african lion safari animal rights

Canadian zoo accreditation body bans elephant rides. Advocate says change is overdue

Decision follows cbc investigation into 2019 elephant attack at african lion safari.

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The Canadian organization that sets standards for zoos has banned elephant rides at member facilities, a decision an animal welfare group says is overdue and ends a "dangerous" practice that put visitors and staff at risk.

Jim Facette, CEO of Canada's Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), confirmed it has made the "significant change."

"Today and going forward, elephant rides are not permitted at CAZA-accredited facilities," he said on Monday.

The move follows a CBC investigation that revealed what happened when an elephant named Maggie, which had been used for rides at African Lion Safari for years, attacked a trainer in 2019, leaving the man seriously injured.

It also found CAZA continued to allow the rides a decade after its American counterpart, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), halted the practice because of safety concerns for staff who work with elephants.

• CBC Investigates African Lion Safari ended elephant rides after 2019 attack. So why are they still allowed in Canada?
• Trainer seriously injured after elephant attack at Ontario's African Lion Safari

CAZA's decision is welcome news, said Melissa Matlow, Canadian campaign director for World Animal Protection, which had pushed for elephant rides to be prohibited.

"It's a very strong statement if the national zoo accreditation body opposes elephant rides."

But, Matlow added, the move was also a "long time coming" and it should not have taken "a person getting seriously harmed" for change to happen.

"We see [rides] as cruel," she said. "It's dangerous and it's not educational. It serves no benefit."

Activists and zoo accreditation bodies said they believe African Lion Safari was the only site in Canada offering elephant rides when the attack happened there in 2019. The zoo and theme park in Flamborough, Ont., permanently stopped the rides that same year.

Report describes elephant attacking trainer

CBC obtained a copy of an Ontario Ministry of Labour report about the incident through a freedom of information request.

It described how Maggie, an Asian elephant that was ridden by visitors to the park for 25 years, turned on one of her handlers on June 21, 2019.

According to the investigation, one rider was reportedly still dismounting from Maggie when she became aggressive.

The report found the elephant lunged when the handler's back was turned, blocking him into a corner and beating him with her trunk.

"Maggie reportedly also used her head, butting him in the chest and pushing his head into her mouth," it reads.

Air ambulance service Ornge told CBC in 2019 it transported a man in his 30s to Hamilton General Hospital with serious injuries following the attack.

African Lion Safari described the employee's injuries as non-life-threatening in a Facebook post shared that same day,

In a statement sent Monday in response to questions about CAZA's change in standards, African Lion Safari said it was a founding member of CAZA and, as such, "fully support and remain in full compliance of the standards that govern our park."

'Disappointing' change took so long

But Matlow said those standards are the problem, adding it's "disappointing" it took CAZA, which has accredited 28 facilities across Canada, so long to change them.

The AZA hasn't allowed elephant rides at any of its 241-accredited facilities since 2011. 

Instead, its policies call for protected contact, meaning a barrier must exist between guests and elephants at all times. Even trained handlers can only be in the same space as an elephant in specific circumstances.

"It was dangerous," AZA president Dan Ashe told CBC. "We had significant record of injury, and in some cases death, associated with elephants."

Facette said CAZA is still evaluating the rest of its standards around interactions between people and elephants, especially when it comes to "entertainment." Animal welfare is the first priority, as is the safety of people working with them, he said.

The CEO said he could not explain why the change in standards happened now, stressing he's focused on what its policies will look like going forward.

He added CBC's questions as part of its investigation provided "an opportunity" to listen to concerns.

Asked why it took so long for CAZA to align its policies with that of its U.S. counterpart, he said "Canadian standards are for Canadian facilities."

Facette also said he couldn't comment on whether or not CAZA's standards had failed the worker at African Lion Safari who was seriously hurt because he had not read the Ontario Ministry of Labour's report about the attack, which has been available since last year.

The park and ministry have dealt with the incident, he explained when questioned about why he hadn't seen it.

"Move on," Facette said. "There's no sense in CAZA getting involved in specific, small incidents that the provincial regulator is comfortable with."

The CEO said he rejects the premise that if CAZA's standard did not allow for elephant rides, the handler would not have been injured because the situation where the attack happened could not have existed.

