Bruce Colin - Do yourself a favor

The minute I signed up with Nick van de Wiel for a private photographic safari, (Ndumo and Tembe Elephant Park) I knew I had made a wise decision. Nick is prompt, courteous and well prepared.  All arrangements were clear and overnight accommodations were clean and comfortable. 

Nick knows South Africa and he knows wildlife. Better still, he knows the needs of wildlife photographers and as a photographer himself, understands photography. Nick's knowledge of natural history (he has a strong background in biology) and his ability to put the photographer in the right place at the right time, allowed for a better percentage of successful wildlife images. He is an excellent driver and this ability furnished an arena of safety, which is crucial for getting closer to wildlife for observation and photography. In addition, the roof of Nick's vehicle opens up which allows for more photo opportunities. This is definitely a plus and a joy for wildlife photographers.

Meal times were a treat and dishes ranged from hearty healthy breakfasts, to lunches served with cheeses, breads and chocolates to a marvelous selection of sushi. Dinner was composed of steaks individually grilled to one's preference. Vegetarian dishes were also readily available. On hot dusty game drives, there was plenty of cold water and beverages to go around in case you needed to quench your thirst

Do yourself a favor and if you want to see South Africa from a fresh and exciting perspective book a tour/ safari with Nick van de Wiel, you won't be disappointed.

Bruce Colin

Bruce Colin, US 

Bruce Colin is an award winning nature photographer and a North American Nature Photographer Association (NANPA) member whose images and articles have appeared in calendars, textbooks, and publications such as Birders' World, Outdoor and Travel Photographer, and Nature Photographer Magazine. He has given natural science and photography presentations for the New York City Board of Education, the N.Y.C. Sierra Photography Club, The American Museum of Natural History, and the Natural Resource Defense Council.

http://www.wildworldindia.com/photography/index.asp

Daniel Manrique - A highlight of my stay!

While in South Africa in November, 2009, I took a photographic safari with Tailor Made Safaris. Nick (the owner/operator) took us to Ndumo and Tembe, both reserves at the border with Mozambique. This tour was definitely one of the highlights of my stay in South Africa. Nick had every detail under control, and he bent over backwards to make sure we saw all the wildlife we expected to see, and then some. He is very knowledgeable, polite and efficient. The food was great. I’ll never forget having sushi for lunch with several giraffes as spectators, and the steak for dinner was delicious. His vehicle is particularly well equipped for photography, and we got some great shots. I would highly recommend Nick to anyone who wants to have the best experience while in South Africa.

Daniel Manrique – Wildlife Photographer, United States of America

Claire & Michelle - Photographic safari of note!

Dear Nick

A heartfelt thanks from both Michelle and I for what was an absolutely incredible game drive experience!

We had a fantastic time and still can’t quite believe how lucky we were in terms of sightings. How cool were those wild dog fending off the hyena?! And that enormous elephant nonchalantly enjoying its lunch on the roadside?! 

Your service was impeccable from start to finish. From the crack-of-dawn coffee to the sumptuous morning tea to the unbelievable braai at lunch – a royal culinary treatment! Most importantly, though, was the fact that this felt like a true “tailormade safari”. Being ultra-keen photographers, we never once felt rushed and the fact that you could so obviously relate to our enthusiasm made the experience all the more special. Your expert wildlife knowledge and spotting abilities were of course an added bonus!

Thank you, Nick, for a great day. We look forward to Tembe next! In the meantime we are delighted to recommend your services and wish you lots of success in your venture.

Best regards

Claire & Michelle - Owners of a UK based tour company specializing in photographic safaris 

www.clicketyclick.eu