Species profile
About this species
Thomson's gazelle is a small, swift antelope native to the grasslands of East Africa, particularly Kenya & Tanzania. It is recognised by its distinctive tan coat, white underbelly, & bold black stripe along its flanks. One of the most numerous gazelle species on the Serengeti, it is a key prey species for cheetahs, lions & wild dogs.
Open short-grass plains & savannah grasslands of East Africa, particularly the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in Tanzania & Kenya, where they favour areas with recently burnt or grazed grasses.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Thomson's Gazelle with us in Tanzania.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, David Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
The dry season from June to October offers the best visibility as vegetation is sparse & animals gather near water sources. Early morning & late afternoon light provides warm, directional illumination ideal for highlighting the gazelle's colouring.
Position yourself low to the ground to capture eye-level shots that convey the gazelle's elegance & environment. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze motion, especially during the characteristic stotting behaviour. A telephoto lens of 400mm or longer allows you to photograph from a distance without disturbing the herd.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Thomson's Gazelle
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.