Recently updated on January 16th, 2026 at 04:18 am
Africa is home to some of the most extraordinary wildlife on Earth and its big cats from are among the continent’s most powerful symbols of wilderness. From lions to leopards and cheetahs, these predators play a vital role in maintaining the health and balance of Africa’s ecosystems.
Beyond the headline-grabbing big cats in Africa are the continent’s lesser-known but equally fascinating medium cats. These rare and secretive species highlight both the richness of Africa’s biodiversity and the urgent need to protect the landscapes they depend on. Through responsible travel and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, travellers can help support conservation efforts that safeguard these remarkable animals for generations to come.
The Big Cats
1. African Lion (Panthera Leo)
The African lion is the most iconic of all large cats in Africa and sits at the top of the food chain. As the second-largest big cat in the world (second only to the tiger), these powerful predators are deeply social, living in prides of 15 to 30 individuals and spending much of their time resting.
Although they remain one of the easiest Africa lions to encounter on safari, their populations continue to face threats from habitat loss, human and wildlife conflict, and poaching.
Best places to see lions:
These three lion hotspots offer excellent chances to see lions in Africa.
- East Africa – Masai Mara and the Serengeti
Exceptional lion density and sweeping open plains. - Botswana – Chobe, Savute, Linyanti, Moremi and the Okavango Delta
A strong and healthy lion population with unique behavioural adaptations. - South Africa – Greater Kruger National Park
One of the best places to see Africa lions, including the possibility of spotting white lions in Timbavati.
2. African Leopard (Panthera Pardus Pardus)
The African leopard is one of the most beautiful and elusive Africa cat species, instantly recognisable by its rosette-patterned coat and stealthy behaviour. Although they are the most widespread big cat on the continent, leopards remain extremely difficult to see due to their solitary and secretive nature. Their numbers are considered vulnerable because of habitat loss and human pressures.
Best places to see a leopard:
While they are the most widely distributed African big cat, they are extremely difficult to spot, so here are some tips on the best places to find them from our African experts.
- Zambia – South Luangwa National Park
With estimations of one leopard to every two square kilometres and with an area in the park known as “the valley of the leopard” this park is up the top of the list. The leopards here are famously known for being bold and are often seen in the middle of the day. - South Africa – Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Sabi Sands is world famous for its leopard sightings and is one of our favourite places to send travellers who has seeing a leopard high on their bucket list. It’s the rangers in this area that know these leopards inside out, giving safari goers a very good chance of getting up close to these otherwise elusive cats.
3. Cheetah (Acinonyx Jubatus)
The cheetah, the fastest land mammal, is one of Africa’s most specialised predators. Unlike the biggest cat in Africa, cheetahs rely on speed rather than strength, often using termite mounds or low perches to scan for prey. Because they are frequently displaced by larger predators and favour long grass for cover, cheetahs can be harder to locate than lions or leopards.
Best places to see cheetahs:
- East Africa – Serengeti and Masai Mara
Open savannah landscapes provide ideal conditions for spotting cheetahs perched on mounds or roaming with cubs. - Namibia – Etosha National Park
The open terrain offers excellent visibility and a healthy cheetah population
The Medium Cats
4. Serval (Leptailurus Serval)
The serval is one of Africa’s most striking medium cats, with long legs, expressive ears and bold black spots. Although widespread across more than 35 African countries, they are extremely hard to see in the wild due to their nocturnal habits, small size and impressive camouflage.
Best places to see servals:
Spotting servals requires patience, expert guiding and occasionally good luck. Evening and sunset drives offer the best opportunities.
- East Africa – Masai Mara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
Sunrise and sunset are the ideal times for seeing servals moving through grasslands. - Botswana – Kwando and Linyanti Concessions
Open plains and shorter grasses during the dry season improve visibility. Many travellers continue to Savute for a second chance.
5. Caracal (Caracal Caracal)
Caracals are among Africa’s most secretive cats. Sleek, powerful and instantly recognisable by the black tufts on their ears, they are highly adaptable predators that roam across Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Seeing one in the wild is considered a rare and memorable experience.
Best places to see caracals:
Spotting caracals requires time, persistence and the right habitat, and even experienced guides consider them one of the hardest African cats to encounter.
- Zambia – Kafue National Park
With fewer visitors and vast stretches of rugged wilderness, Kafue provides opportunities to see elusive species that often remain hidden elsewhere. - East Africa – Masai Mara, Serengeti (Ndutu) and Ngorongoro Crater
These regions record the most consistent sightings, particularly in quieter areas.
See African Cats on a Personalised Safari
Adventure World Travel’s destination experts can design a personalised safari that offers the best chance of seeing the big cats in Africa, as well as rare medium cats such as servals and caracals. With options across the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Greater Kruger National Park, Etosha, South Luangwa and many more, you can tailor a journey that reflects your interests and preferred style of travel.
Every custom itinerary supports responsible travel principles, ensuring that your holiday contributes positively to wildlife conservation, habitat protection and local communities.
Learn More About Safaris
Other Articles:
Big Cat FAQs
What country has the most big cats in Africa?
Kenya and Tanzania are widely considered the best countries for viewing big cats, thanks to the Serengeti–Masai Mara ecosystem, which supports exceptional populations of lions, leopards and cheetahs.
Will I see big cats on an Adventure World Africa safari?
While no wildlife sightings can ever be guaranteed, Adventure World itineraries focus on regions with the highest densities of big cats, supported by expert guides and trackers.
Is it safe to see big cats?
Yes. When you travel with professional guides and follow all safety protocols, viewing big cats is safe and responsibly managed. Sightings take place from secure safari vehicles at appropriate distances.
What is the rarest big cat to see?
Among the big cats, the leopard is the most elusive due to its solitary nature and exceptional camouflage. Among the medium cats, caracals and servals are considered the hardest to see in the wild.