Ending 2025 with Magic

There’s a certain kind of alchemy that happens on safari — an unlikely blend of early mornings, shared anticipation, dust, light, and wild spaces that somehow binds a group of strangers into a creative, joy-filled little family. Our 2025 photo safaris captured that spirit beautifully, unfolding first in South Africa and then continuing more recently through Kenya’s Amboseli National Park and the breathtaking Mara North Conservancy.

From the very first game drive, every group embraced the rhythm of the bush with enthusiasm — swapping stories over morning coffee, comparing camera settings with friendly rivalry, and collectively gasping at the kind of sightings you can never quite predict, no matter how many years you’ve spent in the field. Every morning was a new opportunity brimming with excitement, from shooting zebras at sunrise in the early hours of the day or fast-forwarding to being alongside a hunting leopard at night.

Unforgettable Sightings & Moments of Wild Wonder

This year brought an exceptional run of sightings, the sort that etch themselves into memory. Guests photographed cheetahs mid-hunt and, in moments of both awe and respect, witnessed the raw drama of successful kills. They spent quiet, humbling minutes with Craig—the legendary big tusker of Amboseli—whose calm presence and immense size left everyone speechless and a few guests blinking back tears behind their lenses.

Nights delivered their own gifts: a shy aardwolf weaving through the shadows, and later, the rare treat of a young serval stepping into the glow of our spotlights for just long enough to fire off a few treasured frames. These encounters reminded us why we return to these landscapes again and again—not for guaranteed sightings, but for the possibility of the extraordinary.

A Community of Creativity

What truly defined the safaris, though, was the group energy. Guests cheered each other’s shots, celebrated little photographic breakthroughs, and formed friendships that felt as easy as they were unexpected. Whether experimenting with low-angle perspectives or playing with soft dawn light, everyone leaned fully into the playful, creative heart of wildlife photography.

Even the routine moments — campfire chats, shared editing sessions, or laughing together at the day’s bloopers—became highlights. Being out in nature tends to have that effect: it shifts priorities, quiets the noise, and opens space for real connection.

Looking Ahead: 2026 & 2027 Adventures

With such a rewarding year behind us, it’s hard not to feel excited for what’s coming next. Whilst the first half of 2026 is fully booked, for those hoping to join future safaris, a few opportunities remain in the latter half:

Timbavati (August 2026)

Our "Framing Africa" workshop is an intimate, hands-on experience set in one of South Africa's most wildlife-rich private reserves. This workshop is designed for those new to photography or wanting a refresher of the basics, and is currently running with a discounted rate. At only £2,999 (for a limited time), this is a wonderful option for photographers seeking dedicated guidance and a more structured learning experience. https://www.raw-photographic.com/framingafrica

Klaserie (August 2026)

Exclusivity and intimacy is the name of the game as we have our own private concession to explore, seeking out the Big Five and much more whilst we have a small and luxury lodge to ourselves. For an extra perspective, we also include a helicopter scenic tour of the area so you can take to the skies and get new dynamic shots and the thrill of flying through and around the Blyde River Canyon - this is where the dramatic finale of the latest Mission Impossible movie was filmed! https://www.raw-photographic.com/klaserieaugust2026

Mara North (November 2026)

One tent is still open for our final Mara North trip of the year and can be booked either for two guests sharing or a single guest on a supplement. The conservancy continues to deliver some of the most rewarding predator and big-cat photography anywhere in Africa and is an absolute bucket list location for any enthusiast. Add on to that a luxury bush camp as your home away from home and falling asleep to the sound of hippos and lions, we can't think of a better way to close off a year! https://www.raw-photographic.com/maranorth10nov2026

Kalahari (April 2027)

A brand-new destination on our calendar. This stark and soulful desert ecosystem has a magic all its own and, with only three spaces remaining, it promises to be a special journey for anyone drawn to big skies, golden light and the unique wildlife of the region. This is very much the one we're personally the most excited for as it's a region that's incredibly unique and offers incredible opportunities. https://www.raw-photographic.com/kalahari2027

As always, future trips remain centred on experience over formality — slowing down, sinking into nature, and embracing the spontaneity and wonder that make safari photography so addictive.

A Final Treat: Kenya 2025 Highlights

To relive some of the magic from this year’s safaris, we’ve put together a short “Kenya 2025 Highlights” video capturing many of the moments that made these trips unforgettable. It’s a celebration of wildlife, creativity, and the memories of the wonderful people who joined us—proof that the best stories often unfold where the wild things are.

.. and last but not least, Happy Holidays!

Whilst the trips for the year may be over and the background work for future trips kicks higher into gear, naturally this is also the time of year when things slow down a bit to enjoy the festivities and family and friends of the holiday season. As such, we hope everyone has an incredible December filled with love, laughter and too much food! Enjoy the celebrations of New Years (responsibly!) and we'll hopefully see as many of you as possible in 2026 for continued adventures and new memories in nature!

Kind regards,

Samuel Cox