
Rathlogo Hide
A tranquil hide overlooking a watering hole in Pilanesberg, offering prime viewing for elephants, rhinos, and diverse wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for animal activity

Rathlogo Hide
Best Time
Prime time for animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil hide overlooking a watering hole in Pilanesberg, offering prime viewing for elephants, rhinos, and diverse wildlife.
"One of our favourite hides. Been lucky enough to see hyena, rhino, elephant, hippo and buffalo visit this dam."

π€« Keep it Quiet!
Maintain a low noise level to avoid disturbing wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
π Elephant Hotspot
Visit after rain for a higher chance of seeing large elephant herds at the waterhole.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 Β· 151 reviews
Type
Observation Deck
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Gatherings
Rathlogo Hide
Witness majestic elephant herds coming to drink and play at the waterhole, especially after good rainfall.

Rhino Encounters
Rathlogo Hide
Experience the thrill of spotting rhinos, sometimes even in dramatic standoffs with other animals.

Leopard Sightings
Rathlogo Hide
Keep an eye out for leopards, like Kabo, gracefully climbing trees near the hide.

Tranquil Waterhole Views
Rathlogo Hide
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the watering hole, observing a variety of animals and birds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife
Respect the Silence
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
π€« Keep it Quiet!
Maintain a low noise level to avoid disturbing wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
π Elephant Hotspot
Visit after rain for a higher chance of seeing large elephant herds at the waterhole.
π¦ Rhino Drama
You might witness exciting animal interactions, like rhinos squaring off with elephants.
π Easy Access
The roads leading to Rathlogo Hide are manageable, even for standard vehicles.
Tips
from all over the internet
π€« Keep it Quiet!
Maintain a low noise level to avoid disturbing wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
π Elephant Hotspot
Visit after rain for a higher chance of seeing large elephant herds at the waterhole.
π¦ Rhino Drama
You might witness exciting animal interactions, like rhinos squaring off with elephants.
π Easy Access
The roads leading to Rathlogo Hide are manageable, even for standard vehicles.
β³ Patience Pays Off
Spend a few hours soaking in nature; tranquility is key to a great viewing experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rathlogo Hide is a beloved spot for its tranquil atmosphere and excellent wildlife viewing, particularly for elephants and rhinos. Visitors appreciate the peaceful setting and the chance to observe animals up close. However, it can get exceptionally busy, and noise levels can detract from the experience. Some visitors have noted that during dry seasons, the waterhole may not be deep enough to sustain water for extended periods.
"One of our favourite hides. Been lucky enough to see hyena, rhino, elephant, hippo and buffalo visit this dam. At most times it is beautifully tranquil and a wonderful place to spend a few hours soaking up nature. Be warned that this hide can become exceptionally busy at times and that the noise levels can then detract from a peaceful viewing experience."
Katja Forster
"Usualy and enjoyable place to sit and watch animals, exept that its dry at the moment because its winter, there isnt deeo enough pools for water to remain in, surely that problem can be solved by digging it deeper niw that its dry?"
Johan Wandrag
"Saw a rhino square off with a family of elephants. So that was great. Go early or late afternoon."
Ben Hurley Scarbro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
π πΊοΈ Getting There
Rathlogo Hide is located within Pilanesberg National Park. The roads leading to the hide are generally accessible, with some users noting they are manageable even for standard vehicles like a Suzuki Vitara Brezza. It's recommended to use a GPS or park map to navigate to the hide within the park.
While specific directions can vary, Rathlogo Hide is a well-known spot within Pilanesberg National Park. Following park signage and using a reliable map or GPS will help you locate it.
A standard vehicle is usually sufficient for reaching Rathlogo Hide, as the access roads are generally well-maintained. However, always check current road conditions, especially after heavy rain.
Park rangers or visitor centers can often provide the most up-to-date route information. Many visitors share their experiences on social media, which can offer insights into current road conditions and accessibility.
Yes, you can drive to Rathlogo Hide. It's a designated viewing spot within Pilanesberg National Park that is accessible by car.
π« π« Tickets & Entry
Rathlogo Hide is located within Pilanesberg National Park, so you will need to pay the park's entrance fee to access the area.
Rathlogo Hide's hours are generally aligned with the park's opening and closing times. It's best to check the official Pilanesberg National Park website for the most current operating hours.
There is typically no separate fee for using Rathlogo Hide itself, beyond the standard Pilanesberg National Park entrance fee.
Rathlogo Hide operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Booking specific time slots is not usually an option, so arriving early or late can help avoid crowds.
Entrance fees for Pilanesberg National Park can vary. It's advisable to check the official park website or inquire at the gate for the most up-to-date pricing information.
π« π Onsite Experience
Rathlogo Hide is renowned for sightings of elephants, rhinos, hippos, buffalo, and various bird species. Leopards have also been spotted in the vicinity.
Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the best times to visit Rathlogo Hide, as animals are most active during these cooler parts of the day.
Yes, Rathlogo Hide offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, especially when animals come to drink at the waterhole.
No, it's crucial to maintain silence at Rathlogo Hide. The name 'hide' implies a place for quiet observation to avoid startling the animals.
Rathlogo Hide is primarily a viewing structure. Basic amenities like seating are usually available, but it's a natural setting, so expect limited facilities.
πΈ πΈ Photography Tips
For wildlife photography at Rathlogo Hide, use a fast shutter speed to capture moving animals, a higher ISO for low light conditions (early morning/late afternoon), and a telephoto lens to get close-up shots.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or 100-400mm) is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of wildlife from the hide.
The 'golden hours' β shortly after sunrise and before sunset β offer the best natural light for photography at Rathlogo Hide.
If animals are distant, consider using a zoom lens or focusing on capturing the environment and the animal within its habitat. Patience is key, as animals may move closer.
Tripods are generally allowed and can be very helpful for stabilizing shots, especially in low light. However, be mindful of other visitors and ensure your tripod doesn't obstruct views.








Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit