Great Migration Photography Safari - Serengeti

Tour Highlights

• Explore the pristine forests of Bhadra Tiger Reserve
• Track wildlife in search of the rare Black Panther sighted in the region
• Boat safari to observe River Tern nesting colonies on the reservoir islands
• Opportunities to see Tigers, Leopards, Gaur, Sambar, and Spotted Deer
• Guided safaris with experienced naturalists and photography assistance
• Stay at a scenic wilderness lodge overlooking the Bhadra reservoir

Tour Dates

April 17 – 19, 20266

Tour Overview

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot, is home to diverse habitats ranging from moist deciduous forests to grasslands and river ecosystems. The sanctuary supports a healthy population of tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and large herds of gaur, making it one of Karnataka's most exciting wildlife landscapes. One of the most fascinating highlights of Bhadra is the River Tern nesting islands located in the Bhadra reservoir. Every year these elegant birds gather in large numbers to breed on the sandy islands, creating a remarkable wildlife spectacle for birdwatchers and photographers. In recent months, wildlife enthusiasts have also reported sightings of a young melanistic leopard (Black Panther) in the region, adding an extra layer of excitement to this expedition. The journey includes guided jeep safaris through the forest and a boat safari across the reservoir, offering diverse opportunities to observe wildlife and birds from unique perspectives. Between safaris, participants can interact with naturalists and photography mentors to learn more about wildlife behavior, photography techniques, and the ecology of the Western Ghats.

Who can join this tour

• Wildlife enthusiasts eager to explore a less crowded tiger reserve
• Birdwatchers interested in observing the River Tern nesting colonies
• Wildlife photographers looking for unique species and landscapes
• Nature lovers who enjoy immersive forest experiences
• Solo travellers and small groups seeking a guided wilderness expedition

Mentor

Ankul Shetty – Naturalist and Photographer
Phone: +91 96324 50008
Email: contact@thewildterrain.com

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive at River Tern Lodge in Bhadra, a beautiful jungle retreat overlooking the Bhadra reservoir and surrounded by forested hills. After check-in, enjoy lunch while taking in the peaceful wilderness setting. In the afternoon, attend a short orientation session with the naturalists, who will introduce you to the ecology of Bhadra Tiger Reserve, recent wildlife sightings, and the plan for tracking animals during the safari. Later, head out for your first jeep safari into the Bhadra forests. The drive offers opportunities to spot gaur, sambar deer, wild boar, and possibly a leopard or tiger as the forest comes alive in the evening hours. Return to the lodge after sunset for dinner. Overnight stay at River Tern Lodge.

Day 2: Start the day early with a morning boat safari on the Bhadra reservoir. The calm waters and scattered islands provide excellent opportunities to observe the River Tern nesting colonies, where these graceful birds gather during the breeding season. Photographers often capture dramatic scenes of terns diving for fish, guarding nests, and interacting within the colony. The boat safari may also offer sightings of mugger crocodiles, otters, water birds, and occasionally elephants along the shoreline. Return to the lodge for breakfast and some leisure time. In the afternoon, venture into the forest for another jeep safari focusing on wildlife tracking. The region has recently reported sightings of a sub-adult Black Panther, making this an exciting opportunity to search for this elusive melanistic leopard. Apart from the possibility of the Black Panther, the safari may also reveal tigers, leopards, gaur herds, and various deer species moving through the forest. Return to the lodge for dinner and share stories of the day's sightings. Overnight stay at River Tern Lodge.

Day 3: Begin your final morning with another jeep safari into the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. Morning hours often provide excellent wildlife activity as animals move through the forest before the day warms up. Watch for gaur grazing in clearings, deer feeding along the forest edges, and birds calling through the canopy. Return to the lodge for breakfast. After breakfast, check out and begin your journey back, carrying memories of the forests of Bhadra and the remarkable River Tern breeding spectacle.

Bhadra Wildlife Safari – The River Tern Adventure

Payment Terms

• 30% of the total tour cost is required to secure your spot. This deposit ensures your reservation is locked in.
• 70% of the total tour cost must be paid at least 60 days before the scheduled start date of the tour.
• 100% of the total tour cost is required at least 30 days before the start date of the tour.

Cancellation Policy

• The 30% upfront deposit made towards securing your booking is non-refundable.
• 40% of the total tour cost will be refunded in the form of a credit note, if notified between 60 to 30 days before the scheduled start date.
• Cancellation within less than 30 days of the tour start date or failure to show up will result in 100% of the tour cost being charged as cancellation fee.

Inclusions

• Two nights stay in a premium wilderness lodge on twin-sharing basis
• All meals from Day 1 lunch to Day 3 breakfast
• Jeep and boat safaris with forest permits and entry fees
• Guided wildlife tracking with experienced naturalists
• Photography mentoring and field assistance
• Access to lodge facilities where available

Exclusions

• Travel to and from Bhadra (from cities like Bangalore or Mangalore)
• Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, or beverages
• Any travel or medical insurance
• GST and any items not mentioned in the inclusions list