See what our guests have to say about their African Big Cat Photo Safari experience!
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Last year Armand gave me something I had not seen on 11 previous trips to Africa. An opportunity to photograph a leopard. He delivered with 8 leopard sightings in 4 days. Returned this year and not only did we see leopards but a young leopard wrestling with her mom and 3 different sightings of 7 week old lion cubs cavorting and playing and rolling over each other. Then to top it off we saw 2 week old hyena pups. Elephants galore with young ones, giraffes with babies , impalas everywhere, and magnificent Nyala. Birds and raptors were sighted. The photographic opportunities are endless. And this was just at his Big Cat Safari at Elephant Plains Game Reserve. He also offers salaries all over Africa. I’ve already booked a third trip for next year and will continue to do so as long as I’m able. Failure to use Armand and Rhulani safaris will keep you from the most fabulous African experience you will ever imagine. Even if you’re not a serious photographer, aka my wife Suzanne, you will never ever regret a trip such as this. If you are a photographer, expert, or novice or just starting his knowledge and skill will make you better both in how to photograph but how to edit. DO IT NOW. He’s booking almost 2 years out. Save your money and go with the absolute best.
Having previously travelled with Rhulani Safaris in 2023 it was an easy choice to join Armand in the Okavango this year. Travelling from Australia I wanted to extend my travels and after researching many options I decided to see what Armand could offer. After an amazing time in the Okavango I continued on with three safaris in South Africa. The Big Cats at Elephant Plains, Manyeleti and Antares.
I had such a wonderful time at all these destinations. So many fabulous photo opportunities. Travelling with Armand you learn so much and really extend your creative side. Every step of the way Armand offer tips on settings and suggestions to try something new. And if you are struggling with your gear Armand is always willing to help.
Armand is not only a fabulous photographer. He is amazing with editing and is happy to show what he does with his own images but also will work with some of your images to make them sing. He is a big believer of getting it right in camera but sometimes a little tweak in Lightroom will make your photos shine.
Armand is a super nice guy and you will laugh, be enthused and like me you will be one of the many photographers who rebook another trip with Rhulani Safaris. I am already in talks for 2027.
It wasn't just a Photographic Safari... it was an experience we will always refer back to.....one we will never forget!
From the moment we arrived to saying goodbye (after 4 days)..it was just perfect!!! The new friends we made, amazing sightings, accommodation... food..staff..our guide and tracker.... and of course, Armand's professionalism and knowledge a 10/10! His knowledge of different cameras (brand) and equipment is outstanding!!! Thank you Armand for an unforgettable experience!!!
I had the absolute privilege of joining Rhulani Safaris for a week-long photographic safari, while staying at Elephant Plains on Sabi Sands. Guided by the incredibly talented Armand - and what an unforgettable experience it was! The entire trip exceeded my wildest expectations in every possible way.
From the moment we set out, it was clear we were in expert hands. Armand’s and Jordan Delvecchio (Elephant Plains Guide) deep knowledge of the bush, there respectful approach to wildlife, and their uncanny ability to anticipate animal behavior created countless perfect photographic opportunities. Armand’s passion for wildlife and photography is contagious, and his guidance helped us capture moments that I will treasure forever.
We were fortunate to have countless extraordinary encounters with Tiyani, the beautiful female leopard, and her playful cub—a true highlight of the trip. We also had thrilling sightings of the powerful Mansimahle lion males, as well as the elegant Makomsava leopard female. Each sighting felt like a gift, and Armand made sure we were always in the best possible position to experience the magic of these moments.
The entire experience with Rhulani Safaris was seamless—thoughtfully planned, professionally executed, and infused with a deep respect for the environment and its inhabitants. Every day brought new surprises, and every evening ended with a sense of awe and gratitude.
Thank you, Armand and Rhulani Safaris, for a life-changing adventure. I return home not just with amazing photographs, but with a heart full of appreciation and a longing to return. I wholeheartedly recommend Rhulani Safaris to anyone seeking an authentic, respectful, and truly magical safari experience.
I did the Big Cat Safari with Armand in 2023 and travelled with a friend who had done it in 2022. To say it was amazing is an understatement. I am returning to Africa later in 2025. I had already booked the Okavango with Armand and wanted more AFRICA before returning to Australia. It was an absolute no brainer to contact Armand and see what else he could offer. I am very excited to be doing the Big Cats at Elephant Plains again. And I have also added Manyeleti and Antares to make for an awesome time. The fact that I have booked all of these with Armand shows the high esteem I hold in him. Such a lovely person, awesome photographer and great teacher. I can't wait.
