Save the date!
The 5th Mopane Meeting on Visual & Physiological Optics will be celebrated between 25 and 30 August 2025 in Bakubung Lodge in the Pilansberg, South Africa!

Important dates
- Abstract submission opens 17 February 2025
- Abstract submission deadline 15 March 2025
- Abstract review notification sent to first authors 5 May 2025
- Registration and accommodation bookings open 17 February 2025
- Early bird payment deadline 15 May 2025
- Final registration and bookings close 15 June 2025
- Final payments 15 July 2025
Please note that dates are earlier than the traditional VPO deadlines to give delegates the opportunity to book flights, hire a vehicle and make arrangements.

Attendees of the Mopane 1996 Meeting on Visual & Physiological Optics
Registration fees | Attendee | Student | Accompanying person |
Early-bird conference package (until 15 May) | R6500 (~340€) | R5500 (~285€) | No fee |
Regular conference package (until 15 July) | R7700 | R6700 | No fee |
- Please note that payment will be in South African Rands. An estimate is provided in Euros for comparison but the exact amount will depend on the exchange rate on the day of payment.
- The conference fees include: all conferencing, lunch and two tea and snacks daily, conference bag, book of abstracts.
Most recent updates
Venue and accommodations
For this 5th Mopane meeting, we have carefully chosen Bakubung Bush Lodge in the Pilanesberg National Park, a malaria-free game reserve just two and a half hours drive from Johannesburg, South Africa. Bakubung has full conference facilities with an African theme. The reserve is host to a wide variety of animals, birds, reptiles and trees and includes the so-called big five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo).
The style of Mopane meetings is to combine the academic meeting with a lot of networking and discussion time, with a true African bushveld experience. There will be ample time to go on game drives and adventurous delegates can book one of the many activities on offer at the bush lodge such as a game walk or even a hot air balloon ride. Delegates are encouraged to bring along their families to enjoy this African experience.

The accommodation package includes dinner and breakfast and four-star accommodation in a Standard Twin Room. Each room has two double beds and can accommodate two adults and two children. The en-suite bathroom has both a bath and shower. The lower floors have a patio and upper floor rooms have a balcony. All rooms come standard with air conditioning and coffee and tea-making facilities.
Accommodation package for 5 nights | Attendee | Accompanying adult | Child 13 – 17 y.o. | Child < 13 y.o. |
Early bird (until 15 May) | R12000 (~625€) | R6000 (~320€) | R1500 (~100€) | R400 (~21€) |
Regular (until 15 July) | R14000 | R7000 | R1700 | R500 |
- Please note that payment will be in South African Rands. An estimate is provided in Euros for comparison but the exact amount will depend on the exchange rate on the day of payment.
Topics focused on visual and physiological optics
The VPO meetings are special because they bring together researchers, clinicians and other professionals working in the combined field of “visual and physiological optics”, such as vision science, optometry, ophthalmology, biomedical engineering, ocular physiology, and others.
Technology and eye models
- Cutting-edge VPO technologies
- Innovative eye diagnostics
- Subjective and objective retinal image quality
- Modern procedures of vision correction
- AI applied to vision science
- Wavefronts and aberrations


Vision science & ocular physiology
- Retina and subretinal layers
- Tear film and cornea
- Ocular biomechanics
- Crystalline and intraocular lens
- Anterior segment imaging
- Contact lenses
Game drives
As part of your visit we invite you to take a break from the sessions and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa with an unforgettable game drive near Pilanesberg. Just a short journey from the conference venue, these guided excursions in rugged off-road vehicles will take you deep into the heart of a spectacular game reserve, where you’ll have the chance to witness Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. From majestic elephants and towering giraffes to elusive leopards and powerful lions, every moment on the drive promises excitement and awe.


Led by expert rangers, these safaris provide not only stunning up-close encounters with wildlife but also fascinating insights into the region’s rich ecosystem. Whether you’re an avid nature lover or simply looking for a unique and relaxing way to unwind, this is an experience you won’t want to miss. Join us as we explore the wonders of the African bush—where every turn of the trail reveals a new adventure! Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early.