Drone Photography on Safari: Rules in Kenya, Tanzania, and Beyond

Drone Photography on Safari: Rules in Kenya, Tanzania, and Beyond

Drone photography on safari in East Africa’s national parks and protected areas is highly regulated and generally restricted for recreational tourists. The primary reasons for these strict rules are:

• Wildlife Disturbance: The noise and presence of drones can stress, frighten, and alter the natural behavior of wildlife, especially sensitive species like elephants, primates (gorillas, chimpanzees), and birds (which may abandon nests).
• Safety Concerns: Drones can interfere with manned aircraft (e.g., hot air balloons, scenic flights, park ranger planes). There’s also a risk of drones crashing and causing injury to animals or people.
• Privacy Issues: Drones with cameras can invade the privacy of other visitors and local communities.
• Anti-Poaching Efforts: Drones have been used by poachers in some regions, leading to increased vigilance and restrictions by conservation authorities.
• Preserving the Safari Experience: Many visitors seek the tranquility and natural sounds of the bush, which can be disrupted by drone noise.

While recreational use is largely discouraged or outright banned, professional filmmakers, researchers, and conservationists may obtain permits for specific purposes under very strict conditions. The process is lengthy, expensive, and requires extensive documentation.

Here’s a breakdown by country:

Tanzania (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, etc.)

• General Rule for Tourists: Strictly prohibited for recreational use in national parks, conservation areas, and game reserves.
• Permit Process (for professionals/specific projects): Highly complex and lengthy. You would need:
  • Registration and approval from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA).
  • Special approval from the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) and/or the Wildlife Division (for other protected areas).
  • Potentially clearance from the Ministry of Defense and the National Service.
  • A license from the Tanzanian Film Board (if for filming purposes).
  • Proof of proficiency in drone flight.
  • Significant fees are involved, and the process can take months.
  • Often requires a local Tanzanian drone operator or “fixer” to handle the applications.
• Consequences of Unauthorized Use: Fines, drone confiscation, and legal action.

Kenya (Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, etc.)

• General Rule for Tourists: Not allowed in national parks and reserves without special permission. The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) have strict regulations.
• Permit Process (for professionals/specific projects): Very difficult to obtain for tourists. Requires:
  • Approval from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) (requiring an RPA license).
  • A permit from Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
  • A special pass from the local County Government (e.g., Narok County for Masai Mara).
  • Final approval from park management.
  • The application must state the specific purpose and how the drone will be used, with KWS assessing the impact on wildlife.
  • The process takes several months and involves significant fees.
• Consequences of Unauthorized Use: Fines, confiscation, or legal action.

Uganda (Murchison Falls, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, etc.)

• General Rule for Tourists: Generally prohibited in national parks and protected areas without special permission. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) regulate drone usage.
• Permit Process (for professionals/specific projects): Highly involved and time-consuming. Requires:
  • Clearance from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA).
  • Clearance from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) (for security assessment).
  • A “no objection” letter from the relevant government ministry (e.g., Tourism, Environment).
  • Importation clearance from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) at entry.
  • An operating permit from the UCAA.
  • Detailed flight plans, drone specifications, pilot’s certification, liability insurance, and a substantial fee.
  • For commercial filming, additional permits from the Uganda Media Council and filming permits from UWA are required, along with media cards for all crew members.
  • It is generally advised to start this process at least 3 months in advance.
• Consequences of Unauthorized Use: Drone confiscation and potential legal penalties, including imprisonment.

Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park, Akagera, Nyungwe)

• General Rule for Tourists: Strictly restricted/generally not permitted in national parks and protected areas without prior special authorization from the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
• Permit Process (for professionals/specific projects): Rwanda has some of the most organized but also most stringent regulations in Africa.
  • Drones are classified as “restricted items,” meaning you cannot even import one without prior authorization from the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA).
  • You must apply for import permission, an Operator Certificate, and an Activity Permit.
  • Foreign nationals often need to work with a Rwandan citizen or permanent resident who applies on their behalf.
  • Clearance may also be needed from the Rwanda National Police (RNP) and Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
  • Mandatory drone insurance.
  • The process can take up to three months.
• Consequences of Unauthorized Use: Severe penalties, including fines, confiscation, and imprisonment.

Beyond East Africa

The trend across most safari destinations in Africa (e.g., South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe) is similar: strong restrictions or outright bans on recreational drone use in national parks and wildlife areas. Some private conservancies might allow it under very specific conditions and with prior, explicit permission, but this is rare and often comes with significant additional costs for private vehicle hire to avoid disturbing other guests.

Key Takeaway:

For the average tourist on a safari, do not plan on using a drone in any national park or major wildlife reserve in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, or Rwanda. The hassle, expense, and very high likelihood of refusal (or confiscation if attempted without permission) make it impractical and risky. Focus on excellent ground-level photography with telephoto lenses, and consider activities like hot air balloon safaris (where permitted) for aerial perspectives.