Tag: big 5

Duba Plains – Turn the Wild Up a Notch

Posted on by James

Some parts of the Okavango Delta feel calm, almost meditative. Channels drift quietly, birds skim the surface, and elephants move through water with an ease that feels timeless. And then there is Duba Plains Camp, where the same water seems to sharpen everything instead.

Set deep within a private concession in the northern Delta, Duba Plains sits in a landscape defined by seasonal flood. When the waters arrive, they spread wide across the plains, transforming dry ground into a shifting mosaic of channels, islands and open space. It is beautiful, unquestionably — but it is also functional. Because where the flood goes, the buffalo follow.

And where there are buffalo, lions are never far behind.

Duba has become quietly known for this relationship. Not in a way that feels staged or predictable, but in the sense that the ecosystem itself leans toward drama. Large herds move across open ground, bunching, spreading, testing the edges of safety. Lions watch, wait, and then commit with a level of intensity that feels very different to more casual encounters elsewhere in Africa.

Game drives here carry a particular kind of focus. You are not simply looking for sightings; you are stepping into a story that is already unfolding. Tracks matter. Direction matters. Behaviour matters. Everything feels connected, as if each movement is part of a wider narrative that began long before you arrived.

And yet, for all its intensity, Duba Plains is still very much a water-based safari.

 

Between moments of action, the landscape settles back into something softer. Elephants cross channels with slow, deliberate confidence. Lechwe move through flooded grasslands, their hooves adapted perfectly to terrain that would challenge almost anything else. Reflections stretch across the water, turning movement into something almost abstract.

The camp itself mirrors this balance. Elevated, elegant, and quietly luxurious, it offers comfort without separation. Wide decks open onto the floodplain, allowing you to watch the landscape shift throughout the day. Interiors are refined but never overbearing, keeping the focus where it belongs — outside.

There is a rhythm here that feels heightened. Stillness builds into movement. Calm gives way to intensity, then settles again. It is a place where contrast defines the experience as much as continuity.

Duba Plains is not a passive safari. It asks you to pay attention, to read the bush, to stay present in moments that can change quickly and without warning.

And when everything aligns — water, movement, predator and prey — you are reminded that the Delta is not just beautiful.

It is alive in a way that feels immediate, unpredictable, and entirely real.

Nyamatusi Camp: Where Mana Pools Casts Its Spell

Posted on by James

Certain landscapes feel like they’ve drifted out of a dream, and Mana Pools is one of them — a place where blue-washed woodlands melt into slow water, where elephants stand on hind legs to reach ana pods, and where light behaves in ways photographers still can’t adequately explain. Nyamatusi Camp sits in the heart of this enchantment, offering front-row seats to one of Africa’s most atmospheric wildernesses.

Set along a remote curve of the Zambezi River, Nyamatusi’s tented suites are luxurious in a way that never breaks the spell of the environment. Interiors are warm, rich and tactile — brass, canvas, leather — but always with the river in view, always with the forest whispering just beyond the deck. This is the kind of camp where wildlife walks through your field of vision rather than being something you go out to find.

Activities lean into Mana’s slow, immersive energy. Walking safaris take you through cathedral-like woodlands where every shaft of light feels choreographed. It’s not unusual to round a grove and find an elephant calmly feeding at arm’s length, acknowledging you with the faintest ear-flick before returning to its breakfast. Canoeing is equally magical — drifting between hippo channels, listening to water lap against the bow, watching the shoreline shift like an unfolding watercolor.

Game drives capture Mana at its most instinctively wild: painted wolves trotting along riverbeds, lions dozing in delicate shade, nyala moving like brushstrokes through the trees. Yet the mood here is never rushed. The forest encourages softness, attentiveness, breathing room.

Evenings are all glow — lanterns, campfire sparks, the quiet hum of the river. It’s the kind of place where guests become loyalists, and loyalists become evangelists.

Nyamatusi doesn’t just show you Mana Pools. It lets the place seep into your bones.

Singita Sabora: Serengeti Theatre

Posted on by James

Some places you check into. Others, you quite literally arrive. Singita Sabora is firmly in the latter camp. It doesn’t just sit in the Serengeti; it unfurls across it, like a lavish set design waiting for the curtain to rise.

Set in the private Grumeti Reserve, Sabora has all the cinematic grandeur you’d expect from Singita, but with a modern twist. Think sweeping canvas tents — though “tent” feels like a disservice when your suite has Persian rugs, curated antiques, and a four-poster bed that could comfortably accommodate a small wildebeest herd. Out front, the Serengeti plains stretch until they dissolve into a mirage. At night, the soundtrack is equal parts hyena cackles and the fizz of your G&T.

Where Sabora really excels is in its balance of indulgence and immersion. One minute you’re lounging in a leather campaign chair, thumbing through a design book you didn’t know you needed in your life. The next, you’re out on game drive, watching a cheetah test the limits of physics as it streaks across the golden grass. The lodge sits right on the migratory route, so if you time it right, you can sip your morning coffee as a column of wildebeest trundles by — a reminder that in this theatre, the extras number in the thousands.

