Breeding herds of elephant make for exceptional viewing. White rhino sightings increase during the dry season. These endangered animals have fascinating territoriality. Ngala offers sightings of both black and white rhino. Large breeding herds of buffalo - numbering up to 400 - have been moving through Ngala and using the waterholes.

Ngala continues to enjoy outstanding leopard and lion pride viewing. The area's vast terrain enables the wide-ranging and rare wild dog to roam free. This gives you the privilege of frequent sightings.

Elusive nocturnal animals include the endangered African wildcat and the pangolin (scaly anteater).

Colourful birds to look out for are the Southern Yellowbilled Hornbill and the Redbilled Hornbill. With their large, colourful bills and confiding nature, hornbills are among the most conspicuous birds in African savannahs.

Vultures and eagles soaring through the Ngala sky include the Lappet-faced Vulture, White-backed Vulture, Martial Eagle, African Hawk Eagle and Bateleur. Nesting sites for many of these raptors have been found and mapped throughout the reserve. This gives a picture of density, preferred habitats, territorial spacing and favoured trees.

The impressive dry riverbed of the Timbavati features islands of reeds, a bird-watcher's paradise.

The band of riverine forest of tall trees and thickets along the Timbavati river remain green throughout the year. This forest is characterised by Jackalberry, Weeping Boerbean, Tamboti, Rain Tree, Knob Thorn, Weeping Wattle, Potato Bush and Broadpod Albizia. Sweet grasses flourish on the fringe of this riverine forest. Attractive Wild Date Palm often grow on the outer fringe of reedbeds.