Namibia Scouting Mission 2026
The Wild Heart of Africa
Experience Highlights
- Iconic African Wildlife – the big 5 and much more in Etosha National Park including multiple golden/blue hour sessions in a ground-level watering hole “Hide”
- Surreal Desert Landscapes – towering red sand dunes, cobalt blue skies, sun-bleached salt pans and ancient thorn tree skeletons are your elements for creating otherworldly compositions in the Sossusvlei and Deadvlei salt pans.
- The Southern Night Sky – photograph the Milky Way from below the equator under some of the darkest skies on the planet with centuries-old quiver trees as dramatic foregrounds.
- Small, rare and unseen – we’ll encounter some of Africa’s less photographed species on our adventure including the African wild dog, meerkats, pangolin, reptiles, small mammals and even insects.
At A Glance
May 11-26, 2026
Starts/Ends:
Windhoek, Namibia
$13,450 USD
Double occupancy
Single Lodging +$1,000
Deposit: $3000
$500 off Early Registration Discount, expires June 30, 2025
Instructor:
Leighton Lum
What's Included: Lodging, Meals per itinerary, Transportation, Airport transfers, Park Fees, Local Guides & Photography Instruction
What's Not Included: International airfare to/from Windhoek (WDH), Tourist Visa, Travel Insurance, Personal Expenses, Gratuities. Anything not specifically listed as included.
Accompany Leighton Lum and a small group of passionate photographers on our latest Scouting Mission to Namibia, where breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and the starry desert skies await. Our immersive itinerary is designed to enhance your skills in landscape, wildlife, and macro photography, while exploring some of Africa’s most iconic locations.
The Wild Heart of Africa
Our journey begins in the Sossusvlei and Deadvlei salt pans, where we’ll capture the striking beauty of the towering red sand dunes combined with the ancient, twisted trees creating an unforgettable contrast.
Next, we’ll head to the wild and rugged Etosha National Park, a haven for wildlife photographers. Namibia’s premier park contains large numbers of the ‘classic’ savannah species like lions, leopards elephants, giraffe and cheetah. But we’ll also target harder-to-find animals like the oryx, meerkat, the African wild dog and pangolin. Our expert guides will ensure you have the best chances to capture these rare creatures in their natural habitat. In addition, we’ll also photograph the desert-adapted wildlife of Etosha, where we’ll explore macro photography, capturing the intricate details of desert-dwelling insects, reptiles, and other small creatures.
The Southern Sky at Night
After the sun sets, we’ll explore the incredible astro photography opportunities that Namibia offers. With Leighton’s expert guidance, you’ll soon master long-exposure techniques to capture the splendor of the Milky Way under some of the darkest skies in the world
What’s a Scouting Mission?
Do you enjoy heaping sides of adventure and discovery on top of a main course of photography when you travel? Is not knowing exactly what tomorrow holds more appealing than the predictability of the beaten path? If your answer is yes (or, hell yes), then a Scouting Mission just might satisfy your cravings. In a nutshell, a Scouting Mission is a trip where we take a very small group of photographers to a place we’ve never been before to lay the groundwork for future photography workshops. I used to do these trips alone, but I’ve found that the company of a few like-minded souls makes things even more interesting and fun.
If you’re not sure if this type of trip is for you – and it absolutely isn’t for everyone – click here for more details about what to expect from a Scouting Mission. You can also read my blog post and see photos from previous Scouting Missions to Ladakh (Indian Himalaya), Vietnam and Peru/Bolivia.
Photography Focused Adventure
Every aspect of this trip is designed for passionate photographers by passionate photographers:
Our days start early and end late because that’s when the light is most interesting, and animals are most active. We’re firing frames in the field before many other tour groups begin their breakfast.
Moving beyond snapshots also requires patience and perseverance so we put in the time necessary to produce portfolio-worthy images.
Level Up Your Skills and Vision
Leighton will always be close by to answer questions, provide shooting tips and offer advice on finding the photograph in the scene. Our small group size allows plenty of time for both group and one-on-one learning.
