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Vying with the Greater Kruger for the highest leopard densities on the continent, South Luangwa National Park is a haven for these elegant cats. Unlike the busier reserves of Kruger, South Luangwa offers a more exclusive and intimate wildlife experience, with fewer vehicles and less crowded sightings. The verdant floodplains, oxbow lakes, and riverine forests along the Luangwa River offer prime leopard territory, making this one of the best places in Africa to observe and photograph these elusive predators. September and October, the peak of the dry season, bring wildlife closer to the river, providing unparalleled opportunities to capture stunning images. Msandile Lodge is perfectly positioned in the heart of leopard country, and its expert local guides, intimately familiar with the land and its resident leopards, track their movements to ensure unforgettable sightings.
Beyond leopards, the dry season sets the stage for dramatic predator-prey interactions. Lions thrive around dwindling waterholes, weakened buffalo become prime targets, and hippos battle for dominance in the golden light of sunrise and sunset. Wild dogs hunt along the riverbanks, and the hazy, golden light enhances the breathtaking landscapes. This exclusive tour combines expert guidance, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and the perfect conditions for photographers seeking to capture Africa’s most enigmatic predator and much more.
At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly
We'll have the pleasure of staying at the eco-friendly Msandile River Lodge. This intimate lodge offers comfortable rooms and excellent service. Located in a prime area for wildlife viewing, the lodge allows for quick access to the park’s best photographic locations. After a full day of safari drives, you can unwind and reflect on your experiences, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful location. The lodge is set on the banks of the Luangwa River, and you might even be able to enjoy some game viewing right from your room, or from the lodge's riverside garden. Apart from the garden, the lodge has a shared lounge, a bar, and a pool. Three gorgeous meals a day will be served, all freshly prepared from local produce.
Alan Hewitt
Alan Hewitt is a wildlife and conservation photographer, writer, and workshop leader. Mainly driven by his appreciation for and fascination of wildlife, Alan’s aim with his photography is to document our natural world and use this as a tool for conservation. His work has been used to support wildlife conservation organisations in Kenya, as well as ones closer to his home in the UK, including campaigns to save nature reserves that are home to iconic and endangered species. Alan is an official UK ambassador for FUJIFILM.
South Luangwa boasts one of the highest leopard densities in Africa, offering frequent and intimate sightings. Its riverine forests and floodplains create perfect conditions for photographing these elusive big cats.
The tour is limited to just 6 guests, ensuring an exclusive experience and personalized photographic guidance. Small group size means more space in vehicles and better access to wildlife scenes.
In addition to leopards, you’ll encounter lions, elephants, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birds. The dry season brings dramatic predator-prey interactions and golden hour light for stunning shots.
The tour runs in September and October, when dry season conditions concentrate wildlife near the river. This timing enhances leopard sightings and provides ideal lighting for photography.
You’ll stay at Msandile River Lodge, an eco-friendly lodge located in prime leopard territory along the Luangwa River. It offers comfortable rooms, riverside views, and quick access to top photo locations.
Our photo tours and safaris will take you to the right place, at the right time, to get that epic shot. You'll be guided by a professional photographer, who will help you take your photography to the next level, and we keep our trips exclusive by traveling in small groups. Whether it's in Kenya's sprawling savannahs, Yellowstone's snowy interior, or the jungles of India, your journey will be filled with photography magic.
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