Meals here are another performance. Candlelit dinners on the deck blur into starlit skies. The menu is a masterclass in contradiction: refined yet rooted, locally inspired yet globally polished. Even the wine cellar, improbably stocked with South Africa’s finest vintages, feels like a nod to the fact that luxury in the bush isn’t just about where you are, but how well you’re looked after while you’re there.

And yet, amidst all the design flourishes and high-thread-count whispers, Sabora manages not to lose its sense of place. Step outside your suite and you’re reminded quickly that this is still big wilderness. Giraffes drift like apparitions between acacias, lions call at dusk, and the Serengeti light — that ever-changing, golden wash — steals the show at every hour.

Sabora is proof that you can have it both ways: the romance of classic safari and the thrill of contemporary design. Here, the Serengeti isn’t just a backdrop. It’s the main character, and you, for a few days, are written into the script.

Chitabe Reimagined

Posted on by James

For almost thirty years, Wilderness Chitabe has earned a reputation as one of the Okavango Delta’s most incredible safari destinations. Set on a wildlife-rich peninsula in the eastern sector of this tranquil eden, its diverse landscapes and patchwork of habitats draw an unparalleled abundance of game year-round. But beyond the remarkable sightings, Chitabe is a place where guests feel at home – a camp shaped by a team whose deep-rooted connection creates a rare and timeless magic.
And now, with a fresh, sustainable design, rebuilt Chitabe remains true to its roots while embracing the future.

Chitabe’s impressive mix of micro-ecosystems makes it one of Botswana’s most rewarding wildlife destinations. The convergence of the Gomoti and Santantadibe channels create almost an island, which supports a rich, year-round game viewing paradise. Here, prides of lions, packs of wild dogs, and the Okavango’s most consistent and viewable cheetah population hunt the plains. There have also been no fewer than 50 leopards recorded at Chitabe.

The Chitabe guest suites offer a blend of comfort and design, perfectly suited to the temperature swings of the Delta (summer can get very hot, winter nights can see the temperature drop to sub-zero).
Crafted to enhance the experience, the suites feature insulated canvas walls and roofs, creating an environment that maintains a light, airy feel. Spacious high ceilings, large insect-proof mesh openings, and private shaded decks open to horizon-wide views of the Delta.

The eight spacious luxury safari-style tents at are built on elevated wooden decks amongst the stunning trees of the Okavango.
Each tent has en-suite facilities that include an indoor and outdoor shower, mosquito nets, standing fans and double sliding doors opening to the shady deck with comfortable seating – a perfect breakfast nook from which to soak up the bush.
Elevated walkways connect the tents to the central camp facilities made up of a thatched raised dining and lounge area leading onto open decking with views across the waterways and floodplains. There is an evening campfire, a small curio shop and a plunge pool providing a cool sanctuary for those warm hours. Or nestle yourself in the library with a view and read a little more about the wildlife and natural history of the area; although the staff, rangers and trackers of Chitabe Camp would be more than happy to tell you all about as well.

Supreme opulence and some of the most consistent wild dog viewing in the Okavango (the local pack dens on the concession almost every year) have ensured a high level of repeat business at Chitabe. Guests fall in love and don’t want to go anywhere else.

If this sounds like the place for you, get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning your Okavango itinerary…

Mara Plains: Big Cat Heaven

Posted on by James

SPECIAL OFFER

Enjoy some extra time at Mara Plains Camp free of charge! You will get one night for free when booking a three night safari at Mara Plains. This special offer is applicable for new bookings for arrivals between 11 January and 14 June 2025, and between 1 November and 19 December 2025. This special offer may not be combined with any other special offers.

Mara Plains Camp is a one-of-a-kind luxury Kenya safari camp. Located in the private 13,300-hectare Olare Motorogi Conservancy, just on the Maasai Mara National Reserve’s northern boundary, you are immersed in one of the most iconic wildlife destinations on the planet.

The community-owned conservancies set a new standard for game viewing on the world-famous East African grasslands. Vehicle regulations mean far more intimate sightings, and you are not surrounded by throngs of day visitors as you might be in other parts of the ecosystem. This part of the world offers some of the best big cat viewing we have ever experienced.

Mara Plains Camp is ideal for those seeking a luxury Kenya safari, as this intimate Great Plains Conservation Réserve-Collection safari camp offers you the finest in wildlife viewing paired with the absolute best in safari hospitality and wildlife guiding.

The Olare Motorogi Conservancy hugs the northern border of the Masai Mara National Reserve and is known for its high concentration of wildlife and for the fact it only allows five safari camps to operate within its borders. Mara Pains camp lies hidden among the lush green forested banks of the Ntiakitiak River. This tiny camp in the wild is unforgettably luxurious and inviting. It allows its guests to get remarkably close to nature without sacrificing comfort.

Staying at one of the Masai Mara conservancies has countless benefits, not just to you the safari traveller… but also to the local Maasai community, the lands and local wildlife. The arrival of each safari travel, which is limited to a small number at any given time, contributes to programs benefiting the Maasai people. It also contributes to the conservation of the area and to the employment of Maasai staff, guides and trackers. By staying at Mara Plains Camp you are in fact helping to better the lives of the Maasai who have lived on these lands for generations and contributing to the conservation of the lands and the wildlife roaming them.