With wildlife photography, a lot of creativity also happens after the click. So Leighton will host image review and editing sessions most days using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to help you realize the full potential of your raw captures.
Ready to Join the Adventure?
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Hawaii native Leighton Lum’s jaw-dropping images simply speak for themselves. Led by his creative eye and passion for adventure, Leighton has traveled the globe to destinations like Africa, South America, Iceland, Indonesia, and Antarctica, leading photography workshops and making his own award-winning photographs. Leighton hopes his photography inspires others and raises awareness about conservation to ensure future generations can enjoy the natural world he cherishes. Read more about Leighton and see a selection of his images.
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If you need to cancel your reservation, the following policies apply :
Deposits are NOT refundable but may be transferred to another Art of Seeing workshop for up to 24 months from date of cancellation in accordance with the following schedule:
Regardless of when you cancel, if we fill your spot*, you will receive a refund of all fees paid less your deposit and $150 processing fee. If we cannot fill your spot, the amount of your refund is based upon the cancellation date:
Cancellation 120 days or more from workshop start date: 100% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit transferrable up to 24 most.
Cancellation 90 – 120 days from workshop start date: 50% refund of fees paid less deposit and $150 processing fee. Deposit forfeit.
Cancellation less than 90 days from workshop start date: No refunds.
*Canceled spots are filled after the workshop reaches full capacity
All cancellations must be made in writing. Refunds will be paid by the same method that the original payment was made.
Click here to read our complete Terms & Conditions
Travel Insurance
A travel insurance policy which covers medical evacuation is a requirement for participation in this workshop. Such policies typically cover many other things like lost luggage and reimbursement for non-refundable payments if you need to cancel your trip
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If you've traveled with us before, thank you! You're the reason our passion is our profession, and we are deeply grateful for this blessing.
To express our appreciation, we've launched our Alumni Rewards Program which gives our 'frequent flyers' discounts on future Art of Seeing Photography Adventures. Click here for full details
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Q: What are the physical fitness requirements?
A: This trip is rated Easy overall. There is some walking required but no real hiking. Most of our photography sessions will be game drives, but there will be a few occasions where we’ll be on foot searching for animals, walking around the sand dunes or exploring the ghost town. You should be comfortable walking up to a mile total with your gear. However, the overall physical demand is quite manageable, and we always proceed at a pace that’s comfortable for everyone.
Q: Do I need to do the helicopter tour?
A: The helicopter tour is strictly optional (and additional cost). It’s an activity available for those interested in capturing the stunning desert landscapes from the air. If you’re not comfortable with heights, you can simply enjoy the other fantastic photography opportunities on the ground.
Q: How hot will it be in Namibia in May?
A: May marks the end of summer in Namibia, and temperatures are typically very comfortable, ranging from 73–81°F (23–27°C) during the day. The weather is generally mild, with cooler evenings and mornings, making it a great time to visit. You can expect pleasant conditions for both photography and outdoor activities.
Q: What if I want to arrive early or stay after the workshop dates?
A: No problem at all! Just let us know your arrival and departure details, and we will book the additional hotel nights for you (additional cost).
Q: Is there an extra fee for a private room?
A: Yes, prices are based on double occupancy. If you don't have a travel partner, we will pair you with a same-gender roommate (if a roommate is unavailable, you will be charged the single lodging rate).
If you prefer a private room, single lodging is available for an additional $1000.
Q: Can my non-photographer friend/partner attend?
A: Absolutely! Travel partners who may not share your passion for photography are very welcome to join. Just make sure they’re comfortable being part of a group that focuses primarily on photography, including meals, rest, and discussions about photography. However, due to limited space, we are unable to offer a discount for non-photographer partners.
Q: Can I bring a drone?
