Where to see Brown Hyena in South Africa
This largely solitary scavenger is one of the more elusive and little-known of Africa’s carnivores. Shaggier than its spotted cousin, it occurs only in the arid southwest of the continent.
Quick facts about Brown Hyena
| Scientific name: | Parahyaena brunnea | Habitat: | Semi-desert & savannah |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Near Threatened | Adult weight: | 37–43kg |
With an estimated 800-2,000 individuals, South Africa is home to a significant population of brown hyenas (Hyaena brunnae). These shy carnivores are found primarily in the northern and western regions of the country, including the Kalahari Desert and parts of the Northern Cape, North West, and Limpopo provinces.
They play a crucial role in the ecosystem as efficient scavengers, helping to prevent the spread of disease by consuming carrion and carcasses with their strong jaws and powerful digestive systems.
Although listed as ‘Near Threatened’ by the IUCN, they are adaptable and able to inhabit diverse habitats, from arid deserts to mountainous areas, and South Africa remains a key stronghold for their species.
30–50km2
Foraging range
< 10,000
Estimated population
30cm
Length of neck hairs
4–6
Average clan size
The top camps for seeing brown hyena in South Africa
Based on 7 reports by our travellers since Jun 2018, visitors at these camps in South Africa have the best chances of sighting brown hyena.
Best chances to see
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Our tips for seeing brown hyena in South Africa
Typically solitary, brown hyenas can be harder to locate than spotted hyenas. Here are our suggestions to optimise your chances of sightings in South Africa.
Our favourite locations for brown hyena in South Africa
For the best chance of sighting brown hyenas in South Africa, focus on the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park which boasts one of the highest densities of these nocturnal animals, with an estimated 500-600 individuals.
Here, try staking out waterholes like Nossob or Mata Mata where brown hyenas come to drink in the early morning or late evening. Augrabies Falls National Park is another promising location, particularly around the main falls area where hyenas have been known to scavenge for rock hyax remains.
For a unique experience, visit the west coast of the Cape for a chance to see individuals scavenging along the beaches, as their Namibian relatives are known to do. This is especially true between June-August, when fur seal pups are abundant.
Our best South Africa holidays for brown hyena sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for South Africa safaris are likely to give the best brown hyena sightings
Black Wildebeest Self-drive Safari
19 days • 10 locations
CAPE TOWN AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT
Journey from South Africa’s cosmopolitan Cape Town to central Namibia’s Okonjima Nature Reserve during this self-driven safari. The route passes through a stunning variety of landscapes, offering access to this beautiful continent’s rich diversity.
US$4,080 - US$4,190 per person
Kwandwe Self-drive Safari
3 days • 1 locations
PORT ELIZABETH AIRPORT TO PORT ELIZABETH AIRPORT
An elegantly stylish lodge that is well suited to families, Kwandwe offers a range of safari activities and the chance to sight all of the "Big 5" during exploration of the Eastern Cape.
US$3,080 - US$4,360 per person
Leopard Safari
13 days • 4 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO CAPE TOWN AIRPORT
Victoria Falls, Botswana and Cape Town – a classic southern African itinerary combining luxury, wilderness, safari and culture. We can't think of a better way to spend two weeks.
US$13,370 - US$17,930 per person
Explore other countries where brown hyena can be found
Click here for detailed information about brown hyena in other countries, including the places for sighting brown hyena.
