A 6-night safari in South Africa in search of the “Magnificent Seven”: lions, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, elephants, cheetahs, and wild dogs. An exclusive experience in a 5-star luxury lodge , with private suites and an open safari vehicle for your exclusive use , equipped with off-road authorization to maximize every sighting.
DATES AND PARTICIPANTS
DURATION
7 days
DATES
From May 20th to 26th 2026
NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS
12 participants – 2 Jeeps
DETAILS AND ACTIVITIES
DIFFICULTY
Easy
PREPARATION AND EQUIPMENT
No excursions or other strenuous physical activities are planned.
MODALITY
Safari
Cost and Tour Leader
TOUR LEADER
Michael Bavassano
Jonathan Giovannini
STARTING FROM
€4990 €4190
PAYMENT
€1000 deposit upon registration and balance due 90 days before departure
HOW TO BOOK?
Scroll to the bottom of the page and fill out the contact form, asking for more information on the event or confirming your participation. You will be quickly contacted on Whatsapp.
DESTINATION:
Located on the border with Botswana, the Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the most extraordinary and least known protected areas in South Africa: 75,000 hectares of savannah, rocky hills and Tamboti forests , completely malaria-free , which are home to one of the highest densities of wildlife in the entire country.
In the heart of the reserve, far from the areas most frequented by vehicles, our guests enjoy privileged access to the hunting grounds of large predators and the main movement areas of herbivores. This strategic location allows for exceptionally frequent sightings , often within minutes of leaving the lodge.
Madikwe is a true icon of biodiversity: all the major African mammals live here, from the Big Five to cheetahs and wild dogs, as well as more than 66 mammal species and over 300 bird species . The reserve is also renowned for the presence of numerous rhinos with intact horns , visible with a regularity rare in the rest of South Africa and the entire continent.
A perfect destination for those seeking an exclusive safari, rich in wildlife and offering extraordinary photographic opportunities in every season.
ABOUT THE TOUR:
A safari in South Africa is more than just a journey: it’s a total immersion in nature, its rhythms and its most authentic silences. For an entire week, you’ll live in the heart of the savannah, traveling every day in an open jeep reserved exclusively for our group , accompanied by an expert ranger who knows every corner of the reserve.
Each day will follow the rhythm of the wildlife: a dawn safari , when the low light reveals the tracks of nocturnal predators, and an afternoon safari until sunset , with the option of enjoying an aperitif in the bush as the sky turns gold. The private reserve where we’ll be staying has no regulatory restrictions, so we’ll be able to take authorized off-road safaris to get up close to the Big Five, cheetahs, and wild dogs, prioritizing high-quality observations and photographs.
Between one activity and another, the lodge will offer moments of true comfort: fresh breakfast upon returning from the safari , lunch overlooking the bush , and a typical South African dinner under a clear sky, where the silence is broken only by the calls of the African night.
An experience designed for those who want to experience the safari to the fullest: natural rhythms, close-up observations, authentic atmospheres and that rare feeling of being exactly where you’re supposed to be.
The Safaris:
During your South Africa safari, you’ll enjoy an exclusive and perfectly organized experience, with the constant presence of tour leaders and a private vehicle reserved exclusively for our group, ideal for ensuring comfort, flexibility, and the ability to tailor each outing to your photographic needs. Each day includes two safaris , one departing before dawn and one in the afternoon returning after sunset, to explore the reserve during its busiest times.
The trips are conducted in open 10-seater jeeps , equipped with sunroofs, but occupancy is limited to a maximum of six participants per vehicle , always keeping the middle seats free to offer more space and freedom of movement during photography. A professional photographer specializing in African wildlife will be on board, who will work with certified local guides to optimize every sighting, plan travel, and position the vehicle in the best possible way to obtain high-quality images.
Thanks to our in-depth knowledge of the area, our team’s experience, and the ability to customize each trip, you’ll enjoy an authentic, immersive safari experience in the South African savannah, with frequent sightings and ideal conditions for wildlife photography.
Traveling as a couple?
Sharing a safari makes the experience even more special.
This itinerary is also perfect for those who don’t take photographs and simply want to experience an authentic African safari . Activities follow the same pace as traditional tourist safaris, but with more relaxed time, longer stops, and a special focus on wildlife observation.
Anyone accompanying a photographer will never feel out of place: the beauty of African landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and the thrills of the bush are experiences that captivate anyone.
