For the avid photographer, seeking the ultimate shot, a hide promises to deliver moments that are nothing short of extraordinary.

Underground or above ground, a photographic hide is strategically positioned to facilitate an epic photo opportunity. Sunken into the earth in an area with a high density of animal traffic, often in close proximity to a waterhole, some hides are state-of-the-art structures with comfortable seats, lens mounts, bean bags and boxes of cold drinks. Others are rustic thatched hideaways placed for seasonal activity such as nesting birds.

When to visit a hide

Hides are lovely little addition to the experiences offered by lodges and camps. Your guide may pass by the location of the hide mid-game drive and if there are signs of animals approaching you can jump out of the vehicle and take up position. Alternatively if a hide is within the proximity of your lodge you can nip down in the middle of the day, between activities.

Spending a couple of quiet hours in a hide can really reap rewards. Depending on the time of day you visit, you may spot a Yellow-billed stork stealthily hunting its breakfast, you'll have to react quickly to capture the Pied Kingfisher as it dives for lunch but you'll need a bigger memory card for when the gentle giant eles visit for their afternoon mud bath.

Seasonal hides

Wildlife migrations are a big part of Africa's safari calendar, be it the immense thunder of wildebeest hooves on grassy plains, or the beat of thousands of wings as vast flocks of birds arrive for their annual sojourn. Many lodges and camps capitalise on these migrations by building a hide in the best position when the migration arrives. 

We love the addition of a hide, or a lookout, and they are certainly not just for keen photographers. Spending time in a hide provides a new perspective, a chance to reflect and absorb. Hides are most rewarding when given plenty of time, its an experience that can't be rushed. So much so, that if you want to spend an entire day in a hide we can arrange it.