South Africa Safari with Kevin Dooley & Chelsea Mercado
Idube Photo Safaris

South AfricaSafari

An extraordinary journey into the wild heart of Africa with Chelsea Mercado & award-winning wildlife photographer Kevin Dooley.

Dates November 2–13, 2026
Departure From Your Location
Destination Greater Kruger, South Africa
Hosted By Chelsea Mercado & Kevin Dooley
Chelsea Mercado, photographer Elephant in South Africa Safari lodge room
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Your Hosts
Chelsea Mercado
Chelsea Mercado
Professional Photographer · YouTuber · Publisher
Chelsea is a professional photographer, YouTuber, and publisher who has spent over a decade teaching wildlife photography and reviewing gear. Her photos have appeared on book covers, in magazines, and on TV. She is the co-creator of the bestselling photography book Stunning Digital Photography and founder of Mason Press. Chelsea personally curates this safari experience for her community.
Kevin Dooley & Tricia Dooley
FGASA-Certified Wildlife Guide · Award-Winning Photographer
Kevin is a certified Field Guide (FGASA) and award-winning wildlife photographer whose images have been recognized by National Geographic, Africa Geographic, and the Photographic World Cup. Tricia is South African and brings her lifelong passion for wildlife and her homeland to every safari. Together they have guided guests from all over the world on transformative African adventures.

This is not a tour. This is a transformation. Spend eight days deep in one of Africa's most wildlife-rich regions — a Big Five area teeming with Lions, Elephants, and Rhinos. Watch Giraffes walk into the sunset. Hear the sounds of wild Africa sing you to sleep. Come home forever changed.

Wildlife You May Encounter

  • Lions
  • Elephants
  • Rhinos
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Buffalo
  • Leopards
  • Countless Antelope & Bird Species

Lodge & Logistics

  • Private room with private en-suite bathroom for every guest
  • Air-conditioned rooms for comfortable nights
  • WiFi available at the lodge
  • Candle-lit dinners & evening campfires
  • Minimal walking — room to main lodge only
  • Fly directly into Johannesburg, then drive to the lodge — no complicated connections
Full Itinerary
Nov 2
Depart From Your Location
Fly to Johannesburg, South Africa
Nov 3
Arrive Johannesburg
Overnight at the Peermont Mondior, Emperors Palace — 5–7 min from the airport. Includes all-you-can-eat breakfast (~$185/night, not included in safari cost). Kevin's team can assist with booking at a discounted rate.
Nov 4
Shopping & Lesedi Cultural Village
Explore African art and curios at Cambanos & Son — one of South Africa's largest curio suppliers.
Nov 5–12
Safari Camp — Eight Days in the Bush
Two game drives daily. Photography talks with Chelsea & Kevin. High Tea. Campfire evenings. Pure Africa.
Nov 12
Return to Johannesburg
Flight home after 8pm, or overnight at the Peermont and depart November 13
5:45 AMWake up & continental breakfast
6:00 AMMorning game drive departs
11:00 AMReturn to camp
11:30 AMBrunch
1:00 PMPhotography talk with Chelsea & Kevin
2:00 PMRest & afternoon nap
3:00 PMHigh Tea
3:30 PMAfternoon game drive departs
7:30 PMCandlelit dinner
EveningCampfire under the southern stars
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Investment
Double Occupancy
$5,699
per person
Single Occupancy
$5,999
per person

Reserve your spot with a $1,000 deposit per person. Balance due three months prior to departure.
Payment accepted by card, check, or bank transfer. Air & pre/post hotels not included.

Good to Know
What's the weather like in November?
Upper 80s to mid 90s °F by midday with low humidity. Evenings cool to the upper 70s. All rooms are air-conditioned.
How much hiking is involved?
Very little — essentially just the short walk from your room to the main lodge. This is an accessible safari suitable for most fitness levels.
Do I need my own camera equipment?
You're welcome to bring whatever camera you have. Chelsea and Kevin provide daily photography guidance for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced shooters.
What about the Peermont hotel — can you help with that?
Yes. Kevin's team has a partnership with the Peermont Mondior and can assist with booking at a discounted rate, or you may book independently. Current rate is approximately $185/night including full breakfast.

Africa is calling you.

Spaces are limited. Reserve yours today with a $1,000 deposit
and begin the journey of a lifetime.

Phone 505-401-2988
Also Reach Kevin At 505-280-3846
Email idubephotosafaris@yahoo.com
Web idubephotosafaris.com
Idube Photo Safaris · Chelsea Mercado & Kevin Dooley Air & hotels before/after safari not included in pricing

Host

Kevin Dooley is an award winning wildlife and portrait/wedding photographer who grew up in Placitas, New Mexico. His passion for wildlife photography and for Alaska and Africa, led to his safari adventures, he eventually opened Idube Photo Safaris. Kevin is a certified FGASA (Field Guide Association of South Africa), wildlife guide and takes guests from all over the world on amazing photographic and sight seeing Safaris in Africa, Alaska, India, South America, and other destinations. He teaches both wildlife photography and portrait photography workshops. Helping both the advanced and the beginner.

Africa has always had a special place in Kevin’s heart. He thrives on sharing this amazing place with others. Teaching about the wildlife, the trees, and the history of wild Africa. Everything from the sunrise to the safari camps and the adventurous stories that are shared around the evening campfires, hold a special place in Kevin’s heart. A special place that he loves to share and experience with the travelers and Photographers that accompany him.

To book your trip, email Kevin: IdubePhotoSafari@Yahoo.com Idubephotosafari@yahoo.com