When is the best time to be in Umgede Hide?
One of the most common questions we are asked by guests is
“When is the best time to be inside the Hide? What time of day do the animals like to visit?”
For nearly 2.5 years, we have recorded animal sightings at Umgede Hide to identify patterns and improve visitor experiences. While animals are unpredictable, the data can offer insights. There is no clear prediction that the elephants will show up at 9h15 or the lions at 18h45 for a drink on any given day. Animals will turn up for a drink at whatever time suits them best. It would be wonderful if we could predict with certainty, but it would also be very boring and take the adventure out of it and the adrenalin rush one gets when the animals do show up unexpectedly.
In early 2025, delayed and heavy rains created an abundance of natural water sources, reducing visits to our waterhole. However, daily visits still occurred, though less frequently after downpours. Interestingly, visit times varied from usual patterns.
Click on the link to see more information and view the graphs
Graphs show antelope sightings decreased with the abundant natural water but began returning by March, although numbers remain low. Night-time visits increased in January, possibly due to a genet sighting, but daytime sightings resumed by March as antelope avoid night drinking to evade predators.
Click on the link to see more information and view the graphs
Elephants continue to dominate sightings at Umgede Hide, providing excellent photo opportunities for guests and leaving lasting impressions.
The elephant on the left was not too happy with the trail camera and charged the tree, thankfully nobody was in his way.
In answer to the opening question, it would seem as though the best chance of success is before 9 am, with any achievements after that being a bonus. This makes it easier to skip the morning game drive and enjoy the afternoon drive with a sundowner. That could well change as we head deeper into the dry season. Ultimately the original question is impossible to answer with any certainty.
From April onwards the camp is filling up fast and in fact there is very little availability in July-September so if you are looking to enjoy a few days at the camp later this year you need to book soon. Early April, May and late June still have a few days available. Alternatively, you made need to consider November.