"We don't know that," said Facette, adding another accident could have happened somewhere else. "It's supposition to suggest that if this didn't happen, then that wouldn't happen."

Ending rides 'eliminates' the risk

But Matlow said the dangers of rides and other interactions with elephants have long been clear.

"Obviously allowing visitors to get in an enclosure with a potentially dangerous and stressed wild animal to ride them presents serious safety risks, so removing this activity eliminates this risk," she explained.

"This risk should have been addressed a long time ago."

CBC's investigation also found the attack involving Maggie wasn't the first time an elephant at African Lion Safari had injured a person.

Tusko, an 18-year-old bull elephant with a history of aggression toward other animals, crushed a handler named Omer Norton to death November 1989.

A third incident is mentioned in a newspaper report from June 1992. 

It describes a 14-year-old suffering a broken leg after being stepped on by an elephant as the animals were being led away following an afternoon show.

Zoo industry is 'policing itself'

That type of parade or show where elephants perform tricks is something Matlow said her organization is calling on CAZA to end as well.

Facette said he anticipates more changes could be coming as the accreditation body weighs entertainment and educational value, though he expects they won't be brought before the board until the new year.

"I think the circus act days are gone," he said. 

Matlow said part of the problem with ensuring staff safety and animal welfare in Canada is the patchwork of provincial rules that govern it, and she believes national laws are needed.

"It really is the zoo industry policing itself," she explained. "These are voluntary standards; there's no independent oversight."

• Jane Goodall backs Sen. Murray Sinclair's bill to ban ape, elephant captivity in Canada

World-renowned primatologist Jane Goodall lent her name to a piece of proposed legislation, dubbed the Jane Goodall Act, that sought to ban keeping great apes and elephants in this country, and would have barred elephant rides.

She previously told CBC that elephant rides were "very insulting" and "demeaning" to such an intelligent animal. But the act died on the order paper at the last election.

CAZA's new standards are currently being translated and aren't available yet.

Matlow said she's waiting to see them in writing before she gets too excited, adding she hopes they'll be just a "first step."

with files from John Paul Tasker

Related Stories

• Elephant that attacked trainer still with herd at African Lion Safari
• Advocacy group names Hamilton's 'cruel' African Lion Safari as 'worst' zoo for elephants
• 2 Ontario zoos are violating global guidelines for animal safety: advocacy group

A member of the “Big 5” and perhaps Africa’s most iconic species, the African Lion is a highly sought after sighting while out on safari.

Common Name – African Lion

Scientific Name – Panthera Leo

Current IUCN Red List Status – VU 

Estimated no. of mature individuals – 23,000 -39,000

Lions are capable of living in a wide variety of habitats and are found across parts of sub-Saharan Africa (mostly Southern and Eastern Africa). Lions generally stick to areas such as grasslands, shrubs and open woodland – however a small number have adapted over generations to thrive in the harsh Namib Desert in Namibia.

The only cats that live in groups – known as prides – lion prides can comprise up to 40 individuals. Though rare to see prides of this size, it is possible. More often than not, prides sizes vary between 8-25 individuals. Most of the hunting is done by female lions working as a team, and who will hunt anything from small antelope to buffalo. Some lion prides have been known to specialise in hunting even larger prey including elephant and giraffe. Males will often only help at the last moment or to bring down large prey – sometimes they run in only when the hunt is over taking the biggest share!

Lion viewing Safaris

Most lion viewing across Africa is done by vehicle on morning and afternoon game drives. It’s a thrilling experience coming face-to-face with a lion in the wild and many guests find a lion encounter to be a major highlight of an African safari. The cats may even use the vehicle as spot for shade, and guides can often find their vehicle surrounded by a handful of lions hiding from the sun.

Lions are fascinating to watch, particularly the dynamic within the pride and many safari-goers will happily watch for hours as the lions hunt or play. Playful cubs interact with one another under the watchful eye of their mothers and sometimes, the cheeky cubs might antagonise a big grumpy male.

Walking safaris offer the chance to see smaller creatures and learn more about native plants, but on occasion there is a chance to see lions – and from a very different perspective. To walk in Africa is to be a part of Africa, leaving nothing but footprints behind. Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Mana Pools national parks along with Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park are some of the best places in Africa to experience a multi-day walking safari reminiscent of a by-gone era. Both offer a truly unique experience while walking amongst Africa’s big game creates live long memories others can only dream of.