Mara Plains Camp is a member of Great Plain Conservation. This initiative is dedicated to protecting endangered species and supports Kenyan initiatives such as the Maasai Olympics. Great Plains Conservation also supports conservation education by investing in kids’ camps and supports local female-owned businesses through sale of their handiwork in the camp’s bush boutique. The conservation program has also planted more than 2000 trees in the Masai Mara. This was done in an effort to help regenerate the ecosystem and bring back indigenous trees to the Mara Landscape

As you near the camp you will see the first safari tents appear amidst a thick forest along the Ntiakitiak Riverbend. After crossing a bridge across the river and climbing a few broad steps, you’ll look out over an endless horizon speckled by flat-topped acacia. The camp’s décor and design pay homage to the look and feel of Eastern Africa. A touch of Swahili heritage can be found in the lodge’s large wooden doors originally from the island of Lamu. There are also occasional splashes of red in the décor which are reminiscent of the great Maasai chiefs and warriors. The rich leathers, brass and copper used in the campaign-style furniture give the camp a very lavish, yet warm and comfortable atmosphere. During your stay you’ll be treated to delicious home-cooked cuisine, lovely fine wines and tasty cocktails. The camp is made up of a total of seven safari tents and can accommodate a maximum of up to fourteen guests at any given time.

Each of the seven traditional safari-style tents are raised on decks and feature marquis ceilings. Their muted tones make them blend into the countryside beautifully and each tent enjoys sweeping views of the savanna in the distance. The safari tents feature a comfortable king-sized bed or two twin beds, a sitting area, rough hewn wood floors, thick Lamu wood doors, en-suite bathrooms with lovely deep copper freestanding tubs and walk-in showers, a writing desk, safe and complimentary WiFi. You will also find one pair of Swarovski HD binoculars and a professional Canon camera body and lens kit for complimentary use. Families with children 6 years and older are also welcome at the camp and are welcome in the designated family suite. These tented suites feature two bedrooms, one with a king-sized bed and the other with a twin bed. The family suites have a common lounge area and a private verandah overlooking the savannah.

 

Activities at Mara Plains Camp

Mara Plains Camp has a very comprehensive set of activities for you to choose from during your stay. For starters, every safari drive (during prime sunrise and sunset hours) or bush walk will be a memorable one thanks to the camp’s professional Maasai guides that will be there to accompany you. The camp will also offer you the opportunity to enjoy lovely gourmet bush breakfasts or lunch in a scenic location in the wild to make your day extra special. Thanks to the wide variety of bird species in the area (over 300!), you’ll also have plenty of opportunity for birdwatching either during a bush walk or while relaxing at camp. Another great way to relax when back at camp is to enjoy one of the camp spa’s relaxing massages. To get a taste of local culture and traditions you’ll have an opportunity to meet the Maasai during a visit to a local manyatta (Maasai village). For a very high-flying safari adventure you can also choose to go on a hot-air balloon safari flight at an extra cost.

 

Mara Plains Camp stay 4 pay 3 special offer

 

 

Photography Tips & Tricks: What to Look for When Photographing Predators

Posted on by James

Paw, Tail, Ears, Eyes.

That’s it. The Magic Formula.

When photographing big cats – but not just them, not by any means – there are a few boxes to tick to really make the photo pop. We’re thinking broad picture now, zooming out and looking at the whole animal, and more specifically as it’s walking.

That is the key word here: “walking”. Some of these pointers apply in other situations, but all four are only really applicable when the animal is walking and its full body is visible.

Now, I only learnt this whole quadfecta (whats one up from a trifecta?) late in the game, but it makes so much more sense now why some photos are more eye-catching than others.

Have a look at this picture of a lioness seemingly approaching the vehicle (she had seen an antelope in the thicket on the far side):

Ntsevu Lioness Stalk

Her expression is fairly intent, and it’s hard to tear your eyes away. But WHY is it an appealing photo?
Let’s go through it according to the formula:

Eyes: Both open. Pupils Visible. Eye glint.
Ears: Both pointed forward. Crucial.
Paw: Raised, implying movement and therefore heightening the sense of anticipation in the photo.
Tail: Visible, ideally in mid-flick or movement.

It’s tricky to get all four lined up at the same time, but that’s exactly why it’s so much harder to capture a truly eye-catching image.
The following photo of lionesses walking down a road illustrates it nicely:

Ntsevu Lion Pride

The first lioness ticks the boxes, in almost exactly the same way as the first photo, she’s just looking to the side a bit more rather than at the camera.

As one goes back down the line however, the lionesses don’t quite make the cut. The second one is almost there, but her right ear is twisted slightly backwards, so we have to be brutal and disqualify her.
The third female has her ears back, her eyes closed and her tail isn’t visible, so she’s a massive sub-par for the course.

