Tripod on African Safari

[kimmeesook]

Hi all. I'm leaving in less than 2 weeks for a Tanzanian safari. Because of an internal flight from Arusha to Zanzibar, I'm very limited to weight. I have a bogen tripod which is heavy, however sturdy for my 100-400L. I've been doing research on the various locations and the ability or lack there of to get decent space in the 4x4. Would you spare the extra expense, potential hassle of taking a tripod on safari? I think the logical answer is yes, however I'm concerned about the space and weight issues. I realize a monopod may be more ideal, however do not have the abililty to get one and practice with it before I go.

Thanks in advance.

[saravrose]

I can tell you that I used my monopod quite a bit in Africa, a tripod was only used a few times by a couple of photographers out of the six. If you'll be staying anywhere near the waterholes we had in Etosha or able to wander around outside of your vehicle then yes, pack it. Be careful about your weight though one of us had one heck of a fine for being overweight with his checked luggage.. As for practice with a monopod, there's not a whole lot you'll have to learn, truly a few minutes of shooting with it and it'll feel natural the tripods take more getting used to. I've just about given up after purchasing five in the last couple of years (have yet to actually use one). It really is your call if you think you can manage the space issue (and it does have the potential to be an issue) then bring it along if you think it really will be a hassle then skip it.

Sari

[tommykjensen]

I didn't bring a tripod on the Africa trip Sari mentions and I didn't bring a monopod either. I used a beanbag "The Pod" that screws on the lens or the camerabody. That worked fine.

And I am also only going to bring my beanbag on the next trip in august.

[kimmeesook]

Thanks for both of your responses. Sari makes a good point. I'm not sure how much we will be out of the vehicle, however handholding a 100-400L will no doubt produce blurry pics, so will probably take the tripod and will use the beanbag inside the 4x4. Thanks again!

[Nordwil57]

I found the beanbag worked 99% of the time, but almost all my shots were either from the vehicle, or from a point where I could brace against a tree or railing. I DID buy a very lightweight tripod for short short money to bring with just in case, but I wouldnt dare walk away from the camera with the 100-400 on it, even without a breeze. In my mind it was a disposable item that gave me peace of mind, and in hindsight, with the one trip under my belt, I would probably leave it behind.