LOCATION
Location
BOTSWANA
Tour Dates
4 September - 13 September 2026
Group Size
Max 6 (Min 4)
Tour Leader
Victor Soares
Vanessa Soares
Summary
An extraordinary destination that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike to rekindle their spirit of exploration in a stunning, untouched landscape. Nestled within this exclusive concession in eastern Botswana, guests can indulge in a plethora of activities tailored to awaken their inner explorer, from thrilling game drives that bring them face-to-face with majestic wildlife to serene walking safaris that allow for intimate encounters with nature. This is not just a place that one just visits; one embarks on a journey into the heart of Africa’s wilderness, rediscovering the beauty and wonder reminiscent of a century ago!
Day 1 - Travel to OR Thambo Airport, South Africa
We depart on route to our initial destination in South Africa using whichever airport makes more sense for our trip.
Days 2 - Arrive in JHB, Dinner and transfer to Hotel
After our overnight flight, we land in Johannesburg with plenty of time to unwind and prepare for the journey ahead. This day is all about settling in—taking care of any last-minute shopping, meeting our fantastic FOW hosts, and sharing a delicious welcome meal. It’s the perfect opportunity to get to know one another, ease into the rhythm of the trip, and build excitement for our upcoming adventure in Botswana.
Day 3 - Travel to Botswana and first safari
After enjoying tea and coffee at the hotel, we begin our 5 to 6-hour road journey to Botswana. We’ve built in plenty of time for a relaxed pace, with stops along the way to stretch our legs, grab some refreshments, and enjoy a hearty brunch. We expect to arrive at our lodge around 1:00 PM. Once we’ve settled in, the adventure begins with our first game drive safari at approximately 3:00 PM.
Day 4 - Full Day at our Exclusive Use lodge
The day is ours, the lodge is ours and hence the time is ours to do as we please. However, to maximise both photographic and wildlife sighting opportunities, we plan to get in two drives a day. An early start will provide us with the rewards of wildlife looking for their first meal of the day, while afternoon drives allow us to capture wildlife settling in for the night.
In between, we rest and relax. The camp features a central lapa / dining area with a firepit on the main deck; along with a splash pool which overlooks the waterhole. There is also plenty of time for image review and critique and post-processing sessions,
Delicious meals are produced by our passionate and experienced chefs and 4 meals are provided a day - early breakfast before morning game-drive, brunch upon your return, afternoon tea before leaving on afternoon game-drive and dinner after freshening up upon your return.
Day 5 - Much the same as the day before
Day 6 - Much the same as the day before
Day 7 - Much the same as the day before
Day 8 - Much the same as the day before
Day 9 - Final game drive and return to Johannesburg
On the final day of our journey, we enjoy one last early morning game drive before saying goodbye to the magical landscapes of Botswana. After check-out at 10:00 AM, we begin our 5 to 6-hour road transfer back to Johannesburg, aiming to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport between 4:00 and 5:00 PM—perfectly timed for evening departures.
If you’d like to extend your stay in South Africa or continue your holiday elsewhere, we’ll be happy to offer suggestions, though any additional arrangements will be at your own expense.
Day 10 - Arrive Home
After an overnight journey, we’ll arrive home—carrying with us the vivid memories of Botswana. The sights, sounds, and moments shared will remain etched in our minds, lasting long after the dust has settled and serving as a lasting reminder of an unforgettable adventure.
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.
While we remain at the mercy of the weather gods, the local guides and hosts will be the defining voice on whether we go out or not, but we generally do. Unless there is a huge downpour, we will still continue to photograph in the rain as this can produce amazing photos. Please bring what you would consider to be suitable clothing. Of course, no one will be forced to be in the rain, if they don't want to be.
Optional: Tripod/Monopod/Binoculars
Safety and Walking
The camp is unfenced so general precautions are For safety reasons, during any drives, we are not permitted to leave the safari vehicle, unless indicated. Your professional guide will also discuss with you the options of guided game-walks or a combination drive and walk.
NOTE: None of the camps are fenced and therefore is not uncommon to find any species of animals in and about the camps. No unaccompanied walking or driving around the reserve is permitted
Transportation and Parking
Transfers between JHB airport, hotels and our camp are included as we will hire a people carrier for this. There is no need to hire a car or make use of any other transportation for the duration of this tour.
Food
Except for our dinner in Johannesburg on Day 1, all meals are catered for. This will include 3 meals a day plus eats during drives.
