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.
Adjoins the western boundary of Kruger National Park in South Africa’s Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces.
Spanning about 65,000 hectares of private wilderness, this unfenced area connects with Kruger, allowing wildlife to roam freely.
Experience classic Lowveld landscapes—riverine thickets, open savannah, and dense bush—perfect for diverse photography settings.
Renowned for Big Five sightings, particularly its high density of leopards, which are often more relaxed and easier to observe than elsewhere.
Discover a rich variety of bird species, from lilac-breasted rollers to powerful raptors, making it ideal for bird photography.
Enjoy close encounters, off-road driving, and incredible predator interactions in stunning golden light.
Established in the 1950s by pioneering landowners, Sabi Sand is one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious private reserves.
Sabi Sands is often lauded as the most prestigious private reserve in South Africa, largely due to its longstanding conservation efforts. The original reserve was proclaimed back in 1898, and by 1949, landowners had merged their properties (mostly ex-agricultural land) into what is now the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
This vast 650 km² private reserve shares unfenced borders with the western boundaries of Kruger National Park, allowing animals to roam freely between the two. Thanks to the re-purposing of boreholes from the farms into waterholes for wildlife, Sabi Sands offers a year-round water source unaffected by seasonal changes. This ensures you’re never far from spotting the Big Five and the hundreds of other species that comprise the greater Kruger population at any time of the year.
Sabi Sands is renowned for the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhino). In fact, it was in Sabi Sands that the hunting concept of the Big Five was rekindled as a term for photo safaris. The success of this marketing in the photo safari arena has made it the pinnacle of wildlife viewing while on safari in Africa.
Sabi Sands 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 the cozy lodge 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 Sand 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 to Sabi Sand often encounter them daily.
What sets the Sabi Sand 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.
Resting comfortably under a canopy of indigenous trees in the southern stretches of the Sabi Sand is the inimitable and understated Umkumbe Bush Lodge. This luxury tented camp offers all the creature comforts of home and is the first of its kind in the reserve. The lodge's design is rooted in the concept of glamping, but with a luxurious twist.
Umkumbe is a beautifully designed bush lodge that provides accommodation in tented-style suites. Each tented suite boasts its own private deck or verandah and is fully equipped for a comfortable safari retreat.
The stylish and spacious tents are all positioned on private raised wooden decks nestled in nature. Each tent features a king-size bed that can be converted into two twin beds, and includes a bathroom with a shower. Air conditioning, heating, and power plugs for electronic devices are also available in every tent. For a moment, you could forget that you’re in the heart of the African bush—until night falls, when you can enjoy the soothing sounds of nature as you drift off to sleep.
Umkumbe Bush Lodge offers an all-inclusive, safari-style dining experience that is truly unforgettable, featuring South African-influenced buffets that delight the senses. Highlights of this culinary journey include freshly made omelets, cooked to perfection at breakfast, a variety of diverse and flavorful lunches that cater to every palate, and the enchanting nightly boma dinners. These dinners are enjoyed around a warm, crackling fire, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere where guests can share stories and savor delicious dishes under the stars. Each meal is a celebration of local flavors, ensuring that every bite is a memorable part of your safari adventure.
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.
* Dinner and breakfast included.
DAY 2:
After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Sabi Sand (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 breakfast, departing around 11 am 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.
Pickup and drop-off at Hoedspruit airport
Inclusive of dinner and breakfast
via private minibus
inclusive of all meals, tea, coffee and filtered water
A percentage of the price goes toward the management and sustainability of Sabi Sand game reserve
Private 4x4 vehicle and field guide for the group
Available in-the-field and back at the lodge
Morning and afternoon
Available at extra charge in both Hoedspruit and Sabi Sand
Available at extra charge
Please tip in local currency (ZAR / Rand) cash
Valid insurance is needed to join this safari. Insurer's name, policy number and emergency contact number is needed before departure
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.
Online Guest Form
All guests must complete an Online Guest Form before traveling. This form collects basic information, flight times, emergency contacts, insurance details, and dietary needs. Your information is kept private (only shared with our accommodation) and deleted after the trip.
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.
For more information on RAW Photographic, including more of our trips and offerings, please visit our website and social media via the addresses below.
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.