There are two distinct seasons at Ngala, and game viewing is equally rewarding during both. Rainfall occurs during the summer months (October to March), often with spectacular late afternoon thundershowers. Daytime temperatures in summer are high and can soar to 40°C. In the winter season (April to August), the animals concentrate at the perennial water sources and the grass is low, making game viewing easier. Winter days are usually warm, with chilly nights and early mornings. Ngala is blessed with an extreme diversity of wildlife - from the Big Five to a high concentration of elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard, and African wild dog.

The Timbavati River, which flows through Ngala, is a seasonal watercourse and generally only flows after the summer rains. However, even when not flowing, the river forms a picturesque scene, with broad stretches of white sand with evergreen forest along its banks. Water is often found as close as 1 m beneath the grounds and elephant will often dig water holes in the river bed if no other water source is available. The reed beds along the river banks are ideal spots for buffalo and elephant. Leopard enjoy the heavy cover of the evergreen thicket and bushbuck are attracted to the sweet grasses that grow on its edge.

A particular delicacy for Ngala's elephant is the marula tree, well known for its distinctive mottled grey bark and its abundant summer crop of juicy fruit. When ripe, this fruit is greatly sought after not only by elephant, but also troops of baboon. Not content with the succulent morsels of fruit, the elephant may seek out the moist root system of the marula tree, pushing the plant over in the process. Another elephant favourite is the mopane, which is widespread in the northern part of Ngala. This tree’s distinctive leaves, which resemble the wings of a butterfly in shape, are considered a delicacy by the large animals.