{"id":12047,"date":"2025-03-21T17:18:45","date_gmt":"2025-03-21T17:18:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jonathangiovannini.com\/lion-kalahari-photo-tour-11-20-november-2025\/"},"modified":"2026-01-14T09:44:49","modified_gmt":"2026-01-14T09:44:49","slug":"lion-kalahari-photo-tour-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jonathangiovannini.com\/en\/lion-kalahari-photo-tour-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"LION KALAHARI PHOTO TOUR 10-18 MARCH 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A nine-day adventure of pure nature photography,<\/strong> including dusty roads, spectacular views, and an encounter with the mighty black-maned lion. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park,<\/strong> one of the wildest and driest places on the planet, offers a unique opportunity to spot and photograph big cats in their natural habitat, establishing itself as one of the world’s top destinations for wildlife photographers with Maurizio and Francesca of the JustExplorers team.<\/strong> This trip stands out for its authentic wild spirit:<\/strong> we camp under the stars, with roof tents pitched on our jeeps<\/strong> and overnight stays in specially equipped areas. An immersive experience for direct contact with nature, listening to the roar of lions and the call of the savannah during the African nights. <\/p>\n\n

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DATES AND PARTICIPANTS<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

DURATION<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

9 days<\/p>\n\n\n\n

DATES<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

From March 10th to 18th<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

6 Participants<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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DETAILS AND ACTIVITIES<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

DIFFICULTY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

? Medium<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PREPARATION AND EQUIPMENT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The tour does not involve physically demanding activities, but requires a spirit of adaptation and collaboration in daily activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MODALITY<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Safari<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Cost and Tour Leader<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

TOUR LEADER<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maurizio Ferrari<\/p>\n\n\n\n

STARTING FROM<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u20ac2490<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PAYMENT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u20ac290 deposit upon registration and balance due 90 days before departure<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

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HOW TO BOOK?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Scroll to the bottom of the page<\/strong> and fill out the contact form,<\/strong> asking for more information<\/strong> on the event or confirming<\/strong> your participation. You will be quickly contacted on Whatsapp. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-cheetah-cheetah-in-the-desert\"<\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

DESTINATION:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park<\/strong> is one of the wildest and most authentic places in Southern Africa. A vast red desert stretching between South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia, where nature still follows ancient rhythms. Here, the horizon is endless, the skies are among the clearest in the world, and every pool of water can transform into a memorable scene. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The park is famous for its black-maned lions<\/strong> , leopards and cheetahs,<\/strong> as well as an incredible variety of species: oryx, bat-eared foxes, African wildcats, black-backed jackals, Cape foxes, mongooses, meerkats, wildebeests, giraffes and dozens of species of raptors and desert birds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sleeping inside the park, traveling in 4×4 jeeps equipped for camping, and experiencing the desert from dawn to dusk means fully immersing yourself in an extraordinary ecosystem, where every moment can become a photograph. A trip dedicated to those seeking true contact with nature<\/strong> , authenticity, and adventure. <\/p>\n\n\n

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\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-leopard-leopard-in<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

ABOUT THE TOUR:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This 7-night, 8-day<\/strong> tour is designed for those who want to experience the Kgalagadi in the most authentic way: camping in internal camps, traveling in 4\u00d74 jeeps equipped with roof tents<\/strong> , cooking together and spending long hours in the field in search of large predators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each vehicle houses two roof-top tents<\/strong> (each for two people), a refrigerator, stove, and all the necessary cooking equipment. The guides will take care of the shopping before departure, so that everything is ready and waiting in the jeeps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

During the trip, we’ll explore the southern, central, and northwest areas<\/strong> of the park, areas renowned for their felines and spectacular sightings at the waterholes. Each day will be marked by the most beautiful light: we’ll leave at dawn and return at dusk<\/strong> , following the animals’ movements and adapting to the rhythms of the savannah. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Between safaris, we’ll experience camp life, where mongooses, ground squirrels, meerkats, and numerous birds often approach without fear. The camps offer swimming pools, very clean communal bathrooms, and a shop with essentials, perfect for purchasing snacks, drinks, or Wi-Fi access when needed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This experience is designed for those who want to experience the real Africa: no lodges<\/strong> , no superfluous comforts, but direct and profound contact with one of the wildest areas of the continent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-transport-with-tents\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-backstage\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-to-base-camp-desert-road\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-return-to-base-camp\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-means-of-transport\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

the safaris:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The safaris will be the heart of the trip: about 6 hours a day<\/strong> , split between morning and afternoon, with departures at dawn and returns at sunset to take advantage of the best light conditions and animal behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We’ll use the same 4×4 jeeps we use for camping<\/strong> , so we’ll always be ready to shoot. Each photographer will have a dedicated window<\/strong> , ensuring space, comfort, and freedom of movement. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

