What Wildlife You Can See in KZN
Written by Nina van Zyl
KwaZulu-Natal is a coastal South African province that is home to some of the most diverse wildlife species in the world. From the majestic Big 5 to smaller, more elusive creatures, KZN is a haven for wildlife set against a backdrop of stunning natural landscapes. Read on to find out which animal species you can expect on your next trip to KZN, plus the parks and reserves where they are most concentrated.
The Big 5 and More
Without a doubt, the Big 5 are some of the most iconic animals in Africa. Made up of the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhino, every member of the Big 5 can be found in KZN (read more about how they came to be called the “Big 5”). The lion is the most recognizable of the Big 5 and can be spotted in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Here, you can also find the African elephant, which is the largest land mammal, as well as the Cape buffalo. The leopard is one of the most elusive of the Big 5, and a rare sighting indeed, and these cunning cats can be found in the Thanda Private Game Reserve. The last of the Big 5, the rhino, can be seen in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, which is largely considered the stronghold of South Africa’s rhino population. (Have a look at the other game reserves in KZN where you can find the Big 5.)
In addition to the Big 5, there are many other wildlife species in KZN that are worth being on the lookout for. These animals include the African wild dog, cheetah, hyena, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, hippo, and a variety of antelopes. The first one on the list, the African wild dog, is a ferocious predator and a critically endangered species, and can be found in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. The cheetah, the fastest land animal, can also be found in this park, as well as hyenas, effective predators in their own right. Plains game such as wildebeest, zebra, and giraffes can be seen throughout KZN, but especially in the Thanda Private Game Reserve. Hippos are a common sight in the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, while antelopes like wildebeest and eland can be seen in most of the game reserves in the region, as well as dotted across the stunning landscapes of the Drakensberg.
Birds, reptiles and amphibians
In addition to its abundance of mammals, KZN is also home to a myriad of birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The region is a hotspot for bird watching, especially along the Elephant Coast, with over 400 species of birds. These include the iconic African Fish Eagle in the TC Robertson Nature Reserve, the endangered Bearded Vulture in the Drakensberg, and the eternally-elegant Grey Crowned Crane in the KZN Midlands. Reptiles such as the Nile crocodile are found in Kosi Bay, while the Black Mamba and the African Rock Python can be found throughout the region, although you are unlikely to see these snakes as they are experts at remaining hidden. Amphibians such as the African Bullfrog and the African Clawed Frog can also be found in KwaZulu-Natal.
Whales and Turtles
KZN is known for its popular beaches and water-based activities, and its stretch of coastline is also a great place to spot marine life, with the warm waters of the Indian Ocean home to a variety of creatures. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is an especially popular spot for whale-watching from June to October. Dolphins are also plentiful along the coast and can often be spotted frolicking in the waves. The waters of KZN are also abundant with leatherback turtles and manta rays, which can be observed while scuba diving at Kosi Bay and Sodwana (have a look here at our recommendations of other fantastic South African scuba spots). Between November and January near Sodwana, you might be lucky to see baby turtles as they hatch before making their slow, hazardous way down to the ocean. The rich variety of marine life in the area makes KwaZulu-Natal a great place to explore the wonders of the ocean.
KwaZulu-Natal is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting breathtaking scenery and a variety of animal species. Head on over to our Complete Guide to the KZN for even more information about this stunning destination. From thrilling safaris to relaxing beach getaways, Viatu is here to make your travel experience one to remember. Join us on Instagram and explore our website to start your journey today.