LOCATION

Location
SOUTH AFRICA

Group Size
Max 6 (Min 4)

Single
Please Ask

Tour Leader
Victor Soares

Deposit
£1000

Summary
With its diverse habitats and well-established wildlife reserves, South Africa empowers photographers to immerse themselves in the lives of majestic creatures, from the powerful prowess of the majestic leopard to the serene grace of the gentle giraffe. Equipped with world-class photographic infrastructure and knowledgeable guides, photographers can venture deep into the heart of the wilderness, honing their skills and crafting breathtaking images that immortalize the splendour of South Africa's wildlife.
Day 1 - Depart en-route to South Africa
We depart on an overnight flight to Johannesburg, and then connect to Nelspruit, South Africa (flights are excluded but we can help to ensure you are on an appropriate flight). There is also an option to transfer via road (about 4 hours) but please discuss this with the tour organiser first.
From Europe:
Direct flights from major European hubs such as London, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Paris typically take 9 to 12 hours to reach Johannesburg. The flight to Nelspruit (KMIA) is less than 2 hours. Several airlines offer overnight flights, allowing you to rest and arrive ready to begin your adventure.
From North America:
Flights from the East Coast (e.g., New York or Washington, D.C.) to Nairobi usually involve a short layover in Europe or the Middle East, with total travel time averaging 15 to 20 hours. From the West Coast (e.g., Los Angeles or San Francisco), expect a journey of around 24 hours, depending on connections.
Day 2 - Arrive and Transfer
We arrive at OR Tambo International (South Africa) and transfer via plane to Nelspruit (South Africa). We will then transfer by road to the lodge (approximately 2.5 hours), arriving at the lodge just after lunch time. We settle in and prepare for an afternoon safari.
Accommodation: Safari Tent, Timbavati Private Reserve
Days 3, 4 and 5 - Full Day Exploring the Timbavati Private Game Reserve.
Over the next 4 nights, we will explore and photograph this magnificent park. The wildlife opportunities are excellent and the guides and trackers are experts at what they do. Here's what a typical day look like:
Early wake-up call (around 4:30 - 5:00)
Morning game drive (3-4 hours), break for bush coffee.
Return for brunch.
Relax during the heat of the day.
Afternoon game drive, break for sundowners.
Return for dinner.
Accommodation: Safari Tent, Timbavati Private Reserve
Day 6 - Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Sabi Sands
We embark on our final morning drive at Timbavati and will then enjoy a vehicle transfer to the Sabi Sands. This transfer takes about 2 hours so we will arrive in time to check-in, freshen up and prepare for an afternoon drive and dinner.
Accommodation: Private Suites, Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Days 7, 8 and 9 - Full Day Exploring the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
Over the next 4 nights, we will explore and photograph this incredible park, amongst the best in Africa. The wildlife opportunities here are second to none and the guides and trackers are experts at what they do. Here's what a typical day look like:
Early wake-up call (around 4:30 - 5:00)
Morning game drive (3-4 hours), break for bush coffee.
Return for brunch.
Relax during the heat of the day.
Afternoon game drive, break for sundowners.
Return for dinner.
During game drive you will note that the rangers sometimes drive off of the road and into the bush. This is one of the many game drive aspects that enable us to bring you closer to the action! We do, however, work in accordance to guidelines set out by the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s ecologists. We only allow off-roading in certain areas and with special precautions. The rangers do not drive over sensitive areas, and will only drive over small trees if they are encroachment species. If necessary, the staff will do some brush packing afterwards, to limit the impact on the environment.
The vehicle we get assigned is ours alone and dedicated to photography. The open-sided safari vehicles are great for all-round visibility and photography and with only six photographers, there will be plenty of space to spread out and photograph freely. Furthermore, your photographic guide will be on hand throughout the drives to offer any guidance and help, ensuring you get maximum enjoyment and photography from your safari.
Accommodation: Private Suites, Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Day 10 - Final Game Drive and Departure
This will be our final drive at the lodge, a morning safari. After the drive we return back for one final brunch and prepare our bags for departure. A transfer will take us back to Nelspruit airport and after a short flight, we will be at OR Tambo International, ready to leave on a night flight back to our country of origin.
Day 11 - Arrive back at our origin
(Please note; that should you wish to continue with your holiday after the safari is over, this is obviously your decision and we where we can help you connect to your next stop, we certainly will.)
What To Expect
What to bring (this will not be provided by your host)
Your photographic equipment - check recommendations
Any medication you may need for the duration of the tour.
Binoculars
A torch
Walking during the trip
There may be some walking during walking safaris. Most of the trip is done in a safari vehicle so not much walking at all.
Transportation
All transfers are included as indicated. International flights not included. Regional flights are not included.
Food
Meals and drinks are included
Photographic Experience
Whatever your knowledge and experience, you are welcome! All levels of photography are catered for.
PLEASE NOTE:
Schedule flight times are subject to change depending on the routing of the aircraft - this is out of our control
Charter and schedule flights are subject to change and to fuel surcharges
We reserve the right to review quoted rates in the event of currency exchange rate fluctuation or increases in costs/taxes/park fees that are beyond our control
Please ensure that you travel with comprehensive holiday and medical insurance
Please ensure that your passport does not expire within 6 months from your travel date
IMPORTANT
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance – it is a requirement when booking on any wildlife photography tour or workshop scheduled by Victor Soares Photography & Tours that you have adequate travel insurance, we suggest a policy from a reputable supplier which you may already be using.
Equipment Insurance
It is critical that your photographic equipment be adequately insured before you embark on any holiday where you take your equipment with you. Our tours are no different. These tours can sometimes involve venturing into remote, & sometimes unpredictable environments where accidents & unexpected incidents occur. We recommend insurance against theft, loss, or damage, ensuring your investment is safeguarded.
Wildlife photography involves capturing unique & irreplaceable moments, where any unforeseen mishap could result in significant monetary losses. By insuring your equipment, you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that you’re covered in case of any unfortunate events, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring world of wildlife & capture stunning photographs without worry.
11 Days | from £4990pp
Booking Details
Dates
17 - 27 October 2026 - Available
Tour Leader: Victor Soares
Group Size: 6 (min4)
Cost: £4990pp
Deposit: £1000
Meeting: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (South Africa)
Highlights
Considered by many seasoned travellers as "the best place in the world to go on safari", you will enjoy:
Excellent wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities.
High density of Lion and Leopard, especially in the Sabi Sands.
All of the Big Five - usually ticked-off during a single visit.
The ability to go off-road assures quality sightings of species,
An array of captivating bird species, on drives and in camp.
Specialist local guides and trackers
Private safari vehicle for duration of our trip
Focus on photography
Vehicle restrictions at sightings (usually 2 - 3 vehicles) - no crowds!
The lodges offer incredible comfort and relaxation and the staff will leave no stone unturned to ensure your stay is exceptional. In addition to this great all-round service, you can look forward to:
3 delicious daily meals + sundowners and coffee/tea during drives
2 game drives per day (morning and evening)
1 daily bush walk (optional, where available)
Unlimited use of the Swimming pool
Single-occupancy rooms available (at an additional cost)
Flights to Nelspruit ar excluded
Included transfers
Minibus (return) transfer between the following is included:
Nelspruit airport - Timbavati
Timbavati to Sabi Sands
Sabi Sands - Nelspruit airport
Target Species:
Main targets: Lion, Leopard, White Rhino, Elephant, Buffalo, Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, Hyena, Cheetah, Birds Of Prey, Kingfishers, Bee-eaters
We could also see (if we lucky): Wild Dog, Hippo, Black Rhino, Serval, Caracal, Aardvark, Civet, Honey Badger
Included
Return road transfers between Local Airport and the lodge(s),
Elegant and luxurious accommodation for 8 nights, inside the Sabi Sands and Timbavati
Full board - all meals, including a coffee stop and sundowner drinks during drives,
Unlimited use of all available facilities in camp,
Morning and evening game drives, and bush walks,
Guest Conservation Levies,
On-site assistance and tuition as required,
2 x formal post-processing workshops (2 hours each) with take-home recordings,
Critique and help with your images at any point (informal).
Excluded
Any flights (international, regional or local), unless specifically specified
All drinks, including your bar and mini bar use, unless specified,
Curio shop purchases,
Any gratuities,
Laundry services,
Any accommodation prior to or after the tour, as described
Any other transportation besides the transfers described
Personal travel insurance (recommended)
Personal property insurance (recommended)
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "included" section above
Recommended
Your photographic equipment of choice
one or two camera bodies (personal choice)
a telephoto lens (300mm - 500mm) + a Teleconverter
a wide lens (24mm or less) - for landscape or astronomy (personal choice)
an intermediate lens (24-105 is perfect)
A tripod (although it is not specifically necessary)
A rain cover for camera/lens
A pair of binoculars
A pair of comfortable walking boots (for bush walks)
Weatherproof clothing (just in case)
PLEASE NOTE: If you prefer to rent any photographic equipment while on safari please get in touch. We work with a very reputable and well-priced rental company that operates near the destinations.
Downloads
With its diverse habitats and well-established wildlife reserves, South Africa empowers photographers to immerse themselves in the lives of majestic creatures, from the powerful prowess of the majestic leopard to the serene grace of the gentle giraffe. Equipped with world-class photographic infrastructure and knowledgeable guides, photographers can venture deep into the heart of the wilderness, honing their skills and crafting breathtaking images that immortalize the splendour of South Africa's wildlife.
O V E R V I E W
T O U R D A T E S
17 Oct - 27 Oct 2026 - AVAILABLE

