Night Photography in the Marico
Capture the cosmos where darkness meets stillness
For photographers—amateur and professional alike—the Marico night offers a rare opportunity to capture the untamed beauty of the cosmos. With zero light pollution, vast open skies, and striking natural landscapes, this is a playground for low-light and astrophotography.
Whether you’re shooting the Milky Way rising over rocky outcrops, experimenting with long-exposure star trails, or framing the full moon over a waterhole, the Marico transforms into a night-time canvas like no other.
Why Shoot in the Marico?
Abundant wildlife – nocturnal activity may surprise you with an unexpected subject
Pristine dark skies – no city glow to spoil long exposures
Dramatic landscapes – silhouetted trees, cliffs, and grasslands add foreground interest
Still, quiet nights – ideal for uninterrupted, tripod-based photography
What to Bring
DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings
Tripod (essential for long exposures)
Wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster ideal for star shots)
Remote shutter release or timer function
Extra batteries (cold nights drain power fast)
Suggested Photo Opportunities
Campfire or lodge lighting with the night sky as backdrop for moody portraits
Milky Way arches over the bushveld during winter months
Star trails framed by iconic acacia trees or koppies
Silhouetted wildlife or natural features by moonlight
Reflections of stars on still water in rivers or dams
Pro Tips
Stay warm, be patient—and let nature guide your lens
Plan your shoot around new moon phases for the darkest skies
Use apps like Stellarium or PhotoPills to track constellations and moonrise times
Whether you’re here to shoot for the stars or simply to capture the soul of the bush at night, the Marico offers a rare kind of magic—one that lingers in your photographs long after your journey ends.
maricogetaway.com 