Fantastic Big Cat photographic experience. Highly recommend Armand Grobler from Rhulani Safaris for your next photographic experience.
An amazing experience in Elephant Plains with Rhulani Safaris. Armand is a great tutor and spot on with his advice at capturing the best picture even in tricky situations where speed in adjusting settings becomes critical. Thankyou
Armand is a great photographer and inspires me to become one as well, his support during (and in between) game drives is fantastic, so is the organisation of everything. Will definately recommend!
AN ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL LEARNING EXPERIENCE . I HAVE LEFT WITH SO MUCH MORE THAN EXPECTED. THANK YOU ARMAND FOR AN AMAZING TIME, I WILL DEFINITELY BE BACK !
The Big Cats Safari was the absolute highlight of our 2 month South Africa trip. Armand absolutely exceeded our expectations. From the very beginning our contact with Armand was always positive. He is so kind, patient and does his absolute best to make the safari special for all participants. The whole package was perfectly organized, from the beautiful lodge, to the game drives with an amazing guide and tracker and the photographic input from Armand during the drives, as well as during our theory sessions. We are professional photographers but have learned a lot during our time with Armand. He manages to support each of the participants at their level of expertise individually and patiently. Besides the necessary technical part of photography, Armand focuses on composition, which was so valuable. We absolutely recommend going on one of his photo safaris with him!
Thank you so much Armand for this unforgettable experience, we would love to come back some day!
Rhulani Safaris is more than a safari, its a complete experience from the get go. One is never uncertain as every detail is taken care of and informative.
Can highly recommend as you will see for yourself and will leave only to look forward to the next trip with Armand!
Such a wonderful experience to join Armand on a Big Cat Photographic Safari at Elephant Plains in the Sabi Sands. It would be impossible to give all the reasons for this 5 star rating in this post but some of the highlights for me are - spending time at sightings so that we could observe and photograph fascinating behaviour, 7 different leopard sightings on 8 game drives plus the most tiny little hyena cubbies at a den site (just wow!) and learning practically how to manipulate light to get the most out of my photographs. I am already planning my next safari with Rhulani Safaris !
My Safari experience with Rhulani Safaris exceeded all expectations. As a professional photographer we were looking for something more than just driving around in a jeep, we wanted to immerse ourselves into wildlife photography. Armand made that possible, his dedication to providing and exceptional adventure, combined with knowledgeable guide, luxurious accommodations (Elephant Plains), wonderful food and great company, made it an extradinary photographic journey. It was evident that they genuinely care about the animals and preserving the beauty.
Armand's expertise ensured we had incredible sightings and created opportunities for breathtaking photographs. I wholeheartly recommend Rhulani Safaris. We can't wait to go back!
I really enjoyed the few days I had with Armand. Not only dis I learn lots of new techniques but thoroughly enjoyed Armand's company! What a great and kind friend. I will certainly be back for more safaris and would highly recommend Rhulani Safaris. Thank you Armand.
The best photo safari I have ever been on. Armand is such a true gentleman in every respect. His whole demeanour is centred around his clients and the wild animals. I could not fault him at any level. If you want a safari to remember and cherish it has to be with Rhulani Safaris every single time. This may have been my first with Armand but it will not be the last.
From my first contact with Armand I could tell how much passion he has for wildlife in general and big cats in particular, and, importantly for us, the word FUN was frequently used!
Our 4 day private big cat photo safari was based at Buffelshoek tented camp in Manyeleti game reserve. The accommodation is NOT what we think of when hearing the word tent, they are beautifully presented, roomy and with private western style bathrooms. The owners of Buffelshoek,Dudley and Lynne,absolutely go out of their way to make sure every need is fulfilled ( personally this included a "mini safari" at night to see and photograph an animal I had missed durung 8 previous visits to Africa,Hyena,and boy did I have unbelievable experiences with these incredible creatures! ). The quality of accommodation is only matched by the quality of the food,definitely 5 star! If you'd like to be totally enthralled by MANY stories of wildlife and adventures in the bush,speak to Dudley but be prepared for lots of side-splitting laughter!
Every one of our safaris with Armand and Mike ( our guide and driver ) were different and we absolutely loved every minute. Armand's knowledge of photography and his ability to pass this on certainly takes every encounter to another level especially when combined with Mike's driving skills and knowing how to achieve best positions for optimum viewing and photography.
We had truly amazing experiences with so many beautiful animals,the standouts being elephant,buffalo,cheetah,lions and leopards and not forgetting Hyena!!
Perhaps almost as good as the actual sightings was the atmosphere in which every game drive was conducted, the laughter was only interrupted for the actual photography and even then not always!
