Ngala Private Game Reserve is home to all of the Big Five, but is particularly known for its elephant, buffalo and rhino, as well as its packs of wild dog. Leopard and cheetah are also often encountered. The largest of all land mammals, the African elephant, is most often spotted leisurely browsing on the vegetation. Elephant are completely dependent on water and will travel considerable distances to a watering hole, making this the perfect place to watch out for them.  Elephant, as well as buffalo, are often encountered in the reed beds around the Timbavati River.

Although its numbers are not decreasing as steadily as before, the African wild dog is still highly endangered, with fewer than 3 000 remaining animals. Ngala is one of few reserves to offer regular opportunities to view this rare animal and its fascinating social structure. Packs of wild dogs operate along a strict hierarchy, with all members taking responsibility for the feeding of any pups. Although meat is obtained for the pups, the entire pack remains sedentary until they are old enough to join in the hunts. Another highly social species encountered at Ngala is the lion. 

The blue wildebeest, with their low hindquarter, handlebar horns and long, as well as their cantankerous nature live up their reputation as the clowns of the bushveld, cavorting and engaging in head-butting contests. In contrast, the statuesque kudu enthral with their spectacular spiral horns, as well as their prodigious grace and jumping ability. Striking zebra with their vibrant stripes and intriguing social system are a common sight among the bushveld savanna. The typical raised tails of warthog act as a signal device for groups, allowing each warthog to follow the one ahead of it. 

Recent Sightings from Wildwatch.com

LION'S GREETING - 22 August 2010
A guest who arrived at Ngala yesterday had an exciting encounter. On arrival my guest was greeted by a male and female lion! The pair had been seen on a buffalo kill the day before, and with their bellies full, had chosen the warm open area of the...
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LEOPARDS FEED AND PLAY - 22 August 2010
A leopard had been spotted in the western part of Ngala. We headed out to hopefully view it. The leopard is one of the most mysterious and beautiful animals. On our arrival, we found the female. Spending a bit of time with her, we discovered that she...
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TUG OF WAR - 22 August 2010
It was a quiet morning and we went south to look for cheetah. We saw the dragmark crossing the road. I asked my tracker not to get off the vehicle as the leopard was likely close by.We saw a hyaena on the right, at first, and then a male leopard. The...
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