in for an absolute treat, Toby, Gus and the rest of the Pangolin team run a first class operation. I've been in the safari game for 25 years and can give 2 cents worth.... 1. Cellphone camera is used WAY more than you think 2. If you are flying small charters between spots, ensure enough luggage allocation for that 500mm. I find it an absolute burden on big trips. I now only travel with the 100-400 L and am close to switching to the 100-500 with the quality of high ISO now available. 3. Converters are a waste of time for me. There is so much wildlife, so close, most of the time. 4. 2 bodies is essential and the dust comment is 100% correct. Botswana (Savuti and Chobe) in winter is a dust bowl. 5. Binocs are pain if you already have your 500mm or 100-400. Actually donated mine to a guide last week who desperately needed a new set. Only time I used them was walking, but even then it was rare with a camera in my hands. 6. Instead of a second card reader, why just not a cable to download off the camera? And don't forget to have moments where you put the cameras down and soak up the experience of being in one of the great wilderness areas remaining. HAVE FUN!!!

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks!!

[@linda-rubyjacobson4400]

Great video! Have a wonderful and safe time.

[@carrierager7419]

I’m not a wildlife photographer but I always learn something from your videos that I can immediately apply! Thanks!

[@experienceawaits]

Thanks for prouncing Sirui. My humidity cabinet, monopod, and other accessories are the Sirui brand but I've never really known how to pronounce the name.

[@matthewmilam4760]

Safe travels. Can’t wait to see the photos

[@Wilsonsam04]

Enjoy your trip Simon .. Be safe always.

[@fsync]

Just discovered your channel and it seems every video is custom made for me through telepathic requests :). Can't stop watching. Subscribed!

[@Sean-Smith-Photos]

Looking forward to seeing the videos from your trip.

[@Eugene-Braack]

Hey Simon.. I am in neighboring South Africa... I know you'll get spectacular photos. Looking forward to the results.

[@royhughes4786]

Good Luck. Can't wait to see some of the photos you get on your trip.

[@xaviesposito2485]

Have a nice trip! And once again, thanks for your videos. You are a teacher for everybody here

[@noel_s_visuals]

Excited! And eye opening. Can't wait to see what you'll have to share afterwards🍿

[@PhotoHobo]

Great video, Simon, thanks. I was in Botswana last fall on safari with Pangolin and had an amazing trip. They're great, and their photo boats are drivers get you into great position for the shots. Can't wait to see your safari videos.

[@simon_dentremont]

Nice!

[@Warrior_Resisting_Colonialism]

I very much enjoy your more natural dialog you use here, than your often used youetube video dialog robotic voice. More personal, human like and we can really hear your natural excitement in your voice and demeanor of your trip. Wat a blast! Have fun! I hope you don't regret not taking that sigma art for nightscape photography though!

[@GaryAllkins]

Booked a Pangolin Photo Safari for 2024 so whatever video footage you take will be extremely useful. Like yourself I shall be taking both R5 & R6, RF100-500, 15-35 f2.8 & RF24-105 f4 and RF1.4 Extender, that should cover most situations. Have a good trip and look forward to seeing your video(s)!

[@robertwhitemoto]

Simon, how exciting! That's on my bucket list, with Pangolin for sure. Fellow R5 shooter. Looking forward to seeing what you capture !

[@donsoley746]

Like all the subject masters - Simon never sounds defensive or needs to blind us with science. Wonderful communicator!

[@simon_dentremont]

Too kind!

[@skep41]

I'm heading for Namibia/ Etosha in September. I've narrowed down what I'm taking but this video was helpful. I'm going to start working on my packing list soon. You're a lot more systematic than I'll ever be. I'm kind of an on-the-fly-hope-for-the-best type. The last time I was in Africa (1977) I had a Canon AE with a kit lens but I got some good shots anyway. I'm looking for some deep, dark skies, lots of crazy birds and I'm praying for a leopard... Good luck and I hope the whole world wanders into your field of view!

[@johannelaporte8057]

I have been on a Africa Safari and plan to go back, you mentioned don't plan to take thousands of photos... I hope you achieve it. On an every day it is okay but if their is "special wild life action life a chase" you keep shooting to get that one. That is me anyway. Enjoy, can't wait to see your video.

[@bennnnnification]

Good luck and have fun on your trip to Botswana and hopefully we get to see some of the results. Would be awesome to see some African raptors.

[@simon_dentremont]

Agree! Love birds!

[@amykamin5758]

Have a fun trip ! Great vid as always.

[@pierrelachance123]

Allo Simon, I learnt I can adjust the spread of my Gitzo tripod legs from the inside, same as yours. Who knew! Merci

[@taozhe1]

well I hope you have fun and keep the equipment safe. Im actually going on Safari in November, so I need to get better,actually its Disneyworld. Should be fun tho,happy trails.

