Photographs & Video By: Tommy and Britt Joyce
Last Updated: 08 June, 2026
Step into the wild heart of Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe, with Ubuntu Travel and African Bush Camps. Join award-winning photographers Tommy and Britt Joyce at Kanga Expedition’s renowned photographic hide, one of the most productive wildlife photography locations in the region.
Known as Mana Pools ‘armchair safari’ destination, Kanga Expeditions overlooks a permanent waterhole that attracts wildlife throughout the day. From the camp, photographic hide, and surrounding viewing areas, guests can enjoy exceptional wildlife sightings without even leaving camp. It is this reliable wildlife activity, combined with the hide’s eye-level perspective and easy access from camp, that has helped establish Kanga Expeditions as one of Mana Pools most sought-after photographic safari experiences.
Kanga Expedition’s Photographic Hide
Watch Tommy and Britt’s video showcasing Kanga’s Photographic Hide and discover why it has become a favourite among wildlife photographers visiting Mana Pools.
From elephants drinking just metres away and colourful birdlife visiting the waterhole to predators moving through the area, the hide provides exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph wildlife throughout the day.
Why Photographers Love Kanga Expedition’s Photographic Hide
Easy Access Throughout the Day
Positioned directly below the main camp area, Kanga’s photographic hide can be accessed throughout the day with ease. Whether between game drives or during the warmer midday hours, photographers can return to the hide whenever wildlife activity begins to build around the pan. This flexibility allows more time with subjects and greater opportunities to capture a variety of wildlife behaviours.
Exceptional Wildlife Viewing
Kanga Pan is the only permanent water source within a 12-mile radius. Therefore, during the dry season, wildlife is naturally drawn to the waterhole from across the concession. Regular sightings include elephants, lion, African wild dog, kudu, impala, zebra, warthog, baboons and a variety of bird species.
Eye-Level Photography
One of the greatest advantages of the hide is the low-angle perspective it provides. Photographing wildlife at eye level creates more intimate and engaging images while removing distractions often found when shooting from vehicles.
Crowd-Free Concession
Kanga Camp is situated within its own private concession in Mana Pools. Combined with Kanga Expeditions’ six Meru-style tents, guest numbers remain intentionally low. This means the photographic hide and waterhole are often shared with just a handful of other guests, creating a far quieter and more personal experience than many wildlife photography locations elsewhere in Africa.
Night Photography Opportunities
After dark, guides may use spotlights to help locate nocturnal wildlife visiting the waterhole. This creates opportunities to photograph species and behaviours that are rarely seen during daylight hours.
A few More Images Taken from Kanga’s Hide
The images below were captured by Tommy and Britt Joyce during their stay at African Bush Camps Kanga Expeditions. Together they showcase the variety of wildlife, behaviours and photographic opportunities available from the hide throughout the safari season.
Insider’s Tip: Do not forget your wide-angle lens. The hide is positioned remarkably close to the waterhole, and elephants frequently approach within just a few metres. While telephoto lenses are essential, a wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of these encounters and create some of the most memorable images of your safari.
When Can I Visit Kanga Expeditions?
Kanga Expeditions operates between 01 April and 30 November each year. Wildlife viewing is productive throughout the season, but the dry months of August through October are often considered the best time for photography. As water becomes scarce elsewhere in the concession, increasing numbers of animals are drawn to Kanga Pan.
FAQs about Kanga Expedition’s Photographic Hide
Planning a photographic safari to Mana Pools often raises a few questions. Our Travel Design Team has answered some of the most common questions we receive about Kanga Expeditions’ photographic hide, from wildlife viewing and photography equipment to the best time to visit.
Is Kanga Expedition’s photographic hide suitable for beginner photographers?
Yes. While experienced photographers will appreciate the hide’s eye-level perspective and wildlife activity, beginners can also achieve excellent results. The close proximity of animals to the waterhole creates opportunities for memorable wildlife photographs without requiring advanced photography skills.
What lens should I bring to Kanga Expeditions’ photographic hide?
A versatile setup is ideal. Telephoto lenses are excellent for portraits of birds, predators and distant wildlife, while a wide-angle lens can be invaluable when elephants and other large animals approach just a few metres from the hide. May we suggest two camera bodies if you want to be able to transition more easily.
What wildlife can be photographed from Kanga Pan?
Kanga Pan attracts a wide variety of wildlife throughout the safari season. Regular sightings include elephants, lion, African wild dogs, kudu, impala, zebra, warthog, baboons and numerous bird species, all drawn to one of the area’s only permanent water sources.
When is the best time to photograph wildlife at Kanga Expeditions?
Wildlife photography is productive throughout Kanga Expeditions’ operating season from April to November. However, the dry months of August through October are often considered the most rewarding, as wildlife congregates around Kanga Pan in greater numbers.
How do I book Kanga Expeditions?
The easiest way to book Kanga Expeditions is through our Zimbabwe safari inquiry form. Our Travel Design Team will help you determine the best time to visit, recommend suitable combinations with destinations such as Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park, and design a tailor-made safari around your interests and photography goals.
Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime?
Thinking about planning an African safari? Our team of expert travel designers will craft a tailor-made itinerary designed around your interests, travel style, and bucket list. Get in touch today and start planning your unforgettable journey through Africa.
