South Africa – Big 5

You want the iconic African Safari. You want to see and photograph the Big 5: Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Elephant, and Rhino.

There’s so much more to see, though. Join Blackwood Safaris at our favorite off-road reserves in the Greater Kruger National Park during the best time of year to photograph the abundant wildlife of South Africa.

Our South African Big 5 Photography Workshop Safaris are scheduled during the dry season when temperatures are pleasant and wildlife is plentiful.

We have plenty of time between morning and evening game drives for a full photography course, including basic editing in Lightroom.

Browse our schedule of small-group Workshop Safaris below. Each is designed to maximize your camera time so you will go home with the skills to keep taking your best shots long after you leave.

Lion

Leopard in tree

Elephant

Rhinos

Cape Buffalo

Giraffes

African Sunset

Photographer and Leopard

Wild Dog

lion eyes

Zebra

Lilac-Breasted Roller

Choose between two unique Photography Workshop experiences:

1. Pungwe Safari Camp: Our Traditional Lodge in Manyaleti Game Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park

Relax and immerse in the rhythm of nature at Pungwe, our intimate and authentic Traditional Lodge in the undeveloped part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Our Rangers use traditional tracking skills to find our wildlife. We don’t generally have to share sightings with other vehicles and we’ll have ample time with wildlife for outstanding photography opportunities. Manyaleti is open to the Kruger, and it’s where we can go off-road to get close to wildlife, maneuvering so you can take your best shot.

Four private bungalows with canvas sides give you a glamping feel with all amenities, including a full private bathroom and hot & cold running water. The Camp is unfenced, so elephants might be munching next to your window, lulling you to sleep with their low rumbles. The kettle has been on the fire for 40 years, providing steaming hot water for coffee or tea…just wait until you hear the story!

This Photography Workshop Safari is limited to a maximum of 8 people, with 4-6 people per vehicle for the best photography experience.

Current Traditional Lodge Photo Safari Offerings:

June 23–27, 2025
June 27–30, 2025
April 4–8, 2026
April 8–12, 2026

2. Nkorho Bush Lodge: Our Luxury Lodge in Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Did you say you want to photograph a leopard? Sabi Sands Game Reserve, fully open to Kruger National Park, is where pro photographers go for the spots. The density of leopards here is insane! The most elusive of the Big 5 and Big Cats are readily seen, often with kills and cubs, for award-winning photographic results.

The Rangers in Sabi Sands work together to help you get those phenomenal feline sightings, plus the rest of the Big 5–and we often get Wild Dogs and Cheetah. We don’t overlook giraffe, zebra, hippo, or the colorful birds found nowhere else.

Of course we can go off road for the perfect position and light.

Nkorho Bush Lodge is complete with a full-service spa, gym, infinity pool, full bar, professional chef, and even a well-stocked wine cellar.

This Photography Workshop Safari is limited to a maximum of 6 people for the best photography experience and personal instruction from Karen.

Current Luxury Lodge Photo Safari Offerings:

June 30–July 4, 2025
July 4–8, 2025
April 12–16, 2026
April 16–20, 2026

How are you getting to the Lodge? It’s an 8 hour drive from Johannesburg–do you want to deal with that?

We’ve designed an easy, convenient Big 5 Lodging and Ground Transportation Package so all you have to do is arrive in South Africa. This takes the stress of planning off your plate.

Stay for two safaris at one location or try two unique experiences by booking at each lodge for an extended photo safari. Ask about discounts when you combine safaris.

Big 5 Safari Ground Transportation Package