[@omarelsheikh74]

Have a great and safe trip Simon, looking forward to see those beautiful pictures and videos after you come back!!

[@twodogs2009]

Hey Simon, Hope you have a wonderful time in Botswana and get all the shots your looking for. Cant wait to see your return video.

[@philipcolumbus3054]

I have used a Tilly had for years of travel. You will love it. Good sun protection. Plus, if it’s windy, you can use the dual strap system and it will keep your hat from blowing away. Plus, they come with a lifetime guarantee.

[@lifeinpixelsphotographer]

I have to get this course one day amazing teacher, enjoy the Safari.

[@Steve-qi7hc]

Have a great trip. Looking forward to seeing your photos. Another great video.

[@skakdosmer]

My favourite binoculars are the Pentax Papillo II. They can focus down to 50 cm! There are 6.5 x 21 and 8.5 x 21, and I own both. I meant to keep the ones I liked best and send the others back. But the 6.5s were delayed, and when I got them, it was too late to send the others back, and the 6.5s turned out to be my clear favourites. More stable and better light transmission.

[@Liesel81-across-all-borders]

Omg i still have a lot to learn. Glad i found your channel but i probably will never carry the same Equipment as you. My current Set up Gh5s with two lenses 12 - 60 mm & 100 - 300 mm , gopro hero 7 and my phone . I shoot mostly Hand held. Gosh your images 😍

[@jamesleiter4222]

Great video, I'm going to the Middle East for two weeks and want to put all my R5 gear and lenses in one carry on bag; this video gave me some good ideas on what to pack.

[@kevinwebb9344]

Just got back from a Botswana safari myself, got back last weekend ,absolutely stunning place for wildlife photography, I shoot Nikon and take my d500 and my z6ii, lenses were nikon 80 400mm ,probably got 80% of my shots with that lens, also took my 500 mm pf and a 300 mm pf along with a 24 200 z lens for when the animals get very close ,looking forward to seeing your pictures when you return

[@simon_dentremont]

Awesome!

[@philtherock9579]

Crazy how much just the hat changed the direction/sound of the microphone. What an insanely well enginereed product

[@simon_dentremont]

I noticed!

[@jongilmour211]

Good job Simon

[@denheg5009]

Simon, you are very well-organized. I'm looking forward to your upcoming photos and videos...Cheers

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks Den!

[@angelavezina1463]

Have a great trip!

[@marc5279]

sounds great, good luck simon!

[@chrzanik666]

I can hear clear excitement in tone of your voice 😉 have a great trip looking forward to Great content hope you will manage to upload some whilst in Botswana 🤞

[@5argetech56]

So glad I discovered your channel. Your tips and explanation of digital photography, has made me a better "Picture Taker" Thank you! Can't wait to see your trip photos.

[@franshansen786]

Hey Simon. Being following you for a while and enjoying your videos very much. But living in south africa your perspective of our challenges to photograph wildlife in sometimes thick vegetation was missing. Now you are coming to Africa!!!! Enjoy your trip and enjoy photographing the best wildlife the planet offers. Looking very much fwd on your insights!!!! Pity the R7 didn't make your bag. Enjoy Pangolin!!!!

[@peterbarriscale7857]

Looking forward to seeing the stories and photos from your trip. I also hope to go with Pangolin in a few months time. Thanks for the excellent content in all your videos. Keep up the good work.

[@RogerJones-mountfield]

Looking forward to seeing a video of your experience with Pangolin they have a great team it should be a great experience for both you and for them, wish I could be a “fly on the wall” and hear and see your discussions

[@albertramos1362]

Thank you Sir, very informative. Enjoy your trip be safe.

[@HP2441]

WOW, sounds like a great trip. Africa is on my ultimate bucket list. I also subscribe to the Pangolin channel and fantasize that if I were able to go the Africa, I'd choose Pangolin as my guide and host site. They seem to offer great amenities. Their boats and vehicles look perfect for photography and the accommodations look too nice to be a photo trip...😀 SO, I look forward to your photos/videos and would like to see and hear about the Pangolin experience. Have a great trip.

[@bonnieleefowler3206]

Hi Simon, What an amazing video with a wealth of information which I will use to pack for my 4 wk fall photography trip through the Rocky Mountains. At least I have the same 2 camera bodies and lenses. Thank you for another outstanding video.

[@timl8406]

Possible recommendation to save space. I use a small 110v splitter to avoid the need of carrying multiple power adapters. Thanks for all your videos.

[@johnwinter6061]

Spray jackets are also a good option for layering. Allow a bit more movement.

[@andres21092]

Thank you for posting. I’m not a professional but your tips always help me. They can be applied to any vacation/trip that you are taking equipment with. I enjoy all your videos.

[@PentaxLife]

Wow that sounds like a very great trip. We have a trip coming up to Australia New Zealand in Winter. It gives me some ideas what to pack along as well.

