Exploring the wild beauty of Africa on a safari is a bucket-list experience for many. Whether you are drawn by the call of the savannah or the allure of the continent’s diverse wildlife, there is no shortage of incredible animals to encounter. According to research from Audley Travel, British travellers are particularly fascinated by certain safari animals. Here, we delve into the top animals you might spot on your African adventure and the best places to see them.
Lions
Lions, often referred to as the kings and queens of the safari, top the list of the most searched-for African animals by British enthusiasts. Their majestic presence and powerful demeanour captivate those who dream of seeing them in their natural habitat. Audley Travel’s safari specialist, David Katwiwa, recalls his unforgettable first sighting of a pride of lionesses with their cubs.
To witness lions in all their glory, David recommends several prime locations. South Africa’s Great Kruger Region is renowned for its big cat sightings, including lions. The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania offers a chance to see lions in action during the Great Migration. For a more luxurious experience, Botswana provides excellent lion-spotting opportunities. Audley Travel has provided a safari guide that explores these animals in further detail, helping you prepare for your trip!
Elephants
Ranking second are elephants, the largest land animals known for their strength, power, and deep emotional bonds. Safari specialist Dickie Ashcroft emphasises the fascinating social structures of elephants and their engaging behaviours. From playful interactions to mourning rituals, elephants never fail to amaze.
Dickie suggests Kenya for an unforgettable elephant encounter, where he once observed a rare ‘super tusker’ bull. Alternatively, Namibia offers a unique safari experience with its desert-adapted elephants. These elephants have evolved to survive in harsh conditions, showcasing adaptations that make them particularly intriguing to observe.
Giraffes
Giraffes, with their long necks and distinctive spot patterns, are the third most popular safari animals. Their unique appearance and graceful movements make them a favouriteamong safari-goers. Kirsty Downing, another safari specialist, highlights the individuality of giraffe spot patterns, which are as unique as human fingerprints.
For a memorable giraffe encounter, Kirsty recommends Thamo Telele lodge near Maun in Botswana. Here, you can observe giraffes at a waterhole and learn to identify them by their spots. Additionally, a portion of the funds from your stay supports the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, aiding giraffe preservation efforts across Africa.
Other Popular Safari Animals
Aside from the top three, several other animals also captivate the interest of British travellers. Gorillas, found in the dense forests of Rwanda and Uganda, offer a thrilling and intimate wildlife experience. These great apes share 98% of their DNA with humans, making their behaviour fascinating to observe. Guided treks in Volcanoes National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest provide rare opportunities to see gorilla families in their natural habitat, an experience that many describe as life-changing.
Flamingos, with their vibrant pink plumage, are another favourite. They congregate in large flocks at saline lakes across Africa. One of the most iconic spots to witness this spectacle is Kenya’s Lake Nakuru, where thousands of flamingos create a striking pink shoreline. The sight of these birds, often standing on one leg and feeding with their heads submerged in the water, is both mesmerizing and tranquil.
Crocodiles, notorious for their stealth and power, are common residents of Africa’s rivers and lakes. The Nile crocodile, one of the largest crocodile species, can be found basking on riverbanks or lurking just below the water’s surface. The Okavango Delta in Botswana and the Mara River in Kenya are prime locations to observe these ancient reptiles, particularly during the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration.
Meerkats charm visitors with their playful and social nature. These small mammals are known for their upright stance and cooperative behaviour. Watching a meerkat colony in action, especially during their vigilant lookout routines, is both entertaining and enlightening. The Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana offer excellent meerkat viewing opportunities, where you can observe these endearing creatures in their natural habitat.
Leopards, elusive and solitary, are often considered the most challenging of the Big Five to spot. Their ability to blend into the environment and their nocturnal habits make sightings particularly special. Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa is renowned for its high density of leopards, providing perhaps the best chance to see these stealthy predators in action.
Buffalos, part of Africa’s Big Five, are a common sight on many safaris. These robust animals are known for their unpredictable nature and strong herd dynamics. Seeing a herd of buffalos grazing or wallowing in mud can be a powerful reminder of the untamed beauty of the African savannah. The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is a notable location where large herds of buffalo can be easily observed.
Pangolins, though rare, fascinate with their unique scales and shy behaviour. These nocturnal creatures are the only mammals wholly covered in scales, which they use as a defence mechanism. Due to their elusive nature and the threat of poaching, spotting a pangolin in the wild is a rare and treasured experience. Conservation areas such as TswaluKalahari Reserve in South Africa are dedicated to protecting these enigmatic animals and offer the best chances of a sighting.
