south-africa

South Africa Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in South Africa

South Africa, a land of breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems, is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. From the iconic Big Five - lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos - to the lesser-known but equally captivating creatures, the country offers a wildlife experience like no other.

Embark on a journey through the animal kingdom of South Africa. Witness the majestic African elephants as they roam the savannahs, and marvel at the grace of the elusive leopards that prowl through the dense bushveld. Encounter the playful antics of the Cape fur seals along the rugged coastline, and be captivated by the vibrant plumage of the lilac-breasted roller, a stunning bird that adds a splash of color to the country's skies. Join us as we explore the living wonders that call South Africa home.

Mammals of South Africa

South Africa is a treasure trove of mammalian diversity, boasting iconic species such as the African elephant, the largest land mammal, which roams the savannas and bushveld. The stealthy leopard, one of the elusive 'Big Five', can be spotted in the country's national parks, often lounging on a tree branch. The charismatic African penguin, an unusual sight for a mammal, waddles along the Western Cape coast. In the ocean, the Southern right whale makes seasonal visits to calve and mate along the shores. The Cape buffalo, a formidable member of the Big Five, grazes in large herds, while the endangered African wild dog, known for its mottled coat and social hunting packs, adds to the country's rich wildlife tapestry.

Birds of South Africa

South Africa is a birder's paradise, boasting a spectacular array of avian species, including the iconic African Penguin, which can be spotted waddling along the Western Cape coast. The skies are ruled by the impressive Martial Eagle, one of the largest eagles in the world, known for its powerful build and keen eyesight. In the bushveld, the colorful Lilac-breasted Roller captivates onlookers with its pastel plumage and acrobatic flight, while the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, often referred to as the 'flying banana' due to its distinctive beak, is a common sight in the Kruger National Park. The wetlands and estuaries provide sanctuary to the elegant African Fish Eagle, whose haunting call is synonymous with the African wilderness.

Reptiles, Amphibians

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in South Africa

  • Kruger National Park, sprawling across nearly 2 million hectares in the northeastern part of South Africa, is one of the world's most famous safari destinations. It is home to the iconic Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinoceroses (both black and white species), elephants, and Cape buffaloes. Visitors can also spot cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of antelope species, including the graceful impala and the imposing kudu.
  • Addo Elephant National Park, located in the Eastern Cape, is renowned for its large herds of elephants that roam across a diverse landscape of bushveld, grassland, and coastal dunes. Besides these gentle giants, the park also protects the rare black rhino, Cape buffalo, and even the flightless dung beetle, which is found almost exclusively in Addo.
  • Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park, situated in KwaZulu-Natal, is the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa. This hilly park is a stronghold for both black and white rhinos and offers visitors the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The park also hosts other members of the Big Five, as well as wild dogs, nyala, and several bird species like the southern bald ibis.
  • Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, a vast wilderness area that straddles the border between South Africa and Botswana, is characterized by its red sand dunes and dry riverbeds. It is a prime location for observing predators such as the black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The park is also a haven for raptors, including the majestic martial eagle and the sociable weaver with its enormous communal nests.
  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal, boasts a remarkable biodiversity. It encompasses a variety of ecosystems, from coral reefs and sandy beaches to wetlands and coastal forests. Here, one can find hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of marine life, including humpback whales during their migration season and loggerhead and leatherback turtles that come ashore to nest.
  • Pilanesberg National Park, set within the crater of an ancient volcano in the North West province, offers a unique geological landscape and a rich diversity of wildlife. The park is malaria-free and home to the Big Five, as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, and sable antelopes. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy sightings of the colorful lilac-breasted roller and the endangered African wild dog.

Where to next? Discover country icon Botswana, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder