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Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
Botswana Photo Safari 2025
May 2 - 18, 2025

Botswana Photo Safari 2025

Maximum 8 Participants

No Spots Available

$16,995

Pricing based on double occupancy

$4,000 Single Supplement charged to any participant not sharing

Payments
Registration Form (required to book)
Flight Itinerary Form (Due 60 Days Prior To Tour)

Trip Details
Discover one of Africa’s best kept secrets, where photographic opportunities abound on both land and water! This meticulously crafted, fly-in safari takes you on a captivating journey through Botswana’s most productive wildlife photography locations. Limited to just 8 guests, this itinerary ensures an intimate experience, fostering greater flexibility, better photographic results, and the exclusivity of a private safari. Careful planning ensures that  you will enjoy the absolute best locations Botswana has to offer. Read on to discover the incredible destinations planned for your exceptional safari experience!

MOREMI: Located within the expansive UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta Game Reserve, Moremi encompasses approximately 40% of this natural wonder. It stands out as one of the rare interior delta systems that does not flow into the ocean. Here the annual flood creates a captivating interplay between water and wildlife, prompting animals to harmonize their rhythms with this seasonal event. Moremi shelters some of Africa’s most endangered wildlife, including the Cheetah, White Rhinoceros, Black Rhinoceros, African Wild Dog, and Lion. The Moremi ecosystem is amongst the richest on the African continent. Whether one is an avid birder or not, the avian population in Moremi is remarkable, boasting over 500 species within an area spanning just under 5,000 square kilometers. For those eager to capture images of the Big Five, Moremi presents an unparalleled opportunity, particularly with the recent reintroduction of the majestic White Rhino, completing the quintet once again. The allure of Moremi’s freshwater draws in a plethora of wildlife, including Elephants, Hippos, Cape Buffalos, Wildebeests, Impalas, Red Lechwe, and Giraffes. Moreover, enthusiasts seeking the elusive wild dog will find delight in knowing that Moremi is also their habitat.

SAVUTE: Enchantment and raw beauty define Savuti, home to one of Southern Africa’s most remarkable concentrations of animals. Flanked by the Delta to the west and Chobe National Park to the east, Savute stands as one of Africa’s premier destinations for big game sightings. Its allure lies in the unpredictable nature of the Savute Channel, which ebbs and flows without apparent correlation to surrounding rainfall or flood levels. Yet, amidst this enigmatic landscape, the wildlife thrives, offering a captivating tapestry of species. Here, predators reign supreme, with resident Lion and Spotted Hyena populations garnering particular renown. These formidable Lion prides are not averse to taking on the challenge of hunting Elephants and Hippos, while Leopards stealthily prowl the vicinity, seeking fish within the murky depths of the channel.

However, the allure of Savuti extends far beyond its predators. Zebra, Wildebeest, Cape Buffalo, Giraffe, Tsessebe, and Kudu also call this region home, adding to its rich diversity. Moreover, the avian inhabitants of Savute are a spectacle in their own right. From the impressive Kori Bustards, preying on snakes and rodents amidst the grasslands, to the endangered Ground Hornbills wandering through the landscape, you will be treated to a captivating array of species. You will find soaring raptors overhead, including the iconic Bateleur Eagle, while Pin-tailed Whydahs navigate the grasslands with awkward grace. Korhans punctuate the air with their distinctive mating calls, engaging in elaborate aerial displays to attract potential mates. At every juncture, the diversity of Savuti captivates, offering an immersive and unforgettable wildlife experience.

CHOBE: Immerse yourself in the wildlife-rich waters of Botswana’s majestic Chobe River, renowned for its unparalleled concentration of wildlife, making it a premier destination for wildlife photography. As the third largest national park in Africa, Chobe offers unrivaled opportunities to capture the continent’s finest wildlife activity. Unlike land-based safaris, our excursion onto the Chobe River provides a unique vantage point, offering guests a front-row seat to nature’s spectacle. Guided aboard a specially designed flatbed boat equipped for wildlife photography, our group will enjoy custom-built photographic chairs ensuring supreme comfort and 360-degree swivel capabilities for capturing every angle of the action. Maneuverability allows us to optimize lighting conditions, resulting in exceptional photographs against the pristine backdrop of the river. This water-based approach provides an eye-level perspective, capturing wildlife and bird behavior in its most natural state. With the Chobe River as our canvas, expect encounters with a diverse array of mammals and birds, framed by the river’s picturesque scenery, while offering uncluttered backgrounds for your photographic masterpieces.