It’s the same for this leopard photo:

Mashaba Leopard

Ear twisted, tail hidden and paws still on the ground (pretty much). Plus she was close to the vehicle and the photograph was necessarily taken at a downward angle, which reduces the impact of the picture. It’s still a photo of a leopard, which is always lovely to capture, but it’s a long way from being anything great.

Nkoveni Leopard Grass

Technological advancements like big lenses and remote triggers can help massively when it comes to wildlife photography, as in the case of the photo of the a female leopar above, but there’s always a fair amount of luck involved. She too has her tail out, ears forward, eyes open and paw raised in this photo, but it was the only one of about 30 rapid-fire pics that made the cut. In the rest she was either blinking, swivelling an ear, hiding her tail or a combination of the above.

We can’t make an animal do what we want, but just remember the above four things to look for when photographing wildlife on the move; put your camera on high frame-rate and take a few more pictures and hope for the best.
And when browsing through your images in Lightroom after the event, you’ll now know which ones to look for…

Anabezi Camp: Lower Zambezi Delights

Posted on by James

Explore pristine and untouched wilderness in one of Africa’s most remote safari destinations. Anabezi sits on the banks of the Zambezi River in a secluded corner in the eastern area of Lower Zambezi National Park. Far from the majority of other camps,  Anabezi is surrounded by the iconic Winterthorn forest, renowned by safari experts, professional photographers, and documentary film crews.

The camp is built on an elevated boardwalk which connects each luxury tented suite to two main areas with their own respective swimming pools. The elevated boardwalk allows for wildlife to roam freely throughout camp while minimising effects on the ecosystem. It also means guests can walk around safely during the day without an escort. Elephants, buffalo, antelope – and even the occasional lion or leopard – often pass through camp, allowing you to experience wildlife from the comfort of your room. These communal areas evoke a classic African style with a modern touch, providing guests the opportunity to experience Lower Zambezi and its wilderness while relaxing at camp.  As the sun sets and nightlife of the bush comes to life, guests are invited to sit by the campfire with a sundowner and share stories of their sightings with fellow visitors.

Modern comfort and authentic African luxury come together at Anabezi in one of Africa’s finest game viewing destinations. Renew your love affair with nature in one of their twelves tented suites, complete with either king or twin beds, overlooking the Zambezi River, Zambezi Floodplain or Kulefu Channel. Each tent features an indoor en suite bathroom with Victorian style soaking bathtub, and an outdoor bathroom complete with outdoor shower.

As its namesake implies, the Zambezi Deck provides sweeping views of the Zambezi River and the floodplain, with daily visits from elephants, buffalo, impala, waterbuck, warthogs and a variety of birds. Watch the wildlife from the swimming pool while you’re having lunch, or from one of the many lounging areas, and take in the surrounding landscape. It’s not uncommon to get up close views of elephants drinking, bathing and crossing the Zambezi River to one of its many islands.

Large populations of elephants and buffalo roam the forest and the banks of the Zambezi along with Anabezi’s resident pride of lions. The local pack of African Wild Dogs moves up and down the length of the park, with Chakwenga (the section in which Anabezi is found) being one of their favourite hunting grounds. When they are in the area, this pack provides truly exceptional sightings!

Cruising down the Zambezi river allows you to experience Lower Zambezi from a different perspective. At eye level with the rich aquatic ecosystem, watch elephants bath and swim from island to island, G&T in hand, while the sun sets behind the escarpment. You’ll also spot buffalo, crocodiles, hippos, and antelope perched on the river bank floating in Anabezi’s custom-fitted pontoon boats. For those in pursuit of the legendary African tigerfish, the Zambezi River rarely disappoints (although the productive fishing times are seasonal).
Experienced fishermen and novices alike will enjoy heading out on an afternoon fishing trip with one of the camps seasoned guides, full of expert advice and an unparalleled knowledge of this stretch of the river. While Anabezi provide all the necessary rods and tackle for spinner and lure fishing, anglers who specialize in Fly should bring their own equipment.

Anabezi’s location on the east side of the park near the heart of the winterthorn forest makes for epic sightings with few other vehicles. They are able to modify our game viewers for photographers and provide custom beanbags if needed. Should you require a private vehicle or vehicle modification for a photographic safari, Iconic Africa can easily get in touch with the camp to set it up.

Get hold of us through info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your Lower Zambezi safari; an area that is quickly becoming a must-visit on the Southern Africa safari circuit…

 

The Luangwa Valley: the Best of Time & Tide

Posted on by James

Spoiled for choice is a wonderful term with which to associate with safari, and it is certainly the case when looking into lodge options within the South Luangwa Time & Tide portfolio.
Stunning camps – some of which are set along the banks of the Luangwa River while the others are further west on the seasonal Luwi Riverbed – provide access to a wide diversity of habitats, ensuring maximum game viewing opportunities in one of Africa’s greatest wildlife areas.

Time & Tide camps are currently available at 35% off, but this limited-time offer is set to expire in a couple of months, so this is the time to book!

Essentially what you are looking at is a wonderful spectrum that takes you from the heart of one of the core game viewing areas out into the true wilderness areas of the park where there are far fewer operators; you will work a bit harder for your major sightings in the more remote camps, but whatever you find you will likely have all to yourself.

