Overview

Herping and macro photography in the Western Ghats reveal a world often missed on traditional wildlife safaris. This biodiversity hotspot comes alive after dusk, when forest trails, streams, and leaf litter begin to move with reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Nights are spent slowly scanning paths and vegetation, focusing on behavior, textures, and detail rather than speed. Commonly encountered snakes include the Malabar pit viper, bamboo pit viper, vine snake, rat snake, and, occasionally, the spectacled cobra. The region is equally rich in amphibians, with frequent sightings of Malabar gliding frogs, bush frogs (Raorchestes), Indian bullfrogs, and torrent frogs near streams. Macro photography here emphasizes close observation. Eyes, scales, skin patterns, and micro-habitats under controlled light. Combined with expert guidance, the experience is immersive and educational, offering a deeper understanding of the Western Ghats’ lesser-seen wildlife and its incredible diversity at close range.

Key Highlights :

• 4 nights at a forest resort.

• extensive evening and night trail walks to spot rare reptiles, amphibians and insects.

• Field insights and professional guidance from a veteran nature and photography mentor.

Itinerary

Day 1:

The journey begins at Hubbali airport, where our representatives will receive you and escort you via ground transport to our homestay at Amboli. Reach your resort in the afternoon and after check-in, you will be welcomed with a lavish lunch. After lunch, get some rest and prepare for your first evening trail walk for a macro session accompanied by local field guides and a mentor from Wyldistan. After the evening session comeback for dinner. If you're up to it we would go for another macro session in the night.

Day 2 to 4:

Wake up and enjoy your morning cup of tea and enjoy breakfast followed by some time to rest. Spend the afternoon with your mentor reviewing last night's photos and interacting with co-travellers. Post lunch, get some rest. In the evening walking safari. In the evening start for your evening trail walk for a macro session accompanied by local field guides and a mentor from Wyldistan. After the evening session comeback for dinner. If you're up to it we would go for another macro session in the night.

Day 5:

Wake up and enjoy your morning cup of tea followed by breakfast and get ready to checkout from Amboli. Ground transport would be provided to take you to Hubbali. You will be dropped at your hotel or the airport, from where you can continue to your onward journey.

Cost & Terms

Price per person : Pricing shared upon enquiry

Payment Terms:

• Payment should be made in full before the commencement of the trip.

Inclusions:

• Pick up and drop from Hubbali.

• All meals(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) during your stay at Amboli

• 4 nights accommodation in a resort at Amboli on double occupancy basis. (Single occupancy is subject to an additional 30% supplement)

• 8 Rounds of walking trail safari in the forest.

• All park entry fee and permit charges.

• All government formalities.

• Fixed driver for all safaris.

• Driver fee

• Guide fee

• Driver stay.

• Wyldistan services

Exclusions:

• Any meals before the pick up from Hubbali and after the drop at Hubbali.

• Does not include any Medical or Travel insurance.

• Does not include any kind of alcoholic(Strictly banned within the park limits) or soft beverages.

• Does not include any tip or gratuity for the driver, guide, and resort staff.

• Does not include anything that is not mentioned above.

• Any extra cost due to any unforeseen condition, such as delay/cancellation of flight, natural calamity, political unrest, etc.

• Any personal medicines

• Wyldistan will not be held responsible for tour cancellations resulting from force majeure events.

• Camera fee if any.

Refund policy:

• 80% of the booking amount is refunded if cancellation is done 45 days prior to the trip commencement.

• No refund if cancellation is done within 44-0 days prior to the trip commencement.

Please note:

• All prices are excluding taxes. 5% GST would be applicable.

• Check in time at the resort is 12:00PM and check out time is 10:00AM.

Do's & Don'ts

✅ Do’s

• Follow all instructions given by forest officials and guides

• Maintain silence to avoid disturbing wildlife

• Stay inside the safari vehicle at all times

• Keep a safe distance from animals

• Wear muted, earthy colors to blend with the surroundings

• Carry binoculars and cameras without flash

• Dispose of waste responsibly, carry it back with you

• Respect forest rules and safari timings

❌ Don’ts

• Do not feed or attempt to attract animals

• Do not litter or throw food inside the forest

• Avoid loud talking, shouting, or playing music

• Do not use camera flash or spotlight animals

• Do not stand up, lean out, or exit the vehicle

• Avoid smoking or lighting fires

• Do not chase wildlife or pressure drivers for close sightings

• Never collect plants, feathers, or natural souvenirs

Following these guidelines helps protect wildlife, supports conservation, and ensures a safe, ethical safari experience for everyone.

Herping in the Western Ghats (4N5D)

Season (15 Jul to 30 Sep)