MASHATU: Dubbed the ‘Land of the Giants’, Mashatu Game Reserve sprawls across the expansive Northern Tuli Game Reserve in Botswana, boasting unfenced borders with South African and Zimbabwean National Parks. This biodiverse sanctuary teems with vibrant flora and iconic fauna, nestled at the convergence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers. Spanning 90,000 acres of privately owned land, its terrain is a rich tapestry of dense riverine forests, rugged hills, towering sandstone ridges, vast open plains, and sweeping savannah. Unlike traditional safari destinations, Mashatu offers year-round wildlife encounters, as there’s no distinct “green season” prompting animal migrations.

Mashatu boasts the largest single population of privately owned Elephants, estimated at over 700. Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Hyenas, Jackals, and African Wildcats are among the prowling predators. These predators roam freely across the grasslands, while the colossal herds of Elephants traverse the dense forests. The sky and ancient Baobab Trees are adorned with over 350 bird species, offering a paradise for wildlife photographers. A highlight of the stay includes multiple, exclusive sessions in the underground photographic hide where you will be given a front row seat to witness and photograph Botswana’s wildlife in action!

Mashatu offers a personalized wildlife experience, guided by knowledgeable Tswana rangers and trackers who are eager to unveil their world. With eight perennial and non-perennial rivers coursing through the reserve, Mashatu epitomizes a wildlife utopia. Named after the revered mashatu (Nyala Berry) trees lining the riverbanks, the reserve attracts wildlife seeking refuge and sustenance. Guests are ensured a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter in this extraordinary destination.

The element of relaxation during the safari is equally important to the quality of your experience. For this reason we have reserved accommodations at camps and lodges with comfort in mind. There you will find walls adorned with amazing wildlife images to inspire you, and plenty of places to relax and spend time with your fellow travelers. If you are watchful, chances are you will see local wildlife species during the day at camps and lodges. Often these encounters are fantastic photo opportunities!

You don’t need to worry about being packed into a cramped safari vehicle, as we have 4×4 Land Cruisers reserved exclusively for our group. This guarantees each photographer access to both sides, allowing for freedom of movement and plenty of room for your gear. Our drivers are the best in the region and have amassed decades of knowledge in identifying the top locations for the most action. They’re acutely aware of the difference between the needs of clients on a wildlife photo safari compared to those on a sightseeing game drive. Their radio contact with other safari vehicles ensures you don’t miss out on incredible sightings. Nathaniel will be with you every day and provides his professional guidance with everything from suggestions on composition and camera settings, to tips for anticipating African wildlife behavior, allowing you to capture the very best images possible. Join me and discover the very best safari itinerary in Botswana!

Itinerary

* In order to provide participants with the best photographic opportunities the itinerary is subject to change based on weather, lighting and other variables.

Days 1 -2: May 2nd – May 3rd, 2025

~ Lunch & Dinner Provided day one – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Beverages Provided day two

Morning meet and greet followed by airport transfer and flight to Moremi Game Reserve. On our full day here we will enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. Overnights in Moremi.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

Days 3 – 5: May 4th – May 6th, 2025

~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Beverages Provided Daily

After breakfast you will board your flight to Savute. On our arrival day we will get settled before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Each full day here we will enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. Overnights in Savute.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

Days 6 – 9: May 7th – May 10th, 2025

~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Beverages Provided Daily

After breakfast you will board your flight to Kasane. On our arrival day we will get settled before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Each full day here we will enjoy morning and afternoon game drives or boating sessions. Overnights in Kasane.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

 Day 10: May 11th, 2025

~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Beverages Provided

After breakfast you will be transferred for our return flight to Johannesburg. The remainder of the day will be spent relaxing at our beautiful accommodations at the airport Intercontinental Hotel. Overnight in Johannesburg.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

 Day 11 – 16: May 12th –  17th, 2025

~ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Beverages Provided Daily

After breakfast you will board your flight to Mashatu Game Reserve. Two daily game drives or underground photo hide sessions, depending on the schedule. Overnights in two different Mashatu Reserve Lodges during our stay.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Minimum ☆☆☆ Hotel

Day 17: May 18th, 2025 – Departure

~ Breakfast Provided

After breakfast you will board your flight from Mashatu back to Johannesburg with a new group of friends, wonderful experiences and memory cards loaded full of image files to remember it all by. Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport you will check in for your flight home or continue on to the next destination. Bon Voyage!

Travel Planning

Participants must arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa prior to 11:59pm on May 1st, 2025! Guests should book at the Johannesburg airport Intercontinental Hotel.