La guida \u00e8 un fotografo professionista con lunga esperienza nel parco: si occuper\u00e0 di posizionare la jeep in modo ideale <\/strong>per ogni avvistamento, valutando luce, sfondo e comportamento dell\u2019animale per offrire le migliori opportunit\u00e0 fotografiche possibili.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Among the species we will be able to photograph: cheetahs, black-maned lions, leopards, African wildcats, bat-eared foxes, black-backed jackals, Cape foxes, mongooses, meerkats, oryxes, springboks, elands, wildebeests, giraffes, birds of prey, vultures and a variety of desert fauna.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The variety and quality of sightings in the Kgalagadi make it a paradise for nature photography enthusiasts.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Lion-Kalahari-Photo-Tour-South-Africa-Desert-Giraffe-in-the-Desert\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Traveling as a couple?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sharing a safari makes the experience even more special.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This itinerary is also perfect for those who don’t take photographs and simply want to experience an authentic African safari<\/strong> . Activities follow the same pace as traditional tourist safaris, but with more relaxed time, longer stops, and a special focus on wildlife observation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Special discounts<\/strong> are available for double bookings<\/strong> (couples or friends sharing a room).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact us to receive the offer reserved for your travel dates.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

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\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-transport-home\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

The Camp<\/strong> :<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The tour is a 100% camping<\/strong> experience, authentic, engaging and comfortable. We will sleep in roof tents<\/strong> mounted on jeeps (2 people per tent), safe and comfortable, ideal for experiencing the park in a real and immersive way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The internal camps offer: very clean shared bathrooms<\/strong> , divided between men and women, showers and hot water,<\/strong> a swimming pool<\/strong> , perfect during the hottest hours and a shop<\/strong> with essential goods, snacks, ice creams, drinks, ice, firewood, and the possibility of purchasing wi-fi credits.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

All meals are included and self-managed<\/strong> : we will cook together, creating an atmosphere of collaboration and sharing that is an integral part of the experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the camp it is common to encounter small and very photogenic fauna: mongooses, ground squirrels, meerkats<\/strong> , as well as numerous birds that move freely around the pitches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Living in the Kgalagadi camps means listening to the desert wind, gazing at the brightest starry sky in Africa, and sometimes hearing the roars of lions in the distance.An experience that stays with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-leopard-in-profile\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-hawk-juggler\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-South-Africa-desert-jackal-drinking\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-owl\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-a-lioness-resting\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-meerkat-on-guard\"<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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DAILY PROGRAM<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
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Day 1 – March 10: Johannesburg<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Arrive in Johannesburg on a scheduled flight and transfer to your hotel by shuttle for your overnight stay on the first evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Free dinner and overnight stay <\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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Day 2 – March 11: Kgalagadi<\/strong><\/summary>\n

After the domestic flight from Johannesburg to Upington, your guides will greet you upon arrival for the 4×4 jeep<\/strong> transfer into the Kgalagadi. The journey to your first camp takes about three hours<\/strong> . <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upon arrival, we will set up camp together for the night, demonstrating how the tents<\/strong> and refrigerators<\/strong> work, how the kitchen area is organized, and the correct procedures for opening and closing tents in preparation for the following days of camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meals are included but self-managed<\/strong> : the entire group will collaborate in preparing breakfasts and dinners, following the guides’ instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accommodation in the camp and dinner<\/strong> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overnight stay in a double tent.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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Day 3 & 4 – March 12-13: Kgalagadi<\/strong><\/summary>\n

