South Africa Expedition
7 days / 6 nights
South Africa is a top destination for wildlife photography enthusiasts, with its vast and varied range of fauna and flora. A photographic safari in South Africa offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning images of wildlife in their natural habitat, including the famous Big Five animals: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos and rhinos.
At MaiaWildlife we offer guided photographic safaris, where experienced guides take visitors on game drives in specially adapted vehicles to get up close and personal with the animals. These safaris are designed to provide excellent photographic opportunities, with guides using their knowledge of animal behavior and the landscape to position the vehicle for the best possible shots.
Photographic safaris in South Africa are not just about capturing the perfect shot; they also offer a chance to learn about conservation efforts and the challenges facing wildlife in the region. We have dedicated conservation programs that visitors can get involved in, such as tracking and monitoring wildlife, or participating in community outreach projects.
Overall, a photographic safari in South Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers an amazing opportunity to capture stunning images of wildlife in their natural habitats, while also contributing to conservation efforts and learning about the local culture.
Arrival and Accommodation in Dinokeng Game Reserve
Our meeting point will be at O. R. Tambo International Airport, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by an official driver from Dinokeng Events, who will be waiting for you in the arrivals area to assist with your transfer.
From the airport, you will travel approximately one hour by road to Dinokeng Game Reserve, where your guide will be expecting you and where your safari experience will begin.
The Dinokeng Game Reserve is the largest wildlife sanctuary in the province of Gauteng and is located within a malaria-free region, making it an ideal destination for a comfortable and safe safari experience. Covering approximately 26,000 hectares, the reserve is home to the iconic Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, all roaming freely within this protected landscape.
Dinokeng is a conservation-focused reserve built around a unique model in which eco-tourism supports local development and conservation efforts. Through sustainable tourism, the reserve contributes to the economic upliftment of surrounding rural communities by creating long-term employment and opportunities connected to wildlife conservation.
The name Dinokeng originates from the languages of the baTswana and baPedi people and translates as “place of rivers.”The reserve was given this name because of the many rivers and watercourses that flow through the area before eventually joining the Limpopo River and the Orange River.
During your stay you will be accommodated at the elegant Tendeni Private Lodge, one of the newest 4-star lodges in the reserve. The lodge offers comfortable open-plan accommodation units, each thoughtfully furnished with either a king-size bed or twin single beds, as well as a ceiling fan to ensure a pleasant stay. Every unit includes a private indoor bathroom equipped with toilet, shower, and bathtub.
The lodge also features a welcoming communal lapa, where guests can relax and socialize. This central area includes a comfortable lounge, fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and bar. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a traditional braai area and a swimming pool, perfect for relaxing between safari activities.
Travel Information for South Africa
Traveling to South Africa is a remarkable experience, offering extraordinary wildlife, diverse landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it is important to be aware of the main travel requirements, health recommendations, and documentation needed before departure.
Passports and Visa Requirements:
All visitors entering South Africa must travel with a valid passport. Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days beyond your planned departure date from the country and must contain at least two blank pages for entry stamps.
Many nationalities, including most European countries, the United Kingdom, and several others, do not require a visa for tourism stays of up to 90 days. Travelers from countries that do require visas must apply through the nearest South African embassy or consulate before departure.
Immigration authorities may also ask visitors to present:
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A return or onward flight ticket
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Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
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Details of accommodation or travel itinerary
Health and Vaccination Recommendations:
South Africa does not require mandatory vaccinations for most travellers. However, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from, or transiting through, a country where yellow fever is present. The vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arrival.
Although not compulsory, travelers are commonly advised to ensure their routine vaccinations are up to date. Recommended vaccines may include:
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Tetanus and Diphtheria
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Hepatitis A
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Typhoid
If you plan to travel to remote or rural areas, additional vaccinations such as Hepatitis B or Rabies may be considered depending on your itinerary.
