Activities

Keeping busy in the bush

Zimanga Activities

Open-vehicle Safaris

Head out on an age-old traditional African safari in search of magic in the bush

Zimanga Photo Boat

Become part of the herd as they swim during blistering summer days

Mkhombe Birdbath

Brilliant small-bird photography from Zimanga’s very first photo hide

The Lagoon Hide

Spend a morning or afternoon immersed in the life of waterbirds

Bhejane Birdbath

Built in thicker habitat type, this small bird hide attracts secretive denizens of the bush

Umgodi Overnight Hide

Staying up all night for that one shot…

Scavengers Hill

An action-packed early morning gathering

Tamboti Overnight Hide

From late afternoon birdlife to nocturnal visits

Mobile Bee Eater Hide

Spend quality time with these birds during their breeding season

The Forest Hide

Out of commission – Hide to be moved and redesigned soon

The Tower Hide

Waiting 8m above ground level, a breeding site used by summer migrants

Multiple Vehicle Lighting

Head out in the hours of darkness, following up on the Zimanga pride by making use of multiple vehicles for dramatic lighting effects

Astrophotography

Your ranger accompanies you to a photogenic spot in the middle of the bush for star photography

Catch and release fishing excursion

Head to the large Hlambanyathi dam to try catch a tigerfish. They say you only successfully land 1 in 10

Please enquire regarding availability whilst here

What our guests say

“Thank you for the most incredible experience. Fantastic staff who went out of their way to help and our amazing and very knowledgeable guide Matt”
Tricia Hendry, July 2024
“I can’t thank your staff and wonderful game drivers, Calvin and Jono, enough for the amazing time we had. Their knowledge of the wildlife is exceptional. This was my first ever photography safari and it’s blown me away. I’d highly recommend Zimanga to anyone who wants to get close to wildlife.”
Jayne Hutching, Aug 2024
“The facilities and staff are among if not the best. We have experience in traveling to over 50 countries! Staff very good at names and remembering our preferences. Chef was amazing “
Mike and Patricia Poulter, August 2024
“Top class differentiated offering, unique hide concept, attention to detail and execution. Food and Beverage rivalled the accommodation. Vegetable garden made an impact on the taste and freshness. Only attended two hides above and both offered 10/10 unique experience. Zimanga are pioneers in this aspect, well-done on this creative concept.”
Rodger Browne, March 2024
“The trip surpassed my expectations both as to photographic objectives and an excellent stay at the lodge. I wish to congratulate you on the degree of excellence and commitment to service of all your staff and the quality of your accommodations and food. I will highly recommend Zimanga to my photographic acquaintances. A very special hello to Hendri who made things happen during game drives. Thanks again.”
Alex Furman, Aug/Sept 2023
Zimanga which means “miracle” in Zulu is exactly that for photography enthusiasts, whether your passion is the big five or birds. The wildlife is abundant and the hides are ...well, I’m not sure the hides exist anywhere else in the world. A picture says a thousand words...so here are just a few I took on my iphone... Oh, and the lodge is 5 star by normal standards. By bush standards I rate them 500 stars. The staff, simply exceptional and super friendly beyond any expectation. - christinaanywhere April 2019
Unparalleled Photo Safari Experience
This reserve is such a special place. Completely geared towards wildlife photography. I am a novice and after a week here with two professional wildlife photographers, Steve and Ann Toon, I was taking the most incredible photos, which I am extremely proud of. The animals are respected and plentiful. The accommodation is luxury, beautiful place to stay. The food is endless and delicious, such a great. Our guide Hendri was knowledgeable and a talented tracker. The staff are friendly, enthusiastic and helpful. I will definitely be returning... I can't recommend highly enough - Grrranville June 2019
Most amazing trip of my life
I have visited Zimanga on two occasions now and each time I have been awestruck by the facilities, guides, catering, accommodation and most of all the amazing opportunity to take unique photographs of all manner of African animals in the wild. The facilities and accessibility are world class -Tadman2, Huddersfield UK, June 2018
Probably the most remarkable venue for seeing and photographing African wildlife and enjoying the ultimate hospitality
This year was our third visit and won't be our last. Zimanga gives a whole new dimension to wildlife photography and is available to all who visit. To maximise the opportunities a 7 day package is a must as there is ample time to experience all the photographic hides and get those' once in a lifetime spectacular images'. Southern African wildlife 'up close and personal' like you cannot imagine. We love this place! - BongoBickford Auckland, New Zealand. Oct 2019
A Wildlife Photographers Dream Come True!
“Despite it being my 7th or 8th visit your reserve the service, the food and the warm feeling never seems to amaze me. Judith and I had a wonderful stay and really happy with her sightings. Tyron was great and we managed to have fantastic sightings not to mention Judith crying with emotion on experiencing Cheetah so close. For me the Black Rhino and Rock Python sightings were beyond words. See you soon and Judith now wants to bring the family next time. Once again many many thanks to you and the team.”
Richard and Judith Baker, March 2023