Exploring Ngwenya Lodge’s Game Viewing Hides: A Wildlife Lover’s Dream
Ngwenya Lodge is known for its spectacular wildlife experiences, and one of the highlights of any stay is the chance to visit the resort’s well-placed game-viewing hides. These hides provide guests with an intimate, uninterrupted view of the wildlife along the Crocodile River, which borders the iconic Kruger National Park. Each hide offers a unique vantage point, making it easy to spot some of South Africa’s most beloved animals in their natural habitat. Let’s take a closer look at the different hides available at Ngwenya Lodge and what you can expect from each one.
Crocodile Sandbank Hide
Located just south of the restaurant and viewing deck, the Crocodile Sandbank hide offers one of the most picturesque views of the Crocodile River. A guided handrail leads you through dense vegetation, making for an exciting walk to this hide, which is nestled on the perimeter of the lodge’s grounds. From here, visitors can enjoy sweeping views into the Kruger National Park and watch as the river winds its way through the landscape.
This spot is a prime location for spotting large game. It’s not unusual to see elephants slowly making their way to the riverbanks for a drink or a swim. As the name suggests, crocodiles are also common sightings here, basking in the sun along the sandbanks. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive lion, either lounging in the distance or prowling the edges of the river in search of prey.
Top Sightings:
- Elephants
- Crocodiles
- Lions
Elephant Crossing Hide
To the north of the restaurant and perched on stilts is the Elephant Crossing hide, a birdwatcher’s paradise. Elevated to give visitors a fantastic view over the reed banks and floodplains of the Crocodile River, this hide is well-suited for those who appreciate both big game and the quieter beauty of birdlife.
The surrounding vegetation here is thick, creating the perfect environment for bird species to thrive. If you’ve brought your binoculars, prepare to spot a variety of birds flitting between the trees and across the riverbanks. Of course, the hide lives up to its name – elephants often make an appearance, crossing the river or grazing along its shores. Keep an eye out for waterbucks too, which frequently visit the area in small herds.
Top Sightings:
- Elephants
- Waterbucks
- Bird Species
Lion’s Crossing Hide
For guests looking to venture a little farther south, Lion’s Crossing is the southernmost game-viewing hide on the property. A short flight of stairs takes you down to this protected hide, where you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of the Crocodile River. The shallow pools and rocky outcrops in this section of the river create small, scenic rapids, making it an ideal watering spot for many animals.
This hide is especially known for hippopotamuses lounging in the water or along the riverbanks. You’ll also spot a variety of antelope species coming to the water for a drink, and, of course, the ever-present elephants are frequently sighted here as well. This is one of the most serene and picturesque hides, perfect for taking in the calm of the river while waiting for the wildlife to appear.
Top Sightings:
- Elephants
- Hippopotamuses
- Antelope Species
The Ngwenya Experience
Whether you’re an avid birder, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone looking to unwind and soak in nature’s beauty, the hides at Ngwenya Lodge offer something for everyone. With each hide offering its own unique view and selection of wildlife, no two visits are ever the same. So pack your camera, bring your binoculars, and prepare for an unforgettable experience as you witness some of South Africa’s most iconic animals up close.
Tips for Your Visit:
- Be sure to visit each hide at different times of the day for the best variety of wildlife sightings.
- Bring water, sun protection, and a camera to capture your wildlife encounters.
- Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals – they’re more likely to approach if it’s peaceful.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you may need to walk short distances to reach some of the hides.
At Ngwenya, nature is just a few steps away from your front door, and these hides offer a truly immersive way to connect with the wild beauty of the Crocodile River.