Some regions of South Africa, particularly in the far northeast and around Kruger National Park, are malaria-risk areas. If you plan to visit these regions, it is advisable to consult your doctor or travel clinic regarding malaria prevention medication.
For most safari destinations in Gauteng, such as Dinokeng Game Reserve, there is no malaria risk.
Travel insurance that includes medical coverage and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended for all visitors.
Traveling with Children:
South Africa has specific regulations for travelers under the age of 18. All minors must travel with a valid passport, and additional documentation may be required depending on the circumstances.
For example:
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If a child travels with both parents, a passport is usually sufficient.
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If traveling with only one parent, immigration authorities may require a consent letter or affidavit from the absent parent.
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If a child is traveling unaccompanied, additional documentation such as parental consent and details of the person receiving the child in South Africa may be required.
These regulations help prevent child trafficking and ensure the safety of minors traveling internationally.
Final Travel Advice:
Before traveling, it is always advisable to:
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Check your passport validity
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Verify visa requirements for your nationality
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Review recommended vaccinations
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Ensure you have adequate travel insurance
Travel regulations can change from time to time, so we recommend confirming the latest information with the relevant authorities or your local South African embassy before departure.
With proper preparation, your journey to South Africa will be smooth, safe, and ready to begin an unforgettable wildlife and safari experience. 🐘🦁🌍
Electricity and Power Plugs
South Africa uses Type M and N electrical plugs. The standard voltage is 230 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz.
Type M is the most common and traditional standard, featuring three larger round pins in a triangular pattern; it’s still widely used across homes, hotels, and businesses despite a gradual phase-out. Type N, the newer universal standard since around 2013 (required in new constructions post-2018), has three smaller round pins and is increasingly prevalent in modern spots like newer hotels.
Most international travellers will therefore need a plug adapter to use their electronic devices such as cameras, phone chargers, or laptops.
Many modern hotels and lodges increasingly provide multi-standard or universal outlets, but this is not always guaranteed, especially in remote safari lodges. For this reason, it is advisable to bring:
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A South Africa plug adapter (Type M)
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A multi-port USB charger
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Spare batteries or a power bank, particularly useful during safari activities or when charging photographic equipment.
Travel Insurance and Medical Services
South Africa has a well-developed private healthcare system with high-quality hospitals and clinics. However, medical care can be expensive for visitors. For this reason, travelers are strongly advised to obtain comprehensive travel insurancethat covers medical treatment, accidents, and possible trip interruptions.
What to Wear on a South African Safari Expedition
A safari in South Africa is an unforgettable experience, and dressing appropriately plays an important role in both your comfort and your overall wildlife experience. On a safari expedition with MaiaWildlife, we encourage our guests to dress in a way that is practical, respectful to the environment, and suitable for time spent in the African bush.
Choose Natural and Neutral Colours:
When on safari, clothing colours matter. Animals are far less disturbed by neutral, natural tones that blend with the surrounding landscape.
The most recommended colours include:
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Khaki
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Olive green
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Beige
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Brown
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Soft earth tones
Bright colours such as red, yellow, white, or fluorescent tones should be avoided, as they can attract unnecessary attention and may disturb wildlife during close encounters.
Comfortable and Practical Clothing:
Safaris often begin early in the morning and continue into the cooler hours of the evening. Temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day, so layered clothing is the best approach.
We recommend bringing:
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Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
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Comfortable long trousers or shorts
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A light jacket or fleece for early morning game drives
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Breathable fabrics such as cotton or technical outdoor materials
Long sleeves and trousers are particularly useful for protecting your skin from the sun, dust, and insects.
Footwear for the Bush:
Comfortable footwear is essential. Closed shoes are strongly recommended during safari activities.
Ideal options include:
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Light hiking shoes
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Comfortable safari boots
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Closed walking shoes
Sandals can be useful around the lodge, but they are not recommended during game drives or bush walks.