Our personal recommendation would be to combine two of the camps in your trip; either Chinzombo or Kakuli at which the chances of seeing excellent game are exceptionally high, and then moving on to a Luwi or Nsolo camp where you will get a true sense of wilderness. Apart from dusty roads there will be almost no other evidence of human presence. The stars will be more brilliant than you could imagine and you will feel like you are a part of the community

The beauty of Luangwa is its seasonality. Cool dry winters give way to a hot dusty spring, with the promise of rain threatening more and more each day. Wildlife congregates around the river and permanent waterholes during the dry times, but when the rains unleash during the summer months the entire landscape transforms into one of vibrant greens, with ephemeral pans topped up, frogs calling throughout the night, and the dambos (dry floodplains) turning into boggy ground that is difficult to negotiate with even the hardiest of vehicles. It’s all part of the adventure, and for photographers in particular this is a time of plenty. The migrant birds have returned, baby impalas are all over the place and everything is clean and colourful.

Some of the more remote camps shut down over the rainy season due to the logistical difficulty of getting supplies in during muddy periods, but Chinzombo remains open due to its still-navigable road network.

One of the main reasons to visit South Luangwa is the leopards. There are plenty of them. Plenty. The dry season in particular is an amazing time to visit as the leopards alter their behaviour to suit the terrain. As the grass dies through the winter, cover becomes sparse and the hunting becomes difficult. The leopards then take to the trees, in particular the heavily foliated sausage and mahogany trees. With ample cover up in the branches, they have shady refuges from which to scan for hunting opportunities, often only waiting until darkness has descended before descending to attempt a stalk.
On rare occasions they will even drop straight from a tree onto unsuspecting prey down below.

Zambia, and South Luangwa in particular is swiftly emerging as front-runner in Africa’s wildlife real estate; a place to compete with the Okavango Delta to the south or the East African grasslands.

With the amazing 35% special currently running with Time & Tide, there could be no better time to book, so you can see for yourself…

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more about the special, camp rates and availability…

 

 

A Londolozi of Leopards

Posted on by James

The collective noun for multiple leopards is actually a Leap, but the alternate term in this post’s title is more than appropriate, given that Londolozi practically pioneered leopard viewing as we know it today.

In the early 1970’s, thanks to progressive land-management practices and a sensitive approach to viewing wildlife, Londolozi started seeing a single female leopard fairly regularly. Carefully observing her habits and getting her used to the game drive vehicles meant that her cubs picked up her relaxed approach to being viewed, which spawned successive generations of habituated leopards. Londolozi is now viewing its 8th generation of leopards descended from that single female; most likely the most documented leopard lineage in existence.

These days Londolozi remains at the epicentre of Leopard viewing. A camera-trap study conducted by the Panthera Organisation concluded that the Sabi Sand Reserve contains the densest population of these spotted cats yet recorded in Africa, with Londolozi and its neighbours (all of whom sit at the core of the Sabi Sands) containing the highest density of them all; approximately 12 leopards per 100 square kilometres.

A combination of ideal habitat and the resulting prey availability, as well as the fact that the reserve is unfenced and open to the 6 million hectare Greater Kruger National Park, has maintained the population as stable and allowed for unrestricted genetic flow.

Experienced rangers and trackers – among the best in the business – understand the behaviour of the cats intimately and are able to find them on game drives repeatedly.
Although leopards steal the show, and are one of the reasons that guests visit Londolozi from all over the world, they are part of a much wider cast of wildlife, including all the Big 5, as well as cheetahs, wild dogs and a plethora of general game species that will your camera’s memory card up more rapidly than you could dare dream.

The camps themselves offer a wonderful diversity of accommodation options, from the slightly larger family camps – Founders and Varty – to the three-roomed Pioneer Camp, which is generally booked in the exclusive-use villa style, you will almost certainly be able to find what you are looking for.

It is the people of Londolozi that truly set the place apart however.
Since the Varty family rebranded the lodge as a stand-alone, family-run affair in 2007, the vibrant culture that permeates into every nook and cranny of the land has become more and more entrenched, and for many repeat guests, it is the friends they have made amongst the staff that sees them returning time and time again.
Some can boast over 50 visits…

Londolozi delivers time and time again, from the bush experience they offer to the food, hospitality, wellness spa and everything in between.
It may be the place to see leopards but it is also the place to feel more alive than you thought you could. Where you can reconnect with ancient energy and connect to yourself all over again…

Get in touch now through info@iconicafrica.com to enquire about rates and availability…

Low Light Photography

Posted on by James

This is probably one of the trickiest areas of wildlife photography to get right.
Photography is all about light, and the less there is, the harder it is to take a sharp photograph. After sunset or before sunrise, cloudy days, or even shooting with a spotlight; all present their challenges, some of which can be overcome and others not so much. But with a couple of trips and tricks, you should be able to get some very memorable photos even when conditions are poor.