These days, we’ll focus on the southern part of the park, an area characterized by busy waterholes and excellent opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and numerous herbivores. Each day includes two safaris: one in the morning departing at dawn and returning in the late morning, and one in the afternoon returning at sunset. In late March, sunrise is expected around 6:30 AM<\/strong> and sunset around 6:15 PM<\/strong> . <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day begins with a pre-dawn wake-up call, tent closure, and a quick breakfast, followed by a morning game drive lasting approximately three hours. Depending on sightings and light conditions, we’ll return to camp in the morning, where you can relax, enjoy the pool, or observe the smaller wildlife that frequents the area: mongooses, meerkats, ground squirrels, and a wide variety of birds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At midday, we’ll prepare a light lunch and, in the afternoon, we’ll set off on our second safari, also lasting about three hours, until sunset. Once we return in the dark, we’ll prepare our tents for the night and have dinner before spending the night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meals are included and self-managed: the group will collaborate in preparing the various courses.
Overnight stay in a double tent<\/strong> .<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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Day 5 – March 14: Kgalagadi<\/strong><\/summary>\n

We’ll wake up before dawn, have a quick breakfast, pack up our tents, and unpack. During the morning safari, we’ll head to the second camp, located in the central northwest of the park. The transfer will take about 4\u20135 hours<\/strong> , entirely within the park and therefore in safari mode, with a good chance of spotting game along the way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This new area, characterised by a sandier environment, offers excellent opportunities to observe lions, cheetahs<\/strong> and numerous herbivores, as well as typical species of the area such as Cape fox, jackals and bat-eared foxes<\/strong> .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We’ll reach our new camp in the late morning, where we’ll set up our tents again and prepare lunch. A relaxing break will follow before departing for our usual afternoon safari, which will last until sunset. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upon returning in the evening, we will prepare the tents and dinner before spending the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overnight stay in a double tent<\/strong> .<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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Day 6 & 7 – March 15-16: Kgalagadi<\/strong><\/summary>\n

These days we’ll focus on the western part of the park<\/strong> , an area characterized by numerous waterholes and excellent chances of spotting lions, cheetahs<\/strong> , and many herbivores, as well as a good concentration of African wildcats<\/strong> , bat-eared foxes<\/strong> , jackals<\/strong> , and Cape foxes<\/strong> . Each day includes two safaris<\/strong> : one in the morning departing at dawn and returning in the late morning, and one in the afternoon returning at sunset. In late March, sunrise is expected around 6:30 am<\/strong> and sunset around 6:15 pm<\/strong> . <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day begins with a pre-dawn wake-up call<\/strong> , tent closures, and a quick breakfast, followed by a morning game drive lasting approximately three hours. Depending on sightings and light conditions, we’ll return to camp in the morning, where you can relax, enjoy the pool<\/strong> , or observe the smaller wildlife that frequents the area: mongooses, meerkats, ground squirrels<\/strong> , and numerous bird species. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At midday, we’ll prepare a light lunch<\/strong> and, in the afternoon, we’ll set off on our second safari, also lasting about three hours, until sunset. Once we return in the dark, we’ll prepare our tents<\/strong> for the night and have dinner<\/strong> before spending the night. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meals are included and self-managed<\/strong> : the group will collaborate in preparing the various courses.
Overnight stay in a double tent.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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Day 8 – March 17: Kgalagadi<\/strong><\/summary>\n

During the morning safari<\/strong> , we’ll head back to the first camp<\/strong> , where we’ll spend our last night in the park. The entire transfer will be on safari, with excellent chances of game viewing along the way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The day includes two safari sessions<\/strong> , one during the morning transfer and one in the afternoon, which will allow us to explore both the eastern<\/strong> and southern<\/strong> parts of the park. These areas are particularly interesting for their diverse habitats and rich wildlife, with good opportunities to observe big cats and herbivores, as well as the more elusive fauna typical of the Kgalagadi. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We’ll arrive at the camp<\/strong> in the late morning, where we can set up camp and prepare lunch, before relaxing for the afternoon safari until sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The return will take place in the dark, followed by the preparation of dinner and the tents for the night.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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Day 9 – March 18: Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Johannesburg<\/strong><\/summary>\n

Rise before dawn, pack up your tents, and organize your bags for the return journey. Depending on your schedule and the day’s schedule, you may be able to take a final short safari<\/strong> in the southern part of the park, for a final opportunity to observe the Kgalagadi’s wildlife. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We will then leave the park towards Upington<\/strong> , from where we will take the internal flight to Johannesburg<\/strong> , thus concluding this intense and extraordinary experience.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n

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\"LION-KALAHARI-PHOTO-TOUR-south-africa-desert-adult-male-lion\"<\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n
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INCLUDED<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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