Our photographic safaris are crafted with one clear goal: to provide you with an unforgettable wildlife experience that is not only exciting but also meaningful and responsible.

Every trip is thoughtfully designed, backed by extensive research, and grounded in strong ethical principles. We partner exclusively with those who share our commitment to preserving the land, respecting local cultures, and protecting the incredible wildlife we are privileged to photograph. Operating in some of Africa’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions, we strive to keep our safaris accessible without compromising on quality.

Each adventure is hosted by a professional photographer, offering personalized tuition and expert guidance every step of the way. From smooth logistics to creative inspiration, we ensure that all you need to focus on is keeping your batteries charged and your camera ready.

• An exceptional location: Djuma sits in South Africa’s renowned Sabi Sands, part of the wildlife-rich Greater Kruger ecosystem.

• Wildlife without fences: Its connection to Kruger allows animals to move freely through a vast natural landscape.

• Big Five country: Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffalo roam freely here, making every drive full of possibility.

• Regular leopard sightings: These elusive cats are among the reserve’s regularly seen animals.

• Plenty beyond the big mammals: Rich birdlife rewards visitors who slow down and notice the smaller details.

In the heart of South Africa’s renowned Sabi Sands, Djuma Private Game Reserve is a place where the rhythms of the wild shape each day. Unfenced to Kruger National Park, it forms part of a vast landscape through which wildlife moves freely. Its name comes from the Shangaan word meaning “roar of the lion” - a fitting introduction to this remarkable corner of the African bush.

Home to the Big Five and a rich variety of birdlife, Djuma offers opportunities to witness nature as it unfolds. From a leopard slipping through the undergrowth to elephants gathering at a waterhole, every encounter tells a different story. There is as much pleasure in the quieter moments: watching birds from the deck, listening to the bush awaken, or simply pausing to take it all in.

Founded in the early 1990s by Jurie and Pippa Moolman, Djuma grew from a vision to protect the land and share its beauty with others. That spirit has reached far beyond the reserve through its pioneering wildlife webcam and its connection to live safari broadcasts, bringing the African wilderness into homes around the world. Today, conservation, community and a personal connection to nature remain at the heart of Djuma.

Djuma is a top spot for photographers and nature lovers. Elephants, rhinos, and buffalos are common, while lions, wild dogs, and leopards attract many visitors. This unique mix creates exciting animal interactions.

Game drives occur year-round during peak activity times, like early morning and late afternoon. Morning safaris start at sunrise, and evening drives allow for bush sunsets and nocturnal animal viewing.

We’ll use a private 4x4 Land Cruiser with a field guide, offering flexibility for the best photographs. Our group will be just 4-6 guests, ensuring comfort and personal space during drives.

Smaller groups allow for focused guidance, helping you enhance your photography skills in the field.

Back at our cozy accommodation between drives is the perfect time and location to focus on photo cataloging and processing. Settle into a comfortable chair, open your laptop, and together we can explore a variety of innovative ways to enhance and streamline your editing skills in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your techniques, this is an excellent opportunity to learn tips and tricks that will elevate your photography to the next level.

Within this landscape of woodlands, grasslands, and riverine thickets, leopards have flourished, and the Sabi Sands has become known internationally as a hotspot for observing these elusive big cats. Unlike in many other regions, where a leopard sighting is a rare stroke of luck, visitors in Djuma often encounter them daily.

What sets the Sabi Sands leopards apart is not only their abundance but also their relative ease around vehicles. Because the reserve has practiced low-impact tourism for decades, generations of leopards have grown accustomed to safari vehicles and do not see them as threats. This has given researchers, guides, and photographers extraordinary opportunities to observe their natural behavior up close - whether it is hunting, patrolling territory, or raising cubs. As a result, the life histories of individual leopards in the reserve have been documented in remarkable detail, turning some into well-known personalities in the safari world.

The thriving leopard population of Sabi Sand is a testament to how well-protected private reserves can compliment national parks in safeguarding Africa’s wildlife.