Best safaris to see lion

Inspiring sights of kenya.

This superb safari incorporates the popular Giraffe Manor in Nairobi and 3 luxury camps situated in sensational gameviewing areas throughout Kenya.

Best of Zimbabwe

This safari explores three of Zimbabwe's greatest highlights: Hwange National Park, breathtaking Mana Pools National Park and Victoria Falls.

Exclusive Botswana

Take in the best of Botswana on this 12 day exclusive safari, travelling from the Makgadikgadi Pans through the Linyanti into the Okavango Delta.

Relais & Chateaux Kenya Safari

This outstanding Kenyan safari incorporates 2 Relais and Châteaux status safari camps with iconic Giraffe Manor.

Timeless Deserts & Namib Wildlife

Discover the silent beauty of Sossusvlei, track Africa's last free-roaming rhino in Palmwag and go on safari in Etosha, Namibia's finest wildlife reserve.

Tanzania’s Northern Treasures

Experience three of Tanzania’s best known national parks and the country’s epic wildlife in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and the celebrated Serengeti.

Kruger and The Cape

Discover some of South Africa's best known attractions on this journey that begins with a big game safari in the world-renowned Sabi Sand and concludes in beautiful Cape Town.

Recommended places to see Lion

Namiri plains.

Situated in a little-visited, remarkably unspoilt corner of the Serengeti, Namiri Plains is where you’ll find some of East Africa’s best big cat sightings, from lion and leopard to cheetah.

Duba Plains Camp

Duba Plains Camp is an extravagant luxury safari camp set in a private concession in the Okavango Delta dubbed "Botswana's Masai Mara" for sheer density of wildlife.

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Perched high above Kruger National Park’s N’Wanetsi River, Singita Lebombo Lodge offers exceptional opportunities for intimate wildlife encounters.

Ruckomechi Camp

Set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, Ruckomechi Camp has been a favourite with visitors to the breathtaking Mana Pools National Park for many years.

What is a male lion coalition?

Coalitions are normally made up of 2-4 male lions (usually brothers or half-brothers) who hunt and fight off threats as a team. The more males working together, the stronger they are. It’s easier to keep control of a territory or fight an intruder if they work together.

When is the best time to see lions?

Like most other animals, the best time to see these cats is during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active. During the day, lions will often find a shady spot to avoid the heat and conserve energy.

African Lion Facts:

Sleepy cats A lion can sleep for up to 20 hours in a single day.

Hear me roar Depending on the wind direction, you can hear a lion roar from up to 7 or 8 kilometres away.

Big appetites Like other cats, lions may not know when their next meal might come from, meaning that they will consume food at an extraordinarily fast rate. This also helps to explain why they need to sleep for so long, to enable digestion.

Night vision A lion’s night vision is up to 6 times more sensitive to light than humans.

Weight Male lions are much larger than females and can weigh as much as 190 kilograms (420 pounds)Desert-adapted Lions – Also known as ‘desert lions’ these lions can live without water for extended periods. To cover long distances over the hot desert sand their legs tend to be slightly longer than ‘regular lions’, whilst their coats are slightly thicker to combat the cold temperatures at night. The best place to see these lions is in Northern Namibia.

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date, find out more about our tailor made african safaris, more wildlife.

The Cape buffalo is a member of Africa’s “Big 5” and therefore a must-see for any safari-goer.

Cape Buffalo

The Cheetah is the fastest land animal on the planet and one of Africa’s most well-known and sought-after sightings when on safari

African elephants are the world’s largest land mammal and were once numerous, roaming across the whole African continent.

With their unique and beautiful colouring, giraffes are one of Africa’s most recognised animals.

Grizzly bear or grizzly is the name given to the subspecies of brown bear that inhabits North America.

Grizzly Bear

The largest cat in the Western Hemisphere, jaguars are strongly built, well-muscled predators native to the Americas

King Penguins don’t actually live on the Antarctic ice shelf, instead they prefer the sandy snowless beaches of the Sub-Antarctic islands.

King Penguin

Lemurs are endemic to the island nation of Madagascar where 107 species can be found. However each individual species is often only found in a

Leopards are graceful cats and still geographically wide-spread across Africa, including isolated parts of Morocco and Egypt.

