Ethical African and Worldwide Photo Safaris

Learn to photograph wildlife like a professional while experiencing the world’s most extraordinary destinations with an award-winning guide. Photographer Karen Blackwood leads the best small group bird and wildlife photography tours, designed for nature lovers — that’s YOU!

Africa • Antarctica • The Arctic • The Americas

AFRICA

Big 5, Big Cats, Elephants, Giraffes, Gorillas, Great Migration

South Africa • Kenya • Tanzania • Rwanda • Uganda • Botswana • Namibia

THE AMERICAS

Jaguars, Otters, Anteaters, Wolves, Bears & Birds Galore

Patagonia (Chile) • Pantanal (Brazil) • Peru • Argentina • Alaska • Colorado

 

ANTARCTICA

Penguins, Seabirds, Seals, Whales, Blue Ice

Antarctica • South Georgia • Falklands • Antarctic Circle

THE ARCTIC

Polar Bears, Reindeer, Beluga Whales, Arctic Birds

Explore Inside the Arctic Circle

Where can you go with Blackwood Safaris?

  • Big 5, Great Migration, Gorillas, chimpanzees and incredible birding in Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa
  • Jaguars, pumas, ocelots, giant anteaters, maned wolves, guanacos, condors and birding in Pantanal and Patagonia, plus a Peru birding trip that includes Machu Picchu.
  • Penguins, fur seals, whales, wandering albatross and millions of seabirds in Antarctica
  • Polar bears, walrus, reindeer, beluga whales and puffins inside the Arctic Circle
  • Black and grizzly bears, eagles, moose, elk, bison and birds in Alaska, Yellowstone, and Colorado

No matter your skill level as a photographer–beginner, amateur, serious enthusiast–or your equipment–mirrorless, DSLR, film or cell phone, you belong on a Blackwood Safaris trip. Unlike traditional safaris, we’ll position for optimal light and spend more time observing animal behavior. Professional photography instruction is included. Choose by continent (above), or click below to view all safaris by date.

FEATURED TRIP: Combine birding and Machu Picchu in Peru

November 15 – 22, 2026

From $4,400

 

IF YOU'RE THINKING OF GOING:

ONLY a few rooms left! DON’T miss your chance to tour the Sacred Valley and see the vibrant birds of Peru. Led by Peruvian expert Fisher Chavez and wildlife photographer Karen Blackwood. Let’s check off some lifers!

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The Best Places to Go. The Best Times to Go There.

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Meet Award-Winning Photographer Karen Blackwood

Karen Blackwood

Award-Winning Photography Guide

Africa

Africa Geographic Photographer of the Year

Audubon Society
WINNER!

Karen Blackwood

Award-Winning Photography Guide

Antarctica


Included in Top Women Photographers of the Year since 2021
National Geographic

Karen Blackwood

Award-Winning Photography Guide

Egypt

National History Museum Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Nature's Best Photography

Karen Blackwood

Award-Winning Photography Guide

USA

Africa's Photographer of the Year
Nature's Best Photography Africa
Africa Geographic
Wilderness

Testimonials

Highly recommend this amazing company!

“I’ve been on 2 separate trips with Karen at Blackwood Safaris. Each trip was absolutely amazing. Karen is so thorough and plans every detail for you. All you have to do is show up, and you will have the experience of a lifetime. My first trip was a Big 5 Safari with Karen in South Africa, and I was blown away. One of the best trips I’ve ever experienced, and I’ve traveled all over the world. My second trip was with my mother, and we had such an amazing time with Karen. My mom still talks about it every time we are together. Karen is amazing at planning every detail, and I can’t wait for my next trip with her and Blackwood Safaris.”

Wander57834300644

Excellent accommodations and arranged tours!

“What an excellent experience we had with Karen! She was professional and thorough in all she arranged for us. Everything was as she described when we purchased our trip. Very helpful in finding accommodations on our way there. We saw the Big 5 right away and had excellent encounters with them! We enjoyed the trip completely and were very pleased and satisfied! Thank you!”

Judy B

Great photography safari

“If you are looking for a safaris with emphasis on photography, you found the one! When a colleague and friend told me that a spot was available on one of Karen’s trips to South Africa, I jumped in. The group on each game drive vehicle was kept intentionally small so you do not need to fight for elbow room. It was fantastic! The lodging and food were awesome and Karen is knowledgeable and caring. All transportation was organized so I only needed to worry about clicking on the shutter!”

Sara S