Animals on African Safari
Going on a safari in Africa is an unforgettable experience, and the opportunity to see some of the most amazing wildlife in their natural habitats is one of the main reasons people travel to Africa. Here are ten must-see animals on a safari in Africa:
Note: Seven Wonders Safaris offers a flexible cancellation policy. Should you not be able to travel as scheduled, we’d be happy to help you alter your booking with the same organizer or a different organizer
1. African Elephant
These majestic animals are one of the “Big Five” game animals and can be found in most African national parks. They are the largest land animal on earth and can weigh up to 13,000 pounds
African elephants are one of the most iconic and majestic animals that you can encounter on safari. These intelligent and social creatures can be found throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in savannah and forest habitats.
When you go on an elephant safari, you will typically ride in a specially designed vehicle with a knowledgeable guide who will help you spot these amazing animals in their natural habitat. You may also have the opportunity to take a guided walking safari, which can provide a more up-close and personal experience with elephants and other wildlife.
During your safari, you can observe the elephants’ natural behaviors, such as feeding, bathing, and playing. You might even witness some of the unique social dynamics of elephant herds, such as the close bond between mother elephants and their young, or the way that older female elephants act as leaders and protectors of the group.
It’s important to note that elephant safaris should always be conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner that prioritizes the well-being of the animals and their natural environment. When choosing a safari operator, look for one that has a strong commitment to conservation and responsible tourism practices, such as limiting the number of vehicles allowed in an area, and ensuring that the elephants are not disturbed or harassed by tourists.
2. African Lion
The king of the jungle is another member of the “Big Five” and can be found in savannahs and grasslands across Africa. Seeing the pride of lions in their natural habitat is a highlight of any safari.
The African lion is a large carnivorous mammal that is native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is a member of the Felidae family, which also includes other big cats such as tigers, jaguars, and leopards. The scientific name for the African lion is Panthera leo.
African lions are known for their distinctive manes, which are more prominent in males than in females. They are also known for their strength and agility, making them skilled hunters and predators. Lions typically hunt at night and prey on a variety of animals, including antelopes, zebras, buffalo, and sometimes even giraffes and elephants.
African lions are social animals and live in groups known as pride. Pride typically consists of several females and their cubs, along with a few males who defend the pride and mate with the females. Lions communicate through a variety of vocalizations, including roars, grunts, and growls.
Unfortunately, African lions are currently classified as a vulnerable species, with their populations declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these magnificent animals, including efforts to protect their habitat and reduce conflicts with humans.
3. African Leopard
These elusive big cats are known for their beautiful spotted coats and are excellent hunters. They can be found in many African national parks, but are difficult to spot because of their stealthy nature.
The African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus) is a large carnivorous mammal that is native to Africa. It is part of the Panthera genus, which also includes lions, tigers, jaguars, and snow leopards.
African leopards are medium-sized cats, weighing between 60 and 150 pounds (27 to 68 kg) and measuring between 4 and 6.25 feet (1.2 to 1.9 meters) in length. They are known for their distinctive spotted coat, which provides excellent camouflage in their natural habitat. The color of their fur can vary from light yellow to a deep gold color, with black spots that are arranged in rosettes or circles.
These solitary animals are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, in a range of habitats including savannahs, forests, and mountainous areas. They are primarily nocturnal and are excellent climbers, often hauling their prey up into trees to keep it away from scavengers.
African leopards are opportunistic predators and will hunt a variety of prey, including antelope, impala, gazelle, and warthogs. They are also known to hunt domestic livestock, which can bring them into conflict with farmers.
Due to habitat loss and hunting, African leopard populations are declining in some areas, but they are still considered a species of “least concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts include protecting their habitat, reducing human-wildlife conflict, and enforcing hunting regulations.
4. African Buffalo
Another member of the “Big Five,” these large herbivores are known for their unpredictable behavior and massive horns. They can be found in herds in grasslands and savannahs across Africa.
The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) is a large, herbivorous mammal that is found in sub-Saharan Africa. It is also known as the Cape buffalo or the African bison.
African buffalo are large and robust animals, with adult males weighing up to 900 kg (2000 lb) and females weighing up to 700 kg (1500 lb). They have dark brown to black fur and distinctive, curved horns that can grow up to a meter (3.3 ft) long.
These animals are social and typically live in large herds, which can number in the hundreds. Within these herds, females and young tend to form tight-knit groups, while males may roam more freely or form smaller bachelor groups.
African buffalo are herbivorous and primarily graze on grasses, although they may also browse on leaves and other vegetation. They are an important prey species for large predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas, and have a reputation for being aggressive and dangerous to humans.
Despite being a popular big game animal for hunting and poaching, African buffalo are not currently considered to be endangered. However, local populations may be threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and disease.
5. Rhinoceros
There are two species of rhinoceros found in Africa – the black rhino and the white rhino. Both species are critically endangered, but you may still be able to spot them in some African national parks.
The African rhinoceros is a large, herbivorous mammal that is native to Africa. There are two species of African rhinoceros: the black rhinoceros and the white rhinoceros. The black rhinoceros is smaller and more aggressive than the white rhinoceros, and has a hooked lip, while the white rhinoceros has a square lip for grazing.
Both species of African rhinoceros have a prehistoric appearance, with thick, armor-like skin and a large, horned head. Their horns are made of keratin, the same material as human hair and nails, and are used for defense and territorial disputes.
Unfortunately, both species of African rhinoceros are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching for their valuable horns, which are sought after for their supposed medicinal properties in some Asian countries. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these majestic animals and prevent their extinction.
These animals are social and typically live in large herds, which can number in the hundreds. Within these herds, females and young tend to form tight-knit groups, while males may roam more freely or form smaller bachelor groups.
African buffalo are herbivorous and primarily graze on grasses, although they may also browse on leaves and other vegetation. They are an important prey species for large predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas, and have a reputation for being aggressive and dangerous to humans.
Despite being a popular big game animal for hunting and poaching, African buffalo are not currently considered to be endangered. However, local populations may be threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and disease.
What's Your Dream Safari?
We design private, group joining and camping safaris for people who want to explore African pristine wilderness for unmatched wildlife, trekking and cultural tours. Our amazing team of travel designers, local guides work together to showcase Africa beauty in depth.
This Southern African Safari Holiday gives you a six-day safari in Africa from Cape Town to Botswana. Experience the rhythm of Cape Town and the Chobe River in Botswana.
In this Seven days Botswana, you will be able to visit Moremi Game reserve, located on the east side of Olkavango Delta, and Savuti, also known as Savute which lies in the heart of Botswana’s beautiful Chobe National Park.
Cape Town – Stellenbosch – Moremi Game Reserve – Savuti – Chobe National Park – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe for 13 Days / 12 Nights
