The Top 5 Camps to see Elephants up Close
Written by Lorelei Parkinson
23 Sep 2025

Which ones are your favourite?
5. Nehimba, Zimbabwe
In the dry season, from May to October, when water is scarce across the bush, elephants troop down to the pool in large groups to drink, splash about, and cool off. It turns into a lively daily show, and you get a front-row seat. Add a sundowner in your hand and the golden sky as a backdrop, and it is pure magic.
4. Ol Donyo, Kenya
At Ol Donyo in Kenya, the dry season from June to October turns the waterholes into elephant hotspots. Herds gather, creating a lively and unforgettable scene. Seeing these gentle giants up close, with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, makes for a truly magical safari experience.
Tune in to the Ol Donyo livecam and see who’s stopping by the waterhole today! Set on the slopes of Kenya’s Chyulu Hills, this live view captures elephants cooling off, zebras on the move, and plenty of surprise visitors from the Amboseli wilderness.
3. The Hide Camp, Zimbabwe
The Hide Safari Camp in Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park is ideal for seeing elephants up close. Located by a busy waterhole, it attracts massive herds, including “super herds” of over 300 elephants! Guests can watch from an underground hide or private veranda, making it a top safari destination.
2. Satao Camp, Kenya
Satao Camp in Tsavo East National Park, Kenya, is famous for amazing elephant sightings. The camp sits beside a natural waterhole that attracts up to a thousand elephants each day during the dry season from June to October. These elephants are known for their striking reddish-brown color, a result of dusting themselves with the park’s red soil. With just 20 tents, many overlooking the waterhole, guests can enjoy watching these majestic animals up close in comfort.
1. Mfuwe Camp, Zambia
Mfuwe Camp in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park is a standout spot for elephant encounters. Each year between October and December, herds of elephants are drawn to a wild mango tree that grows right at the lodge. Guests can watch these majestic animals up close as they pass through the open-air reception to feast on the fruit.

