Going on an African safari is an exhilarating experience. It offers an unmatched opportunity to witness a diverse array of safari animals in their natural habitats.
Unlike observing these majestic creatures in captivity, a safari provides a glimpse into their daily lives. From sprawling savannas to dense forests, it also showcases the natural behaviors of some of the most iconic African animals.
Wondering what animals you might see on safari? In this article, you’ll discover the top creatures to see along with some of the very best wildlife destinations to spot them.
What are Safari Animals?
Antelope
With their graceful forms and varied species, antelopes are staples on any list of African safari animals. Kafue National Park in Zambia is an exceptional place to observe these elegant creatures. See them navigating complex terrain that includes everything from water-rich floodplains to dry grasslands.
Elephant
These gentle giants of Africa are often seen in large herds. Find them bathing in a river or roaming the vast, open spaces. Go to Chobe National Park in Botswana, which is renowned for hosting one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa.
Leopard
Among the big five, leopards are the epitome of stealth and elegance. Kruger National Park in South Africa can offer you a rare chance to spot these elusive cats. They’re one of the hardest creatures to spot, so try looking for these safari animals at dawn or dusk when they are most active.
Rhino
With their impressive horns, black rhinos are a sight to behold within the natural amphitheater of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. These ancient animals from Africa are among the most cherished sights on a safari.
Buffalo
Buffalo are known for their unpredictable nature. Find them in the Masai Mara National Reserve of Kenya. They’ll often roam in large herds, wallow in the mud, or graze in the grasslands.
Zebra
Zebras are a sight to see in person. Their striking black and white stripes make them quintessential among our African safari animals list. Etosha National Park in Namibia provides a stunning setting to view these beautiful creatures mingling at waterholes.
Giraffe
Giraffes are easy to spot when on a safari. As one the world’s largest animals, their long necks and distinctive patterns make them a favorite among photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Spot them at Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
Cheetah
The cheetah is regarded as the fastest of all the safari animals we’re sharing on this list. Witness these incredible predators accelerate in pursuit of prey in the vast open landscapes of the Namib Desert in Namibia.
Hyena
Hyenas are fascinating wild safari animals known for their complex social structures and resourcefulness. South Luangwa National Park in Zambia provides a unique opportunity to observe them interacting in their clans. Find them socializing together during the cooler parts of the day.
Wildebeest
The wildebeest migrations in the Masai Mara in Kenya are one of the world’s most spectacular natural events. These African safari animals are crucial to the ecosystem of the continent, and the movement of their massive herds offer a dramatic display of nature’s scale and beauty.
Hippopotamus
The water-rich environments of the Okavango Delta in Botswana is where you’ll find hippopotamuses in their element. Observing these massive animals lounging in the water by day and grazing by night is a common and delightful experience in this lush safari region.
Crocodile
One of Africa’s most ancient and fearsome wild safari animals is none other than the formidable crocodile. It is best seen along the banks of the Grumeti River in Tanzania. Their stealthy presence adds an element of thrill to any safari trip.
Warthog
Warthogs are a delight to watch in the wild thanks to their distinctive tusks and surprising agility. Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa offers ample opportunities to see them on safari as they forage and scurry through the underbrush. You’ll often see them doing so with tails pointed skyward.
Lion
The lion is often celebrated as the king of the jungle. It reigns supreme across the plains of Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. Observing these majestic safari animals in their natural habitat is a highlight of any African safari—especially while they hunt or nurture their young.
Baboon
Baboons are one of the continent's most adaptable creatures and are found in various African landscapes. They are highly social and often observed in large troops interacting complexly. You'll no doubt encounter these expressive primates when visiting Cape Point Nature Reserve in South Africa.
Meerkat
Charismatic meerkats are a fixture in the arid Kalahari Desert in Botswana. They’re known best for their upright sentry stance and live in highly social, cooperative groups. These African safari animals offer an engaging spectacle for any curious wildlife observer.
Ostrich
As the world’s largest bird, ostriches are a fascinating sight on the Serengeti Plains in Tanzania. Their remarkable speed and unique appearance make them stand out to photographers and bird enthusiasts alike.
Jackal
Jackals are among the most cunning safari animals in Africa. You can find them skulking at the fringes of larger predator sightings. Kruger National Park in South Africa provides ample opportunity to watch these smart canines scavenging or hunting in the early morning and late evening.
Vulture
Vultures play a critical role in ecosystems by cleaning up after other predators. These birds are an essential sighting to understand the full circle of life among African safari animals. Find them circling overhead in the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
Eagle
Another bird you can expect to see in the Maasai Mara National Reserve is the eagle. Observing these majestic apex predators soar above the savanna is a highlight. It’s a showcase of the diversity and predatory prowess of flying wildlife.
Monitor Lizard
Monitor lizards are impressive reptiles often found in the lush wetlands of South Africa’s game reserves. These large African safari animals have muscular bodies and sharp claws. Seeing them will add a prehistoric dimension to any safari experience.
Protecting Majestic African Safari Animals for Years to Come
Seeing the above animals in their natural habitats can be an unforgettable experience that underscores the urgent need for conservation. This is a cause we’re deeply committed to at Fahlo.
By partnering with non-profit organizations, we’ve created bracelets and plush linked to real safari animals that you can track. Each purchase helps us fund their efforts and brings us closer to our goal of protecting their natural habitats.
Want to support? Join us in making a real impact in the preservation of these magnificent creatures today.