Protection from the African Sun:
The African sun can be intense, even in cooler months. Protecting yourself from sun exposure is essential.
We recommend bringing:
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A wide-brimmed hat or cap
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Sunglasses with UV protection
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High-factor sunscreen
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A light scarf or buff for dust and sun protection
Safari Photography Considerations:
For guests interested in wildlife photography, darker and natural colours also help reduce reflections and distractions for animals. Avoid noisy fabrics and clothing that reflects light, as quiet movement and discretion are key during wildlife encounters.
Lodge and Evening Wear:
Evenings at safari lodges are generally relaxed and informal. Comfortable casual clothing is perfectly suitable for dinner and time around the fire.
A light sweater or jacket is recommended, as temperatures can drop after sunset, particularly during the winter months.
The MaiaWildlife Philosophy:
At MaiaWildlife, we believe that dressing appropriately for safari is part of respecting the natural environment and enhancing the overall experience. Proper attire allows guests to remain comfortable, discreet in the presence of wildlife, and fully immersed in the beauty of the African wilderness.
With the right clothing, you will be ready to enjoy every moment of your safari expedition, from sunrise game drives to unforgettable wildlife encounters in the bush. 🦁🌿📷
A Typical Day on Your Safari Expedition
During your stay, you will experience seven days filled with adventure, excitement, wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural experiences in the heart of South Africa. Each day has been carefully designed to combine exceptional safari opportunities with moments of relaxation and exploration beyond the reserve.
Our days usually begin early in the morning, when wildlife activity in the bush is at its peak. Shortly after sunrise, we depart for our first safari drive in Dinokeng Game Reserve. This game drive typically lasts between two and a half to three hours, giving us the opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife in their natural environment. During these morning drives, we will search for many of the reserve’s iconic species, including the famous Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros.
After the morning safari, we return to Tendeni Private Lodge, where a relaxed and well-deserved breakfast awaits.
Later in the morning, depending on the planned schedule, guests may take part in one of several optional activities outside the reserve. These excursions are carefully selected to enrich the overall experience and offer a deeper understanding of the region’s culture, history, and natural heritage. All activities are located within less then two hours’ drive from Dinokeng, making them easily accessible as part of the day’s program.
Alternatively, guests may simply choose to enjoy some leisure time at the lodge, relaxing by the swimming pool, resting in the comfortable communal areas, or taking time to review photographs and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the African bush.
A light lunch will be served either at the lodge or at the location of the activity, usually around 14:00, depending on the day’s program.
In the afternoon, we return to the lodge and prepare for the second safari drive of the day, typically departing around 16:00. This afternoon and sunset safari also lasts approximately two and a half to three hours, offering another exciting opportunity to observe wildlife during one of the most beautiful moments of the day, when the African landscape is bathed in the warm light of the setting sun. It is also an excellent time to encounter predators becoming active again as the day cools.
Following our return to the lodge, dinner is usually served around 20:00. Guests will enjoy a selection of delicious African-inspired dishes, prepared in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
After dinner, the evening continues in a social and informal way, with time to relax at the lodge bar, share stories from the day’s sightings, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the African night.
Please note that daily schedules may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, wildlife movements, or the specific activities planned for the day. Flexibility is part of the safari experience and often allows for even more memorable moments in the bush.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure filled with discovery, laughter, and extraordinary wildlife encounters, in what promises to be a truly authentic South African safari experience. 🦁🌿
Optional activities:
Rory Hensman Conservation & Research Unit:
As numbers of elephants have decreased by some 350% in the last 70 years and by 110 000 elephants in the last ten years (Great Elephant Census) due to poaching and habitat loss, we are honoured to have saved a few. We are even more thrilled to be able to connect you with Elephants through our unique interactions, so that you might see them for what they are, and therefore think a little bit more about their future, and indeed many other species, in an ever changing and modernising Africa.
