SAFARI GALLERY: BOTSWANA WILDERNESS SAFARI
3 December 2024
TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING JAGUARS OF THE PANTANAL IN BRAZIL
11 December 2024SAFARI GALLERY: BOTSWANA WILDERNESS SAFARI
3 December 2024TIPS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING JAGUARS OF THE PANTANAL IN BRAZIL
11 December 2024ADVENTURE STORIES
TRIP REPORT: PREDATORS OF
SABI SABI AND MALA MALA
The 2026 Predators of Sabi Sabi and Mala Mala Safari took us to two of southern Africa's most predator-rich reserves, offering an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Over eight days, we split our time evenly between Sabi Sabi and Mala Mala, both destinations which come with an element of excitement of the unknown and who both offer incredible viewing throughout the year. Our primary focus was on capturing the predators of these renowned areas in action while experimenting with a variety of photographic techniques.
We began our adventure at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, where the abundance of predators quickly became apparent. Within hours of arriving, we were treated to extraordinary lion sightings. A pride of 17 lions patrolled the area near our camp, often making themselves visible from the main deck area at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. Over the course of our four-night stay, they were frequent visitors, providing us with unparalleled opportunities to observe and photograph their behaviour.
The highlight of our stay at Sabi Sabi was an unforgettable morning with a lion pride. As they moved towards the waterhole in front of our camp for a drink, a few members of the pride suddenly broke away. Right before our eyes, they executed a successful hunt, taking down an adult warthog in a breathtaking display of teamwork and precision. Witnessing this dramatic moment up close was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the guests all managed to captured some striking images and action packed videos.
Our evenings brought another dimension to our photography. Using artificial light in the form of spotlights, we captured unique and moody images of predators in their nocturnal habitat. Our approach was carefully managed to ensure the animals were not disturbed, blending ethical wildlife observation with creative photography.
After an exhilarating start at Sabi Sabi, we moved on to Mala Mala Game Reserve, which has earned a reputation as one of the premier destinations for leopard sightings. The focus here shifted naturally to these elusive and majestic cats, as most of the local lions had moved to neighboring territories during our visit.
Despite the lions having moved to a neighboring property, we were truly spoiled with incredible leopard sightings. It was not uncommon to experience multiple sightings on a single drive, each one offering its own unique glimpse into the lives of these elusive big cats. One of the most fascinating aspects of visiting Mala Mala is the exceptional knowledge of the guides, who have an intimate understanding of the individual leopards that inhabit the area. This insight allows them to weave together the leopards' stories, offering guests a deeper understanding of their behaviors and interactions.
For wildlife photographers, Mala Mala is an especially enticing destination. A standout feature of the reserve is the unparalleled amount of time guests can spend at sightings. With the abundance of high-profile wildlife encounters spread across the reserve, there’s never a sense of urgency to leave a sighting prematurely. This freedom is invaluable from a photography perspective, as extended time in the field increases the chances of capturing rare and dynamic behaviors, ensuring every moment spent here is both rewarding and unforgettable.
During our unforgettable time at Mala Mala, we were fortunate to witness leopards on a kill several times, providing us with the rare opportunity to return repeatedly and observe the unfolding drama of nature. Each visit allowed us to delve deeper into the intricate and captivating story, as the scene evolved before our eyes. The presence of a kill in the area often adds an extra layer of excitement, with the arrival of scavengers like vultures and hyenas introducing a fascinating and unpredictable dynamic to the encounter.
Our hopes were also high for a glimpse of the elusive pack of wild dogs that occasionally roam through the area. These remarkable creatures, known for their rarity and complex social behaviors, were a highlight we eagerly anticipated. However, despite our anticipation and the hours spent scanning the landscape, the wild dogs remained elusive during our stay, leaving us longing for a future encounter with these iconic predators.
Despite a cold front sweeping through the lowveld, Mala Mala lived up to its reputation, offering spectacular leopard sightings throughout our stay. We observed several female leopards with their sub-adult cubs, marveling at the dynamic interactions between mothers and offspring. From playful moments to tender grooming sessions, these encounters provided unparalleled photographic opportunities and a deeper appreciation for these solitary predators.
The combination of expert guiding and intimate sightings made every drive an adventure. Even during the chilly mornings, the rich biodiversity of the area kept us captivated. The leopards of Mala Mala, combined with the reserve's impeccable service and beautiful landscapes, left an indelible mark on all of us
For those who cherish big cats and African wildlife, these two destinations are among the best in the world. Whether you're a seasoned safari-goer or planning your first adventure, the combination of breathtaking predator sightings, world-class hospitality, and opportunities for creative wildlife photography make Sabi Sabi and Mala Mala a must-visit.
Until next time,
Nature and the outdoors is something was instilled in me from a very young age, having grown up close the Kruger National Park. Most weekends were spent either visiting this iconic park looking for certain bird and mammal species or fishing at any given opportunity.
EXPERIENCE MALA MALA
Join the MalaMala Photo Safari, a 7-night experience designed for wildlife photographers, offering unrivaled opportunities to capture Africa’s iconic Big Five. Led by expert rangers, you’lltrack elusive predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs through diverse landscapes in one of South Africa's top private reserves.