[@timothytapio4252]

It doesn't sound like you're getting excited...

[@mcarlyon1]

Thanks for this. Have a fantastic trip!

[@anthonyocarroll5630]

Have a good trip Simon bring back some nice photos with settings thanks

[@simon_dentremont]

Will do!

[@franktherabbit42]

Im looking forward to seeing the results from your trip! Have a great time

[@aaryan4772]

Botswana will be amazing. If you go to chobe national park there’s game drives where you can get extremely close to the animals on the water as well as on land. I shot some beautiful images with a canon t4i when I was a newbie. Can’t wait to go back to its better gear, more experience and skills! I have much better images now but my favourite was getting in closeup to a cheetah (my profile picture) it’s not the best work I’ve done by any means but it’s a great memory!

[@skakdosmer]

Winning a 600 f4 sounds tempting. But the fact is that I'm not even sure I'd want one. Besides, I wouldn't stand a chance. I'm sure whoever wins it will need it more than I. If I'd been 40 years younger (which would have been 23), I might have tried. Except in those days I didn't even own a camera, and I wouldn't have been able to afford the course anyway. I wish you the best time in Africa and a safe trip all the way. Don't forget sun protection, mosquito net and a rocket blower.

[@P_Lapointe]

Enjoy your trip Simon. Can't wait to see your pictures!

[@glandriault1918]

Hello Simon. I’ve been to Africa many times for photography (heading back to Zambia in the fall) and have done a trip with Pangolin ….you’re in for a great trip! Your kit is all encompassing and I wonder about weight limits once you head in country. If you’re taking smaller planes, their limit usually doesn’t exceed 20 kilos. One important thing is what you put in your checked bag. My advice is to never put your hard drives in checked bags. They often don’t make it through to the other end. Also, I suggest AirTags in all bags…even the ones you bring as carry on. Have a wonderful trip!!

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks. I’ve got airtags on the way. As for the 20kg limit in small commuter planes, Pangolin has a 25kg deal

[@steveparent8788]

Hi Simon, as I can see you are well prepared. I would love to know on your return what is really needed for such a nice trip. Can't wait to hear about you !

[@randyschwager84]

Very interesting to see what you take! Good info, even if not on a Safari! Thanks for taking me along!

[@simon_dentremont]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@deyelaw4809]

Thanks for the tips! I am heading to Botswana next April. Your equipment list is very helpful, especially the list of lenses.

[@MrTwister3356]

Have a great trip Simon...anxious to see the results!...cheers!

[@dereksoohoo328]

I love all of your videos! You've been a guide for my photography and I'm thankful for you and your content! I would love see more drone videos and your process when using them in the field. Thank you! I hope you had a great trip!

[@simon_dentremont]

Great idea on drones. Noted.

[@F14AB]

Wait what? No 7Dmk2? Lolol. Just kidding, I can’t wait to see your photos! Be safe and enjoy!!

[@leannewolf9950]

I was one of the people that requested this video. I’m so stoked to see it! Thank you for the great work. I look forward to seeing more of your trip. I would love to see the set up for a day of shooting and would also be interested in things NOT to take or things you would do differently next time in Africa. I can’t wait to see the photo’s, have a great trip.

[@tindy602]

Really glad to have just found your videos. Can’t wait to see your shots! Have a great trip.

[@christopherhealey8807]

Botswana booked in for May next year. Therefore cant wait to see and hear your tips

[@simon_dentremont]

awesome!

[@JackZievis]

Thanks, good info. Wonderful video.

[@simon_dentremont]

Thanks very much!

[@dpulte]

Great video! I'm going to Zambia in September, will use this advice well. One interesting note - I'm flying Qatar, which limits us to 7 kg in carryons! Makes planning more challenging.

[@RunGSD]

Enjoy! Went to Botswana last year with a 5D3 and 70-200 and scored some great shots.

[@larrybrown8738]

Amazing timing for your video. Just received the Nikon Z8 and planning to go to Kenya and Tanzania next year. Need all the advice I can get. The comments of others is equally informative. I enjoy your information and teaching style. Enjoy your trip!!

[@RobertLouw1]

Hi Simon, I look forward to all your pictures and your trip report. As a South African I am of course a bit disappointed that you are not visiting 🇿🇦 too but I am sure you will have a wonderful time in Botswana. From what I have seen, Pangolin offers fantastic game viewing experiences and have an expert team of photographers that know exactly how to get you the best photo opportunities. Have fun!

[@markturriff994]

I’m guessing he’d like to charge his batteries and that’s pretty hard with all that load shedding going on in SA - power’s much more reliable up here in Bots

[@RobertLouw1]

@@markturriff994 Yes, the truth hurts. I am so embarrassed by the cANCer of our government.

[@kittyclerico18]

Great video! So many things to consider for your trip. I appreciate the detailed explanation of why you are taking each item - especially the lenses.