1. Know Your Equipment

A good workman never blames his tools, so they say, but the simple reality here is that some camera equipment is significantly better than others. Certain lenses let in more light, some bodies can cope with almost complete darkness, and having this more advanced (but unfortunately more expensive) equipment will go a long way towards getting better photos when the light is poor.
The two things to look for are lens that has a wide aperture (f2.8 or below) and a camera body with high ISO capability (ISO is a measure of the camera’s sensitivity to light). If you have those two you can probably keep snapping away for awhile when the sun has gone down.

If on the other hand you don’t have the advanced gear that the serious amateurs or professional photographers will make use of, it is important to recognise when you are barking up the wrong tree. You will probably hear a very slow shutter speed coming into play (your ranger will identify it for you), resulting in blurry photos.

Simply put your camera down, forget about taking photos, and enjoy watching whatever’s in front of you.

2. Try Something Different

Low light can be an excellent time to experiment.
If a leopard isn’t bathed in golden light but is instead moving slowly along  on a cold grey morning, it’s time to think outside the box.
Your camera will detect that there isn’t enough light around and use a slow shutter speed to compensate, but you can use this to your advantage.

By panning along with your subject, be it elephant, lion or leopard, and using a slow shutter speed, the background should blur out a bit whilst the animal (hopefully) stays sharp. This panning effect implies motion, and is a very effective way of conveying story, which is ultimately what wildlife photography is all about.

Understand Metering and Exposure

You are smarter than your camera. At least hopefully. Whilst you can clearly see that the world in front of you is veiled in darkness and the leopard illuminated in the spotlight is the only thing to concentrate on, and clearly the subject of your desired photo, your camera doesn’t know better. It will just see the darkness and try to compensate for it. It will open the shutter for longer to let more light in, thus massively overexposing the leopard and probably blurring it as well.

In a case like this, you need to tell the camera to keep things dark. You do this by adjusting the exposure. Have a read of a previous post of ours here to understand the concept a bit better.

Knowing how your camera reacts to different levels of light is crucial. The more advanced your photography becomes, the more control you will likely take away from it and put into your own hands (ie. you will be deciding all the settings for yourself).

 

Know What Your Subject Is

Is it the scene or is it the animal?

Do you want to accentuate the clouds or do you want detail in the wildlife?

A lot of the time in wildlife photography, you have to compromise. Make sacrifices. It’s like a relationship. Know what you have to give up on one side to gain something on the other.
Take a look at the photograph below, of wildebeest in the Maasai Mara.
Had the shot been exposed for the wildebeest, the dramatic colours in the evening sky would have been lost (the shutter would have necessarily been slower). Instead, the sky’s colours were prioritised and the wildebeest and lone tree were left as mere silhouettes. Which in turn tells its own story.
It would be very difficult (without the use of a flash or spotlight) to capture detail in both the sky and the wildebeest.

Ultimately, understanding exactly what shot you’re after, what settings you need to capture it, and what the limits of your equipment actually are, all combine to define how you can photograph in low light. But it’s certainly not a case of putting your camera away when the light fades.
Quite the contrary.

Feel free to drop any questions down below about all things wildlife photography related.

Lion Sands River Lodge

Posted on by James

It’s hard to say enough good things about Lion Sands.
For years one of our favourite lodges in the world famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Lion Sands has been wowing guests from all over the world with their incredible wildlife sightings and close attention to detail on the guest service front. The sheer amount of repeat business speaks for itself.

Lion Sands River Lodge is, as the name suggests, situated on beautiful river frontage. The Sabi River separates the reserve from the Kruger National Park, but being unfenced, still allows for free movement of wildlife. Elephants wade across the current, leopards leap between the rocks, and in the winter months the water levels are generally low enough to allow most creatures to cross without too much trouble.
The life-giving water attracts creatures great and small during the winter months in particular, when surface water is scarce across the reserve, and the density of game along the river banks is as high as could be wished for.

And then there’s the lodge itself…

The lodge’s style has a wonderful sense of brightness and space, yet remains understated. Wooden walkways lead off to a spa, gym and pool, and back to the main lodge, where the deck’s connected water features give the impression of floating on the river. Whether you enjoy your time together socially or quietly, the running theme here is simple and natural luxury living.

The lodge’s eight Luxury Rooms, six Superior Luxury Rooms and four River Suites are spaced along a path to reveal splendid river views and make for a very personal stay while on a luxury African safari stay. This is where couples, families and friends come together to reconnect with one another and Mother Nature.

The River Suites, each fronted by a plunge pool and set further away from the main lodge, are the most spacious and private – and also include a Family Suite for a relaxed family safari. It’s for you to choose which accommodation best suits you – but the extraordinary view comes standard. Relax at the guest pool or in the spa, get active in the gym, or browse the MORE Gallery. Turn your wildlife photography into artful souvenirs in the Creative Lab.

Bright, airy and contemporary are the three words that immediately hit you as you arrive at the lodge, and the feeling of deep well-being remains with you as you head out on safari to track down a leopard or to sit with a magnificent herd of elephants.

Lion Sands is in high demand amongst our guests from both Africa and overseas, so if you are interested in a stay, don’t wait to get in touch.

