Zimanga Hides & Chobe River
The Wildlife
Accommodation
Transport
Photo Safari Map
Overview
This 13-day small-group wildlife photo safari combines two distinct environments - Zimanga Private Game Reserve’s purpose-built hides and the waterways of Botswana’s incredible Chobe River.
You’ll focus on behaviour, light, and positioning across both land and water-based locations. At Zimanga, sunken hides provide controlled, eye-level perspectives ideal for birds, mammals, and clean backgrounds, while open vehicle drives allow for more dynamic scenes, with lions and cheetah often encountered.
On the Chobe River, specialised photo boats offer stable, water-level access to elephants, hippos, and prolific birdlife.
Timed for September, when conditions are dry and wildlife is concentrated, this safari is led by experienced photo host Mike Tilley and suits beginner to advanced photographers looking to capture a fantastic blend of wildlife and experiences.
Why Choose This Safari
- Maximum of 6 photographers
- Split into two groups of 3 at Zimanga for space and flexibility across hides and game drives
- Lions and cheetahs are regularly encountered on Zimanga game drives
- Three nights on the Chobe River aboard the Pangolin Voyager Houseboat
- Exclusive use of a specialised photo boat with swivel seats and gimbal mounts
- Water-level photography of elephants, hippos, and abundant birdlife along the Chobe River
- Led by experienced photo host Mike Tilley with practical, in-field guidance
- Time at sightings — no rushing, allowing you to wait for the right behaviour, light, and composition
Tour Leader
Mike Tilley is a South African photographic guide who began his career at the well-known MalaMala Game Reserve.
He has a calm, easy-going approach and provides practical, in-field guidance tailored to each guest, whether building confidence with camera settings or refining technique in more advanced situations.
Learn more about Mike on the Tour Leaders Page → HERE
Location
ZIMANGA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE – SOUTH AFRICA
Zimanga is purpose-built for photography, with a network of specialised hides offering eye-level perspectives of birds and mammals in controlled, natural settings. Open vehicle drives complement the hides, with opportunities to photograph lions, cheetah, and general game across varied bushveld landscapes.
CHOBE RIVER – BOTSWANA
The Chobe River supports large numbers of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, along with abundant birdlife. Boat-based photography allows for low angles, clean backgrounds, and close encounters, with constantly changing light and reflections creating diverse opportunities.
Photographers Per Vehicle
ZIMANGA
- The group of 6 is split into two groups of 3, ensuring plenty of space during both hide sessions and game drives. Each group follows the same schedule on alternate days, so everyone has equal opportunities while keeping the experience intimate and uncrowded.
CHOBE RIVER
- All 6 guests, along with Mike, will have exclusive use of a private photographic boat. Swivel chairs and low-angle setups allow the group to comfortably explore the Chobe's river channels
Mike is on hand to assist wherever possible and works closely with the experienced local Zimanga guide and the boat captain to maximise each opportunity.
Vehicle Congestion
GAME DRIVES - ZIMANGA
- Vehicle density at Zimanga is kept very low, with strict limits in place
- No more than two other vehicles are typically allowed at a sighting, and many encounters are enjoyed on your own
- Off-road driving is permitted, allowing for better positioning and more controlled photographic angles
PHOTO BOAT - CHOBE RIVER
- Morning sessions are generally very quiet, often with only a few other boats on the water
- Afternoons can see more boat activity along the main river sections, especially near high wildlife concentrations
- Your boat captian will often move into quieter channels and less busy areas to maintain space and a more relaxed shooting environment
Accommodation
ZIMANGA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE – MAIN LODGE
Zimanga offers a comfortable, well-designed lodge set within a private reserve dedicated to photography. The lodge allows easy access to hides and game drive areas, allowing you to move efficiently between sessions while still enjoying a high level of comfort.
- Style: Brick & Mortar
- Power: 24/7 power available
- Recharging: In-room power points (South African Type M and standard international plugs)
- WiFi: Available in rooms, main lodge areas, and in the photographic hides
- Workspace: Desk or table space available in rooms and communal areas
- Bathroom: Private en-suite
- Toilet: Flush toilet
- Vanity: Wash basin with running water
- Shower: Indoor shower with hot and cold water (24/7)
PANGOLIN VOYAGER HOUSEBOAT – CHOBE RIVER
The Pangolin Voyager Houseboat offers a unique stay on the Chobe River, combining comfort with direct access to daily boat-based photography. You’ll stay on the water, with wildlife often seen directly from the boat, creating a relaxed and immersive experience between photo sessions.