Special discounts are available for double bookings (couples or friends sharing a room).
Contact us to receive the offer reserved for your travel dates.
The Lodge :
For this experience, we chose Etali Safari Lodge , an exclusive boutique lodge in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s few malaria-free areas. The lodge offers eight private suites and one family suite, completely independent and nestled in the bush, designed to blend in with the surrounding environment and offer maximum privacy.
Each suite offers a spacious deck overlooking the savannah , a private pool or heated whirlpool , indoor and outdoor showers, a freestanding tub, and elegant interiors inspired by the reserve’s natural colors. Elephants and other large mammals frequently pass by the rooms in various parts of the lodge, providing unique and authentic moments.
The dining experience is top-notch, with gourmet South African and international cuisine served on the panoramic deck or in the traditional boma under the stars. The lodge also offers a spa, wellness area, main pool, and lounge areas perfect for relaxing between safaris.
Thanks to our partnerships and direct management of the trip, you can live this experience in one of the most exclusive structures in Madikwe saving over 20% compared to booking directly , while benefiting at the same time from additional services that no other offer includes: private vehicle dedicated to our group , transfers to and from Johannesburg airport , and a professional tour leader for each vehicle .
A level of comfort, support and overall value simply unbeatable on the market.
Are you traveling alone?
No problem: our trip is also designed for participants traveling alone. The lodge suites are very spacious (approximately 75–80 m²) and can be shared comfortably with another participant in the group, ensuring privacy and comfort.
If you prefer a private room, you can request a suite for single use for a supplement of €1200 for the entire stay.
We just ask that you let us know as soon as possible after registering , as the availability of single suites is extremely limited .
DAILY PROGRAM
Day 1
The meeting point for the transfer will be at OR Tambo International Airport. The transfer to the Madikwe Game Reserve will depart between 9:00 and 9:30 AM.
- After our private transfer we will arrive at the Madikwe reserve (3/4 hour journey) in the early afternoon, lunch at the lodge and departure for the first safari.
- Stop at sunset for an aperitif in the bush
- Night safari back to our lodge
- Dinner and overnight stay
Day 2 – 6
A typical day on safari follows a natural rhythm, designed to make the most of every moment in the reserve.
5:00 AM – Wake up.
5:15–5:30 – Tea and coffee served at the Main Lodge.
05:30 – Departure for the morning safari .
08:00–08:30 – Stop in the bush for coffee, hot chocolate and snacks.
09:30–10:00 – Return to the lodge and à la carte breakfast .
1:00 PM – Lunch served at the lodge.
3:00 PM – Afternoon tea, coffee and snacks at the Main Lodge.
3.30pm – Departure for the afternoon safari .
5.45pm–6.00pm – Stop in the bush for a suggestive aperitif at sunset .
6:30 PM – Return to the lodge and free time before dinner.
8:00 PM – The bar is open for an aperitif.
8.15pm – Dinner under the starry sky , with gourmet dishes inspired by South African tradition.
Times may vary slightly based on sightings, weather conditions, and light, to optimize the photographic and nature experience.
Day 7
- Wake up before dawn , have coffee at the lodge and set off on our last morning safari.
- Stop in the bush , where we will get off the vehicle to enjoy hot tea or coffee with typical snacks, surrounded by the sounds of the savannah.
- Return to the lodge and breakfast served at the table with an à la carte menu.
- Pack your bags and depart with a private transfer to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, where you are expected to arrive around 3:00 pm , in time for your return flight.
INCLUDED
- 6 nights in a private reserve
- Private group transfers, round-trip to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
- Exclusive activities (coffee in the bush, aperitif in the bush, bushwalk, gym)
- Open Jeep for the exclusive use of the group
- 12 safari activities
- All meals and drinks
- Presence and assistance of a professional tour leader photographer
- English language support
- Assistance in Italian
NOT INCLUDED
- Intercontinental flight
- Tips
- Single Room (€1200)
- Medical-Health Insurance
- Travel Cancellation Insurance
❓ Frequently Asked Questions ❓
Do I have to be a photographer to participate?
Absolutely not . The trip is open to everyone, and photography experience isn’t necessary. You can participate as a simple nature lover and experience a comprehensive, well-organized safari, identical to a traditional tourist experience but with a more leisurely pace and greater focus on animal observation.
