Must-visit hides

1 Zimanga, KwaZulu-Natal

Four unique underground hides – two for small birds, one overlooking a lagoon, and one you can overnight in – all designed by world renowned photographer Bence Mate. Photographers and animals are separated by one-way glass to eliminate the chances of startling the subjects. For more information, visit zimanga.com.

2 Indlovu River Lodge, Lowveld

Photographers can switch between two extremely comfortable hides: a morning hide for small birds, and an afternoon hide predominantly for mammals. For more information, visit irl.co.za.

3 Mashatu, Tuli Block, Botswana

Perhaps not as comfortable as some of the other underground hides (photographers sit on bar stools), but by far the most reliable place to photograph elephants, and definitely the wildest feel. You have a choice of two nearly identical sunken shipping containers, each located in a different habitat. Read more about each hide at c4photohides.com