Meerkats are found in Southern Africa and they are often seen standing on their rear legs, forever gazing out over the sweeping plains.

Orcas, informally referred to as killer whales because of their fearsome reputation, are majestic mammals.

Polar bears are found in the Arctic regions of Canada & Europe. The majority of their population are found in Canada, particularly around the

Impressively large and with horns for a nose, these prehistoric looking creatures are one of the most iconic African animals.

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African Lion Safaris

Encounters with the icon of africa.

The true icon of Africa’s Big Five, the African lion is the symbol of strength and power, the epitome of any safari to wild Africa. Today, catching sight of this apex predator is one of the most sought-after prizes for almost every safari-goer, with regal prides located from East to South.

Observing the social aspect of lions' lives is one of the most memorable elements of an encounter with the species. Out on the wild African plains, females stalk big game as they feed on tasty grasses, prides nap in the shade and cubs play under the watchful eye of their mothers as males fight for the crown. Exploring via game drives and even walking safaris, witness the wild behaviours of these magnificent mammals.

Where can you see the African Lion?

African Lions are found in sub-Saharan Africa, with 80% of the population in eastern or southern Africa and three of the five largest populations in Tanzania. African Lions used to be found across most of the continent, but in recent decades they have disappeared from 12 sub-Saharan countries.

THE AFRICAN LION

• Lions are notably the only sociable big cat, with prides formed of a few muscular males, crowned with a thick mane and measuring up to 3.5m long and up to 272kg.
• Most of the hunting is done by the smaller more agile females, weighing between 110 kg and 168 kg, who will work together to hunt anything from small antelope up to buffalo and even giraffe; in Savuti in Botswana, they have learnt to hunt young elephant.
• The males will often get involved to help tackle the dangerous animals. Males have a large mane of hair which can be beige or black depending on the individual and the area they live in.

African Lion Safari Destinations

• Masai Mara National Reserve: A great place to see lions year-round in the flat, wide and open plains of the Masai Mara. In July, 2 million wildebeest cross the Mara River under the eyes of the hungry lions.
• Serengeti National Park: Three of the five largest lion populations are in Tanzania and the Serengeti is one of the best spots to see lions due to the availability of food and the million wildebeest.
• In Southern Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is one of Africas hidden treasures with only 6000 visitors a year. Second to the Serengeti, Ruaha is home to 10% of the worlds lion population so there is great opportunities to see lions around less safari vehicles.
• The Ngorongoro Crater offers the oppourtunity to see the Big 5 in a different setting, in the worlds largest inactive volcanic caldera.
• Okavango Delta: The Okavango Delta is the best place to see water-adapted lions in Africa, these lions are 15% larger than others and have adapted to hunting during the day when the buffalo are grazing. The permanent water and nutritious grasses makes the Okavango Delta the perfect habitat for buffalo and you may witness lions fighting them here.
• Kruger National Park: Most of South Africa’s lions can be found in Kruger National Park. Being the size of Wales, it can be hard to find them, but South Kruger has way more lions as it is wetter and greener. We recommend staying at Sabi Sands, which is one of the most reliable places to see lions in Africa. Timbavati is also the best place to see white lions in Africa.

Lions are highly adaptable, and in Namibia you will find ‘desert-adapted’ or ‘desert-lions’, that have adapted to survive in the harsh landscape of little vegetation and prey. The best places to see lions in Namibia is in Kaokoveld and Damaraland, but be aware these lions are nomadic and you are not guaranteed to see them.

Classic Kenya Safari

An exciting family safari, exploring the masai mara....

Luxury South Africa Safari

Relax in the ultimate luxury of your lodge after encountering the African big cats whilst out on safari with your expert guide. Spend time on the coast of Cape Town exploring historic Robben Island and the rugged rocks of beautiful Cape Point. Visit Hermanus, a world-renowned whale watching destination, take the opportunity to see both black and white rhino in one place and even search for the rare white Lion in Timbavati Game Reserve.

Classic Tanzania Safari

This Tanzania highlights small group safari takes you to the heart of the action trying to catch sight of the migration, witness wildlife in the Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy an option hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti.

