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Join us for a Big Five photography safari in South Africa. We’ll be based in the stunning Timbavati Game Reserve, an area of private reserves that offer truly exclusive wildlife encounters – some of the best in Africa. The area is particularly known for its brilliant sightings of the otherwise elusive leopard – but you can also expect lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and much more.Â
We’ll stay in a lodge in the middle of the reserve, surrounded by wildlife and beautiful scenery. During our twice-daily game drives, all guided by expert local guides and trackers, you can expect to photograph the African Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant) – and a whole lot more. Throughout this photo safari, you’ll enjoy the expert tutoring of wildlife photographer Alan Hewitt, an official Fujifilm UK ambassador, who will help you hone your photography skills. We’ll have a maximum group size of 6, ensuring that everyone will receive personal tutoring that suits their level.Â
If you’re keen for an extended wildlife photography adventure, you can combine this trip with our photo safari in Botswana! This is based in the stunning Tuli Game Reserve, where wide open landscapes and some unique wildlife encounters will offer an equally exciting but totally different photographic experience. (There’s a discount if you join both trips!)
Juy 4 - 10, 2026
July 24 - 30, 2026
Jul 19- 25, 2027
Sep 6 - 12, 2027
Juy 4 - 10, 2026
July 24 - 30, 2026
Jul 19- 25, 2027
Sep 6 - 12, 2027
At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly
2026: $4,995
2027: $4,995
We’ll have the pleasure of staying at Umlani Bushcamp, a secluded lodge in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve that effortlessly blends comfort with rustic African charm. Tucked deep within the reserve and unfenced, the camp is regularly visited by wildlife—zebra, elephant, nyala, and more may wander past as you sip your morning coffee or wind down after a day’s adventure. The camp’s intimate connection with nature offers a rare, immersive experience of the African bush. Accommodation is in traditional thatched rondavels—simple yet elegant—with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and open-air bush showers that let you rinse off under the stars. Despite the wilderness setting, you'll enjoy hot water, solar-powered electricity, and all the essential comforts. Umlani also features a bush bar overlooking a nearby waterhole (a favourite for elephants at sundown), a refreshing plunge pool, a cozy lounge area, and a traditional African boma, where guests gather under the stars to enjoy three beautifully prepared home-cooked meals each day. Beyond the creature comforts, what sets Umlani apart is its ethos: a focus on sustainable tourism and an authentic bush experience. The camp is unfenced, enhancing the thrill of being in the wild, and game drives are led by highly experienced guides and trackers who share an intimate knowledge of the land and its inhabitants. Whether you're photographing a leopard at dawn or listening to hyenas call as you drift off to sleep, Umlani offers a truly unforgettable safari experience.
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.
You’ll photograph the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. Plus giraffes, zebras, antelope, and more in the Timbavati Game Reserve.
Yes, all levels are welcome. Wildlife photographer Alan Hewitt offers personalized tutoring throughout the trip.
Group sizes are limited to 6 guests, ensuring exclusive access and one-on-one photography guidance.
Yes, most travelers need a South African tourist visa. Many nationalities can enter visa-free for up to 90 days – check current requirements before booking.
You’ll stay at Umlani Bushcamp, a rustic lodge in the heart of Timbavati with thatched rondavels, open-air bush showers, and regular wildlife sightings at the waterhole.
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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