Return road transfers between Local Airport and the lodge(s),
Elegant and luxurious accommodation for 8 nights, inside the Sabi Sands and Timbavati
Full board - all meals, including a coffee stop and sundowner drinks during drives,
Unlimited use of all available facilities in camp,
Morning and evening game drives, and bush walks,
Guest Conservation Levies,
On-site assistance and tuition as required,
2 x formal post-processing workshops (2 hours each) with take-home recordings,
Critique and help with your images at any point (informal).
DOWNLOADS
RECOMMENDED
INCLUDED
EXCLUDED
Any flights (international, regional or local), unless specifically specified
All drinks, including your bar and mini bar use, unless specified,
Curio shop purchases,
Any gratuities,
Laundry services,
Any accommodation prior to or after the tour, as described
Any other transportation besides the transfers described
Personal travel insurance (recommended)
Personal property insurance (recommended)
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "included" section above
Your photographic equipment of choice
one or two camera bodies (personal choice)
a telephoto lens (300mm - 500mm) + a Teleconverter
a wide lens (24mm or less) - for landscape or astronomy (personal choice)
an intermediate lens (24-105 is perfect)
A tripod (although it is not specifically necessary)
A rain cover for camera/lens
A pair of binoculars
A pair of comfortable walking boots (for bush walks)
Weatherproof clothing (just in case)
PLEASE NOTE: If you prefer to rent any photographic equipment while on safari please get in touch. We work with a very reputable and well-priced rental company that operates near the destinations.