Leopards in Africa
The leopard is not uncommon. The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, it occurs in all major conservation areas and across most habitats. Nonetheless, its grace and elusiveness make it a unique safari drawcard.
Quick facts about Leopard
| Scientific name: | Panthera pardus | Habitat: | Savanna, woodland, forest, mountains |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Vulnerable | Adult weight: | 30–90kg |
The leopard is a powerful and versatile predator that varies greatly in size and habitat. It uses stealth and camouflage to ambush prey at close quarters, typically taking small to medium-sized antelopes, though everything from birds to young giraffes may make the menu. Most active at night, leopards are agile climbers and unique among big cats in using trees as ‘larders’ for prey.
Key identification features include a long tail, usually curled at the white tip, and beautiful rosette patterning (unlike a cheetah’s solid spots). Males are around one-third larger than females, with a larger head and more jowly throat. Adults are largely solitary, though cubs may remain with their mothers for 18 months.
64
Range countries worldwide
5,200m
Highest recorded altitude
108cm
Max. tail length
12–17 years
Average lifespan
Africa's top camps for seeing leopards
Based on 2258 reports by our travellers since Mar 2018, the camps below have the best chances of sighting leopards. Simply follow the key below.
Best chances to see
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Some sightings
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Where to see leopards in Africa
Leopards are widespread but good at hiding. By day, you may spy one in a tree. At dawn and dusk, they become more active on the ground. Night drives can be productive.
Top tips for viewing leopards
Leopards occur everywhere from mountains to rainforests but are best seen in savannah and woodland habitats. Highly territorial, they often show up repeatedly in the same area.
Classic leopard country includes river loops with large trees and rocky kopjes surrounded by open bush. Even if invisible, a leopard’s presence is often betrayed by the alarm calls of prey, such as baboons, impala or even guinea-fowl. Be patient and you might get lucky.
Certain locations, such as Zambia’s LuangwaValley, are famed for leopard sightings. But all major conservation areas, from the Kalaharito the Maasai Mara, offer a chance, especially where guides know the habitats and whereabouts of individual cats. Night drives increase the chances further. Listen out after dark for the distinctive deep territorial call, which resembles the rasp of a saw.
Holiday ideas to see leopards
Based on our travellers experiences, these are the holidays which will give you the best chances of good leopard sightings
Wild Dog Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An in-depth discovery of northern Botswana’s wilderness, from Chobe and the private Kwando Reserve to the Moremi and iconic Okavango Delta with a great variety of activities and wildlife.
US$12,230 - US$21,930 per person
Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Four luxurious camps enable exploration of Tanzania’s north and southern regions. With a range of land- and water-based activities available throughout, decidedly comfortable accommodation and applicable long-stay discounts, this adventurous safari is excellent value.
US$17,640 - US$25,560 per person
Porcupine Safari
11 days • 4 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Visit dramatically contrasting landscapes boasting a variety of species during this exploration of Botswana’s top-safari destinations. A combination of national parks and private reserves allows for a range of activities.
US$10,710 - US$16,860 per person
Puku Safari
11 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LIVINGSTONE AIRPORT
Discover South Luangwa’s prolific wildlife before exploring the wildly remote pans of Liuwa Plain National Park and relaxing in one of the Livingstone area’s most romantic and exclusive hideaways. A safari of luxury, style and impressive diversity.
US$14,970 - US$19,920 per person
Duiker Safari
10 days • 3 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Three luxurious bushcamps in stunning riverside locations, split between the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi national parks, offer a wide variety of expert-guided safari activities in stunning game-rich environments.
US$10,960 - US$14,470 per person
Crawshay's Zebra Safari
10 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
This superb safari combines two of Zambia’s best national parks, the South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi. The camps are small and high quality with excellent safari guides.
US$10,460 - US$13,820 per person
Civet Safari
9 days • 4 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT
Combining three intimate bushcamps in the quieter south of the South Luangwa, this safari will appeal to those looking for an interesting mix of walking and vehicle safari.
US$8,490 - US$9,970 per person
Spring Hare Safari
9 days • 3 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An authentic and diverse safari to Botswana combining the Chobe Forest Reserve, Savuti Marshes and the Okavango Delta. Strong wildlife viewing, a variety of activities and excellent value camps.
US$7,290 - US$13,320 per person
Buffalo Safari
9 days • 3 locations
HARARE AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
Combining Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools and Hwange national parks with stays at intimate six-tent safari camps offering excellent walking, canoeing and game drives. Superb wildlife viewing and a real wilderness-focused experience.
US$8,840 - US$11,910 per person
Our top destinations for leopards
Click below for detailed information about leopards in these countries, including our latest sightings data from the camps and lodges there.
