Wildlife at Somkhanda Game Reserve
Somkhanda is home to a rich variety of iconic African wildlife, including critically endangered black rhino and African wild dog. As a malaria-free, community-owned Big 5 reserve in the heart of Zululand, it also supports important populations of elephant, white rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo, along with giraffe, zebra, kudu, and a wide range of antelope and plains game.
Every species plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of this ecosystem, making Somkhanda a true living classroom and a conservation stronghold.
Somkhanda is home to over 6,400 wild animals across the reserve, with more than 230 bird species recorded.
Mammals you may see include:
Big 5
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Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Lion, Leopard
Predators and carnivores
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Spotted Hyena, Brown Hyena, Caracal, Serval
Plains game and antelope
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Buffalo, Zebra, Blue Wildebeest, Impala, Bushbuck, Kudu, Nyala, Giraffe, Grey Duiker, Red Duiker, Reedbuck, Mountain Reedbuck, Steenbok
Smaller and nocturnal wildlife
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Bushpig, Warthog, Aardvark (Antbear), Genet, Vervet Monkey, Lesser Bushbaby, Greater Bushbaby
Together, we can make a difference.
Together, we can protect and conserve the wonders of Somkhanda for generations to come.
Join us in our mission and be a part of something truly remarkable
SPONSOR A RANGER
Somkhanda Game Reserve depends on the support of people who care about protecting wild places. Your donation helps fund the work that keeps this community-owned Big 5 reserve thriving, including anti-poaching and wildlife protection, habitat restoration, and community programmes that ensure conservation benefits the people who live alongside it.
Every contribution, big or small, goes directly toward safeguarding Somkhanda’s biodiversity and securing its long-term future. If you’d like to be part of this story, please consider making a donation today.