MASHATU - BOTSWANA

THE IMPORTANT STUFF

Trip Summary

DATES: 20-25 April 2026

This exclusive 5-night / 6-day wildlife photography workshop begins with arrival at O. R. Tambo airport in Johannesburg on the morning of 20th April. From there, travel across the border into Botswana for 4 nights at Mashatu luxury tented camp, followed by one night at the Lala Limpopo overnight hide. The workshop concludes with a return transfer to O.R. Tambo airport for an early evening departure on 25th April 2026.

PRICE: $4900 International / SADC rates available

The cost of this photographic adventure is $4,900 per person sharing for international guests, with SADC rates of R78,000 available to South African residents. For those preferring their own room, a single supplement of $1,550 (international) or R18,000 (SADC) applies.

LOCATION: BOTSWANA

Spend four nights at Mashatu Tented Camp, an intimate safari camp that combines comfort with an authentic bush experience, set in the heart of one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. The adventure is capped off with a night at Lala Limpopo Hide, offering a unique overnight experience where you can observe and photograph wildlife up close as they gather at the waterhole.

PAX: 4-6 GUESTS

This exclusive photographic safari is limited to a maximum of 6 guests (minimum of 4), ensuring a personalized and uncrowded experience. You’ll enjoy the comfort of a dedicated photographic vehicle, with only two guests per row to allow ample space for your camera gear and bags. An expert local guide will be with us throughout the journey, helping us make the most of every sighting.

INCLUDES

EXCLUDES

Flights to/from Durban Airport · Gratuities · Alcoholic beverages at lodge · Travel insurance · Personal expenses

Luxury Lodges

This workshop features a blend of luxury, comfort, and wilderness immersion. Spend the first three nights at Makhasa Private Game Lodge, an intimate and stylish lodge nestled in the heart of Zululand, offering warm hospitality and close-up wildlife encounters. Then enjoy four nights at the 5-star Mthembu Lodge in the pristine Mfulawozi Wilderness Reserve, where refined luxury meets raw nature. Both lodges offer beautifully appointed rooms, exceptional cuisine, and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape, creating the perfect base for a world-class photographic experience.

Wildlife & Photography

Makhasa and Mfulawozi are set within thriving Big Five reserves, offering exceptional opportunities to photograph a wide range of iconic African wildlife. From powerful predators like lions and leopards to large herds of elephants, buffalo, and endangered rhino, the chances for unforgettable sightings are high. With 14 game drives or guided walks across these biodiverse landscapes, you'll be immersed in golden light, rich textures, and raw natural moments, perfect for capturing both dramatic action and intimate scenes in the wild.

Between drives, we’ll dive into post-processing techniques with guided editing sessions designed to elevate your images. Whether you're refining a single shot or curating a story from the day’s encounters, these sessions focus on sharpening your vision and developing a cohesive photographic style using Lightroom and Photoshop.

Daily Program

Day 1 – Arrival & Transfer to Makhasa
Early arrival at King Shaka International Airport, Durban. After collecting luggage, enjoy a scenic 4-hour road transfer to Makhasa Private Game Lodge. Settle in, followed by your first afternoon game drive.

Days 2–3 – Makhasa Private Game Lodge
Two full days of photographic exploration in a private Big Five reserve. Morning and afternoon game drives, with downtime for meals, image reviews, and optional editing sessions during the day.

Day 4 – Transfer to Mthembu Lodge, Mfulawozi
After a final morning drive at Makhasa, we transfer to the luxurious Mthembu Lodge. Afternoon game drive in the Mfulawozi Wilderness Reserve.

Days 5–7 – Mthembu Lodge
Three full days in the Mfulawozi Reserve with twice-daily game drives or walks. The landscape and light offer incredible opportunities for both intimate and dramatic wildlife imagery. Midday editing sessions and relaxed lodge time in between.

Day 8 – Final Drive & Departure
Morning game drive followed by brunch and transfer back to Durban Airport for early evening departures.

Adventure Through Photography

Adventure Through Photography is built around a deep respect for wildlife and wild places. These workshops are designed to offer ethical, immersive encounters with Africa’s iconic animals, creating space for powerful images and meaningful moments. With expert guidance, small groups, and a photographer-first approach, every experience is about more than just a shot, it’s about connecting with wildlife in a way that’s thoughtful, responsible, and creatively fulfilling.

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