We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip.

Traveling in remote locations can present challenges that may require slight changes to the itinerary. We will always try to run the tour as the initial itinerary. In the event, beyond our control, such as political unrest, natural disasters, over bookings by the lodge, where a change is required, we will do our best to keep you close to the original shooting location. It is our intention for you to have the best possible experience. We will try to notify you of any changes as soon as we are made aware of them. If, however these changes cause an increase to the price, the increase will be passed on to the participant.

Included

1. Pick up in Johannesburg, South Africa at Intercontinental Hotel
2. All transportation throughout the safari itinerary (ground and domestic airline flights)
3. 17 Day / 16 Night photo safari
4. Deluxe accommodations for entire Safari in 5 separate camps/lodges (Minimum☆☆☆)
5. Gourmet, delicious meals for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner (Please see daily itinerary for meals & beverages included on this safari)
6. Exclusive underground hide photo sessions
7. Dedicated row in safari vehicles on game drives
8. Private boat for our group on Chobe River designed specifically for photography9.All National Park fees, Game Reserves entrance fees, and taxes
10. Pro photographer mentoring by Nathaniel Smalley
11. Lightroom and Photoshop workflow with Nathaniel
12. Image reviews and critique with Nathaniel
13. Return to Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport at end of Safari

Excluded

1. International flights to and from South Africa
2. Travel, evacuation or other associated insurance
3. Visas and passport fees (where applicable in preparation for your travel)
4. Any additional luggage transport expense (pricing based on 20kg’s per guest)
5. Any meals or beverages not listed in the itinerary
6. Any additional transfers not mentioned in the Safari itinerary
7. Optional activities (balloon rides, helicopter flights, guided walking safaris, etc.)
8. Gratuities for the guides, staff at accommodations, and airport transfers
9. Personal expenses (souvenirs, liquor, telephone calls, internet, laundry etc.)
10. Pre and post-safari tours or activities, accommodations or meals before or after the safari
11. Items of a personal nature

What to Bring

1. Camera with manual mode capability
2. Camera lenses of your choice (minimum 400mm recommended)
3. Cable release for your camera (Timers or Exposure Delay will also work)
4. Lens filters of your choice (ND, CPL, GRAD, etc.)
5. Extra batteries for your camera & charger
6. Extra memory cards and external Hard Drive for file backup
7. Laptop with latest version of Lightroom Classic and/or Photoshop
8. Beanie hat and light gloves for cool morning game drives
9. Sunhat and sunscreen
10. Long pants – 3 pairs
11. Shorts and/or skirts – 2 pairs
12. Lightweight, breathable sleeved shirts to protect you from the sun
13. Underwear & socks
14. Sports bra for women. (Not all roads are well maintained and can be rough)
15. Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes
16. Light weight, warm jacket (Temps will average 45°f in the early morning and 90°f at mid-day)
17. Waterproof shell for any possible rain showers
18. Polarized sunglasses
19. Guests that wear contact lenses are encouraged to bring along a pair of eye glasses in case you get irritated by the dust
20. Personal toiletries
21. Medications
22. Malaria Tablets if needed (Please check with your physician first!)
23. Antihistamine tablets or eye drops for any allergies
24. Anti-nausea & anti-diarrhea medicine
25. Moisturizing cream and sunblock
26. Insect repellent
27. Tissues/’Wet Wipes’
28. Passport, applicable Visas, tickets, money etc.
29. A great attitude!

*We recommend layering with light clothing. Early morning game drives can be cool. At mid-moring the sun will increase the temperature rapidly, and then cool off quickly once the sun goes down. Please pack earth toned clothing. Avoid packing bright colors and camouflage. *Due to military restrictions, camouflage is not allowed in some parts of Africa.

Difficulty

This is an outdoor nature photography safari, so being fit and in good health will allow you to enjoy the trip more comfortably. However, our planned activities should be within the ability of most people in moderate to good shape. Conditions can be cool in the evening and hot at mid-day, so please pack appropriate clothing for both conditions. Temps will average 45°f in the early morning and 90°f at mid-day.

Participants are required to sign a standard personal indemnity and waiver of liability form. Every effort is made to keep participants safe during all stages of the safari, but each person is solely responsible for avoiding personal injury or damaging their equipment during the trip.

Cancellation Policy

This cancellation policy protects our business losses and as such is strictly adhered to. Exceptions will not be made. We strongly encourage participants to purchase travelers insurance through an agency like Global Rescue so that you’ll have coverage should you unexpectedly need to cancel your trip. At his discretion, Nathaniel may lead the tour even if it does not meet the minimum number of participants required.

