Non UK Zimanga Game Reserve - Opinions and Advice

Malfis

Malfis

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Malcolm
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I'm seriously considering a 5 night/6 day trip to Zimanga in December this year.
It's specifically geared up for photographers, and looks to be very good.
I would welcome any review/recommendations /advice from anyone who's been there,

Thanks.
 
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I have been to Zimanga twice and am booked again for next year. The low level and night hides are really good as is the whole setup. The other good thing about it is that as it is a private reserve they can, and do drive anywhere to get you in position to capture great images. I will post a couple of pictures from my last trip later. The only thing that raises concerns about your post is the timing of your visit. I suggest you do a little research into conditions in December. As far as I am aware it is the wet season which means that the animals have less need to visit the drinking holes by the night (and other) hides this could result in a disappointing and long overnight session sitting in the dark with little to show for it!
I am happy to answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability either on this thread or by DM.
 
Here are a couple of images from my last trip to Zimanga
full stretch by Gordon Ford, on Flickr
P8130876-Edit.jpg by Gordon Ford, on Flickr
cheetahs drinking by Gordon Ford, on Flickr
playtime by Gordon Ford, on Flickr
Cheetah in early morning light by Gordon Ford, on Flickr

More can be seen on my flickr page. I don't know who you are looking to book your trip through but I am always looking for ways to keep my costs down. I have been twice with Ann and Steve Toon (toon safaris) they do 10/11 night trips but get booked up well in advance. Next year I am travelling with Natures Lens for a 7 day trip in May. About 5 weeks ago I saw an email from them saying they had space left at £4500 (sharing). I have also contacted Zimanga directly and they do a range of packages but the cost is about the same as the workshop leaders charge.
Another place you may like to consider is Pangolin safaris in Botswana. I have been with them both in peak season and in the low season. They have a unique perspective as most of the time you are shooting on purpose fitted boats from low level on the Chobe river. The low season is definitely quieter but a whole lot cheaper. Next December - March they are offering their "specials" which is 6 days at the Pangolin lodge for US$2500 with no single supplement. I am a solo traveller and hate single supplements with a passion!
Once again pictures from my Pangolin trips can be seen on my Flickr page.
Wherever and whenever you go I am sure that you will have a great time. One again If you have any questions please ask.
 
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Fordsabroad said:
I have been to Zimanga twice and am booked again for next year. The low level and night hides are really good as is the whole setup. The other good thing about it is that as it is a private reserve they can, and do drive anywhere to get you in position to capture great images. I will post a couple of pictures from my last trip later. The only thing that raises concerns about your post is the timing of your visit. I suggest you do a little research into conditions in December. As far as I am aware it is the wet season which means that the animals have less need to visit the drinking holes by the night (and other) hides this could result in a disappointing and long overnight session sitting in the dark with little to show for it!
I am happy to answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability either on this thread or by DM.
Click to expand...

Yes, but not only do they not head for the water so much, the veldt is so thick you can't see them :)

However, it is their business so they will know how to make the best of things :)
 
Fordsabroad said:
I have been to Zimanga twice and am booked again for next year. The low level and night hides are really good as is the whole setup. The other good thing about it is that as it is a private reserve they can, and do drive anywhere to get you in position to capture great images. I will post a couple of pictures from my last trip later. The only thing that raises concerns about your post is the timing of your visit. I suggest you do a little research into conditions in December. As far as I am aware it is the wet season which means that the animals have less need to visit the drinking holes by the night (and other) hides this could result in a disappointing and long overnight session sitting in the dark with little to show for it!
I am happy to answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability either on this thread or by DM.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the input, Gordon.
Guess what - I've already booked for the first week of December! I did have conversations with them re. the timing, but the choice was very limited and I have other commitments. On balance, wet season but lots of young animals, I'm hoping it will still be a great experience.
I would be interested to hear if you have any really specific things I should really know.
Kit wise I'm going to take a lot, OM1ii, Panny G9ii (main video), 7-14mm f2.8, 12-40mm ii f2.8, 40-150mm f2.8, 150-400mm BWL, plus t/c's. So it's the kitchen sink really, with the exception of a specialist macro lens. What do you think, is it too much?
Travel wise I'm flying overnight to Jo'Burg, then local flight to Richards Bay, one night there, then driving a couple of hours or so up to Zimanga for lunchtime. I'm doing 5 nights/6 days ($3350)

Since writing this post I've seen your follow up - lovely pictures, and interesting comments.
I did Chobe and the Elephants et al last year - stayed just down the river from the Pangolin Hotel - Super.
Hopefully I'll get some more pointers from you,
Thanks,
Malcolm
 
Hi Malcolm
It may be that the bush is green and thick in December but the rangers are very good at locating the animals. Some of them are chipped so are easier to locate. As far as kit it is very very similar to the kit I had on my last visit. If the giraffes come close to the hide you definitely need the wide angle and the 150-400 will get plenty of use. I don't think there is much I can tell you that won't come naturally to you but if you think of any questions please ask. Our guide was Calvin and he is excellent but I have not heard a negative comment on any of them and they communicate with each other on any sightings.
I keep saying that each visit will be my last but I keep getting drawn back to both Zimanga and Pangolin. I an sure you will have a great time and the bonus is that you are out of the cold, miserable English weather!
 
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