Wildlife

The park’s mix of grassland, thornveld and river valleys supports around 86 species of mammals and a recorded 400 species of birds. It is one of the best places in KwaZulu-Natal to see big game and birdlife.

The Big Five

Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino all live here. Sightings are never guaranteed, but a few days of patient driving gives you a good chance of seeing most of them.

• Rhino. Both white and black rhino reside in the park. White rhino are easier to find, grazing on open ground. Black rhino browse in dense thickets and are much harder to spot.
• Elephant. Elephants use the roads, rivers and waterholes in both sections. Keep your distance and never place yourself between a cow and her calf. Males in musth are best given a wide berth.
• Buffalo. Herds and solitary old bulls are widespread. They can be unpredictable at close range.
• Lion. Lions are found in both sections. Both sides of the park offer great sightings.
• Leopard. Leopards are secretive and can be difficult to spot. Sightings have been great of late within the park.

Other animals

Giraffe, zebra, blue wildebeest, kudu, impala, nyala, waterbuck and warthog are common. Hippo and Nile crocodile live in the rivers and dams. Spotted hyena are often heard at night, and cheetah and African wild dog also occur in the park. In the thick brush of the Hluhluwe section you may see samango monkeys.

Birds

More than 400 bird species have been recorded, from forest birds in the north to raptors and waterbirds along the rivers. Bring binoculars and stop at the hides and picnic sites, where you are allowed to leave your vehicle.

Seeing more

• Go out early and late. Animals are most active in the cool of the morning and late afternoon.
• Use the hides. Viewing hides overlook waterholes and let you watch animals at close range.
• Join a guided drive or walk. Rangers know where to look and how to read tracks and signs.
• Buy a map at the gate. It marks the roads, camps, hides and picnic sites.
• Book a guided safari for the best chance of seeing as many animals as possible.