A: Yes, you can bring a drone to Namibia. However, there are regulations you must follow, including a 120-meter altitude limit and maintaining visual contact with your drone. You are responsible for flying your drone competently and responsibly. There are some restricted areas where drone flying is not allowed, but there are plenty of great locations for capturing amazing aerial shots.
| Day | Date | Itinerary | Overnight | Meal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 11-May | Welcome to Namibia! We’ll greet you upon arrival at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) and transfer to our lodge. Relax after your long journey until 4:30 PM when we’ll gather for introductions, a overview of our upcoming itinerary and some photo tips followed by our first group dinner. | Naankuse Lodge | D |
| 2 | 12-May | Our adventure starts with a sunrise photo session to capture meerkats emerging from their dens, a rare opportunity to capture these charming but elusive creatures in soft morning light.
We’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast back at our lodge and have some time to cleanup and pack before checking out and heading to our next camp near the Quiver Tree forest. After check-in, Leighton will lead our first image review/editing session if time allows. Then we'll head to the Quiver Tree Forest for our sunset destination, where the trees create striking I silhouettes against colorful skies. After dinner, we’ll return for our first attempt at capturing the stars and Milky Way above the forest, a magical ending to an incredible day in Namibia. |
Quiver Tree Rest Camp | B,L,D |
| 3 | 13-May | Today, we travel to Lüderitz, keeping an eye out for macro photography opportunities with smaller desert-dwelling animals like the Namaqua chameleon, horned adder, and Namib sand gecko.
Upon arrival, we’ll take a cruise to visit the South African Penguin colony, capturing playful penguins in their coastal habitat, providing a delightful contrast to the desert landscapes. |
The Nest Hotel | B,L,D |
| 4 | 14-May | We begin today with a sunrise shoot at Kolmanskop, the haunting ghost town in the Namibian desert where sun-bleached interiors and surrounding desert sands provide endless creative opportunities for unique images.
Next, we head to Aus to photograph wild horses roaming the rugged desert landscape, a unique wildlife photography experience in Africa. Macro enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore, from insects to small reptiles, with guidance on capturing intricate desert species. It’s a day filled with dramatic landscapes and detailed wildlife shots for a diverse photographic experience. |
Desert Horse Inn | B,L,D |
| 5 | 15-May | Today, we visit the immense red sand dunes of Sossusvlei. We’ll capture the dunes at sunrise and sunset, when the light creates stunning warm hues and dramatic shadows.
In addition to the landscapes, we'll photograph desert wildlife like oryx, springbok, and various insects. An optional doors-off sunrise helicopter tour provides breathtaking aerial views of the dunes and desert for the truly adventurous. |
Sossus Dune Lodge | B,L,D |
| 6 | 16-May | Today begins with a sunrise shoot at Deadvlei, where photographers have used the striking contrast of thorn tree ‘skeletons’ against the red dunes to create iconic, surreal compositions. Give it a try for yourself - the warm morning light offers perfect opportunities for both wide landscapes and detailed close-ups.
We return to our lodge for meals and some down time before continuing our exploration of Sossusvlei, photographing the dramatic dunes, desert wildlife like oryx and springbok, and sweeping vistas. We’ll focus on the best light to capture the dunes and the fascinating creatures of the desert. |
Sossus Dune Lodge | B,L,D |
| 7 | 17-May | After a final sunrise shoot in Sossusvlei, we’ll drive to Swakopmund through vast desert landscapes, stopping to photograph desert critters including chameleons, snakes, and small mammals.
In Swakopmund, where the dunes meet the coastline, we’ll explore the desert’s stark beauty and focus on capturing the textures and light contrasts of this unique environment. As night falls, we’ll dive into another astro photography session if conditions allow. |
The Delight | B,L,D |
| 8 | 18-May | We start the day with a Living Desert Tour in Swakopmund, exploring the unique desert ecosystem and photographing fascinating creatures like sidewinding adders, desert lizards, and other small species—perfect for macro shots. We’ll also photograph the stunning desert landscapes, learning techniques to photograph the vast beauty of the environment.
