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Predators

Predators are not common in the vicinity of Olifants and Balule, so consider yourself lucky if you find lions, leopards or cheetahs here. I have, however, found spotted hyaenas denning in the northern part of the H1-4, and apparently wild dogs are sometimes seen on the S89, S91 and S92. Your best bet for lions here would be to either drive down the H1-4 to the Ngotso Waterholes, or to drive south on the S90 to Bangu Waterhole.

Elephants and rhinos

Elephants are very common around Olifants and Balule. The large bridge that crosses the Olifants River where the H1-4 and H1-5 come together is a great place to watch them from. If you are lucky, you might even see them crossing the river in flood…The northern part of the H1-4 is also good for elephants. Rhinos, however, are very difficult to find in this area.

Zebras and giraffes

Giraffes, zebras and impalas are very common on the S89, S90, S91 and S92. On some days you might find a small herd of either species around every corner. As soon as you drive north of Olifants, however, mopaneveld becomes dominant and giraffe and zebra numbers decline drastically. The mopaneveld is too dense for them – they prefer more open areas.

Scenery

The S39 north is without a doubt the most scenic route in this area! It runs alongside the stunning Timbavati River and has many lookout points over the riverbed. The vegetation changes regularly and includes a few very rocky areas. One such spot is found on a little gravel dead-end, approximately 5km from the northern tip of the S39 north. Ideally, you should drive the road in the morning when full sunlight hits the riverbed.

Birds