Sam has been a professional wildlife photographer for over a decade, capturing the stunning flora and fauna of Zambia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and South Africa—the last being a country he considers his second home. He spent four years living in Africa, immersed in the wildlife and just steps away from the famous Kruger National Park, where he taught international guests the art of wildlife photography and contributed to conservation initiatives.

His photography and writing have been featured in notable publications such as National Geographic, BBC Wildlife Magazine, Travel Africa, Wildcard Magazine, and Africa Geographic. However, he finds the greatest reward in teaching, having successfully guided hundreds of photography guests in developing their creative and technical skills.

Sam will be with you every step of the way, ensuring you receive abundant photographic guidance while making your trip run as smoothly as possible.

He’ll provide in-the-field photographic assistance, along with editing and photo tuition back at the lodge, ensuring you leave with a brand new portfolio of fantastic images.

Tumbeta House offers an intimate escape in the heart of Djuma Private Game Reserve, surrounded by the unfenced wilderness of the Sabi Sands. Accommodating up to only six guests in three en-suite bedrooms, this private safari home is an inviting retreat for those looking for a more exclusive and tailored safari experience..

Open-plan living and dining spaces provide room to relax while, outside, a private deck looks out over the surrounding bushveld - a peaceful setting for morning coffee, leisurely afternoons and watching the changing light across the landscape.

Each stay can be shaped around our group, with exclusive game drives led by experienced local guides. Whether heading out in search of Djuma’s remarkable wildlife or enjoying an unhurried day at the house, Tumbeta combines the comfort of a private home with the adventure of being immersed in the African bush.

Tumbeta House’s three en-suite bedrooms accommodate up to six guests, offering a private space to unwind after a day exploring Djuma. With a bathroom for each bedroom, the layout gives guests the comfort of their own space while enjoying the shared experience of a safari home in the heart of the bush.

DAY 1
Arrive in Hoedspruit and transfer to a charming lodge nearby. Meet your fellow travelers, unwind, and savor dinner with new friends before a peaceful night’s rest.

DAY 2:
After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Sabi Sand (2-3 hours). Settle into the lodge, indulge in lunch, and set off on your first afternoon safari, returning for drinks and dinner.

DAY 3 - 7
Start each day with morning game drives at sunrise, complete with coffee breaks. Return for breakfast and relaxation, with options for photography tuition or downtime / resting. Afternoon drives concentrate on wildlife sightings, concluding with sunset sundowners and dinner.

DAY 8
Enjoy a final game drive before leaving, departing around 9am for Hoedspruit airport. It's best to pack the night before for a smooth departure and relish your last hours at the lodge.

Bid your “see you later”s at the airport.

Consider dressing in layers, as the weather can vary from very cold in the mornings to pleasantly warm and sunny during the day. You may find yourself either too hot or too cold on game drives, making layering essential. Don't underestimate how cold it can get on game drives, especially with the wind chill in the early morning.

Neutral-colored clothing is advisable for a safari, as we want to avoid drawing attention to ourselves; the less colorful we are, the better we can blend in.

• A wide-brimmed hat

• Lightweight shirts and t-shirts

• A light waterproof poncho

• A fleece or hoodie

• An additional warm jacket or coat

• A couple of pairs of trousers and shorts

• A comfy and sturdy pair of shoes or trainers

• A beanie, scarf, and gloves

• Sunglasses

Our accommodations provide soap, shampoo, and conditioner, so unless you have specific requirements, these items are often unnecessary.

• Toothpaste & toothbrush

• Deodorant

• High-quality sunscreen

• Moisturizer

• Hand sanitizer

• Paracetamol / ibuprofen

• Imodium

• Insect repellent (not always necessary, but handy to have)

There is a risk of malaria in Sabi Sand, so you should consult a doctor before your trip to get the correct antimalarial prescription and other advice, as well as taking preventive measures like using repellent and covering up at dusk and dawn.

Please check in with your local GP or travel doctor to see if you need any vaccinations or boosters before your departure.

It is essential to obtain travel insurance or some form of coverage for the duration of your trip. Participants who do not provide us with policy numbers and contact numbers will be dismissed from the trip prior to departure.

