Secrets of Serengeti & Ndutu | Tanzania - June 2023

The Serengeti in Tanzania stands as one of Africa's premier destinations for wildlife photography. Its vast expanses evoke a sense of privilege, particularly when capturing images of the Big Cats that roam freely in this expansive territory. Our exploration of the Serengeti covered the Northern Serengeti around the Mara River, the granite Kopjes around Lobo to the east, and Seronera in the central Serengeti. From there, we ventured to the enchanting "Ndutu" area near Lake Ndutu in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Our time was dedicated to observing a female Cheetah and her two sub-adult cubs, capturing serene moments as they rested atop termite mounds overlooking the vast plains. A thrilling encounter with a Black Necked Spitting Cobra added an element of excitement as it crossed our path, raising its hood and holding us captive for about six minutes before gracefully moving away. Our sightings included a Lioness resting in a tree at sunset, a mating pair of Lions, Verreaux's Eagle Owls, a female Leopard on a Kopje, a rare "Golden Zebra," and another Cheetah sighting featuring a female with two small cubs.

With remarkable Serengeti shots in our collection, we headed south via the Gol Kopjes, where we found another contented Cheetah perched on a rock. Our next destination was the magical Ndutu, situated along the border of the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here, the ability to drive off-road allowed us quality time with the animals and the flexibility to position ourselves for optimal lighting.

Our Ndutu experience began with a rare sighting of a Striped Hyaena near the lodge. Other highlights included revisiting the male Leopard that had previously preyed on a male Cheetah, this time having just finished consuming a baby Giraffe. A delightful photo session with a Flap Necked Chameleon in the lodge grounds, along with various game species and birds, enriched our adventure. The pinnacle, however, was discovering that five formidable male Lions had chosen Ndutu as their home, offering multiple sightings, including a memorable morning as they moved together through the area known as Long Gulley.

On our final morning, we encountered a truly special sight—a female Black Backed Jackal moving her puppies to a new den site.

This safari exceeded my expectations, delivering exceptional photography and an authentic experience of the true African wilderness. With very few other vehicles around, we often found ourselves in solitude, relishing the privilege of sharing a brief period in these animals' lives and gaining insight into their survival in this harsh environment. The Serengeti remains unmatched in providing top-tier Big Cat sightings and photographic opportunities.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the staff at Kati Kati Tented Camp, Lobo Wildlife Lodge, Seronera Wildlife Lodge in the Serengeti, and Ndutu Safari Lodge for their outstanding care. A special appreciation goes to our incredible guide, Arnold! Working with you, "Noldy," is always a pleasure. Your sensitivity to the needs of capturing great shots without disrupting the animals' comfort significantly enhances the experience.

Thank you, Raj and Linda, for joining us again on the Secrets of the Serengeti & Ndutu June photo safari.

Please enjoy a selection of images from this unforgettable journey.

Best wishes,

Stu,