Small Group Namibia Safari

This expertly-guided small group trip consisting of a maximum of seven guests takes in the highlights of Namibia. Over the course of this ten day trip you will get to visit the iconic towering dunes at Sossusvlei, the coast and wildlife at Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, the desert-adapted wildlife and unique rock formations of Damaraland, rewarding wildlife viewing in Etosha National Park and an educational tour of the AfriCat Foundation at Okonjima.

Okavango Delta Botswana Safari

Feel the heartbeat of the Okavango Delta exploring the labyrinth of waterways, islands and lagoons of this bizarre natural wonder. Explore the wildlife-rich waterways of the Okavango Delta by helicopter, hot air balloon, safari vehicle and mokoro canoe. Watch for the region’s abundant birdlife as well as big game like lion, leopard and hippo. Experience the ultimate blend of adventure and luxury with top-notch lodges and camps, carefully selected for comfort and service, while unwinding in beautiful surroundings after daily explorations.

African Lion Conservation

In just 25 years, Africa’s lion population dramatically dropped with only 50% of their numbers remaining across the iconic landscapes of the continent. The IUCN classified these majestic creatures as “vulnerable” as a result, a subject of habitat loss and fragmentation, illegal wildlife trade, poaching and human-lion conflict.

It was as a result of this revelation that the Lionscape Coalition was formed, in response to the growing threat of extinction and the predictable knock-on effect this would have on Africa’s biodiversity. Lions are classed as an “umbrella species”; with a wild lion population thriving, the entire surrounding eco-system functions effectively, ultimately also affecting the livelihoods of those relying on ecotourism for survival. The Lionscape Coalition sees four commercial competitors, who share the bold vision of the Lion Recovery Fund (LRF) to double wild lion numbers by 2050, collaborate on lion conservation programmes across Africa. Putting all commercial considerations aside, this alliance brings to this initiative over 100 years of positive conservation and community impact throughout Africa.

Lions are a resilient species so the future looks bright. These animals will rapidly reproduce if their habitats are protected if communities have incentives to co-exist and protect them. Creating healthy ‘lionscapes’ which can benefit these local communities is key to the success of population decline being reversed and many other species will recover in the process.

When is the Best Time to See African Lions?

The best time to see lions is during the peak safari season from July to October. The cool, dry winter means less vegetation for wildlife to hide behind and the lack of rain means wildlife will congregate around the lakes and rivers and most wildlife wont stray too far from the little water left.

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9 African safari destinations for wildlife and thrills

From flooded okavango lagoons to rolling serengeti savannahs, go wild for our can’t miss safari spots.

There’s something inherently magical about a safari in Africa . Endless rolling plains filled to the brim with wildebeest, zebra, and antelope, sunsets watching elephants spray each other at waterholes, and the ghoulish laugh of hyenas at night — it’s truly the adventure of a lifetime. But where to go and how to actually see these safari destinations (especially if you’re on a budget)? That’s the age-old question.

Where’s best to go on safari in Africa?

If you're 40+ and still game for a basic budget-friendly camping safari, look no further than our new ‘Classic’ African overland tours bringing a beloved grassroots adventure to a fully expanded age group! You can camp out in destinations like Uganda and South Africa with like-minded travellers while tracking mountain gorillas through mist-shrouded forests or searching for the elusive ‘big five’ across open savannahs.

Even better, you’ll see it all from our fully refurbished fleet of ‘Lando’ overland adventure vehicles — they’re purple, kitted up with fresh gear, and soon to be your new best friend. But with so many countries to choose from, where do you begin? Fear not, as we’re here to help you narrow it down with nine safari destinations waiting for you to roll up.

South Africa

There are countless reasons to see South Africa — including glugging wine in Stellenbosch’s vineyards, hanging out with pint-sized penguins on Boulders Beach, and hiking up mighty Table Mountain.

But arguably this destination’s biggest draw lies in its natural beauty, covering everything from the dramatic rock formations of the Cederberg Wilderness Area to Orange River — South Africa’s longest river. Let’s also not forget its world-class national parks and game reserves, where you can spot the cast of The Lion King in close proximity. Don’t miss a visit to Kruger, the country’s largest wildlife reserve and home to over 150 species of mammals and 500 species of birds.

See South Africa for yourself on: Cape Town to Johannesburg Overland Safari

Now if there’s anywhere on Earth that you’d describe as ‘otherworldly’, it’s most likely Namibia. Home to the world’s oldest desert, The Namib, towering sand dunes, and the largest canyon in Africa, Fish River Canyon — it’s certainly got a flair for the dramatic — and that’s without even mentioning the wildlife-rich salt pans of Etosha National Park.