- Style: Private room on a houseboat
- Power: 24/7 power available
- Recharging: In-cabin power points (international plugs and USB charging)
- WiFi: Available on board in cabins and communal areas
- Workspace: Limited workspace in cabins; communal lounge areas available for image review
- Bathroom: Private en-suite
- Toilet: Flush toilet
- Vanity: Wash basin with running water
- Shower: Indoor shower with hot and cold water (24/7)
Weather
☀️ ZIMANGA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (SOUTH AFRICA)
September is a dry, stable month, with clear skies and consistent conditions. Vegetation is thinner, making wildlife easier to spot, and water sources attract regular animal activity. Light is generally clean and predictable, ideal for both hides and game drives.
- Daytime: Warm and comfortable, typically 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
- Early morning: Cooler, usually 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F), so a light jacket is recommended
☀️ CHOBE RIVER (BOTSWANA)
September is one of the best months for wildlife along the Chobe River, as dry conditions concentrate animals along the water. Days are generally clear with strong, consistent light, while mornings offer softer conditions ideal for photography on the river.
- Daytime: Hot, typically 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F)
- Early morning: Mild and pleasant, usually 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
A Day On Safari
Zimanga Game Drive Sessions:
- Early morning tea/coffee before departing on game drive
- Photograph through the cool morning hours, focusing on behaviour and soft light
- Return to the lodge around 11:00 for brunch
- Midday at leisure: rest, recharge gear, or image review
- Late lunch before afternoon session
- Afternoon game drive with only 3 photographers per vehicle
- Drives often extend into the evening for low-light and nocturnal opportunities
- ☀️ Sunrise: ± 05:50 am
☀️ Sunset: ± 17:50 pm
Zimanga Hide Sessions:
- Overnight hides: enter in late afternoon, shoot through the night and into early morning
- Floodlit waterholes with alarm systems to alert you to approaching wildlife
- Return to the lodge after morning light for breakfast
- Single-session hides include early morning scavenger hides and afternoon bird and lagoon hides
Chobe River: (Photo Boat Experience)
- Stay aboard the Pangolin Voyager Houseboat, with immediate access to the river
- Early morning wake-up with a light breakfast
- Step straight onto the photo boat, aiming to be on the water before sunrise
- 3 to 4 hour boat ride exploring the Chobe River
- Return to the houseboat for brunch
- Midday at leisure: rest, downloads, and image review
- Afternoon tea/coffee before heading back out
- Afternoon boat session through to sunset
- Return to the houseboat for dinner and overnight stay
- ☀️ Sunrise: ± 05:40 am
☀️ Sunset: ± 17:40 pm
Gear List
CAMERA BODY:
- 24 megapixels or higher recommended for this wildlife photography safari
- Two camera bodies strongly recommended – backup if one fails and avoids changing lenses in the field
- Mirrorless or DSLR cameras are suitable
LENSES:
- 24mm f2.8: Great for wide angle images f2.8 lenses are very helpful in low light
- 70–200mm f/2.8: Again, a wider aperture will be very helpful in low light
- Up to 500mm (prime or zoom): Essential for distant wildlife and predator action
ACCESSORIES:
- Binoculars recommended
- Tripods and Gimbals are provided at Zimanga, bring an empty beanbag for photography from the vehicle (they can be filled at the lodge)
- Swivel seats and gimbals are provided on the boat when at the Chobe River
- Spare batteries and memory cards
- Laptop (recommended) for image review
For more in-depth guidance on what to bring, we are happy to discuss your setup via Zoom or email.
VISA
It is your responsibility to ensure that any VISAS (if applicable to you) are in place before departure.
Regulations can change, so we recommend checking official government websites prior to travel.
❖ Passport must be valid for 6 months after travel with a minimum of 4 blank pages.
❖ If needed, we can provide an official itinerary and booking confirmation to support your application.
❖ We recommend applying at least 3 weeks prior to travel.
- SOUTH AFRICA (The safari begins & ends in South Africa)
> Most nationalities (including USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada) do not require a visa for short tourist visits (typically up to 90 days).
> Entry is granted on arrival.
> Always check current requirements before travel as these are subject to change without notice.
- BOTSWANA
> Most nationalities (including USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada) do not require a visa for short tourist visits (up to 90 days).
> Entry is granted on arrival.
> Always check current requirements before travel as these are subject to change without notice.
- NAMIBIA
- The houseboat is on the Namibian side of the Chobe River, so after landing in Kasane (Botswana) you have to cross the border to get to Namibia)
> Citizens from the USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, and many other countries are required to obtain a visa to enter Namibia for tourism (effective April 2025).
> Visas can be obtained on arrival or applied for online in advance via the official e-Visa system (approx. USD $85). Namibian VISA online
> Always check current requirements before travel as these are subject to change without notice.
Travel Insurance
- All guests must have travel insurance in place prior to departure
- Your policy should cover medical emergencies, delays, and photographic equipment
- Trip cancellation cover is recommended for added protection
- Some insurers require this cover to be arranged soon after your deposit is paid
- For full details, please refer to our Booking Terms & Conditions for details of what happens if you have to cancel.