If you’d like, this tour can also be an opportunity to explore nature photography: you’ll have a professional photographer by your side, ready to explain techniques and tips in a simple and natural way. Upon request, you can also rent a complete photography kit directly through Just Explorers, so you can have your first experience with the right equipment.
And if you prefer not to take pictures, no problem: Africa, the light, the animals, and the atmosphere of the parks are emotions that can be experienced intensely even just with your eyes… or with your cell phone.
What equipment will I need?
For this experience, we recommend using SLR, mirrorless, or bridge cameras combined with lenses between 200mm and 600mm . This focal length range allows for sharp, well-proportioned images with excellent detail.
During the safaris, we’ll mainly shoot from the open jeep , which will serve as a stable support; for this reason , a tripod is not necessary . However, a bean bag is very useful, ideal for resting the telephoto lens while shooting (you can ask us for all the necessary information).
Throughout the trip, you’ll be accompanied by a professional photographer specializing in African wildlife , always available to help you optimize the use of your equipment. You’ll receive personalized advice on technique, composition, light management, camera settings , and much more, so you can make the most of every photographic opportunity.
Are you a nature lover without a camera?
No problem! We recommend bringing binoculars , which are ideal for observing primates and birds. You can also record videos or take evocative photos with your smartphone : Ugandan nature will provide you with unforgettable moments, even without a telephoto lens.
Is rental service available?
Do you think you don’t have the right equipment for this event?
No problem: you can rent a complete Nikon, Canon, or Sony camera kit (DSLR or mirrorless with super-telephoto lenses) to participate in the event and make the most of this experience.
Some of the products currently available
Camera bodies
Canon R6, Canon 70D, Nikon Z6 III, Nikon D7100, Nikon Z8, Nikon Z9, Sony A6000
Optics
Tamron SP 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Canon and Nikon), Nikon 400mm f/2.8 VR, Nikon Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR,
Nikon AF-S 300mm f/2.8 G ED VR II, Nikon Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S
If you are looking for a specific product not listed, please contact us : we will do our best to help you find the camera or lens that best suits your needs.
Rental conditions
The rental service is simple and without constraints :
- no deposit required
- no credit or prepaid card
- no insurance
The equipment is delivered directly to your location .
This service was created to allow anyone to participate in an experience like this, offering every photographer the opportunity to shoot in the best possible conditions .
Contact us for information on availability and prices.
What clothing will I need ?
During your stay in Madikwe Game Reserve, between 20 and 26 May daytime temperatures average around 24-26°C , while in the early morning hours they can drop to around 7-11°C .
During this time of year, the temperature range is significant: we recommend dressing in layers to stay warm on cool mornings while still maintaining comfort during the hottest hours. Technical clothing isn’t necessary: light shirts, comfortable pants, and a heavier jacket for any drops in temperature are ideal. Further details regarding clothing will be provided shortly after registration.
Terms and Conditions
By booking by paying a deposit to the organizers, you accept the following clauses:
1. As this is a pre-registration, the organizer will endeavor to promptly communicate any possible changes in the price of the tour, characterized by cost fluctuations. An annual price fluctuation of approximately 5% is highly likely if the booking is made more than a year in advance. in relation to potential variations in the prices of ground services (for example variations influenced by the fluctuating costs of electricity, fuel and others).
2. The price of the entire workshop will be paid through the payment methods offered by the organizing body, such as bank transfer, PayPal, credit card or cash according to the procedures and deadlines established by the organizers, taking charge of the transaction costs.
3. In case the tour does not take place due to the organizer, the entire amount paid will be refunded.
4. In case of cancellation for personal reasons of any kind and in any case not dependent on the organizer, the deposit and any other registration fees will be retained as reimbursement of expenses.
5. In case of cancellation for personal reasons within 60 days of departure, the entire balance of the tour will be required.
By registering, paying the deposit and sending your personal data, you accept clauses 1,2,3,4,5 again.
Flight Information:
You will need to land at OR Tambo International Airport in the early morning or the evening before if there are no flights compatible with the scheduled transfer at 9.00 AM.
For the return journey we will reach OR Tambo International Airport at 4.00 PM, so any flight after 6.30 PM will be compatible with all activities.
Request the full program or confirm your registration by filling out the form below
You will be contacted on Whatsapp with all the information on the event
Available places:
4
Cost:
€4990 €4190
Fill out the form to request the full program and reserve your place!
You will be contacted on Whatsapp with all the information about the event