Beyond the larger land animals you’d expect, Namibia is also known for sightings of lesser-known predators like bat-eared foxes and the tank-like honey badgers — an animal which even lions are known to fear. There are also less than two million people here, mostly based in the capital Windhoek, so chances are you’ll have it largely to yourself.

See Namibia for yourself on: Namibia to Cape Town Overland Safari

It’s easy to see why Botswana is considered one of the best safari destinations in Africa, as it’s home to one of the most impressive wildlife events in the world. When the Okavango Delta floods, it transforms the bone-dry Kalahari into a lush green, lagoon-filled paradise.

During the floods, animals arrive in the thousands from leviathans like elephants and hippos to flocks of pink flamingos and a deafening chorus of bullfrogs. There’s so much to see that it can be hard to know where to look. One thing you can’t miss though are the vast herds of zebra, wildebeest, and buffalo flocking together in one large mass — followed of course by lions, spotted hyenas, and fearsome Nile crocodiles.

See Botswana for yourself on: Victoria Falls to Windhoek Overland Safari

Given its much-publicized history, Zimbabwe doesn’t often top the list of the most-visited African safari destinations. It’s a real shame as there’s a ton to see and do in this friendly country. Perhaps the biggest draw is the mighty Victoria Falls — a thunderous waterfall measuring over 1,700m (5,577 ft) in length.

Forming a natural border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, it’s one of the world’s seven natural wonders and holds the title as the ‘world’s largest sheet of falling water’. There are plenty of activities — from spotting elephants, opting to hurl yourself off a bridge attached to a bungee cord, or hovering over the rising mists in a helicopter.

See Zimbabwe for yourself on: Namibia to Victoria Falls Overland Safari

Lying just over the bridge from Zimbabwe lies Zambia, popular with both adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike. Boasting some of the best national parks in Africa — South Luangwa we’re looking at you — it’s home to countless impressive natural wonders.

Aside from Victoria Falls — otherwise known as the ‘smoke that thunders’ — there’s the Grade V rapids of the Zambezi beloved by adrenaline junkies wanting to test their mettle. Then there’s the aforementioned South Luangwa — which spans over 9,000km (5,592 mi) in the far eastern reaches of the country. A visit here is a must — dramatic scenery, night drives, seasonal walking tours, and one of the best chances to spot elusive leopards.

See Zambia for yourself on: Zimbabwe to Kenya Overland Safari

Nicknamed the ‘warm heart of Africa’, it’s hard not to fall in love with Malawi. The people are some of the friendliest you’ll find, and the scenery is some of the most dramatic on the continent. The jewel in its crown is arguably Lake Malawi, billed as the ‘Lake of Stars’, that’s dotted with sandy beaches, secluded coves, and tree-covered islets.

It’s an ideal spot to relax and crack an ice-cold Castel beer in between cooling dips or scenic beach walks. If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, the freshwater diving is world famous and there are cracking spots to fish. Just keep looking up though, as you’re likely being circled by hungry fish eagles looking to try their luck!

See Malawi for yourself on: Kenya to Zimbabwe Overland Safari

When it comes to the best safari destinations in Africa, surely Tanzania nears the top. There are 22 different national parks covering 15% of the country, from the well-known Serengeti to the off-the-beaten-track Selous. Add in the kaleidoscopic coral reefs and white sand beaches of Zanzibar to the impressive backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, and you can see why people flock here in droves.

While every nook and cranny is well worth a visit, we'd single out the neighbouring safari destinations of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The former is famed for the ‘Great Wildlife Migration’ — where over two million wildebeests, zebras, and antelope cross into Kenya’s Maasai Mara and back, chased by predators snapping at their hooves. UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro on the other hand is known for having one of the highest wildlife population densities on earth, where you can spot cheetahs, secretary birds, elephants, and spotted hyenas.

See Tanzania for yourself on: Serengeti & Zanzibar Overland Safari

The penultimate safari destination we hit up on our overland Africa tours, Kenya is truly a wildlife-lover’s dream. It’s often considered as the birthplace of the safari, with world-class parks like the Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru drawing people in from all over the globe.

