Leopard safaris, holidays & tours
This elusive and beautiful cat is the pinnacle of an African safari experience
Leopard safaris, holidays & tours available in Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, ZambiaCustom designed Leopard safaris in Africa
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This elusive and beautiful cat is the pinnacle of an African safari experience
The leopard stirs something in everyone. Not only are they strikingly beautiful, but their golden spotted coats give them a remarkable camouflage ability. The fact that they're so difficult to spot puts them at the top of most safari lists. Nothing beats seeing these beauties in the wild.
It's vital to be in the right area to spot a leopard, but there are also specialised leopard parks and reserves where these cats flourish. This is because leopards are highly effective and versatile cats. They have a diverse diet and can survive in a broad vegetation. Leopards are the only big cats whose numbers have actually increased despite shrinking habitat, pressure from poaching and leopard skin trade.
More on Leopard safaris in Africa
South Africa’s Sabi Sands and Mala Mala private concessions are probably the best places to see leopard, sometimes with five different individual leopards during a single game drive. The cats have become used to vehicles and humans and don’t mind safari goers getting close at all.
The Masai Mara and more specifically the Mara confluence (Mara and Talek Rivers) as well as the famous leopard gorge nearby are two incredible leopard areas. Both guarantee daily sightings. The considerable lion numbers may impact the daily movement of leopards, but the Mara North and Olara Orok conservancies that border the Masai Mara give night and off-road driving options that will increase the chances of leopard sightings.
Botswana’s Moremi and Khwai concessions are key leopard areas. Derek and Beverly Joubert did most of their filming of leopards in this area as well as the Delta itself. The Khwai concession allows off-road and night drives, increasing chances of seeing these elusive cats.
Northern Kenya’s Matthew’s range is a wonderful leopard sanctuary. Both the Millennium and Swinging Well guarantee daily sightings. These sightings are not as well managed as in the Sabi Sands but, the Samburu guides know exactly where to go to see these cats. The arid landscape and vegetation also give the Laikipia leopard some size and mass compared to their southern relatives.
Zambia’s south Luangwa valley is wonderful for leopard during the dry season, specifically the Chinzombo and Kaingo Camps. Chances of seeing a few different leopards in a single day is good.
Frequently Asked Questions about Leopard safaris in Africa
While a safari holiday can be at any time of year, it is worth noting that seasonality will impact the type of experience you’re likely to have as well as the cost of your safari. During the dry season, the wildlife tends to congregate… go there.
Family safaris in Africa are a worthwhile and meaningful experience. Aside from spending quality time with your nearest and dearest under a wide blue African sky, a safari in Africa offers invaluable experiences including unique cultural… go there.
Life on safari has a rhythm of its own, largely dictated by the animal's movements. Generally, the most rewarding times for game viewing is in the cooler early mornings and also late in the afternoons when the animals are most active. A… go there.
Although wildlife viewing is good throughout the year. The warmer months from October to March are more pleasant - the scenery is greener and this is also the time most of the animals are born. However, the park is mostly about its scenery… go there.
The best time to visit Ithala Game Reserve is during the dry winter months, from May to September. During this season it is easier to spot the wildlife since the grass is eaten by herbivores. Expect to encounter and sight birds - such as… go there.
The best time to visit Tankwa Karoo National Park is from autumn through winter to early summer of April to September. However, this is a perfect place to indulge in blessed idleness. If you want to see the landscape and animals, you'll… go there.
The best time to visit Marakele National Park is during May to September. Since animals tend to seek for reliable waterholes and stay close by during the dry winter months. However, this is the best time for wildlife viewing. Marakele is a… go there.
Augrabies Falls National Park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between April and September. When the popular three-day Klipspringer Trail is open. However, the waterfall is particularly impressive when in flood -… go there.
The best time to visit Nyungwe Forest National Park in the southern Rwanda is during the drier months of June to August or December to January. Even though June to August or December to January are categorically referred to as drier months… go there.
Reviews on our Leopard safaris in Africa
Perfectly tailor-made tours that take all your wishes and requests into consideration. All my expectations were beyond fulfilled.
Henrik Wetterstrand
from Sweden
Discover Africa was the only tour operator I reached out to who wanted to have a Skype conversation to get to know more and my husband & my tastes and preferences. Megan Warrington was wonderful to work with - she crafted our activities and…
Stephanie
from United States of America
All details were covered, all staff and food excellent, service was perfect - would highly recommend for sure.
Ron
from United States of America
After shopping around for a couple of months, Discover Africa was the one who had the most diverse options for the price. Megan Warrington always responded quickly and was professional and patient with my endless questions. Discover Africa…
Kelly
from United States of America
They organized everything for our first visit to Africa, from the airport meet & greet through to the tours, great hotels and locations.
Michael
from United States of America
From the first approach to the end, Discover Africa, has been excellent . The hotels, the service and every think has been well above our expectation. The perfect choice ! Thanks to all and specially to Megan.
Enrico Liberati
from Italy