1). Cancel more than one year prior to the original tour start date:

Full refund, minus any initial deposit and all PayPal transaction fees. Refunds will be paid via PayPal and processed within 72 hours of the request being approved.

2).Cancel less than one year prior to the original tour start date:

A refund will only be issued if the tour is sold out and your vacated spot filled by another participant signing up. This refund would exclude your initial deposit, single supplement payments and any PayPal transaction fees.

* Should you fail to complete the payments as scheduled for this tour you will forfeit your deposit, all payments and your spot on this tour.

Testimonials

“As an art nature photographer and animal conservationist who has always dreamt of an African safari, choosing Nathaniel’s Best of Botswana Safari in 2022 was one of the best decisions of my life. Every aspect of the tour was planned allowing just enough flexibility to ensure we were in the right locations with optimal lighting. Not only did we see all the animals, reptiles and birds but were able to spend time observing their behaviors and learning from our guide about them.  This preparation along with shooting from a boat equipped with swivel chairs and camera mounts, provided more opportunities for truly unique photos.  To top it off, the accommodations were superb, including world class inspiring photography decor, and gourmet meals prepared by an entertaining talented chef named Robson.”

Joanne W.

Arizona, USA

“This trip was amazing I have wanted to see the animals in Africa in their own habitat long before we called it a bucket list. I made a last minute decision to join the 2019 tour and am so glad I did. Seeing those animals kept me in awe! I couldn't have asked for a better guide, or a better photography teacher. Nathaniel is a professional and attentive guide from the day you meet him until departure from his tour. I can't wait to go along with him on another adventure!”

Karen B

California, USA

“A journey to the Masai Mara is a dream come true and laden with anticipation and expectations that in reality are hard to match. Nathaniel exceeded them, turning dreams into a lifetime of memories, images. Perfect planning and the right amount of improvisation consistently put us in the right places at the right time. Nathaniel was always there to provide assistance and guided when wanted or needed without smothering. The Mara really is magical and this is a trip with Wicked Good Photo Tours not to be missed!”

Dan N.

Oregon, USA

"I had the pleasure of participating in an African safari with Nathaniel. I came away with amazing images, new skills, and a new friend and mentor in Nathaniel. He is forever upbeat and cheerful, and has a deep love for nature and a willingness to share his considerable talents with others."

Larry K.

California, USA

"Earlier this year I traveled with Nathaniel on my first trip to Africa to attend the Wicked Good Photo Tours Migration Safari in Kenya. I simply can't seem to find the right words to adequately describe the amazing experience we shared. It really was truly magical on all levels. Highly recommended!"

Lois C.

Oregon, USA

"In 2016 I attended an African Safari with Nathaniel, he listens to his clients and goes out of his way to accommodate their special requests.  He is also very helpful in demonstrating his processing workflow and the different types of processing tools he uses. The overall plan for the trip was EXCELLENT!  The accommodation, food, driver/guides could not have been better. I particularly appreciated the long time we spent on each game drive, using our precious time on the trip as much as possible. It was perfect. His choice of where to stay and for how long reflected your experience in the area. The structure gave us the best possible opportunities for photography. We had exceptional opportunities for photographing a variety of animals and amazing action! Cheetah kills, wildebeest and zebras crossing the river with crocodiles lying in wait, lionesses and cheetahs feeding their cubs. Awesome!"

Gillian S.

Maryland, USA

"I traveled with Nathaniel in September to the Masai Mara. My experience shooting wildlife is limited so I was in learning mode. Nathaniel was unfailingly helpful, generous with his time and open to other perspectives and shooting styles. We had a lot of fun and many laughs. I look forward to my next trip with him."

Judith F.

Canada

"We experienced a wonderful safari in Kenya with Nathaniel in 2016. He offered excellent teaching and leadership throughout the trip!"

Anne C.

Florida, USA

“This was my first safari and I felt so fortunate to have Nathaniel as our trip leader. He is a patient, knowledgeable, talented, and enthusiastic photographer. I appreciated his on-the-fly advice and his editing tips as well as good humor. He is able to work with all levels of photographers. I look forward to future trips with Wicked Good Photo Tours!”

Mindy R.

California, USA

“I recently returned from an African Migration Safari with Nathaniel Smalley in the Masai Mara. A fantastic trip. My wife and I are still editing madly. We’re not wildlife photographers so we found the trip challenging, but learned an amazing amount from Nathaniel. We would highly recommend traveling with him!”

Keith P.

Canada

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