The Mara is all about the drama. Think herds of wildebeest being chased by lions, cheetahs, crocodiles and more in such numbers that it’s hard to imagine. On the other hand, Lake Nakuru is all about the scenery. Set on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, it’s framed by picturesque ridges and acacia woodlands and is home to leopards, elephant herds, and excellent bird watching. There’s more to Kenya though than just safaris — think Indian Ocean beaches lapped by azure waters, tea plantations galore, and one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Africa.

See Kenya for yourself on: Nairobi to Kampala Overland Safari

Our final safari destination, Uganda goes way beyond just spotting the ‘big five’. Home to some of the world’s most endearing creatures — the majestic mountain gorilla, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys — it’s the place to get up close and personal with some of our closest relatives.

But if spotting these rare creatures doesn’t quite cut it, there are scenic lakes, Africa’s tallest mountain range, thunderous waterfalls, and some of the best whitewater rafting anywhere in the world. Not to mention the lively capital Kampala, with its buzzy bars and restaurants, a long and intriguing history, and vistas of the shimmering Lake Victoria.

See Uganda for yourself on: Gorillas of Uganda Overland Safari

When’s the best time to go on safari in Africa?

This is tricky to answer as some national parks — Kruger comes to mind — are bigger than New Jersey, so it really depends on your location. However, we recommend heading to Kenya and Tanzania during the ‘Great Wildlife Migration’ running from late June and early July through to late September and early October.

Similarly, South Africa, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe experience their dry season from May to October, when wildlife flocks to waterholes so it’s your best chance to see the ‘big five’ and other wildlife species.

For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, try going during June to August and December to February to avoid excessive rainfall. April should definitely be avoided.

What wildlife can I see in Africa?

Africa is famous for its ‘big five’ — lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino — but it doesn’t stop there. Uganda, the ‘Pearl of Africa’, plays host to half of the world’s population of endangered mountain gorillas, as well as chimpanzees and colobus monkeys.

Depending on where you are, hippos, buffalo, and packs of rare African wild dogs (also known as painted wolves) can be seen. Plus, you’re more than likely to spot herds of impala, wary to avoid spotted hyena, cheetahs, and opportunistic black-backed jackals, as well as troops of baboons, giraffes, elephants, meerkats, and warthogs. The latter two will likely not be singing ‘Hakuna Matata’. Sorry to disappoint!

When it comes to birds, then the statuesque ostrich, marabou stork, or snake-eating secretary bird reign supreme. However, ‘twitchers’ may spot African sacred ibis, lilac-breasted rollers, and malachite kingfishers too.

What do I need to pack for an African safari?

While you may be tempted to channel Meryl Streep in Out of Africa — and by all means, go ahead — you don’t need to dress to the nines on safari. Bear in mind that while the sun blazes during the day, temperatures often plummet at night in the savannah — sometimes to freezing. The key here is layers, layers, layers along with sunscreen, bug spray, and long pants.

Avoid camouflage patterns as they’re banned in many African countries and skip dark colours that attract the tsetse fly whose bite is painful and potentially dangerous. Bring a cap or hat to avoid the heat of the African sun and a scarf to keep the dust out of your mouth. And don’t forget your sunnies — if only to look cool as a cucumber in your pics!

Getting there

Ready to set off in our shiny new ‘Landos’ to see these safari destinations in the flesh? Our new overland tours let rugged adventurers camp their way around Africa . It’s no longer just for the 18-to-Thirtysomethings set (we heard you loud and clear!) so we’ll see you out on the savannah soon. Rwooooarrrrr!