Medical
- No strenuous walking is involved; however, guests should be comfortable sitting for extended periods in a safari vehicle and on a boat
- It is your responsibility to consult your doctor or travel clinic well in advance for vaccinations and malaria advice
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate OR DOCTORS EXEMPTION letter is required if arriving from, or transiting through, a yellow fever country
- Travellers arriving directly from non-risk Yellow Fever countries are not required to provide proof
FAQ
- Do I need prior photography experience to join this safari?
No. This safari suits both beginners and experienced photographers. Mike provides practical, in-field guidance to help you build confidence or refine your technique.
- What makes Zimanga’s hides different from normal game drives?
The hides offer eye-level photography in a controlled setting, allowing for clean backgrounds and close encounters. You sit and wait patiently for animals to come to you.
- How much time do we spend at sightings?
There is no rushing. You’ll have time to wait for behaviour, work the light, and refine your compositions.
- What is the luggage allowance for the light aircraft flights?
Light aircraft flights typically have strict luggage limits, however we have arranged extra weight allowance. Each person can bring a maximum of 35kg (77 lbs).
** Please note that you MUST bring a soft duffle or roller bag (NO HARD SUITCASES)
- What kind of variety can I expect from this safari?
A strong mix of hides, game drives, and boat photography, covering predators, general wildlife, and birdlife across two very different environments.
- What wildlife might I see on this photo safari to Zimanga and the Chobe River?
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- ➤ ZIMANGA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (SOUTH AFRICA) - MAMMALS - September
• Lion
• Leopard
• Cheetah
• Spotted Hyena
• Black Rhino
• Elephant
• White Rhino
• Giraffe
• Plains Zebra
• Blue Wildebeest
• Nyala
• Impala- ➤ ZIMANGA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (SOUTH AFRICA) - BIRDS - September
• Cape Griffon Vulture
• African Fish Eagle
• Giant Kingfisher
• Pied Kingfisher
• Malachite Kingfisher
• African Jacana
• African Spoonbill
• Yellow-billed Stork
• Woodland Kingfisher
• Lilac-breasted Roller
• Green Twinspot
• Red-billed Oxpecker- ➤ CHOBE RIVER (BOTSWANA) - MAMMALS - September
• Lion
• Leopard
• Elephant
• Cape Buffalo
• Hippopotamus
• Chacma Baboon
• Vervet Monkey
• Chobe Bushbuck
• Waterbuck
• Impala
• Puku Antelope
• Greater Kudu- ➤ CHOBE RIVER (BOTSWANA) - BIRDS - September
• African Skimmer
• Collared Pratincole
• Goliath Heron
• Grey Heron
• Purple Heron
• Saddle-billed Stork
• Yellow-billed Stork
• African Darter
• Reed Cormorant
• Great White Pelican
• Open-billed Stork
• African Fish Eagle
Summary
This South Africa and Botswana photo safari is a 13-day small-group wildlife photography tour combining Zimanga’s specialised hides with boat-based photography on the Chobe River.
Designed for photographers who value light, behaviour, and positioning, it offers a well-balanced mix of photo hides, classic game drives, and water-level shooting.
With only six guests and expert guidance from Mike Tilley, this photographic safari provides the time, space, and variety needed to build a diverse wildlife photography portfolio.
Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg – Overnight
You will be met at OR Tambo International Airport and escorted to your airport hotel for overnight accommodation
1 night in JHB at CITY LODGE HOTEL
→ 19:00pm group dinner & drinks included
→ Laundry NOT included
Days 2–8: Zimanga Private Game Reserve – 7 Nights
Fly from Johannesburg to Durban and transfer by road to Zimanga Private Game Reserve. Spend seven nights in luxury en-suite accommodation, combining open-vehicle game drives and sessions in the reserve’s renowned hides. These activities are designed to maximise opportunities for close-up wildlife and bird photography.
Groups of six are split into two groups of three for a mix of game drive and hide activities, ensuring intimate experiences.
7 nights spent at ZIMANGA LODGE
2x night hide sessions per person
1x scavenger hide session per person
1x lagoon hide session per person
1x Bhejane (small bird) hide session per person
→ All meals included
→ Drinks included
→ Laundry included
Day 9: Ballito – Overnight
Enjoy your final morning at Zimanga before transferring by road to Ballito (near King Shaka Airport) for an overnight stay ahead of travel into Botswana.
1 night at COCO DE MER, BALLITO
→ All meals included
→ Drinks included
→ Laundry NOT included
Days 10–12: Chobe River – Pangolin Voyager Houseboat
Today you will catch two flights to get you to the Chobe River. On arrival you will be met and transferred to the border post to allow you to cross into Namibia. (the reason for this is that the Housboat is moored on the Namibian side of the Chobe River). Travel by small boat to the Pangolin Voyager Houseboat. This will be your new home for three nights. Morning and afternoon excursions along the river explore dynamic wildlife scenes, large herds, crocodiles, hippos, and abundant birdlife.