Afterward, we’ll drive north to Damaraland, passing through diverse landscapes offering more photography opportunities. Upon arrival, we’ll focus on wildlife photography, particularly the elusive desert-adapted elephants. Capturing these incredible creatures in their harsh environment will be a highlight of the day. It’s a long but rewarding day of landscape and wildlife photography, including the rare chance to photograph Namibia’s desert elephants. |
Brandberg White Lady Lodge | B,L,D |
| 9 | 19-May | Today, we visit the Timbila Reserve, renowned for its diverse habitats and rich wildlife. We'll embark on game drives through savannas and brushwood, aiming to photograph the elusive African Wild Dogs. These endangered animals, along with big cats, elephants, and antelopes, provide excellent opportunities for both portrait and action shots, making it a fantastic day for wildlife photography. | Timbila Glamping Tents | B,L,D |
| 10 | 20-May | Today, we explore the Timbila Reserve with extended game drives, focusing on African Wild Dogs, big cats, elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. The reserve’s diverse environments offer unique backdrops for both wide-angle and close-up shots. Our expert guides will help locate wildlife and we will provide photography tips on motion, light, and composition. Between drives, we’ll review photos and offer feedback, making this a rewarding day to expand your wildlife photography portfolio. | Timbila Glamping Tents | B,L,D |
| 11 | 21-May | Today, we explore the renowned Etosha National Park, a prime wildlife photography destination. Known for its diverse wildlife, especially during the dry season when animals gather at waterholes, we’ll begin with an afternoon game drive. We'll search for elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and springboks, capturing shots of animals drinking, interacting, or resting. Etosha’s open landscapes and abundant wildlife provide ideal conditions for both wide-angle and close-up shots, making this a perfect introduction to the park’s magic. | Okaukuejo Camp | B,L,D |
| 12 | 22-May | Today starts with a morning game drive in Etosha National Park, capturing wildlife in the soft sunrise light. Afterward, we’ll head to another part of Etosha for a more intimate experience, photographing new landscapes and wildlife. In the afternoon, we’ll explore Onguma’s waterhole, where elephants, giraffes, and birds gather. | Onguma Bush Camp | B,L,D |
| 13 | 23-May | Today starts with a morning hide session at Onguma Bush Camp, capturing close-up, low-angle shots of wildlife at the watering hole, including elephants, giraffes, and zebras. After a break, we’ll embark on an afternoon game drive to explore the area’s wildlife and landscapes. This day combines intimate shots from the hide with dynamic action shots on the drive. | Onguma Bush Camp | B,L,D |
| 14 | 24-May | We begin the day with a morning hide session at Onguma Bush Camp, capturing close-up, low-angle shots of wildlife at the watering hole, including elephants and giraffes. After breakfast, we’ll head to Okonjima Reserve, renowned for its conservation work with elusive species like leopards and pangolins. The chance to photograph a pangolin will be a highlight, offering a rare opportunity to capture these incredible creatures and bringing a memorable conclusion to our photographic journey across Namibia. | Okonjima Plains Camp | B,L,D |
| 15 | 25-May | Today is a full day of exploration at Okonjima Reserve, a premier wildlife conservation area in Namibia. We’ll start with a morning game drive, focusing on tracking and photographing the Big Cats. With the help of expert guides, we also hope to capture other wildlife like cheetahs, wild dogs, and antelopes.
In the late afternoon, we’ll turn our attention to photographing the rare and elusive pangolin, thanks to Okonjima’s specialized programs. |
Okonjima Plains Camp | B,L,D |
| 16 | 26-May | On your final morning in Namibia, we'll take a short game drive in Okonjima Reserve to capture any last wildlife moments before returning to Windhoek. Afterward, we’ll enjoy breakfast and some time to freshen up, reflecting on the journey. We’ll then drive to Windhoek, arriving at Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) for your evening flight. We recommend scheduling your flight for after 8 pm. This marks the end of your unforgettable Namibia photography adventure. Safe travels! | - | - |
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