Should you wish to experience Africa's iconic species and improve your own photographic techniques,I cannot recommend Armand and Rhulani safaris too highly!
We may have arrived as clients but we definitely left as friends!
Many,many thanks Armand and please give my very best to everyone at Buffelshoek especially to Dudley,Lynne and Mike.
We really hope to join you again in the future!
Take care and stay safe
Jim
My wife and I wanted a photo specific safari in South Africa that could offer a personal photo experience. As an avid photographer, I wanted a complete row in the vehicle for myself and my equipment. We also wanted an experienced photographer/guide who would situate us for the best photo opportunities. We corresponded with the company’s owner Armand Grobler and Theresa Grobler who were both very responsive, even with the 9-hour time difference. We booked with the company for an 8-day adventure. We were not disappointed.
Armand quickly picked up how I wanted to shoot and what interests my wife and I had in terms of sightings. Most Kruger area safaris focus on the Big Five which are Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Buffalo, and Rhinos. We saw them all in the first few days. Armand was just fabulous to work with and his two quide/drivers were courteous, knowledgeable and very helpful. We spent the warm afternoons doing photo reviews. Armond critiqued my images and we chose some of the best for editing. It was his personal touch that I appreciated. I've been on three photo excursions in past years including Botswana, the Galapagos and Antarctica and I would rate Rhulani Safaris and Armand Grobler number one on my list.
Armand goes out of his way to make sure that one has a good experience.
With his knowledge and absolute dedication you are sure to have an incredible experience with amazing sightings and photos to admire for a lifetime!
Armand, I am so grateful that one of your previous clients shared your link. Your safari was amazing. I loved the way you interacted with everyone and made time for us all.
I learnt so much from you and I am so thrilled your book is doing so well.
You really do look for unique photo opportunities and I love the fact you introduced me to the more artistic side of photography.
Thank you so much for an excellent safari and I am looking forward to doing more with you in the future.
Would I recommend you to anyone else? In a heartbeat and with no reservations.
Breath taking sightings, comfortable accommodation,
super meals, but most off all excellent photographic
guidance by Armand. The ranger made sure that the
vehicle is parked everytime at the best angle for the perfect
Shot. Do it, you will have any regrets.
What an incredible experience! From delicious food and luxurious accommodation, to incredible sightings and fantastic service, we enjoyed it all with Armand and Rhulani Safaris.
Having been on previous safaris with other companies, we know our way around the industry. Every company has its strengths and weaknesses, however after careful consideration - we will look no further than Rhulani Safaris when booking a photographic trip in South Africa!
Well done to everyone involved in making our safari such a special trip. Thank you!
Armand truly goes out of his way to ensure every guest has an outstanding experience and every need is taken care of.
Elephant Plains accommodation, food and amenities were fantastic, but what really made it special was the Head Ranger, Dylan.
Between Armand and Dylan, we had many amazing lion and leopard sightings, even leopard cubs on two occasions. We saw wild dogs, many grazers and so much more.
Armand is an expert photographer that helped everyone with camera settings and what would make interesting photographs, at each sighting.
The workshops came with a workbook and very useful tips. Armand even made time to give me a private session on how best to use the camera.
The only downside was having to leave, but we leave as friends. We travel frequently but this safari has exceeded my expectations and left a lasting impression. I look forward to many more excursions with Armand.
After buying a book from Armand, we were curious to experience a safari with him, and it didn't disappoint!! Armand's knowledge with photography is beyond his age and with all the incredible sightings we had in the 5 days, I couldn't recommend Rhulani Safaris high enough!! Thanks so much for the impeccable service and we look forward to being back on safari with you again!
The sightings were quality and excellent. Drivers positioned the vehicles correct for the optimum photo opportunities. Armand has a very large and in-depth knowledge of the area and the subject matter. His photo tips and guidance really helped with the camera settings and framing. All that was promised and a bit more was certainly delivered.
I contacted Armand based on a recommendation and he arranged for me and my daughter a 6 night trip in Manyeleti. We wanted to take photographies of big cats and as this was her first game reserve trip my daughter was also open for every other wildlife.
And we got it all - wild dogs, leopards, hippos, a serval, tons of elephants, Rhinos, ...
And the camps that Armand selected where perfect. We had family atmosphere, great food, everything was taken care of, .. it was way better then I had expected (and this was not my first safari trip).
Together my daughter and I took about 3000 pictures and meanwhile we have a very nice coffee table book with about 300 shots. When ever I take this book in hand, my thought return to this wonderful place and the perfect experience that we had with Armand.
Thank you for the privilege of being your guest !


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