Sloth bears & tigers: Satpura – An exclusive photo trip to the heart of India

1.Nestled in the hills of central India, we experience one of India's most intimate and decelerated wildlife adventures in the Satpura Tiger Reserve. Unlike the crowded tiger parks, here we explore the dense Sal forests, dramatic sandstone gorges and tranquil river valleys on foot, by canoe and on comfortable jeep safaris - creating space for authentic, undisturbed wildlife viewing and outstanding photography.

Together with Gaiatales, my experienced local partner, we will ensure that everything runs smoothly. I, Julius Kramer, will accompany you as photographer and tour guide with all my experience.

Satpura: A paradise for sloth bears

Satpura is one of the best places in the world for sloth bear encounters.

Our guides know exactly when and where we have a good chance of taking outstanding photos.

Further information about Satpura National Park can be found here.

What makes our photo tour special?

1. undisturbed wildlife photography away from the crowds

In contrast to the better-known national parks in India, Satpura receives very few visitors. For us, this means

• No columns of vehicles at animal sightings - we have time to compose our shots in peace

• Undisturbed animal encounters for more authentic wildlife photos

• More flexibility in positioning for the perfect picture

2. diverse photo opportunities thanks to three safari types

This trip combines three different exploration methods for maximum photographic variety:

• Jeep safaris for classic wildlife spotting

• Hiking safaris for unique perspectives

• Boat safaris on the Denwa River (depending on the water level) for shots from the water

• Night jeep safari for rare insights into the nocturnal animal world

3. workshop on camera trap photography

On the grounds of Reni Pani Lodge, we have the unique opportunity to photograph animals up close in their natural habitat using photo traps.

I show you the best way to set up a camera trap, we discuss sensors and flash. After a while, we make adjustments and hope that we have taken some spectacular shots.

species that occur there:

• Various deer
• Langurs
• Rusty cat
• Tiger
• Leopard

4. deep-dive into Indian nature conservation project

We often concentrate on photographing and experiencing without delving deeper into the ecosystem. Yet it is precisely this knowledge that makes our encounters with nature more meaningful.

In India, we therefore meet local conservationists who introduce us to their daily work on an evening. They talk about conflicts between humans and animals, the protection of tigers, sloth bears and elephants - and how they work with communities to find sustainable solutions.

5. expert knowledge and small group sizes

We travel in a small, exclusive group (max. 6-8 people), which allows us to create an intimate atmosphere where everyone gets their money's worth.

• Several experienced naturalists from the lodges accompany us on all activities, sharing their knowledge about wild animals and their behavior

• Ideal jeep occupancy for optimum comfort when photographing wildlife:

  • Jeep 1: driver + forest guide + Julius Kramer + 2 guests

  • Jeep 2: driver + forest guide + Gaiatales guide + 2 guests

  • Jeep 3: driver + forest guide + lodge naturalist + 2 guests

6. everything well thought out - you take the photos, we take care of it

• Domestic flights, transfers, lodges, safaris - all inclusive

• We enjoy full board and a well-planned, stress-free travel experience

• 10 days full of intense nature experiences and photographic highlights

An experience that lasts

Together we experience the hidden wilderness of Satpura. Sloth bears sneak through the undergrowth, leopards glide through the forest like shadows - and we are right in the middle of it all. This trip is more than just a photo safari.

The Bengal tiger is also at home here - with a little luck and patience, we can also get a special picture of it. And last but not least: The birdlife in Satpura is simply impressive.

I look forward to accompanying you on this extraordinary journey.

Prices:

• 5,750 € per person in a double room

• Single room supplement: € 2,100

Terms of payment:

• 25% non-refundable deposit upon booking or 120 days prior to departure (whichever comes first)

• 120 days before the start of the trip, we determine whether the trip will actually take place (i.e. whether the minimum number of participants has been reached)

• Remaining amount (75%) at the latest 60 days before departure

In India, safari bookings are only released by the national park authorities four months before the planned travel date. Your booking is registered directly in your name and is tied to you. If you cancel the trip later, the authorities will retain the entire entrance fees for the national parks - regardless of the costs for accommodation or meals. Unfortunately, these amounts cannot be refunded or transferred to other people, even if someone else wants to take your place.

We also need to book as soon as possible, as there are only a few jeeps on the road in Satpura and otherwise all safaris are fully booked.

In short: If you make a binding booking and then cancel the trip, neither you nor we can get back the park entrance fees you have already paid.

Although we are only staying in one protected area, the itinerary is very varied. I want everyone to have enough opportunity to work intensively on the area photographically - we need time for this.

Included in the tour price:

Arrival & transportation:

• Domestic flights Delhi - Bhopal - Delhi (economy class)

• Private transfers on arrival and departure in Delhi

• All ground transportation according to itinerary

• Air-conditioned vehicle (Innova Crysta or Mini-Coach) for all land transportation

• English-speaking chauffeur who is in constant contact with our office

Accommodation & meals:

• 2 nights at the JW Marriott Hotel in Delhi or similar (breakfast included)

• 2 nights at the Bori Safari Lodge in Satpura (full board)

• 5 nights at the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge in Satpura (full board)

• All meals during the stay in Satpura

• Non-alcoholic drinks during the game drives and with meals

Safaris & activities:

• All safaris according to itinerary (jeep safaris, walking safaris, night safari, boat safari)

• All activities according to the itinerary, including the interactive session with a conservation organization

• Entrance fees for the Satpura Tiger Reserve

Expert support:

• Continuous accompaniment by a specialized nature guide/naturalist

• Local experts and trackers during the safaris

Additional inclusions:

• All applicable state taxes

• Free WLAN in all hotels

Not included in the tour price:

Travel & visa costs:

• International flights and airport taxes

• Visa fees for India

• Travel and health insurance (strongly recommended)

Meals & drinks:

• Lunch and dinner in Delhi (only breakfast included)

• Alcoholic beverages

• Drinks outside the game drives and meals

Personal expenses:

• Telephone bills, laundry costs and table drinks

• Camera/video fees at places of interest

• Gratuities for chambermaids, restaurant staff, drivers and guides

• Porter service in hotels/restaurants

Unspecified services:

• All services that are not expressly listed in the section “Included in the tour price”

• Additional costs due to unavoidable circumstances beyond our control, including flight cancellations, delays or natural disasters