The Lowveld of South Africa: A look at its fauna and flora

The Lowveld is the low-lying, subtropical region of north-eastern South Africa, mostly below 1 000 metres. It is known for its warm climate, open bushveld, and rich wildlife. Many people think of this area as the “classic African landscape” because of its broad valleys, rivers, and variety of plants and animals.

The climate of the Lowveld is a key factor in shaping its vegetation and wildlife. Summers are hot and wet, with most rain falling between October and April. The rest of the year is warm and dry. This pattern affects when plants grow and when animals breed or move. Soil type and elevation also influence which species are found in different areas.

Vegetation in the Lowveld includes open woodlands and savannahs with a mix of trees, shrubs, and grasses. Mopane woodland, common in parts of Limpopo, is dominated by the mopane tree, which supports many insects and browsing animals. Other areas feature acacia or thorn bushveld, fever trees, baobabs, and forest along rivers. This mix of plant types creates many different habitats for animals.

The wildlife of the Lowveld is closely linked to its plants. The region supports large herbivores and predators, including the Big Five, as well as smaller mammals and specialist species. Birds are common in areas with water and varied vegetation. Wetlands, rivers, and different types of woodland each attract their own bird species. The range of habitats is one reason the Lowveld is so rich in wildlife.

Different parts of the Lowveld have different species because of variations in climate, soil, and water. Temperature and rainfall can change quickly across the region, especially near escarpments and rivers. Soil types affect which plants can grow, with some soils supporting moisture-loving species and others supporting drought-tolerant trees like mopane. Permanent rivers and pans provide water for animals and attract migratory birds. Past land use, fire, and grazing also shape the landscape and the species it can support.

The Lowveld is a region of diversity. Bird-rich thickets sit beside open grasslands, mopane woodlands surround pans that attract elephants, and rivers provide life for many animals. Protecting these areas requires conserving rivers, managing fire carefully, and allowing grazing that does not harm native plants.

For guides, naturalists, and travellers, the Lowveld offers an opportunity to see how plants and animals are connected. By observing the trees, grasses, and water sources, it is possible to understand why each part of the Lowveld supports different communities of life.

If you want to experience the Lowveld and its species first-hand, view Bushwise’s professional wildlife courses and start your journey in South Africa’s remarkable bush.