Species profile
About this species
The hippopotamus is a large, semi-aquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa, & is one of the heaviest land animals on Earth. Despite their bulky appearance, hippos are highly agile in water & can run surprisingly fast on land. They spend most of the day cooling in rivers & lakes, emerging at dusk to graze on grasses.
Hippos are typically found in slow-moving rivers, lakes, & wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa, where they require deep water for cooling & nearby grassland for night-time grazing.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Hippopotamus with us in Botswana & Kenya.
These departures are part of our Africa programme.
In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning & late afternoon offer the best light for photography, particularly during the dry season between June & October when hippos congregate in shrinking water sources, making them easier to locate & photograph.
Position yourself at water level or low to the ground to capture dramatic reflections & eye contact with hippos resting in rivers. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to maintain a safe distance, as hippos are highly territorial & unpredictable. Look for behavioural moments such as yawning, sparring, or mothers with calves to add interest & storytelling to your images.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Hippopotamus
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.