Discover the Nocturnal Wilderness

Experience the Magic of the African Bush After Dark

Experience the magic of the African bush after dark with our specialized night safari experiences. As the sun sets, a different world emerges with nocturnal species becoming active and familiar landscapes transforming in the moonlight.

Using specialized spotlights with red filters to minimize disturbance to wildlife, our night safaris reveal the secret lives of nocturnal creatures rarely seen during daylight hours. Listen to the symphony of night sounds and witness hunting behaviours, territorial displays, and the mysterious atmosphere of the bush under starlight.

Starlit safari in Welgevonden Game Reserve
"The night is more alive and more richly coloured than the day..." - Vincent Van Gogh

Night Safari Features

Specialized Guides

Specially trained guides with expertise in nocturnal wildlife behavior and tracking.

Red-Filtered Spotlights

Special lighting that allows observation without disturbing animals' natural behavior.

Nocturnal Specialists

Opportunities to see rare nocturnal animals like aardvark, bushbabies, and owls in their active hours.

Extended Evening Drives

Seasonal extended evening game drives that transition from sunset into nighttime viewing.

Stargazing

Star gazing during clear nights with constellation identification in unpolluted African skies.

Predator Activity

Focus on predator activity and hunting behavior rarely witnessed during daylight hours.

Please note: Night safaris are seasonal and subject to reserve regulations. Specialized night drives are typically incorporated as an extension of afternoon game drives. Please inquire about availability during your stay.

Discover Nocturnal Wildlife

Nocturnal Predators

Night drives offer excellent opportunities to observe predators during their most active hunting periods. Lions, leopards, and hyenas are primarily nocturnal hunters, using the cover of darkness to stalk their prey.

  • Leopard - These elusive cats are often more visible at night
  • Spotted Hyena - Observe their complex social interactions
  • Serval - Watch these skilled hunters listening for prey

Nocturnal Specialists

Some of Africa's most fascinating creatures are rarely seen during daylight hours. Night drives provide the opportunity to encounter these specialized nocturnal animals in their element.

  • Aardvark - Elusive termite specialists
  • Bushbaby - Tiny primates with extraordinary leaping abilities
  • Porcupine - Africa's largest rodent, active after dark

Nocturnal Birds

The night brings out a different set of avian species. Owls and nightjars become active after sunset, with specialized adaptations for hunting in low light conditions.

  • Verreaux's Eagle-Owl - One of Africa's largest owls
  • Fiery-necked Nightjar - Listen for their distinctive call
  • Spotted Eagle-Owl - Often seen perched on fence posts

Nocturnal Reptiles

Many reptiles are more active after dark, when temperatures cool and hunting conditions improve. Our spotlights may reveal these fascinating creatures on the move.

  • Chameleons - Easier to spot at night with spotlights
  • Geckos - Watch them hunt insects attracted to lights
  • Night Adders - Venomous snakes active after sunset

Comprehensive Wildlife Guides

Please refer to our wildlife guides for a comprehensive list of birds and mammals in the area. These detailed guides provide information on all species you might encounter during your stay at Sekala Private Game Lodge.

African Skies: Stargazing at Sekala

Away from city lights, Welgevonden offers extraordinary opportunities for stargazing. The African night sky comes alive with countless stars, offering a humbling perspective on our place in the universe. During night drives, our guides will point out constellations, planets, and celestial features visible in the southern hemisphere.

Southern Cross

Identify this iconic southern hemisphere constellation not visible from the northern hemisphere.

Milky Way

Marvel at the bright band of our galaxy stretching across the night sky in extraordinary detail.

Moon Phases

Learn how different moon phases affect wildlife behavior and night safari experiences.

What to Bring on Your Night Safari

Warm clothing (evenings can be cool even in summer)

Camera with good low-light capabilities

Binoculars for stargazing and distant sightings

Star chart app on your phone (optional)

What Our Guests Say

"

The night safari was an absolute highlight of our stay at Sekala. We were lucky enough to witness a leopard on the hunt, which was breathtaking. Our guide was exceptional at tracking animals in the dark and shared fascinating insights about nocturnal behavior. The stargazing portion was equally magical - I've never seen so many stars in my life! The Milky Way was clearly visible and our guide pointed out constellations we'd never seen before.

Mark & Samantha Davis, Australia

Ready to Explore the African Bush After Dark?

Contact our team to inquire about night safari experiences during your stay at Sekala Private Game Lodge.

Book Your Night Safari