As the dry season reaches its peak in the Timbavati, the landscape around Kings Camp transforms into a scene of quiet drama and daily survival. The once-green bushveld turns a golden hue, and the remaining water sources become lifelines for countless species. With little to no rainfall between May and October, temperatures rise and surface water dwindles, driving animals to congregate around permanent waterholes like the one at Kings Camp. For wildlife enthusiasts, this is one of the best times of the year for game viewing – the sparse vegetation and concentrated animal activity create unrivalled opportunities to observe the rhythm of the African wilderness.

Thanks to the Africam waterhole camera, guests can now witness these moments unfold in real time, capturing both the intensity and tranquillity of life during the dry months.

A Thirst Quenched | Elephants at the Waterhole

A large herd of elephants approaches the waterhole, their steady footsteps raising dust in the dry air. During the height of the dry season, elephants may drink up to 200 litres of water a day, often returning to the same spot multiple times. These gentle giants rely heavily on dependable water sources, not only for drinking but also for cooling themselves and maintaining their sensitive skin. Watching them fan out and take turns drinking, you can sense their intelligence and social coordination – a family unit led by the matriarch, ensuring the youngest calves get their fill first.

The Scavenger’s Pause | Spotted Hyena at the Waterhole

A spotted hyena lowers its head to drink, its reflection rippling across the still surface. Often misunderstood, hyenas play a vital ecological role as both hunters and scavengers. In the Timbavati, both spotted and brown hyenas are found, though the spotted species is more common around Kings Camp. They are highly adaptable and can travel long distances in search of water, making sightings like this at the height of the dry season particularly special.

Before the Dawn | Hyena at First Light

The waterhole glows softly in the predawn light, a serene moment broken only by the quiet arrival of a hyena for an early drink. These peaceful, in-between hours are often the most rewarding for wildlife viewing – the nocturnal animals are still active, and the first rays of sunlight bring a golden stillness to the bush. For guests on safari, this is a reminder that some of the most memorable encounters happen before breakfast.

The Grey Ghosts | Kudu at the Waterhole

A herd of kudu moves gracefully to the water’s edge, their spiralled horns and sleek grey coats catching the afternoon light. Known as the “grey ghosts” of the bushveld, kudus are remarkably elusive and move with quiet, effortless grace through even the thickest vegetation. Though not among the Big Five, they are a favourite sighting at Kings Camp – elegant, cautious, and perfectly adapted to the African savanna.

The Night Watcher | Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl

As night falls, the Kings Camp waterhole continues to draw visitors – including the striking Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl. This large, pink-eyed owl is one of Africa’s most impressive nocturnal predators, capable of hunting everything from insects to small mammals and even other birds. Its distinctive deep hooting call is often heard echoing across the reserve at night. Thanks to the Africam’s night vision, we can witness its rare visits as it pauses to drink under the cover of darkness.

A Mutual Benefit | Buffalo and Oxpeckers

A solitary buffalo lowers its head for a long drink, with a few red-billed oxpeckers perched along its back. This symbiotic relationship benefits both species – the oxpeckers feed on ticks and other parasites while the buffalo enjoys a cleaner hide. Buffalo herds often frequent the waterhole during the hottest part of the day, a reminder of how essential these habitats are for the reserve’s grazers.

A Lioness at Rest | Power and Patience

In the cool light of early morning, a lioness approaches for a drink before settling in the shade of a nearby bush. Waterholes are vital gathering points not only for prey but for predators, who know that patience can yield opportunity. Whether resting between hunts or waiting in ambush, lions often use these spots as natural vantage points to observe the movements of other species throughout the day.

The Water-Dependent Wanderer | Waterbuck

Recognisable by the white ring on its rump, the waterbuck is aptly named – this large antelope rarely strays far from water. Its coarse coat secretes an oily substance that gives off a musky odour, believed to repel insects and even act as waterproofing. The Kings Camp waterhole is a frequent stop for these elegant antelopes, who often linger in the area’s shaded edges.

Elephants at Play | Cooling Down in the Heat

Another herd of elephants arrives, this time taking full advantage of the cool water for a splash and a bath. During the hottest months, elephants are particularly active around waterholes – not just to drink, but to socialise, play, and protect their young. These moments of interaction reveal the deep bonds within elephant families and the sheer joy that water brings to life in the dry bush.

On the Hunt | Kingfisher at the Waterhole

Perched with perfect precision above the water, a pied kingfisher surveys the surface before diving for its next meal. These agile hunters are a familiar sight around the Kings Camp waterhole, their striking black-and-white plumage flashing in the sunlight as they hover before plunging into the water. Watching them hunt is a lesson in patience and accuracy.

A Family Moment | Egyptian Geese and Goslings

A pair of Egyptian geese arrives with a trail of downy goslings in tow. They drink briefly before retreating to the safety of nearby cover – a small yet heartwarming scene that captures the rhythm of life at the waterhole. Even amid the harsh conditions of the dry season, nature continues to thrive in cycles of growth and renewal.

The Kings Camp waterhole offers a window into the resilience and adaptability of Africa’s wildlife during the most testing time of year. From the mighty elephant herds to the smallest birds, every species plays its part in this intricate ecosystem. The dry season may bring challenges, but it also reveals the raw beauty and interdependence that define life in the Timbavati.

If you would like to enquire about your stay in next years’ dry season, please don’t hesitate to contact our freindly reservations team via email at book@kingscamp.com. We look forward to welcoming you.