Mail us on info@iconicafrica.com to start planning your safari…

Mala Mala Winter Madness

Posted on by James

Winter is almost upon the South African Lowveld, which encompasses the Kruger National Park and its adjacent private reserves like the Timbavati, the Sabi Sands, and more relevant to this particular post, Mala Mala.

One of the original photographic safari lodges in the country, Mala Mala has had its doors open to wildlife aficionados since the late 60s, and although the camps have been upgraded since then, the menu has been refined and the experience developed somewhat, the thing that has remained unchanged over all those years is what makes the place part of the epicentre of Big 5 viewing in the region; the wildlife.

Attracted by the perennial Sand River (along which Mala Mala enjoys 20km of frontage), the wildlife flocks in in droves during the winter months – the dry season in this region – when surface water is scarce but the river remains constant.
Lions lounge on the high banks, waiting for the buffalo herds to descend down the dead-end sandy culverts. Leopards slink through the Phragmites reeds, sneaking up on unsuspecting bushbuck, and the ever-present elephant herds march between their feeding grounds and the steady trickle of water that sustains life throughout these cold harsh months of the middle of the year.

And above it all, ever-present and inviting, lies Mala Mala Camp (formerly known as Main Camp).
A haven of understated luxury, combining warm comfort and superb service with unrivalled views of the Sand River and surrounding bushveld, it is truly a place of legends, where rare photographs, old maps and extraordinary mementos rub shoulders with the works of renowned contemporary wildlife artists.The camp is an unfenced oasis in the middle of the bush.

Ten luxury suites, eight luxury rooms and one luxury single suite comprise this unique slice of Africa that is sure to fill up your memory cards faster than the

The spacious and unbelievably comfortable rooms all feature the following:

  • Private decks or verandah with a view over the Sand River or a waterhole
  • En-suite bathroom with private toilet – the suites have both a bath and a shower whilst the luxury rooms only have a shower
  • 24-hour temperature control – air-conditioning, heating and overhead fan
  • Direct dial telephones
  • A mini-bar
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • A mini-safe
  • Bathroom amenities, insect repellent and hairdryers

It’a good all year, but winter is the time when Mala Mala truly comes alive.

Thankfully there are a number of different accommodation options available, as competition is fierce to get a booking during the peak of the game viewing months. Rattray’s and Sable Camps offer just as – if not more – luxurious stays, whilst still providing access to just as incredible game viewing experiences.

Get in touch NOW (info@iconicafrica.com) to start planning your Mala Mala safari. This is one you don’t want to miss…

Duba Plains: Delta Dawn

Posted on by James

World-famous wildlife filmmakers Derek and Beverly Joubert made their name through groundbreaking documentaries like Eternal Enemies: Lions and Hyenas, Eye of the Leopard, and Relentless Enemies, which examines the intense rivalry between buffalo and the lions that have adapted their ways to hunt them through the watery channels of Botswana’s Okavango Delta.

This last production was filmed on site at Duba Plains, on the northern edge of the Okavango, and the camp at which the two filmmakers has since become one of the jewels in the Great Plains crown, and one of the best places in the world to see big cats.

It has been a number of years since the specific lions in the documentary were around, and new individuals now rule the area. Populations ebb and flow, as they will in nature, but both lions and buffalo still roam the floodplains, along with wild dogs, leopards, elephants, and a multitude of other species just waiting for the safari-goer.

Duba Plains Camp is essentially the epitome of the Botswana safari and sits on the private 33,000-hectare Duba Plains reserve amongst a matrix of palm-dotted islands, flood plains and woodland.
Birdlife is prolific, and someone stumbling into this ecosystem for the first time would be forgiven for thinking they had unexpectedly arrived in Eden.

The camp at Duba Plains offers five bespoke suites. Its design ensures that it blends into the landscape whilst evoking the classic African safari style of the 1920s.
All the rooms are on raised recycled railway sleeper decking. Each suite affords guests stunning views of the surrounding floodplain and the steady stream of wildlife parading past.

Each suite has a lounge area and beautifully appointed en-suite facilities: a flush loo, double vanities, indoor and outdoor showers, and a luxurious bath. Ceiling fans and an environmentally friendly air-conditioning system over the bed ensures a comfortable climate. Enjoy your private verandah, complete with a plunge pool and shaded sala.
The floodplains that stretch out beyond the camp play daily host to a plethora of wildlife, and the reality is that you often don’t need to go on a game drive, as creatures both great and small literally parade past your room on a regular basis.

Duba is truly one of the iconic Okavango lodges, and with the extensive Great Plains Portfolio across Botswana and into East Africa, it is a simple matter to tailor-make a safari within their collection, with each lodge simply brimming with opulence and waiting to deliver a world class wildlife experience.

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com, and let’s start planning your safari…

Serengeti River Lodge: Ultimate Migration Exclusivity

Posted on by James

Perfectly situated on the banks of a tributary of the Grumeti River, in the secluded western parts of the Serengeti National Park, &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge shares breathtaking views and unparalleled sightings, especially in April and May when the great migration is moving through the area.. 

