Bivane Dam Camp Site - Ithala Game Reserve
Bivane Dam Camp Site is a camp near Ithala Game Reserve.
- Location
- Ithala Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal Bush & Coast, South Africa, Southern Africa
- Coordinates
- -27.519526, 31.051910
- Activities
- camp
PlnrScore: 28/100
Wildlife Near This Lodge
1255 species observed within 20 km, 27 mammals, 139 birds.
- mountain aloe (Plantae, 88 observations)
- Willow beechwood (Plantae, 67 observations)
- Stamvrug (Plantae, 65 observations)
- Pincushion Barrelwort (Plantae, 58 observations)
- Monkeys Tail (Plantae, 48 observations)
- Mocking Cliff-Chat (Aves, 42 observations)
- Rainbow Skink (Reptilia, 41 observations)
- kiaat (Plantae, 40 observations)
- South African foxglove (Plantae, 39 observations)
- Red-veined Dropwing (Insecta, 38 observations)
Best Time to Visit Bivane Dam Camp Site
The best months to visit Bivane Dam Camp Site are August, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Month-by-Month Safari Conditions
- January: Good, temperature 21.8°C, rainfall 117.7mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 77.2%
- February: Good, temperature 21.59°C, rainfall 123.1mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 79.2%
- March: Good, temperature 20.68°C, rainfall 74.9mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 78.8%
- April: Good, temperature 18.43°C, rainfall 72.9mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 76.6%
- May: Good, temperature 16.12°C, rainfall 37.4mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 73.7%
- June: Good, temperature 13.48°C, rainfall 24.5mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 67.6%
- July: Good, temperature 13.46°C, rainfall 3.4mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 61.7%
- August: Great, temperature 15.2°C, rainfall 11mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 65.1%
- September: Good, temperature 17.52°C, rainfall 31.8mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 69.1%
- October: Good, temperature 18.62°C, rainfall 59.9mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 72.6%
- November: Good, temperature 20.49°C, rainfall 65.8mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 74.9%
- December: Good, temperature 21.37°C, rainfall 121.3mm, sunshine 8.7 hrs, humidity 79.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see directly at Bivane Dam Camp Site, and how does it differ from the Ithala Game Reserve experience?
While Bivane Dam Camp Site itself is primarily for camping and dam activities, you can often spot general plains game like impala, zebra, and various bird species around the dam. For the 'Big Five' and a more diverse safari experience, you'll need to drive into the nearby Ithala Game Reserve, which offers dedicated game viewing opportunities.
What are the typical camping facilities available at Bivane Dam Camp Site, and is it suitable for families?
Bivane Dam Camp Site generally offers basic, well-maintained camping stands, often with ablution blocks providing hot showers and flushing toilets. Some sites may have braai (barbecue) facilities and power points, making it a comfortable and family-friendly option for self-catering camping near the dam.
What is the best time of year to visit Bivane Dam Camp Site for both camping comfort and optimal game viewing in Ithala Game Reserve?
The cooler, dry winter months (May to September) are ideal for visiting Bivane Dam Camp Site, as temperatures are pleasant for camping and game viewing in Ithala is excellent due to sparser vegetation and animals congregating around water sources. Summer can be hot and wet, which might make camping less comfortable, though the landscape is lush.
Beyond just camping, what specific activities can guests enjoy directly at Bivane Dam Camp Site?
Guests at Bivane Dam Camp Site can enjoy various dam-related activities such as fishing (permit required), bird watching, and boating (if you bring your own watercraft). It's a tranquil spot perfect for relaxing, picnicking, and enjoying the natural surroundings away from the main safari drives.
Is Bivane Dam Camp Site safe for self-drive visitors, and what are the road conditions like for accessing the camp and Ithala?
Bivane Dam Camp Site is generally considered safe for visitors, but standard precautions for any remote area in South Africa should be observed. Access roads to the camp are typically gravel but usually manageable with a standard sedan, though a higher-clearance vehicle is always recommended for comfort and navigating potential potholes, especially after rain.