South Africa Photography Workshop

MAIN TOUR

MAY 22 Arrive in Johannesburg

Johannesburg, often referred to as Jo’burg, is South Africa’s largest city, the centre of South African commerce and industry as well as the financial capital of Gauteng. Renowned as the City of Gold, Johannesburg is a vibrant city with a vast web of suburbs and townships, with a wealth of things to see and do.

On arrival in Johannesburg, transfer to the hotel. 

Overnight in Johannesburg at the Crowne Plaza Rosebank or similar   

MAY 23  Johannesburg – Madikwe (B/L/D – B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner)

This morning after breakfast, you will be picked up at approximately 8am for your transfer to the Madikwe Game Reserve. The drive takes approximately 4 ½ hours. You will arrive at the Game Reserve in time for Lunch.

After lunch, you will have some free time to relax.

At approximately 3pm, you can have some afternoon tea/coffee before setting out on your first game drive.

Return to the lodge at approximately 6pm and you will have some free time to freshen up before dinner.

MAY 24-29 THAKADU RIVER CAMP (B/L/D)

Your home for the next week will include the following as well as lots of hands-on photography guidance and chances for image review with your hosts Kevin and Sheryl.

Includes:

  • Three Meals daily
  • Two Game Drives daily.
  • Refreshments on the Morning Game Drives
  • Sundowner drinks on the Afternoon Game Drives
  • Bottled water in the rooms.

Daily Programme:

  • 05h30 wake up call
  • 05h45 to 06h00 tea / coffee prior to game drive
  • 06h00 to 08h30 morning game drive
  • 08h00 to 10h30 breakfast
  • 13h00 to 14h00 lunch
  • 15h00 afternoon tea
  • 15h30 to 18h00 afternoon game drive
  • 19h00 to 22h00 dinner

Location and Need to Know:

  • Set within a riverine canopy surrounded by an impressive diversity of fauna and flora, aha Thakadu River Camp offers guests beautifully appointed, 5-star tented suites
  • Our dress code is casual with smart casual attire during dinner
  • Mosquito nets and insect repellent are provided in your room
  • Bring comfortable, light clothing, walking shoes, sun hats and sunscreen plus a swimsuit in summer and warm clothing including a scarf and beanie for game drives in winter
  • Binoculars, cameras with long lenses and bird books will be handy
  • The cell phone reception is available in most areas, however, the Lodge WiFi is accessible only in reception and the main areas

MAY 30 Madikwe to Johannesburg (B)

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Johannesburg airport for your flight home OR to Cape Town* if taking the following extension package.

*This flight is included in your Cape Town Extension Package.

PRE-TOUR EXTENSION:
VICTORIA FALLS & BOTSWANA

MAY 19 – Johannesburg – Victoria Falls

On arrival in Johannesburg, transfer to your flight to Victoria Falls.

(This flight is included in your Victoria Falls Pre Tour Package)

Note: Arrival in JNB must be in the morning, at least 2 hours prior to departure time of the flight to VFA. International flights to Johannesburg are not included. We are happy to assist you in booking your flights.

The Victoria Falls constitutes one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. The Local people call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya” – the smoke that thunders and the falls are remarkable. There is a magic about them manifested in the towering column of spray when the river is high, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss and tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippo and deadly crocodiles lurk. The Victoria Falls is 1 708 meters wide, making it the largest curtain of water in the world. It drops between 90m and 107m into the Zambezi Gorge and an average of 550,000 cubic metres of water plummet over the edge every minute. Remarkably preserved in its natural state, Victoria Falls inspires visitors as much today as it did David Livingstone in the 1860’s. The falls and the surrounding area have been declared National Parks and a World Heritage Site, thus preserving the area from excessive commercialization.

This afternoon (approximately 4 pm) embark on a relaxing sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River, while you enjoy Soft Drinks and Canapés.

The Zambezi River cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the river. Guests will have the opportunity to see a variety of game; including hippo, crocodile, and elephant and sometimes even rhino as well as enjoy the many different bird species.  There are great photo opportunities against often-spectacular African sunsets.  

MAY 20 – Victoria Falls (B)

After breakfast the group will take a guided tour of the falls. On the opposite cliff, facing the falls, you can take a well-marked and paved walk through the rain forests. Every so often the path will open out into a clearing for a view of the falls. Further along this path is the Knife Edge Bridge which affords an impressive panorama depending on the time of year. The intense spray provides welcome relief from the heat, but don’t carry anything you don’t want to get wet!

Return to the hotel in Victoria Falls after the tour.

MAY 21 – Chobe National Park, Botswana (B/L)

Today, you will enjoy a sensational full day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana. Land and water-based game viewing is included. Your first game sighting is from The Chobe River, teaming with animals, with you sitting securely on board, just off the riverbank, game viewing from the relaxing vantage point of a boat. You’re on the mighty Chobe River which flows through the renowned Chobe National Park providing a haven for herds of grazing animals and bird life. Just sit back, relax, and keep those binoculars handy. Watch this glorious scene unfolding itself, large herds of elephant, often with the tiniest frolicking calves, kicking up dust as they wait their turn at the water’s edge to drink. Frighteningly large crocodiles sun themselves on the banks of the river, mouths agape, teeth terrifying. Glorious birdlife, wonderful game, and the gentle rocking of the riverboat. When we disembark, we join our open safari vehicle for a drive through the Chobe Game Reserve with the chance of seeing more wildlife and birdlife, followed by a gorgeous lunch at a lodge overlooking the Chobe River.

Return to the hotel in Victoria Falls after the tour.

Overnight in Victoria Falls at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

MAY 22 – Victoria Falls – Johannesburg (B)

Transfer to the Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. This Flight is included in your package.

