Guided self-drive photographic safaris and workshops!

thombe SAFARI – the SAFARI for photographers is aimed entirely at the enthusiastic photographer and traveller wishing to improve on personal photographic skills and creativity.  We have included an exciting workshop with all of our self-drive camping safaris where we will share many photographic secrets and techniques to expand your technical, practical and creative levels. The workshops are suitable for experienced and beginner photographers, and the camera you own does not matter whether it's film or digital SLR, or only a point & shoot camera.

Our main focus is on nature and travel photography and there will always be opportunities to encounter fascinating cultures along the journey.  The destinations have been carefully selected, with optimal photographic opportunities to allow you creative freedom, by being able to walk around and not be confined to a vehicle all day.  Get hands-on guidance and advice from fine-art landscape and travel photographers Joe & Jonelle Louw, while on safari.  Since both of them are qualified nature guides with experience in the hospitality industry, you can be sure to get an excellent all-round safari!

The safaris vary in length and destination to provide you with ample choice when selecting the safari that is best for you.  To allow for personal attention and unobstructed photography, groups are small with as little as one to a maximum of 12 people per safari, including photographers and non-photographers.  Guests are to participate with certain camping tasks, such as pitching tents and lending a hand around camp.  However all the cooking is done by our aspiring chef, ensuring your focus remains on photography at all times.  Non-photographer companions, artists, writers or filmmakers are most welcome on all our safaris.  Tailor-made wildlife or private safaris can also be organized to meet your specific needs.  You also have the option to extend your safari to travel by yourself before or after your workshop with thombe SAFARI, should you wish to do so.

Safaris are structured around photography therefore time will mostly be spent shooting on location when the light is at its best!  Casual tutoring will normally take place during meals with constructive criticism and evaluation tips given regularly to ensure maximum improvement while on safari.  You will have an exclusive opportunity to observe and learn from one of the photographers, during a hands-on practical demonstration, to understand and appreciate the challenges and efforts of capturing a fine-art image.