A Tale of Two Photo Safaris

Feedback from Botswana and South Africa 

This summer, Renee Rinn ventured from her home in Chicago to South Africa and Botswana to join us for two back-to-back photo safaris, both guided by wildlife photographer Alan Hewitt. It was Renee’s first time embarking on photography safaris, and she wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, so we were keen to check in with her to ask about her experience; her experience of joining us as a beginner photographer, and her experience of combining the two destinations. 

What Made You Join These Two Photo Safaris?

As a nature lover and solo adventure traveler, I’ve always wanted to experience Africa in a meaningful way. A friend recommended Penda Photo Tours. I was intrigued, but had questions about how we interacted with the animals and if the trips were appropriate for beginner photographers. Penda’s friendly staff assured me they welcomed photographers of all levels, and meticulously planned the itinerary to prioritize safe travel and ethical wildlife encounters. Sounded great so I took the leap – booked two trips (since I was traveling so far – Chicago’s a long way from South Africa), and watched every wildlife photography how-to video ever made to get ready for my adventure into photography safaris.

What Were Highlights of the Botswana Photo Safari?

Botswana’s Tuli Wilderness was spectacular. The terrain featured beautiful reddish iron-oxide rich sand, a wide river and rocky cliffs all teeming with a diverse variety of animals. Most of the time our vehicle was the only one around giving us unlimited time with the animals. The Serolo Bushcamp rangers, friendly and knowledgeable, worked hard to get us prime photo ops. Plus, the delicious gourmet food served facing a watering hole, along the river, and under the stars made the experience extra special.

What Were Highlights of the South Africa Photo Safari?

South Africa’s Timbavati reserve provided remarkable photographic opportunities – four male lions on a giraffe kill, a hyena den with three playful pups, many different species visiting a large watering hole viewed from a treehouse, to name only a few. Comfortable accommodations at Umlani Bushcamp and a very knowledgeable photography guide made this safari unforgettable.

How Did the Two Safaris Complement Each Other?

Experiencing back-to-back safaris in different countries enriched my photography journey, providing the opportunity to capture both intimate wildlife moments and expansive vistas within distinct ecosystems. Moreover, the people I met in each group, mostly seasoned photographers generously sharing their knowledge, infused the safaris with unique perspectives with a shared passion. It was a wonderful convergence of nature, learning, and camaraderie that I’ll always remember.

Do You Have a Favorite Moment You Can Describe?

Breathtaking sunsets, a snoozing pride of lions, hyena cubs playing around their den – it’s impossible to pick one favorite moment. If I had to pick a favorite animal it would be the elephants. On our safari drives, we encountered groups of majestic mothers sharing the care of their little ones. One sassy young male strutted right past us, showing us he’s all that. We watched a herd at a watering hole take mud and dust baths, having an ellie spa day. Observing their feeding behavior was amazing too. Their trunk would grasp the smallest piece of bark and strip it right off. Amazing.

Overall, Were The Trips What You Expected?

I expected our safari guide to set us up to photograph wildlife, and he did, but I did not expect to get so close to the animals! It’s a rush of fear at first, and then after I learned the animals don’t see us as a threat, it becomes very thrilling. To observe such beautiful animals while not disturbing their natural behavior, and capture it all on “film” was mind-blowing.

What Did You Learn as a Photographer?

As a novice photographer, I had a lot to learn. Our photography guide Alan Hewitt, with unwavering patience, generously shared his expertise. He demystified composition, exposure settings, and post-processing, while patiently answering my non-ending questions. I returned home ready to use my camera with newfound confidence.

10 Reasons to Go on a Botswana Photo Safari Tour

Find Out More About Our Photo Safaris in South Africa and Botswana

Our South African photo safari is an annual favorite, and has been for many years. Based in the Timbavati, a collection of private game reserves that border the Kruger National Park, this safari is Big Five heaven. Here, we get treated to wildlife encounters that are both frequent and of a high quality; expect to have lions wandering around your game drive vehicle, elephants visiting your camp, and to spot leopards hanging out in trees above you. Timbavati is also excellent for encountering rhinos, buffalo, and a wide range of antelope and birds. You’ll stay at Umlani Bush Camp, a comfortable lodge in a traditional African style, where you’ll be well taken care of.

Our Botswana photo safari is set in the Tuli Block, a region of Botswana that’s somewhat of a hidden gem. It’s a vast area of African bush that features otherworldly rocky outcrops, carved out by rivers over millions of years, and incredibly far-stretching views. Within this setting, we enjoy impressive wildlife encounters; lions, leopards, and enormous herds of elephants. We also find smaller species, such as hyenas, jackals, various antelope, and great birds of prey. Our home in Tuli is Serolo Camp, a camp in the middle of the game reserve that gives a true wilderness experience, and wonderful dinners under (probably) the most impressive night sky you’ve seen.

Both photo safaris are guided by Alan Hewitt, a professional wildlife and conservation photographer, experienced tour leader, and a FujiFilm UK ambassador. We travel in small groups (a maximum of 6 per trip), which allows Alan to offer personalized tutoring to every photographer. So we happily host photographers of all levels.