International Tiger Day: Introducing My New Winter Tigers Photo Tour
Every year on 29th July, International Tiger Day shines a spotlight on one of the world's most remarkable animals.
Having just returned from another wonderful three weeks photographing tigers in India, and with a brand new Winter Tigers Photo Tour launching for 2027 (details below), it felt like the perfect opportunity to share why seeing Bengal tigers in the wild still excites me every bit as much as it did on my very first visit.
Our latest photo safari was exceptionally rewarding. We enjoyed plentiful tiger sightings throughout the trip, and it was a pleasure to watch guests return home not only with photographs they were proud of, but also with unforgettable memories of spending time in the company of one of nature's greatest predators.
Seeing Tigers in the Wild Never Gets Old
People often ask whether photographing the same species year after year ever becomes repetitive. The answer is quite simply, no.
Every tiger behaves differently. Every sighting unfolds in its own way. The changing light, the surrounding landscape and the animal's behaviour ensure that no two encounters are ever the same.
Sometimes a tiger appears only briefly before disappearing back into the forest. On other occasions, it may walk confidently along the track or pause long enough for everyone to appreciate the moment and capture a photograph.
Those moments are impossible to predict, and that uncertainty is part of what makes photographing tigers so rewarding.
More Than Just a Tiger Photograph…
Of course, everyone hopes to return home with wonderful tiger images.
But what stays with most people long after a photography safari to India has finished is the experience itself.
Watching a tiger emerge silently from the forest, hearing alarm calls echo through the trees, or simply spending time observing one of the world's most iconic animals in its natural habitat are memories that last far longer than any photograph.
For me, those moments are every bit as important as the images we create.
Supporting Tiger Conservation
International Tiger Day is also an important reminder that these magnificent animals still need our protection.
Although tiger numbers have improved in parts of India thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, their future depends on continued habitat protection, responsible tourism and ongoing support for conservation initiatives.
Photographic safaris, when carried out responsibly, help demonstrate the value of protecting these extraordinary animals and the landscapes they call home.
A New Winter Tigers Photo Tour for 2027
If you'd prefer to photograph Bengal tigers in a completely different setting, I'm pleased to be introducing a brand new Winter Tigers Photo Tour in January 2027.
Unlike my May tours, which take place during the hotter, drier months when tigers are often easier to find around waterholes, the winter safari offers a very different photographic experience. The forests are lush and green, morning mist and fog can add atmosphere to your images, and the tigers themselves have thicker, richer winter coats.
Because the foliage is denser, winter tiger photography can be more challenging, but it also presents the opportunity to create images that stand apart from those captured during the more traditional safari season.
To maximise our opportunities, the itinerary includes six days in Bandhavgarh National Park, including two full-day drives, giving us extended access to the park and the flexibility to photograph throughout the day when visitor numbers are much lower.
As with all my photographic safaris, groups are kept deliberately small, with just six photographers and a maximum of two photographers per vehicle, ensuring everyone has space to work comfortably and receive individual guidance throughout the tour.
Join Me in India in 2027
If photographing Bengal tigers has always been on your wish list, I'd love you to join me in India.
For 2027, there are now three opportunities to photograph these remarkable animals:
Winter Tigers Photo Tour – 12–21 January 2027 – a new tour designed to capture tigers in the lush winter landscapes of Bandhavgarh, with two all-day drives included. Reserve your place by 1 September 2026 to receive US$250 off the tour price (subject to availability).
Tigers of India Photo Safari – 4–13 May or 11–20 May 2027. Reserve your place by 1 September 2026 to receive US$500 off the tour price (subject to availability).
Whether you prefer the fresh greens and misty mornings of winter or the warmer conditions of late spring, both tours offer exceptional opportunities to experience and photograph Bengal tigers in one of the world's finest tiger reserves.
Related: Experience the Majestic Bengal Tigers of India on a Photo Tour
2027 Tiger Safari Tour Dates
12–21 January 2027
4th–13th May 2027
11th–20th May 2027
If you choose the 4th–13th May departure, it can also be combined with my 16-day Wildlife of India Photo Safari for an even broader wildlife experience.
If you've ever wanted to experience Bengal tigers in the wild, International Tiger Day feels like the perfect time to start planning.
I hope to welcome you to India.
Indian Wildlife Photography
Don’t forget to explore my wildlife photography books, which feature some of my best Bengal tiger photographs and other incredible big cats.
Also, please subscribe to receive wildlife photography tips, news and advance notice about print releases, safaris, new destinations and subscriber offers.
David