3 night at the Chobe River on the PANGOLIN VOYAGER HOUSEBOAT
→ All meals included
→ Drinks included
→ Laundry included
Day 14: Depart Botswana to JHB / OR optional extension to Victoria Falls
After a final morning photo excursion, fly back to Johannesburg for your international departure. OR - if you wanted to add a 2 night stay at the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, this can be arranged.. please let us know at the time of your booking. MORE info in the EXTENSIONS TAB.
→ Breakfast & lunch included
Two night optional extension to the VICTORIA FALLS in Zimbabwe
OVERVIEW
With one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World only 3 hours away by road, this is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of our 2-night extension to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
After your final morning photoshoot on the boat & breakfast, we will arrange for you to take a road transfer from Kasane, through the Kazangula border crossing and into Zimbabwe. You will arrive at your lodge in Victoria Falls in time for lunch.
You will have the opportunity to visit this famous waterfall as well as partake in the many activities that are on offer at the Falls, such as helicopter rides, white water rafting, sunset cruises, game drives, night drives, walk with Lions, elephant rides and more. All of these can be arranged on arrival by the lodge reception staff.
After your two night stay, you will have a road transfer to the Victoria Falls airport for your flight back to Johannesburg, arriving in the mid-afternoon.
If you are interested in doing this 2-night extension to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, then please let us know at the time of your enquiry.
PRICE:
$ Please enquire
THE VICTORIA FALLS
David Livingstone, the Scottish missionary and explorer, is believed to have been the first European to view the falls on 16 November 1855. Livingstone named his sighting in honour of Queen Victoria, but the Sotho language name, Mosi-oa-Tunya "The Smoke That Thunders", continues in common usage. The World Heritage List officially recognises both names.
While it is neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, the Victoria Falls are classified the largest, based on its combined width of 1,708 metres (5,604 ft) and height of 108 metres (354 ft), resulting in the world's largest sheet of falling water. The Victoria Falls are roughly twice the height of North America's Niagara Falls and well over twice its width.
The river that flows over the falls is the Zambezi. This is Africa's 4th longest river with its source in Zambia. It flows through 6 different countries before it empties into the Indian Ocean on Africa's East Coast.
Itinerary
Day 1
Road transfer from Chobe River across the border into Zimbabwe. Reach Victoria Falls for lunch
Depart after breakfast from Chobe by road to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. You would arrive at your hotel in time for lunch - visit the falls in the afternoon (overnight Victoria Falls)
You will stay for 2 nights in Victoria Falls at ILALA LODGE
(Bed & Breakfast only)
Day 2
Full day to explore the area
Full day spent at Victoria Falls, visiting the Falls and doing optional activities.
(Bed & Breakfast only)
Day 3
Final morning activity then depart for Johannesburg from Victoria Falls Airport
Depart after a final morning activity and breakfast for Victoria Falls airport - fly back to Johannesburg arriving in the mid-afternoon. Connect with your international flight home.
(Bed & Breakfast only)
Included
Road Transfers
2 nights in Victoria Falls
Not Included
Visa fees
Laundry not indicated
Meals & drinks not indicated
Entrance fees to view the Falls
All other activities
Tips for hotel staff, drivers/guides
STEP 1 - PLEASE READ OUR BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS
We first recommend that you read and become familiar with our booking terms & conditions, which can be found on this page, under the PRICES box.
STEP 2 - GET IN TOUCH
Get in touch with us to confirm that there are still spaces available on the photo safari that you are interested in. Click on the “ENQUIRE NOW” button above.
STEP 3 - AWAIT A REPLY FROM US & THEN CREATE YOUR CLIENT ACCOUNT
Once we confirm with you that there is space available, and you would like to join the safari, we will send you a direct link via email. Follow this unique link to sign up to our CLIENT AREA. After you have registered with your name, email address and a password of your choice, you will then be asked to complete our online booking form.
STEP 4 - COMPLETE A BOOKING FORM
As soon as we receive your completed booking form/s (1 per participant) then you will be required to send us the deposit to secure your place on the safari.
STEP 5 - SEND YOUR DEPOSIT
Deposits can be paid via credit card, or international bank transfer. We will notify you as soon as your deposit arrives. Places on the safari will only be confirmed once we have received both a completed booking form and deposit payment.
STEP 6 - FINAL BALANCE PAYMENT
As soon as your booking form and deposit are with us, we will update your CLIENT AREA to display the outstanding balance amount. This amount will be due 90 days before the start date of the safari.
- Tour Leader
-
Mike Tilley
