Thornybush Wildlife workshop

THORNYBUSH PHOTO SAFARI

Both 2026 trips are SOLD OUT

2027 dates below:

THE IMPORTANT STUFF

Trip Summary

DATES: 23-27 February 2027 | 11-15 May 2027 | 9-13 November 2027

Join us for three unforgettable photographic safaris in 2027, each timed for a completely different photographic experience in the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve.

23–27 February 2027 (4 nights / 5 days) takes place at the end of the wet season when the bush is lush and green. Dramatic clouds and fresh landscapes make this the perfect time for wildlife-in-landscape photography, with vibrant colours and beautiful atmospheric light.

11–15 May 2027 (4 nights / 5 days) falls in the early dry season when vegetation thins and wildlife becomes easier to spot. Cooler mornings and dusty conditions often create beautiful golden light and atmospheric wildlife images, ideal for classic safari photography.

9–13 November 2027 (4 nights / 5 days) coincides with the impala lambing season, one of the most exciting times for predator activity. This period offers outstanding opportunities for predator-prey interactions and dynamic wildlife behaviour.

All safaris begin and end at Hoedspruit Airport, with transfers to our private camp inside Thornybush. The camp is reserved exclusively for our group and offers day and night access to a photographic hide overlooking a watering hole, as well as twice-daily game drives with off-road access for the best photographic angles. These all-inclusive safaris include luxury accommodation, all meals and drinks, expert editing sessions, and personalised photographic guidance from Kyle Goetsch in a relaxed, small-group environment.

PRICE: R39 750 pps | R49 680 (Own Room)

The 5-day photographic safari is priced at R39 750 per person sharing. Rates are based on shared accommodation in luxury chalets, with a single supplement available at R49 680 for those wishing to have their own chalet. Only two single supplements available.

LOCATION: THORNYBUSH - SOUTH AFRICA

Our private camp in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve features four luxury chalets, a boma and pool area, a comfortable lounge and dining room, and a 24-hour photographic hide overlooking a watering hole. Set within 16,000 hectares of pristine Greater Kruger bushveld near Hoedspruit, Thornybush is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and exceptional safari experiences. Here you can encounter Africa’s Big Five along with giraffe, zebra, abundant antelope, African wild dogs, cheetah, and more than 300 bird species. Twice-daily game drives with our expert guide bring you close to the action, while the hide offers unique opportunities to watch and photograph wildlife day and night, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable safari.

PAX: 6 GUESTS

This exclusive photographic safari is limited to 6 guests, 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 & a tracker will be with us throughout the journey, helping us make the most of every sighting.

INCLUDES

Airport transfers · All meals · Drinks (Limited Selection) · Luxury Accommodation · twice daily game drives on private photographic vehicle · 24 hour hide access · Photographic instruction & Editing Sessions

EXCLUDES

Flights to/from Hoedspruit Airport · Gratuities · Travel insurance · Personal expenses

Luxury Private Camp

Our en-suite chalets open directly into the bushveld, immersing you in nature for the duration of your stay. Nestled within a private camp in the Thornybush Game Reserve, part of the greater Kruger National Park, the property lies on an exclusive concession inaccessible to the general public.

The camp is surrounded by pristine bushveld, alive with resident birdlife. A highlight is the resident Barred Owl family, often seen in the branches of a towering Marula tree near camp. It’s also the perfect base for seeking out the Big Five, African Wild Dogs, and Cheetah, all of which are regularly sighted in the reserve throughout the year.

The chalets are well-spaced for privacy, each facing into the bush where special sightings can often be enjoyed right from your bed. At the heart of the camp, the lounge and dining area provide a welcoming space to relax and share meals. The boma, set beside the pool, is a favourite gathering spot to relive the day’s adventures around a crackling campfire.

Although the camp has a low-impact electric fence, the wilderness is never far away, and unexpected visitors do wander through from time to time.

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Photographic Hide

A special highlight of the camp is the 24-hour access photographic hide, located just a short walk from your chalet. Overlooking a busy watering hole, the hide offers an intimate and ground-level perspective to observe and photograph wildlife at any time of day or night.

From elephants and buffalo stopping in for a drink, to antelope, giraffe, and an array of birdlife, the watering hole attracts a constant flow of visitors. As evening falls, nocturnal species such as hyena, porcupine, or even the elusive leopard may appear under the cover of darkness.

Whether you are a keen photographer or simply enjoy watching nature unfold quietly, the hide provides a safe and unforgettable way to connect with the bush on its own terms without ever having to leave camp.

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Daily Program

Day 1 – Arrival & Transfer to Camp
Arrive at Hoedspruit Airport. After collecting luggage, enjoy a scenic 1 hour road transfer to our private camp within Thornybush Private Reserve. Settle in, followed by your first afternoon game drive.

Days 2–4 Game Drives / Editing / Hide
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, and don't forget the hide during the day and by night.

Last Day – Final Drive & Departure
Morning game drive followed by brunch and transfer back to Hoedspruit Airport for flight 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.