SABI SANDS
BIG CAT PHOTO SAFARI
SABI SANDS BIG CAT PHOTO SAFARI
Sabi Sands Photo Safari: Capture Africa’s Big Cats
Join Rhulani Safaris on the ultimate Sabi Sands Photo Safari, a 5-day adventure designed for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers passionate about Africa’s iconic big cats. Renowned as one of the best locations in the world to see leopards in the wild, the Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers unparalleled opportunities to photograph big cats in their natural environment. Led by Armand Grobler, a professional wildlife photographer and author with over a decade of experience, this safari combines expert photography guidance with the luxury of Elephant Plains Game Lodge.
Explore the Legendary Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Nestled within the Greater Kruger Park ecosystem, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a wildlife photographer’s paradise. Famous for its high density of leopards, the reserve is also home to lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs. Its unfenced boundaries with Kruger National Park and Manyeleti Game Reserve allow wildlife to roam freely, creating endless opportunities for capturing authentic moments in the wild.
The reserve’s savanna bushveld landscape, with its mix of open plains, acacia thickets, and riverbeds, serves as a breathtaking backdrop for your big cat photography journey. Whether it’s a leopard lounging in a tree or a pride of lions on the hunt, Sabi Sands never fails to deliver awe-inspiring encounters.
Highlights of the Safari
• Big Cat Photography Focus: Capture stunning images of leopards, lions, and other predators with guidance from Armand Grobler.
• Luxury Accommodations: Stay at Elephant Plains Game Lodge, featuring en-suite, air-conditioned Rondavels and exceptional South African cuisine.
• Expert Photographic Workshops: Participate in group workshops and one-on-one tutoring to refine your skills.
• Exclusive Wildlife Experiences: Enjoy intimate game drives in vehicles limited to six guests for optimal comfort and photography.
• Wild Encounters at the Lodge: With leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs frequently visiting the lodge, the adventure doesn’t stop when the drives end.
New for 2026: Extended 6-Night Safari Experience
Due to popular demand, Rhulani Safaris now offers a 6-night Sabi Sands Big Cat Photo Safari. This extended tour includes:
• 4 additional game drives.
• Extra time for personalized workshops and one-on-one guidance.
• More opportunities to immerse yourself in the magic of Sabi Sands.
2025 Safari Dates & Rates
May 19 – 23
June 9 – 13
June 25 – 29
August 4 – 8
September 8 – 12
October 20 – 24
November 3 – 7
ZAR 27 500 per person sharing
2026 Safari Dates & Rates
• June 21 – 27
• August 9 – 15 (FULL)
• September 20 – 26
• October 4 – 10
Rate: ZAR 53,300 per person
Please note: Maximum of 2 solo travelers per booking. A minimum of 4 guests is required for the safari to commence.
SOLO SPECIAL AVAILABLE ON SELECTED DATES – ASK US ABOUT THESE SPECIALS!
Why Choose Rhulani Safaris?
• Led by a Renowned Photographer: Armand Grobler shares his extensive experience and passion for big cat photography to help you achieve stunning results.
• Luxury Meets Authenticity: Enjoy modern comforts at Elephant Plains Game Lodge while staying immersed in the wild.
• Small Group Focus: With a maximum of 6 guests per vehicle, you’ll have plenty of space to capture the perfect shot.
• Unparalleled Wildlife Density: Sabi Sands is South Africa’s premier destination for big cats and iconic African wildlife.
Book Your Sabi Sands Photo Safari Today
Whether you’re an experienced wildlife photographer or a first-time safari-goer, the Sabi Sands Photo Safari promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of South Africa’s big cat territory. Reserve your spot today and start planning the photographic adventure of a lifetime!
Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to secure your place on this incredible safari.
WHAT EQUIPMENT TO BRING
I always say, ‘Bring what you can,’ because you never know what situation you may find yourself in and must therefore be as ready as possible.
However, this isn’t always possible and therefore I have written from my experience what the best set of equipment includes.
It is important to remember that the vehicle is open (doesn’t have a roof) and therefore I would always suggest a camera and lens cover for possible rain or bad weather (THINK TANK products are fantastic for this!).
We also get in close proximity to the wildlife during our photo safaris, particularly the cats who have become habituated to the vehicles. And with the off-roading ability, we can maneuver the vehicle according to the situation.
For this photo safari, I would suggest the following:
- DSLR/ Mirrorless Cameras – film photography is not recommended.
- Lenses
- 70-200mm f/2.8 (my go-to lens)
- 100-400mm (most frequent lenses on safari)
- 400mm f/2.8 (optimum for close-ups)
- 150-600 f/5.6-6.4 (also provides a great range without having to switch lenses)
- Flash Speedlights (with flash bracket)
- Magmod Flash Magnifier
- Bean bags (can be organized prior to safari)
OUR SABI SANDS SAFARI PACKAGES OFFER THE FOLLOWING
Our photo safaris offer the experience of a lifetime. From luxury accommodation to delicious meals, here’s everything included and excluded in our South Africa photo safari packages.
INCLUDED
- 4/6 Nights’ Accommodation (Luxury Rondawels)
- All Meals
- House Drinks (Including Tea’s and Coffee’s)
- Sundowner Drinks
- Bush Coffee and Sundowner Drinks
- Bushwalk
- Art of Wildlife Photography Workshop and Tutoring
- Photographic Guide (Armand Grobler)
- Game Drives (4/12 Morning and 4/12 Afternoon, Evening)
- WiFi
EXCLUDED
- Getting there (Transfers can be organized at additional cost)
- Staff Gratuities
- Flights
- Alcoholic Beverages (can be purchased on site)
ITINERARY FOR YOUR SABI SAND PHOTO SAFARI
Each day of your Big Cat safari has been specifically tailored to offer you the best experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to take some incredible big cat photographs that you can take home with you.
DAY 1
- 13:30 Arrive at Elephant Plains Game Lodge
- 14:00 Lunch and Safari Briefing
- 16:00 Afternoon/ Evening Game Drive
- 20:00 Dinner
DAY 2-4
- 05:30 Wakeup call and morning coffee
- 06:00 Morning Game Drive
- 09:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Bushwalk (optional)
- 11:00 Art of Wildlife Photography Workshop
- 14:00 Lunch
- 16:00 Afternoon/ Evening Game Drive
- 20:00 Dinner
DAY 5
- 05:30 Wakeup call and morning coffee
- 06:00 Morning Game Drive
- 09:00 Breakfast
- 10:00 Departure
Times may vary slightly depending on season*
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT A PRIVATE TOUR. FOR A PRIVATE TOUR PLEASE INQUIRE ABOUT OUR CURRENT RATES.
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Awards We Won
Timbavati Big Cat Safari named BEST VALUE ESTABLISHMENT based on consistent and excellent rates offered to our guests.