The lodge enjoys prime position in one of the most beautiful regions of this world-famous wildlife area. Expect a wonderfully intimate, private Serengeti safari experience complete with resident hippo pods and remarkable lion prides.

Due to its far-flung location, there are very few lodges in this pristine section of the park, allowing for far quieter safari experience than in some of the concessions that feature more camps. Twice-daily game drives from the lodge regularly encounter large lion prides and hyena clans. Extensive herds of resident plains game area feature of this area, as well as the special black-and-white colobus monkeys, found nowhere else in the Serengeti.  

Using the natural bow shape of the river, and paying homage to the circular forms of a traditional Maasai manyatta (traditional home), the lodge unfolds to reveal an understated sense of luxury. Adorned with Kitenge fabrics and accentuated with stone walls, the lodge also features the vibrant colours of the fishing communities surrounding Lake Victoria (found just to the west) and the grey tones representative of hippo hide that have been beautifully woven into deeply comfortable furnishings and bespoke, hand-made fittings. 

Walking into the guest area upon arrival, one is blown away by the striking beauty of the lodge. Wide open decks are perfect for enjoying sundowners overlooking the river and the lodge’s sparkling rim-flow swimming pool provides a view of the seasonal hippo pods below, whose honking and snorting creates a wonderful background ambience during your stay. The proximity of water draws a profusion of wildlife throughout the day and night. 

Touching the earth lightly and seemingly floating across the landscape, 10 nostalgically elegant and very spacious guest suites offer natural light, an enormous bed, bath, an indoor shower (with a spectacular view), and a private plunge pool. A Family Suite, with the addition of a smaller children’s bedroom, offers adventurous families the unique opportunity to explore the African bush together. 

Celebrating the local culture and cuisine, become immersed in lodge’s exquisite meals, from breakfast to dinner. Much-loved and well-known breakfast trays, complete with freshly-squeezed juices and house-baked bread, are absolutely not to be missed, while the interactive kitchen creates a space for guests to work alongside chefs and plan their menus for the day. The traditional boma, a hero of night-time dining, serves a selection of artisanal pizzas, and salt-crusted, whole baked fish, which pays homage to the region’s great lakes, among many other delicious meals. Enjoy convivial afternoons and evenings around the central circular bar; a masterpiece of woven fabrics and dramatic glass ball light installations.  

The western sector of the Serengeti is one of its most beautiful and Serengeti River Lodge one of our favourite camps in the greater ecosystem. Although most visitors to this part of the world time their visit to coincide with the wildebeest migration, the reality is that the whole year offers spectacular game viewing.

Get in touch through info@iconicafrica.com to find out more, and let’s start planning your safari…

 

 

Tuludi Camp: the Luxury of Space

Posted on by James

Tuludi Camp is the perfect base from which to explore one of the most productive areas of the eastern Okavango Delta. Set in the renowned Khwai Private Concession, and overlooking a stunning Delta landscape – rippling floodplains fringed by ancient riparian forest – the camp sits next to a permanent waterhole that is frequented by elephants in particular, and the local big cat population are regular visitors.

Tuludi is one of the newest luxury camps in the World Heritage Site that is the Okavango Delta, with tree-house style rooms – each with its own private plunge pool – shaded by magnificent leadwood trees. Those who like to wile away the warm afternoons with a book will love the treehouse library.
The seasonal changes to the area result in either floodplains, lily-covered lagoons and the spectacular Khwai river, depending on what time of the year you visit, and what type of safari you would like to experience.

Twice-daily 4×4 game drives take you on excursions into the wilderness, expertly choreographed by local Setswana guides. You also have the chance to take to the water by motorboat or mokoro and gain a different insight into the Okavango’s ecology, although these activities are dependent on the Delta’s water levels.
And since the camp lies in a privately-run reserve, you can also choose to go on guided bush walks – a must for keen birders and photographers, and those who want to discover the minutiae of the environment.

Built in partnership with the local community and contributing to the social upliftment of the surrounding areas, Tuludi is a small camp comprised of only seven luxurious suites.
Each is extremely spacious and elevated for stunning views; you will not just have an indoor and outdoor bathroom but a private plunge pool and a station at which you can charge phones and batteries.
The intimate feel of the camp lends itself perfectly to  couples and honeymooners, but Tuludi also welcomes families with children aged six and over. Privately guided vehicles are available and one of the suites is slightly larger, sleeping a family of four more than comfortably.

Enjoying the advantage of both water and land habitats, Tuludi Camp is open all year round. Water levels are highest during the dry winter period – May to September – when the annual inundation of the Okavango is in full spate, and so offers the best time to explore by boat as well to see impressive concentrations of wildlife. The summer rains trigger an explosion of greenery and many animals such as impala and warthog give birth – good for predator activity – and the birding is at its peak with the migrant visitors all down to take advantage of an abundance of food.

With over 200 000 hectares of pristine wilderness to explore, at Tuludi you will find an exclusive oasis that you’ll be delighted to return to after a day soaking in all the extraordinary ecosystem has to offer…