Jaci's Terrapin Hide

"Well I never", those were the first words out of my mouth when I finally saw Jaci's famous Hide. In all my travels (well over 20 years worth), I have never seen something so amazing. You get so close the wildlife that even a 100mm lens will get you nice images (the first elephant photo below is at 83mm on my 50-500mm Sigma).

But seriously now, if you are even slightly interested in photography, wildlife, birdlife or nature then one really needs to look at staying at Jaci's lodges (either Jaci's Safari Lodge or Jaci's Tree Lodge) to experience the "Terrapin Hide". I could have stayed down there the whole day; even my six-year-old daughter was entranced at all that surrounded us over a mere 30 minutes.

Getting to the photographic hide in the middle of the waterhole requires anyone over 3 foot tall to bend themselves in half, anyone over 6.2 foot (like myself) can expect to bump their heads a few times and shuffle along with chin on knees. The tunnel I would say is around 10 - 15 metres long.

Please Note; as one has to venture through a tiny underground tunnel to get to the photographic area, we would not recommend this for those who are claustrophobic.

Now once one arrives at the hide, a right royal treat is in store. African wildlife and birdlife all seen from water level, picture the world as a mouse would see it. Inside the hide, there is more than enough headroom with ample windows to look out of. Jaci's does supply customised camera mounts that will fit all (if not most) cameras out there. A two-way radio keeps you in touch with the lodge in case you need coffee or beers.

Now one just has to sit back, get your camera settings up to scratch and wait for Africa's beasties to come to you. The below photographs that we took from inside the hide were taken over a 30 minute period, just to give you an idea of the wildlife and birdlife that visited us over that very short period.

All photographs have been taken by us here at Uyaphi.com with the sole purpose of showcasing the fantastic Terrapin Hide.

Terrapin Hide at Jaci's

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge

Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is the first wholly owned, community-based Safari Lodge in South Africa, the concept is unique as the community owns the development, with substantial benefits going back to the community. All in the Madikwe Game Reserve.

Rhulani Safari Lodge

From the moment you arrive at Rhulani Safari Lodge, your safari adventure begins with friendly staff, comfortable suites and fantastic wildlife sighting from the lodge or on a game drive. Peace and tranquillity is part and parcel of life here deep in the African bushveld surrounding by wildlife.

Tuningi Safari Lodge

Tuningi Safari Lodge is found in the heart of the "Big 5 and Malaria Free" Madikwe Reserve. Tuningi is renowned for her exclusive accommodation in six spacious suites (two of which are family suites). Accommodation aside the lodge of up remarkable safari experiences for all.

Jaci's Safari Lodge

Jaci's Safari Lodge blends into its surrounds, encompassing a magnificent main area built around an ancient termite mound, only 10 tented Suites, all built with shaggy thatched roofs, canvas walls & large windows.

Madikwe Safari Lodge

With its earthy plastered walls, Madikwe Safari Lodge appears to grow out of the rust-red African setting like a gigantic termite mound, offering Southern African cuisine is complimented and world-class local South African wines. Stunning luxury awaits all that visit.

Jaci's Tree Lodge

Jaci's Tree Lodge is the more intimate one of the two Jaci offerings, hidden perfectly in a natural forest whilst offer up luxury and the end of each raised wooden walkway. Eight stunningly appointed suites await all that visit Tree Lodge.

Mateya Safari Lodge

Mateya Safari Lodge, perfectly located in the breathtaking Malaria free Madikwe, guarantees to possibly be amongst the best game lodges available today and without question one of the most outstanding lodges in Southern Africa.