Head out with the herd after the interaction to spend a little more time getting to know them a lot better! Here you’ll see the wild side of the elephants as they free-range feed, frolic, drink, dustbathe and enjoy the 300-hectare wildlife reserve they call home!
Rhino Connect - United for Rhino Survival:
Founded in 2016, by Tersia Jooste, Rhino Connect is an organization dedicated to the conservation and protection of rhinos. Our mission extends beyond preservation efforts; we actively engage in wildlife protection initiatives and strive to increase public awareness about the challenges facing these majestic creatures.
By collaborating with local communities, dedicated conservationists, and wildlife professionals, Rhino Connect plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival and well-being of rhinos in their natural habitats.
AirVentures - Hot Air Ballooning:
Exclusive Hot Air Ballooning Safaris over the Cradle of Humankind, South Africa.
AirVentures Hot Air Ballooning offers more than just a hot air balloon ride, we offer a total experience encompassing all the good things that make Africa great, from sun rise to great food, from wildlife to breathtaking scenery.
AirVentures can meet all your requirements with a choice of high quality, exciting flight packages. Our attention to detail, and focus on exceptional service will ensure that your balloon flight with us meets all expectations.
Named after King Moshoeshoe’s inspired words, “Our culture is the light of our nation”, Lesedi Cultural Village transports guests on an illuminating and enthralling cultural adventure.
Visitors to Lesedi Cultural Village are immersed in a cultural tradition tour de force that connects the past with the present and shines a light on our collective humanity. The guest experience is enhanced by the beautifully African-designed guest rooms and suites that provide every modern comfort and local Ubuntu.
Welcome to Lesedi. Welcome to the Light.
Pricing and Terms
The cost of the South African Expedition is €2'500 per adult and €1'600 per child (up to 15 years old), based on shared accommodation.
Included in the event fees:
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Airport transfers
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Accommodation
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All meals and drinks
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Daily sunrise and sunset safaris (Sunday to Saturday)
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Private safari guide
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Park Fees
Not included:
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Flights
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Optional activities
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Medication
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Hospital treatments
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 60 days prior to the start of the event. For bookings made within 60 days of the event start date, full payment is required at the time of registration.
MaiaWildlife reserves the right to cancel any reservation that does not comply with the payment terms outlined above.
Please note: Spaces are limited to 9 guests. Early booking is strongly recommended.
What Not to Forget for Your South Africa Expedition
Preparing well for your journey to South Africa will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable safari experience. Below is a list of essential items we recommend bringing with you for your expedition with MaiaWildlife.
Travel Documents:
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Valid passport (with required validity and blank pages)
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Flight tickets and travel itinerary
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Travel insurance documents
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Visa, if required for your nationality
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Copies (digital or printed) of important documents
Clothing for Safari:
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Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, beige, brown)
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Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
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Comfortable long trousers
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A light jacket or fleece for early morning drives
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Hat or safari hat for sun protection
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Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots
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Casual clothing for evenings at the lodge
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Swimwear for the lodge pool
Sun and Weather Protection:
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Sunglasses with UV protection
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High-factor sunscreen
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Lip balm with sun protection
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Light scarf or buff for sun and dust
Health and Personal Care:
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Personal medications
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Basic first-aid kit
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Insect repellent
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Hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes
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Personal toiletries
Photography and Electronics:
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Camera and lenses
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Extra memory cards
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Spare camera batteries
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Battery charger
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Binoculars for wildlife viewing
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Power bank for charging devices
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Plug adapter (Type M or N) for South African electrical outlets
Optional but Recommended:
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Small backpack or daypack for excursions
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Notebook or travel journal
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Reusable water bottle
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Lightweight rain jacket (depending on season)
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Flashlight or headlamp
With these essentials packed, you will be fully prepared to enjoy every moment of your safari adventure in places such as Dinokeng Game Reserve, where unforgettable wildlife encounters and authentic African experiences await. 🦁🌿📷
