LOCATION
South Africa
.png)
DATES
28 Nov '25 - 07 Dec '25
TOUR GUIDE
Victor Soares
GROUP SIZE
6 Spots Left
Take your photography to a new level in South Africa's premier safari destination.
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 mighty lion 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.
Take your photography to a new level in South Africa's premier safari destination.
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 mighty lion 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.
ABOUT THE SABI SANDS PRIVATE RESERVE
The Sabi Sands Reserve, a remarkable jewel of South Africa's wildlife heritage, has a rich history that underscores its significance as a premier conservation area. Established in the 1960s, this private game reserve was born out of the vision to create a sustainable habitat where wildlife could thrive alongside responsible tourism. Unlike many other reserves, the Sabi Sands operates on the principle of cooperative management among neighbouring landowners, which has led to successful conservation efforts and enhanced biodiversity.
The Sabi Sand Game Reserve stands out as a premier wildlife destination, offering a unique blend of rich biodiversity and exclusive safari experiences that cannot be found elsewhere. One of the most compelling aspects of Sabi Sands is its unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, allowing for seamless wildlife movement between the two areas. This results in an impressive variety of species, including the renowned Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos – which are frequently spotted due to the reserve's exceptional game-viewing opportunities. Furthermore, the Sabi Sands is known for its luxury lodges that provide personalized service and intimate encounters with nature, elevating the safari experience beyond mere observation to genuine immersion in the African wilderness. The area's commitment to conservation also plays a pivotal role; community-driven initiatives ensure that both wildlife and local communities thrive harmoniously. Ultimately, it is this combination of diverse wildlife, luxurious accommodations, and conservation efforts that makes the Sabi Sand Game Reserve a truly unique destination for any nature enthusiast or traveller seeking adventure.
DETAILED ITENARY
Day 1
We depart on an overnight flight to Johannesburg, South Africa (flights are excluded but we can help to ensure you are on an appropriate flight)
Day 2
Arrive at OR Tambo International (South Africa) and transfer via plane to Hoedspruit
Short transfer by road to the lodge (approximately 1.5 hours)
Arrive at lodge just after lunch time, settle in and prepare for afternoon safari,
Afternoon safari (approximately 3 hours)
Days 3-8
Explore the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve.
Over the next week, we will explore and photograph the Northern part of this extensive park. The wildlife opportunities are excellent and the guides and trackers are experts at what they do. Here's what a typical day:
After an early wake-up call (around 4:30 - 5:00) we head out for a morning game drive,
During the morning game drive, you will be spoiled with coffee and homemade rusks,
We then return to the lodge, filled with amazing memories and look forward to a well-deserved brunch.
This casual meal allows us to reflect on the drive and to relax.
A dip in the swimming pool is a good option, but many guests choose to have a nap or go through their morning images - the choice is yours - this is your time.
On day 4 and Day 6 a formal post-processing workshop will be arranged and you are welcome to attend it if you would like to.
At around 2pm we start to prepare for our afternoon drive, and indulge in a classic high-tea.
High-tea is usually a selection of eats that include savouries, pastries and some salads,
Then we embark on our afternoon drive.
In the afternoon your ranger will find a suitable spot, with stunning views, where you will enjoy your sundowner drink
After sundowners your tracker will use the spotlight to find nocturnal animals.
We then return to our lodge and look forward to a mouth-watering dinner
An early night is usually the order of the day, as the next day starts with an early wake-up call.
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.
Day 9
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 Hoedspruit airport
A short flight takes us to OR Tambo International, and in the evening, we leave on a night flight back to our country of origin.
Day 10
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 can arrange a suitable location to end your time in our company. Where we can help you connect to your next stop, we certainly will.)
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
Walking during the workshop
For safety reasons, we are not permitted to leave the safari vehicle, so there is virtually no walking during this tour. The only time you'll need to stretch your legs is at the lodge, walking between your room and other activities.
However, we may decide to attend at least one walking safari. During this activity, the walking is gentle and limited. Any mobility issues will be identified, and mitigating actions will be discussed with each participant.
Transportation and Parking
Transfers between JHB airport, Hoedspruit airport and the lodge are included. There is no need to hire a car or make use of any other transportation for the duration of this tour.
Food
All meals are catered for - this is a full board tour.
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.
THE 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.
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 lodge offers 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
Unlimited use of the Swimming pool
Single-occupancy rooms available (at an additional cost)
Included transfers
Domestic (return) flight between Johannesburg and Hoedspruit
Minibus (return) transfer between airport and lodge
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
WHAT'S INCLUDED
INCLUDED
Return flights between Johannesburg and Hoedspruit,
Return road transfers between Hoedspruit and the lodge,
Elegant and luxurious accommodation for 7 nights, inside the Sabi Sands,
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
All drinks, including your bar and mini bar use,
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.
ACCOMMODATION
For more information, please reach out by clicking on the link below or by contacting +44 7928 540746
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (F.A.Q.)
Booking is very easy!
Simply follow the booking procedure by clicking on “Book Now”. This will take you to the product page where you can reserve your place by paying a DEPOSIT. Alternatively, please contact us by email using info@victor-soares.com
You will receive a confirmation of your booking and any queries will be dealt with using the e-mail you provide.
All major credit cards and paypal are accepted.
We will meet at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa.
There are a range of flights available, depending on where you are travelling from. If you need help selecting a flight that coincides with the tour, please reach us by email at info@victor-soares.com
For the duration of this tour, there is no requirement for a vehicle, all is catered for.
Any telephoto lens will work. Anything from a 70-200 to a 500 prime is welcome and will meet your needs. However, this tour allows you to get quite close to some of the more sought-after species so you may not be struggling for reach. Photography however is a very personal thing so it is probably best to understand your expectations to accurately advise you on what will work for you.
A tripod is not specifically required but some people prefer to work with one, so again this depends on you. A monopod is another good option to consider. We will however, be shooting from a moving vehicle and a tripod may be cumbersome and a nuisance so in our experience, a beanbag is the favoured option. For any landscape or astrophotography, a tripod will however be invaluable.
You should budget for your flights, your own snacks and all your drinks.
All meals are included. However, you may want to purchase snacks for your own consumption. All drinks are for your account and available at the lodge. Please indicate if you have any allergies and intolerances so that you can be catered for accurately.
This tour runs in November and December, the very end of the dry season in South Africa and we will probably be subject to some thundershowers and rainfall during the tour. However, photography in the rain can be spectacular and we will definitely explore these opportunities.
Prefer a pdf copy of all the details to read at your leisure?
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.
GALLERY
OTHER PHOTOGRAPHIC TOURS
.jpg)
Dates: Fri 28 Nov 2025 - Sun 07 Dec 2025
Tour Leader: Victor Soares
Location: South Africa
Group Size: Max 6
Cost: £3950 per person sharing
Deposit: £1000
Single Suppliment: Please ask
Meeting: OT Tambo International (South Africa)
ACCOMMODATION
Luxury Lodge
MEETING POINT
OR Thambo International Airport
DURATION
10 Days
GROUP SIZE
6 Spots Left