Tales of the Ken

Day 1: Arrival, Check in, Overnight in Panna.

Participants arrive at Khajuraho, the closest airport to Panna, with the option of arriving via Jabalpur as well. From the airport, we drive to our lodge near Panna Tiger Reserve, passing through rural landscapes that slowly transition into forested terrain.
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After check in, we meet our Skipper and fellow participants. The evening is reserved for introductions and settling in. Following a wholesome dinner, the Skipper will conduct an orientation session, covering the natural history of Panna, its unique riverine ecosystem, and park regulations.

Day 2: Full Day Safari and Overnight in Panna.

An early start marks the beginning of our first safari experience in Panna. As dawn breaks, we enter the reserve to familiarize ourselves with the terrain. Open forests, riverbeds, grass patches, and rocky escarpments define the landscape here, offering a very different visual rhythm compared to denser forests.
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Early hours are ideal for observing tiger movement, and a stroke of beginner’s luck may reward us with an early sighting. Even without a tiger encounter, the forest reveals its character through tracks, alarm calls, and subtle interactions that sharpen observation skills.
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After completing the morning drive, we break for lunch and rest. The afternoon safari resumes with a focus on riverbanks and open habitats. This period is excellent for bird photography and habitat driven compositions, while we wait for predators to become active again as temperatures drop.
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Post safari, we return to the lodge for a relaxed evening. The first interactive photography session follows, where the Skipper discusses images, field experiences, and photographic decision making. These sessions are informal, insightful, and often become a highlight of the tour. Dinner and overnight stay follow.

Day 3 & 4: Full Day Safaris and Overnight in Panna.

For the next two days, we follow a similar full day safari schedule in pursuit of tiger photography and broader wildlife storytelling.
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The day begins with an early wake up call at 04:15, allowing us to reach the park gate as early as possible. Being among the first vehicles inside the reserve gives us a strong advantage. We look for fresh pugmarks, scent marks, and other signs that indicate recent tiger movement, while positioning ourselves strategically for potential sightings. Tigers are most active during early morning and late evening, and we make full use of these prime hours.
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After lunch inside the park, we continue with the afternoon safari. As the day progresses, attention often shifts to riverine areas and water sources. Afternoons are particularly rewarding for birdlife along the Ken River, where kingfishers, fish eagles, vultures, and other species offer excellent photographic opportunities. Throughout the day, the Skipper works closely with the guide and driver to adapt strategy based on wildlife movement and conditions.
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The dawn to dusk format allows us to experience the full rhythm of the forest. Beyond tigers, we may encounter Leopards, Sloth Bears,, Hyenas, Jackals, Crocodiles, and a rich variety of birds, making each drive unique.
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Evenings are reserved for rest, dinner, and image discussions. The Skipper offers feedback and practical suggestions to help refine technique and storytelling, ensuring steady learning through the tour. If a tiger encounter unfolds, every effort is made to position participants optimally for viewing and photography.

Day 5: Optional Morning Safari and Departure.

Participants may opt for an optional morning safari in Panna, subject to availability. This safari is not included in the tour cost and will be priced based on the number of participants choosing this extension.
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After the optional safari, we return to the lodge, check out, and transfer to Khajuraho or Jabalpur for onward journeys. The tour concludes with memories, images, and stories shaped by the forests and rivers of Panna.
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Please speak to us in advance regarding your flight plans and interest in the optional morning safari so arrangements can be planned accordingly.