Highland Wildlife: Animals You Might Spot Around Walkersons

Set in the rolling hills of the Mpumalanga Highlands, Walkersons Hotel & Spa offers more than romantic views and tranquil lakes. The estate is alive with wildlife – from antelope grazing on the open grasslands to rarely seen nocturnal creatures moving through the night. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or exploring on horseback, every moment outdoors brings the chance of a new sighting.

Below, we highlight some of the fascinating species you may encounter during your stay, along with the best times of day to spot them.

Antelope & Grazers

Blesbok

Easily recognised by their striking white facial blaze, blesbok are common across the estate’s open grasslands. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.

Springbok

These elegant antelopes are known for their distinctive “pronking” behaviour. Springbok prefer open plains and are generally visible during daylight hours, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Black Wildebeest

A uniquely South African species, black wildebeest graze in the high-lying areas of the estate. They are diurnal, so your best chance of spotting them is any time during the day.

Red Hartebeest

Red hartebeest are alert and often move in small groups. Look for them in the mornings and late afternoons when they emerge from denser grassland to graze.

Mountain Reedbuck

Shy and often solitary, mountain reedbuck are most easily seen in the early morning as they feed along the rocky slopes surrounding Walkersons.

Duiker

This small, elusive antelope prefers woodland areas. Duiker are active during the day but are wary of disturbance, so keep your eyes peeled while walking or cycling.

Zebra

Zebra are among the most photogenic residents of the estate and are frequently seen in small groups grazing throughout the day. Their social nature makes them relatively easy to encounter.

Images above courtesy of Tobie van Niekerk, Walkersons Private Estate Manager

Carnivores & Nocturnal Creatures

Serval

A rare and thrilling sight, servals are slender, spotted cats with exceptional leaping ability. They are primarily nocturnal, so chances of spotting one are highest at dusk or dawn.

Black-Backed Jackal

Common in the highveld, jackals are active from late afternoon into the night. Listen for their calls echoing across the valley as evening settles in.

Porcupine

These shy mammals are strictly nocturnal. While you’re unlikely to see them in daylight, you may notice tracks or quills along the trails.

Mongoose

Small, curious, and always on the move, mongooses are typically active during the day. Watch for quick movement near rocks and shrubs while hiking.

Otters

Often found near Walkersons’ rivers and dams, Cape clawless otters are a rare treat to spot. They are most active at dawn and dusk, slipping quietly through the water in search of food.

The Best Ways to See Wildlife at Walkersons

Experiencing wildlife at Walkersons is a wonderful way to get outdoors, whether you prefer a gentle stroll or a more adventurous outing.

Horse Riding:

Explore the estate on horseback for a quiet, elevated vantage point. Animals are often more relaxed around horses, making this one of the best ways to get close to antelope species.

Biking Trails:

Cover more ground while enjoying the scenic highland landscapes. Mountain biking offers excellent opportunities to spot zebra, wildebeest, and reedbuck across the grasslands.

Hiking Trails:

Walkersons has a network of walking paths that weave through forests, dams, and open plains. Early morning hikes are ideal for spotting duiker, mountain reedbuck, and birdlife.

Plan Your Escape in 2026

From grazers to nocturnal animals, Walkersons Estate offers a surprising variety of wildlife that enriches your stay. Whether you’re exploring on horseback, pedalling along scenic trails, or taking a peaceful morning walk, the estate’s natural beauty promises memorable encounters throughout the year.

Book your getaway at Walkersons Hotel & Spa and discover the hidden wildlife of the Mpumalanga Highlands.