YOUR GATEWAY TO ZIMANGA’S WILD BEAUTY
WELCOME
TO OUR WILDLIFE TOURS
Embark on the photographic adventure of a lifetime with Ray and Julie at Zimanga Private Game Reserve, South Africa’s premier wildlife destination. We offer exclusive guided photography tours that cater to photographers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. Let us take you deep into the heart of this untouched wilderness, where every moment holds the promise of something extraordinary.
Our next trip is 19th-28th June 2026.
Discover Zimanga
A PHOTOGRAPHER’S PARADISE
Zimanga is renowned for its incredible diversity of wildlife, with everything from majestic big cats to the graceful African array of bird species. Whether your passion lies in capturing powerful predators, tranquil landscapes, or the delicate beauty of rare birds, Zimanga offers it all. This reserve provides the perfect opportunity to bring your photographic vision to life.
World class photography hides
Designed with photographers in mind, Zimanga’s specially constructed hides offer an unparalleled chance to capture stunning, close-up wildlife shots. These hides are built at ground level and submerged in water, allowing you to photograph animals in their natural behaviour from a unique perspective while remaining invisible to your subjects. Whether you’re after the perfect shot of a bathing elephant or the elusive leopard, these hides are a game-changer for wildlife photographers. The best thing about wildlife photography is you never know what will visit the hides, which makes it so exciting.
Luxury Accommodation in the wild
MAIN LODGE
DOUBLE ROOMS, MAIN LODGE
SINGLE ROOMS, MAIN LODGE
Why choose us?
With previous service in the military and fire service, you are in safe hands with Ray and Julie. They bring decades of photography experience and a deep passion for wildlife. Our tours are tailored to provide you with the best photographic opportunities, expert guidance, and personalised support. Whether it’s your first time photographing wildlife or looking to take your skills to the next level, we’ll help you make the most of your Zimanga experience.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the wild—where every frame tells a story.
Book your Wildlife Photography Adventure with Ray and Julie to Zimanga with us today!
Let the adventures begin!
Zimanga 19th – 28th June
10 days/9 Nights
Group Photo Safari Cost: £5,955 per person
Availability: 6 Maximum
Secure your place with a 25% non-refundable deposit per person
Payments accepted by bank transfer
*Please see Terms & Conditions for payment details
Cost Includes:
9-nights’ luxury accommodation at Zimanga Private Game Reserve (including breakfast, lunch & dinner)
Semi-exclusive use of the whole reserve
Use of all hides
Twice daily activities of 3.5 hours each
Game drives in purpose-built vehicles (with one row per guest to maximise opportunities)
Soft drinks, local beers, spirits and wine whilst in Zimanga
Bottled water during all activities
Laundry service
Road transport in an air-conditioned comfortable vehicle from Durban Umdloti
Fantastic local guides
Services of a photographic host & guides offering tuition and advice if needed
Local park and conservation fees
A friendly, like-minded group to share this fantastic opportunity
NOT Included:
International flights to/from Durban
Accommodation in Umdloti the night before the start of the trip
Evening meal Umdloti (1 night)
Any personal expenses such as beverages/drinks bill at all hotels, snacks whilst travelling, telephone bills, airport tax, etc
Imported spirits and Speciality wines whilst in Zimanga
Curio Shop Purchases
After hour activities
Tips & gratuities. E.g. local guides/drivers & hotel staff
Personal Travel insurance
Any other services not stated in the itinerary or above costs.
FAQs
Cost
Accomodation
The lodge boasts spacious rooms designed with privacy, luxury, and practicality in mind, providing the ideal retreat to relax and unwind during your stay. For our group, we offer two doubles/twins and two singles. While the lodge is safely fenced, it’s essential to remain vigilant, as wildlife may occasionally wander onto the grounds. A network of cobblestone pathways illuminated by bollard lights connects the individual rooms, ensuring easy navigation throughout the lodge. The Main Lodge features a charming curio shop which showcases the efforts of local artisans, offering unique keepsakes and gifts to take home for yourself, friends, or family. Each room has a dedicated desk for setting up laptops and editing images, ample space and various power outlets to keep your equipment fully charged and ready.
Delicious meals are served in the dining area, complete with a cosy fireplace, while the open deck provides an enchanting alternative for those who wish to dine under the stars. For a more traditional experience, the large circular open-air boma is perfect for swapping stories and showing your images around a crackling bushveld fire. Guests can wander through the lodge’s beautifully maintained gardens between vehicle-based safaris or hide sessions, home to an impressive array of indigenous plants and birds. Alternatively, unwind with a book from our well-stocked library, take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, relax on the sun loungers with your favourite drink, or recharge in your room for the next exhilarating adventure. The lodge also showcases the Greaves’ remarkable collection of camera equipment, including fascinating pieces dating back to the late 1800s!
Location
Zimanga Private Game Reserve is located in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, near the town of Mkuze. It lies within the heart of Zululand, a region known for its rich biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cultural significance. Zimanga is renowned for its exceptional wildlife experiences, particularly its purpose-built photography hides, which attract photographers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. The reserve offers a unique blend of conservation, luxury, and immersive wildlife encounters.
Itinerary
- 9 Night Package Activities
- 7 x Game Drives
- 3 x Lagoon and/or Scavenger Hide Sessions
- 2 x Mkhombe, Bhejane, Forest or Tower Hide Session
- 3 x 16hr Overnight Hide Sessions
- Optional Photoboat activity instead of 1 game drive
Equipment
Zimanga Private Game Reserve in South Africa is known for its exceptional photographic opportunities, including hides, safari drives, and close wildlife encounters. To ensure you make the most of your experience, we recommend the following lenses depending on your style and goals:
Kit Suggestion (Flexible):
- Telephoto Zoom: 100-400mm or 200-600mm
- Wide-Angle: 16-35mm
- Mid-Range Zoom: 70-200mm
This setup ensures you’re prepared for Zimanga’s unique combination of wildlife, hides, and landscapes! This is the ultimate wish list. If you haven’t got any of these lenses it’s still possible to capture amazing photographs. Julie and I are happy to discuss what equipment you have.
