Antares Bush Camp & Umgede Hide

Antares Bush Camp & Umgede Hide is situated in the Balule Nature Reserve in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Incorporated within the Greater Kruger Park this hide attracts a wide variety of animal and bird species, including all of the Big 5.

The camp is booked exclusively and can accommodate 8 people comfortably in 4 air-conditioned bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms including both inside and outside showers. The one room is configured as a family room with a queen bed in one room and a bunk bed in the adjoining room. The other 3 rooms can be set up as twins or king beds. We advertise the camp on a self-catering basis but a catered option is available on request.

The hide seats 4 photographers safely and comfortably and 6 at a squeeze but there is ample space for other to stand at the back and still experience the thrills of a herd of elephants drinking water just meters away from the open shutters. We do not have glass in front as we believe in the experience of smelling and hearing the wildlife, and maybe the odd baptism from the elephants as they squirt themselves with water and mud. Photographers are always advised to be aware of this possibility and to take precautions of their expensive equipment.

Depending on what you want to focus on will determine the equipment you need. The far edge of the waterhole is only 12m from the shutters and so for elephants and bigger animals like zebra and giraffe, a wide-angle lens is ideal and definitely no more than a 200mm. For general animals such as impala a 200mm is more than adequate, for the smaller birds a 500-600mm lens may suit you better. The hide is equipped with spotlights so no need for a flash at night. The hide also faces south offering great opportunities for star trails and other astro-photography.

There are amply electric points for charging batteries and cellphones, Wi-Fi to be able to upload your perfect images and share with family back home or even edit the images during the quieter times. There are bean bags and gimbals with footplates provided to ensure that steady image. In the camp dining area is a tv screen with HDMI connection for any workshops on editing techniques that can be taught.

There are also complimentary tea and coffee provided in the hide as well as fridge for any cold beverages if that is more your preference. The hide is only 30-40m walk from the main camp and can be accessed safely at any time of day or night, or should you need a bathroom break back in your bedroom.

The hide is for the exclusive use of the camp guests and so there is no need to book a time slot and there is no restriction on how long you want to spend in the hide. There is a day bed where you can lie down and take a nap if you get tired.

There are additional photographic opportunities within the gardens at Hornbill deck which focus on an active hornbill nest during the summer months. There is also a small hide overlooking a reflection pond which is ideal for getting up close to the smaller birds and squirrels etc.