Begin Main Tour.

POST-TOUR EXTENSION:
CAPE TOWN

MAY 30 – Johannesburg to Cape Town

On arrival at JNB airport, board the flight to Cape Town. This Flight is included in your package.

Welcome to Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, strategically situated at the southwestern tip of Africa. The city lies about 60km north of Cape Point, in a natural bowl with the magnificent Table Mountain to the rear and the vast Atlantic Ocean to the front. It has the reputation as being the most laid-back city in the Southern Hemisphere with Capetonians adhering to Africa time, which is somewhat slower than most other major cities. This relaxed atmosphere is attributed to Table Mountain, known to be amongst the most spiritual places on earth. People are drawn towards the mountain and every visitor feels the need to climb up or take the revolving Cable Car to the top. At 1086 metres above sea level, you will see the most dramatic views of the whole of the Cape Peninsula. The city is safer than most on any continent with a bustling street life of shops, cafes and market stalls, as well as street artists.

Check-In and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.

Check in time: 2pm and after.

Early check in will be subject to availability and at the discretion of the hotel.

Optional Cultural Dinner – please inquire if interested.

MAY 31 – City Tour (B)

After breakfast you will enjoy a half day orientation tour of Cape Town. You will see iconic buildings, snatches of history, and experiences the uniqueness of this city. Drive past the country’s oldest building, the Castle, and a short distance away, the Company Gardens, both historically fascinating and well conserved. Our drive continues past the Parliament Buildings, City Hall and the Slave Lodge; you’ll sense the depth of history via their distinctive architecture. Colonial then changes to colourful, as you move up the cobblestoned hills to the Malay Quarter, and marvel at the ice-cream colors of the quaint Bo-Kaap homes.

Take the cable car up to the summit of the legendary Table Mountain from where you’ll be able to see to the end of the world, including the city and surrounding layout of this southernmost tip of Africa.

Return to the hotel after the tour and the remainder of the day is at leisure.

JUNE 1 – Cape Town (B)

After breakfast, you will take a full day Peninsula Tour.

The Fairest Cape….and it surely is! You’ll soon see for yourself where and why it earned its name. Sit back and relax, we’re going to drive along the exquisite stretch of coastline known as the Millionaire’s Paradise – from Camps Bay and Clifton to the exclusive beach of Llandundno – towards the charming working harbour of Hout Bay. A seal island cruise is included. Back on terra ferma, we wind along the legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive, hugging the cliffs and relishing the breathtaking ocean views, before arriving at the wild and beautiful Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve an integral part of the world renowned Cape Floral Kingdom. Once at the Cape Point, you will have time to explore. Take a ride up on the funicular for magnificent views (funicular ticket is included).

We meander back along the coast towards the city, visiting the historic naval port of Simon’s Town where you will have some free time to enjoy lunch (at own expense). Continue on to visit the enduring penguin colony at Boulder’s Beach. The Fairest Cape of All, that was Sir Francis Drake’s opinion…and we’re sure you’ll echo it!

Return to the hotel after the tour.

JUNE 2 – Depart Cape Town (B)

This morning, after breakfast, check out and transfer to CPT airport for your departing flight*.

Check out time: 11am. Late check out is not included.

*International flights are not included. We are happy to quote should you need assistance in booking your flights.


COST

MAIN TOUR = $5650 CAD per person based on double occupancy. Land only. Taxes included. The cost is based on a minimum of 8 participants. The maximum group size is 12, including your hosts.
VICTORIA FALLS PRE-TOUR EXTENSION = $2995 CAD per person based on double occupancy
CAPE TOWN POST-TOUR EXTENSION = $1550 CAD per person based on double occupancy

Deposit: $1000 Non-refundable
Balance Due: February 19, 2021

Travelling solo? We will do our best to find you a partner to share your room (same sex) or you can pay a single supplement if you would like your own room. Please contact us for more information.

Inclusions in above prices:

  • Domestic air: Cape Town – Johannesburg for passengers taking the Cape Town Extension Package
  • Domestic air: Johannesburg – Victoria Falls – Johannesburg for passengers taking the Victoria Falls Extension Package
  • Hotel accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary based on twin/double occupancy
  • Breakfast daily; other meals as indicated in the itinerary (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner)
  • Meet & Greet on arrival
  • Group Airport transfers (Any individuals travelling outside the group arrangement must organize own transportation or pay extra for private transfers)
  • Game Drives and Park entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Services of English speaking local guide (s)
  • Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
  • All taxes
  • 24/7 Local Emergency Contacts
  • Electronic Travel Documents sent to you by email

Exclusions in above prices:

  • International air / taxes
  • Seat selection
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar etc.
  • Optional Tours
  • Meals not specified as included
  • Soft Drinks / Alcoholic or Non-Alcoholic Beverages / Bottled Water unless specified as included
  • Tips & Gratuities
  • Early check-in & late check out of rooms (standard check-in time is 2pm and check out 11am)
  • Travel / Medical Insurance
  • Visa Fees / Passport handling fees
  • Any other items not specified as being included

Your Hosts

We are Kevin and Sheryl. We have been partners in life for over 30 years. We did not step on a plane until our 10th anniversary but have traveled to over 50 different countries since then.

Our passion for photography began more than 20 years ago while volunteering in Mali, West Africa and Bolivia, South America where we soon learned the beautiful people we encountered needed to have their story told, and the best way we could do that was through images. For more than 10 years, we participated in sustainable community development and led teams of volunteers to these regions. So, when it comes to logistics, traveling with groups, and exploring new territory we have a bit of experience behind us.


Ready to book or have questions? Please contact us.