IMPORTANT: Any allergies and special requirements will need to be advised and arranged prior to departure.
Photographic Experience
Whatever your knowledge and experience, you are welcome! All levels of photography are catered for, and your photographic host is available to you all the time throughout this tour.
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.
10 Days | from £3790pp
Booking Details
Dates
4 - 13 September 2026 - Available
Tour Leaders: Victor Soares + Vanessa Soares
Group Size: 6
Cost: from £3790 pps
Deposit: £800
Single Suppliment: Available, please ask
Meeting: TBD
Highlights
Our camp is exclusively ours throughout our stay—everything from guides to kitchen staff is dedicated solely to us. We have exclusive access to two 6-seater vehicles for activities, ensuring everyone enjoys their own row of seats. Each vehicle accommodates just three guests alongside an experienced driver and a photographic host ready to cater to your every need.
Twice a day, we embark on exhilarating game drives. The morning drive spans a thrilling 3 to 4 hours, while the afternoon adventure takes us into the enchanting night, offering rare glimpses of elusive nocturnal creatures. Our expert guides will passionately discuss options for guided game walks or an exciting blend of driving and walking.
Prepare yourself for awe-inspiring encounters with majestic elephants, lions, leopards and the opportunity to photograph cheetahs, both spotted and brown hyenas, diverse antelope species, bush pigs, warthogs—the list ia almost endless! Bird lovers will be no less thrilled by sightings of Meyer’s Parrot and Meve’s Starlings and so many others.
Included
In Johannesburg (South Africa)
1 night of accommodation in a Johannesburg hotel (single rooms if available)
Road transferes between Johannesburg and Botswana (return)
In Botswana
Private and exclusive use of a camp for the duration of our stay
Services of a professional chef and their team
Services of a cleaning team
6 nights of accommodation (limited single rooms available at an additional fee)
Two professionally-guided activities daily.
Two private vehicles with private guides.
Full Board option includes 4 meals per day.
Beverages are for own account.
Government tourism levies.
Conservation levies.
Excluded
All drinks (unless specifically included)
Any accommodation prior to or after the tour, as described
Personal travel insurance (recommended)
Personal property insurance (recommended)
Any international and local flights (but we can asist with these)
Any food in Johannesburg
VISA or entry costs into South Africa and Botswana
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "included" section above
Recommended
Your photographic eqipment of choice
a long lens (300mm - 500mm) + a Teleconverter
a wide lens (24mm or less) - for landscape or astronomy (personal choice)
a tripod or beanbag
A rain cover for camera/lens
Binoculars
A pair of comfortable boots
Weatherproof clothing (suitable to the season)
Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Itinerary
O V E R V I E W
An extraordinary destination that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike to rekindle their spirit of exploration in a stunning, untouched landscape. Nestled within this exclusive concession in eastern Botswana, guests can indulge in a plethora of activities tailored to awaken their inner explorer, from thrilling game drives that bring them face-to-face with majestic wildlife to serene walking safaris that allow for intimate encounters with nature. This is not just a place that one just visits; one embarks on a journey into the heart of Africa’s wilderness, rediscovering the beauty and wonder reminiscent of a century ago!
T O U R D A T E S
4 September - 13 September 2026
In Johannesburg (South Africa)
1 night of accommodation in a Johannesburg hotel (single rooms if available)
Road transferes between Johannesburg and Botswana (return)
In Botswana
Private and exclusive use of a camp for the duration of our stay
Services of a professional chef and their team
Services of a cleaning team
6 nights of accommodation (limited single rooms available at an additional fee)
Two professionally-guided activities daily.
Two private vehicles with private guides.
Full Board option includes 4 meals per day.
Beverages are for own account.
Government tourism levies.
Conservation levies.
DOWNLOADS
RECOMMENDED
INCLUDED
EXCLUDED
All drinks (unless specifically included)
Any accommodation prior to or after the tour, as described
Personal travel insurance (recommended)
Personal property insurance (recommended)
Any international and local flights (but we can asist with these)
Any food in Johannesburg
VISA or entry costs into South Africa and Botswana
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "included" section above
Your photographic eqipment of choice
a long lens (300mm - 500mm) + a Teleconverter
a wide lens (24mm or less) - for landscape or astronomy (personal choice)
a tripod or beanbag
A rain cover for camera/lens
Binoculars
A pair of comfortable boots
Weatherproof clothing (suitable to the season)
Frequently Asked Questions
Itinerary
GALLERY