The South African Rand (sign: R; code: ZAR) is the official currency of South Africa. Although most of this itinerary is fully-inclusive and card payments are widely accepted, bringing rand for tips is recommended.

While on safari, it’s customary to tip for good service. A guideline is around ZAR 200 per guest per day for your field guide and ZAR 100 for the tracker, if applicable. At lodges, many guests leave ZAR 100–200 per guest per day for staff, often in a communal tip box or envelope at the end of your stay. Tipping is discretionary and should reflect service quality and your budget.

To book your place on this photographic safari, or for additional information, simply get in touch with us via the e-mail address below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

info@raw-photographic.com

For more information on RAW Photographic, including more of our trips and offerings, please visit our website and social media via the addresses below.

www.raw-photographic.com

www.facebook.com/rawphotographicexperiences

www.instagram.com/raw.photographic

1. The client accepts the booking on behalf of themselves and others, binding all to RAW Photographic's terms.

2. Estimates and bookings are subject to these terms.

3. A non-refundable deposit is required, refundable only if RAW Photographic cannot accommodate the application. Late cancellations forfeit the deposit.

4. Full payment is due 12 weeks before departure; late payments may cancel the booking.

5. Cancellations within 12 weeks incur a cancellation fee of 100% of the fare.

6. COVID-related cancellations will postpone the trip; no refunds will be issued.

7. Amendments may incur fees and can only be made up to 12 weeks prior.

8. RAW Photographic can cancel tours, refunding amounts received without further claims.

9. No refunds if a client fails to join a tour or use services.

10. RAW Photographic acts as an agent, not liable for loss or injury due to third parties.

11. Travel insurance is mandatory; clients are encouraged to obtain comprehensive coverage.

12. Fare and itinerary changes may occur without notice. Clients cannot cancel for non-substantial changes. Surcharges may apply for reduced group numbers.

If you are a single traveler, we will do our best to find a suitable person to share the room/tent upon request. If unsuccessful, you will be placed in a single room and charged the single supplement fee. We will introduce participants seeking shared accommodation to check compatibility before allocation. If no compatible participant is found, all unshared room/tent occupants will pay the single supplement cost. We will assist but cannot guarantee compatible companions for shared accommodation.

13. These photo safaris are for individuals in good health; walking and carrying equipment may be required. Inquire if unsure about your capabilities.

By submitting a signed Guest Form and deposit, you confirm no disabilities that risk yourself or others. RAW Photographic's agent will assess participation ability. Medical issues are not exceptions to cancellation policy. RAW Photographic is not responsible for medical care.

14. If injured or ill, RAW Photographic may continue the safari for others' benefit, minimizing interruptions. Disruptive behavior may lead to forfeiting refunds.

15. Clients must ensure they have necessary travel documents and vaccinations; RAW Photographic assists but is not liable for non-compliance.

16. RAW Photographic acts as an agent for travel arrangements, disclaiming liability for issues caused by third parties.

RAW Photographic is not responsible for losses from delays or changes; participants bear these costs. Baggage is at the participant's risk and should be insured.

While information is accurate, circumstances may change, including costs and schedules. RAW Photographic reserves the right to alter the trip date or price.

RAW Photographic may substitute accommodations, cancel trips with refunds, or refuse participants at their discretion.

If cancellation occurs due to conflicts or insufficient numbers, refunds are the final settlement. The operation of the safari is at RAW Photographic's discretion for participant safety.

The Guest Form must be completed 4 weeks before departure; participation will be declined without it.

17. Clients must comply with RAW Photographic's conduct standards.

18. Clients traveling with others warrant authority to bind all to contract terms.

19. RAW Photographic's guide holds authority during the safari, collaborating with other leaders.

20. These terms are the entire agreement; no other statements apply.

21. Special requests must be specified during booking; fulfillment is not guaranteed.

22. Amendments or waivers must be in writing and signed by both parties.

23. No refunds are considered, except in cases of death or serious illness.

24. Payments form a binding agreement governed by RAW Photographic's terms.

25. All image rights remain with RAW Photographic's employees and subcontractors; clients cannot prevent photography.

26. Online card payments incur a surcharge.