Photo safari tours in NYC cut through the tourist chaos, offering focused ways to capture the city’s essence while learning real photography skills. Two standout options shine: The Midtown NYC Photo Safari expertly guides small groups around Manhattan’s greatest hits, including perfect Empire State Building shots. Meanwhile, the Chinatown Photo Safari combines culture with street photography instruction.
We particularly favor these tours for their professional photography instructors and small group sizes – you won’t get lost in a crowd. The hands-on coaching and insider photo spots make them worth every penny.
Let’s check out our favorite NYC photo safari experiences and what makes them special.
Key Points
- Midtown NYC Photo Safari offers a personalized photography experience of iconic landmarks with a professional guide, priced at $125 per person.
- Chinatown Photo Safari provides a culture in the vibrant neighborhood, guided by a professional photographer, starting from $135.45 per person.
- Both tours offer wheelchair accessibility, flexible cancellation policies, and private transportation for a comfortable experience.
- The Midtown tour focuses on capturing skyscrapers, subway activity, and neon signs, while the Chinatown tour emphasizes the unique architecture and culture.
- Travelers have reported excellent ratings and a fun learning environment that enhances their overall experience on these safari tours.
Midtown NYC Photo Safari
One of the top-rated safari tours in New York City is the Midtown NYC Photo Safari. This photography-focused tour takes small groups of up to 8 travelers through the iconic landmarks of Midtown Manhattan, including the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and a moving subway car.
Led by a professional photographer instructor, the tour provides hands-on guidance to help participants capture stunning images of the city’s skyscrapers, subway activity, and neon signs.
The tour is highly recommended, with a 100% traveler rating and a Badge of Excellence. Priced at $125 per person, the tour includes a one-way subway fare and private transportation, and is wheelchair accessible.
Travelers rave about the individual attention and fun learning environment, reporting significant improvements in their digital and smartphone photography skills.
With flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies, the Midtown NYC Photo Safari is a must-try for anyone seeking a unique and enriching photographic adventure in the heart of New York City.
Read our full review: Midtown NYC Photo Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Chinatown Photo Safari
Travelers seeking another engaging photography experience in New York City can explore the Chinatown Photo Safari. Priced from $135.45 per person, this tour offers a professional photographer guide to lead participants through the vibrant streets of Chinatown.
With a maximum of 4 travelers, the small group size ensures personalized attention and ample opportunities to capture the neighborhood’s unique sights. The tour meeting point is at Straus Square, with pickup available at the nearby Citi Bike location.
Wheelchair accessibility and service animals are welcome, making the experience accessible to most travelers. Booking confirmation is provided upon reservation, and cancellations or reschedules can be made up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.
Reviews for the Chinatown Photo Safari are excellent, with a 5.0 rating across 2 total reviews on platforms like Viator and Tripadvisor. Participants can expect an immersive and educational outing, exploring the unique culture and architecture of this iconic New York City neighborhood through the lens of their cameras.
Read our full review: Chinatown Photo Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Common Questions
Do the Tours Provide Transportation to the Safari Locations?
The tours typically include transportation to the safari locations. Guests don’t have to worry about getting to the sites as the tour operators provide the necessary transportation, making the experience convenient and hassle-free.
Are the Tours Available for Private Groups or Individuals?
The tours are available for both private groups and individual bookings. Customers can choose to join a scheduled group tour or arrange a private safari experience tailored to their preferences and group size.
What Types of Cameras or Equipment Are Recommended for the Tours?
Guides recommend bringing a DSLR camera with a zoom lens to capture high-quality wildlife photos on the tours. Compact cameras or smartphones can also work well, though they may struggle with long-distance shots.
Are There Any Age or Physical Ability Restrictions for the Tours?
Most safari tours have minimum age requirements and may restrict participants with limited mobility. Travelers should check with the tour operator to understand any age or physical ability restrictions before booking. Tour operators aim to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Focus on Specific Photography Interests?
Many safari tour operators in New York City offer customized tours that cater to specific photography interests. Clients can work with the tour guides to tailor the itinerary and focus on their preferred photographic subjects or techniques.
The Sum Up
New York City offers a variety of exciting photo safaris for visitors. The Midtown NYC Photo Safari and Chinatown Photo Safari provide unique opportunities to capture the bustling energy and diverse culture of the city. These guided tours are perfect for aspiring photographers or anyone seeking an immersive urban experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these safaris promise an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Big Apple.