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

Tucked away in the hills of central India, the Satpura Tiger Reserve offers one of the country’s most intimate and unhurried wildlife experiences. Far from the bustle of typical tiger parks, we explore ancient Sal forests, rugged sandstone gorges, and serene river valleys — on foot, by canoe, and in open jeeps. This diversity of safaris allows for authentic encounters, undisturbed moments with wildlife, and exceptional photographic opportunities.

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 world’s top destinations for observing and photographing sloth bears in the wild.
With expert local guides who know exactly where and when to look, we maximize our chances for unforgettable encounters and exceptional images.

Further information about Satpura National Park can be found here.

What makes our photo tour special?

1. Undisturbed Wildlife Photography away from the crowds

Unlike India’s more famous national parks, Satpura remains a hidden gem with remarkably few visitors. For us, this means:

• No queues of vehicles at sightings – we have time and space to compose each shot in peace

• Undisturbed animal encounters – perfect for capturing authentic wildlife moments

• Greater freedom to position ourselves – for that one, perfect frame

2. Diverse Photo Opportunities Through Four Safari Types

This journey offers a rich variety of photographic angles thanks to four unique ways of exploring:

• Jeep safaris for classic wildlife encounters

• Walking safaris for low-angle, immersive perspectives

• Boat safaris on the Denwa River (seasonal) for scenes from the water

• Night drives for rare glimpses into the secretive world of nocturnal wildlife

3. Workshop: Camera Trap Photography

On the grounds of Reni Pani Lodge, we have the rare chance to photograph wildlife up close using professional camera traps.

I’ll guide you through the setup – from choosing the right location to working with sensors and flash. After initial testing, we fine-tune the setup and wait for results. With a bit of luck, we’ll capture spectacular shots of elusive species such as:

• Various deer

• Langurs

• Rusty-spotted cat

• Leopard

• And possibly even a tiger

4. Deep-dive into Indian nature conservation project

Photography is often about the moment — but deeper knowledge makes those moments truly meaningful.

In Satpura, we meet with local conservationists for an evening insight into their daily work. They share stories of human-wildlife conflict, efforts to protect tigers, sloth bears, and elephants, and how they collaborate with local communities to develop sustainable, long-term solutions. These conversations add valuable context to our wildlife encounters — and stay with us long after the trip ends.

5. Expert knowledge and small group sizes

Small Group, Big Experience
We travel in a small, exclusive group of just 6–8 participants – creating an intimate atmosphere where everyone has space, time, and individual support.

Experienced naturalists from the lodges accompany all our activities, sharing in-depth knowledge about wildlife and behavior to enrich your sightings.

Optimal Jeep Setup for Photographers:

• 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

This setup ensures maximum comfort, plenty of room for gear, and the flexibility to capture your best shots.

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

Together, we explore the hidden wilderness of Satpura.

Sloth bears move silently through the undergrowth, leopards melt into the shadows of the forest — and we are right there, in the heart of it all. This journey is more than just a photo safari. With patience and a bit of luck, we may even capture a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger. And for bird lovers, Satpura’s rich and diverse birdlife offers countless photographic treasures.

I look forward to sharing this extraordinary adventure with you.

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