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Wild Wonders

Magnificent Male Lion Yawning and Roaring in Africa

Posted: August 16, 2024 | Last updated: August 16, 2024

Filmed in the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa A roar is a deep, bellowing outburst of sound forced through an open mouth. It is produced by animals of certain species. A roar is usually made using the hyoid, a small bone which is not completely rigid in adults. Animals roar for various reasons, including territorial proclamation, communication with other members, and anger. Additionally, the roar of an animal such as a lion is used in the process of finding and competing for a mate.The roar pattern is composed of three overall segments - a beginning segment sounding like moaning, a middle segment with low frequency loud tones and a final segment which sounds much like grunting. The lion's roar is familiar to many through its inclusion in the MGM opening sequence. This roar segment consists only of the middle portion of the roar, omitting the first and last portionsSubscribe:​ ​https://bit.ly/30a0IRM​ ​| Merch: ​http://teespring.com/stores/robtheranger Watch the newest videos: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1booI-NVZ7lZxheEp8UMFRYEFollow">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1booI-NVZ7lZxheEp8UMFRYEFollow</a> Rob The Ranger:TWITTER: ​http://goo.gl/U8IQGfINSTAGRAM: ​https://instagram.com/robtheranger BLOG: ​http://goo.gl/yJJ3pTFACEBOOK: ​http://goo.gl/M8pnJhSTEEMIT: ​https://steemit.com/@robtheranger TUMBLR: ​http://goo.gl/qF6sNSWatch ​more videos!Lions, Lions, And More Lions: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpPTGnTaR798fdsHNJ7ZNGtAfrican">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpPTGnTaR798fdsHNJ7ZNGtAfrican</a> Elephant (Loxodonta africana): <a href="https://.youtube.com/playlist?v=qzINZPv7PMc&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpUo_KWtwJ3ck3Q1-xfMmkh&playnex">https://.youtube.com/playlist?v=qzINZPv7PMc&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpUo_KWtwJ3ck3Q1-xfMmkh&playnex</a> t=1African Wild Dogs/Painted Wolves: <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?v=DXQc_v5qjS4&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bocK9_hokQ5Z8tpEOukHJnv&playnext">https://youtube.com/playlist?v=DXQc_v5qjS4&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bocK9_hokQ5Z8tpEOukHJnv&playnext</a> =1Hippo (Hippopotamus amphibius): [​https://youtube.com/playlist?v=nDgIt9QF_IM&list=PLLLkJbMHt1bqhsVIGpg5YgS4-prwujiKq&playnext=1 Most Popular: ​https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLLkJbMHt1bpQ4T4enPPMkf_5cK26VouwAbout Rob The Ranger Wildlife Videos:The purpose of the channel is to show what it is like to experience seeing wild animals on an African safari. Nature Documentaries are often highly edited to tell a story, wildlife safaris are not, and the idea here is to show the wildlife sightings the way they were seen. Safari tours in Africa are generally suitable for all ages and this channel can be considered an educational channel about incredible nature, some scenes in the nature videos may be more graphic than people are used to but this is the reality of nature and is what you would see if you were present on such a safari in person. Safaris in Kenya, South Africa, or any other African country are an unrivalled experience for anyone with a passion for nature, wildlife photography, and travel. Hopefully the animal videos on this channel can provide a glimpse into what the nature experience is like and encourage more people to take a wildlife safari one day. Make sure to subscribe and enable ALL notifications!#robtheranger #roar #lionroar

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Lion-bumping incident in south africa 'dealt with at highest level', share this article.

A motorist who bumped a lion with his vehicle over the weekend, seemingly to clear the animal from a road in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, has apparently been disciplined.

A day earlier, after viewing the accompanying footage , SanParks promised the incident would be “dealt with at the highest level.”

The agency, however, has not provided details about the individual or possible disciplinary measures.

The footage, shared by Lion Lovers, shows the seemingly impatient motorist rolling into the startled lion from behind.

What a selfish inconsiderate idiot!! @SANParksKNP have you seen this, this person should not be allowed in any national park, no respect shown, its a disgrace people behave like this, number plate is visible Happened on the H1-4 between Satara and Olifants 🎥 Safraaz Suliman FB pic.twitter.com/PPAngMcSbB — LION LOVERS (@LIONLOVERS5) August 9, 2024

Lion Lovers tagged SanParks in its post – the vehicle’s license plate is visible in the footage – and several in the comments thread demanded that the motorist be banned from the park.

“Disgusting behavior,” one follower complained.

“Hard to watch,” another stated.

The incident occurred during a traffic jam caused by lions lounging on a highway. Lion jams typically attract tourists eager to view and photograph the animals, but most do so respectfully.

Kruger National Park is billed as the “flagship of the South African National Parks” and tourists are allowed on its roads as long as they remain in their vehicles.

Animals always have the right of way and motorists are required to exercise extreme caution. Any action that alters an animal’s behavior – such as bumping it with a vehicle – can be considered illegal harassment.

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