When it comes to African wildlife, few animals are as captivating and elusive as the leopard. Their solitary nature and incredible ability to camouflage among dense bush and trees make them one of the most sought-after sightings on any safari. But where is.....
The Best place to see leopards in Africa?
Whether you're on your first safari or a seasoned traveler, we’ve rounded up the top destinations for 2025 where you're most likely to spot these beautiful big cats.
Best Luxury Lodges to See Leopards - Video
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
If you want guaranteed leopard sightings, look no further than Sabi Sands Game Reserve. This private reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park, is renowned for its incredibly high density of leopards, making it one of the best places in Africa to see these big cats.
Sabi Sands is home to exclusive lodges that offer exceptional safari experiences.
The private nature of the reserve means fewer vehicles, more intimate wildlife encounters, and expert guides who specialize in tracking leopards.
Choose a lodge that has off-roading on their property. This allows your driver to get closer to leopards, resulting in more intimate sightings and better photography opportunities.
The best time to visit is during the dry winter months (May to September), when the bush is less dense, and leopards are easier to spot.
Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
The Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta is another prime location for spotting leopards. This vast, game-rich area offers a diversity of ecosystems, from wetlands to dry woodlands, providing the perfect habitat for these elusive predators.
Moremi’s unique terrain allows for fantastic sightings, particularly around waterholes, where leopards often wait for prey.
Leopard sightings in Moremi are common year-round, though the dry season (July to October) is considered the best time to visit for wildlife viewing.
Combine your trip with a water safari to get a unique perspective on the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta.
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is famous for its night drives, and these provide some of the best opportunities to see leopards. This park is a haven for big cats, and its high leopard density has earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of Africa’s top leopard safari destinations.
Night drives are a unique feature of South Luangwa, and this is often when leopards are most active, giving you an exceptional chance to witness a hunt.
The dry season from June to October is the best time for sightings, as the vegetation thins out, making the cats easier to spot.
Leopards here are known for being more relaxed around safari vehicles, allowing for closer and more rewarding encounters.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Though it's one of the largest and most visited parks in Africa, Kruger National Park still offers great leopard-viewing opportunities—especially if you know where to go. While sightings aren't as guaranteed as in Sabi Sands, this vast park has its fair share of leopards, particularly in certain hotspots.
Focus your leopard search on areas like the Sabi River or around the Crocodile Bridge.
The best times for spotting leopards in Kruger are early morning and late afternoon when these nocturnal animals are more active.
Whether you choose to self-drive or go with a guided tour, patience is key for a successful leopard sighting in Kruger.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
The Serengeti is synonymous with the Great Migration, but it’s also one of the best places to see leopards in East Africa. These spotted cats thrive in the Serengeti’s varied ecosystems, from its open plains to its more wooded areas.
The Seronera Valley is particularly well-known for its leopard population.
Leopards tend to remain near kopjes (rocky outcrops) and riverine forests, where they can hunt and rest.
While the migration might steal the spotlight, you’ll often find leopards hanging back from the chaos, stealthily observing from a distance.
Samburu National Reserve, Kenya
Samburu is a lesser-known but excellent spot for leopard sightings in Africa. Its dry, rugged terrain may not seem like an ideal leopard habitat, but it’s here that you’ll often find these cats lounging in acacia trees or perched on rocky outcrops.
Unlike the more tourist-heavy parks in Kenya, Samburu offers a quieter, more exclusive experience, with fewer vehicles and better photo opportunities.
The Ewaso Ng'iro River attracts a variety of prey, making it a favorite hunting ground for leopards.
For the best chance of spotting leopards, visit during the dry season from June to October.
Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
Tucked along the mighty Zambezi River, Lower Zambezi National Park is another gem for leopard sightings. This park is renowned for its scenic beauty and its thriving populations of big cats, including leopards.
Leopards in Lower Zambezi are often spotted in riverine forests, where they stealthily hunt antelope and other prey.
A unique way to spot leopards here is by taking a boat safari along the Zambezi River, where you can sometimes catch them patrolling the riverbanks.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October), when the wildlife is more concentrated near water sources. (See best time to Visit South Africa)
Other Notable Leopard Safari Destinations in Africa
While the above destinations are some of the top places for leopard sightings, there are several other parks across Africa where you may encounter these beautiful predators:
Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda: This remote, lesser-known park is ideal for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path safari.
Etosha National Park, Namibia: Leopards are often spotted around waterholes, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe: Growing in popularity for its wildlife viewing, Hwange is a great destination for predator-focused safaris, including leopard sightings.
Tips for Maximizing Your Leopard Sightings on Safari
Leopards are notoriously difficult to spot, so here are some tips to help increase your chances:
Plan your safari during the dry season: Leopards are more visible when the bush is less dense.
Go with a skilled guide: Guides who know the park intimately will increase your chances of a successful sighting.
Choose a lodge that allows off-roading: This gives your safari vehicle the ability to get closer to leopards, making for more intimate encounters and better photography opportunities.
Be patient: Leopards are masters of camouflage and stealth. Sometimes, the best sightings happen after long periods of waiting in silence.
Focus on early mornings and late afternoons: These are prime times for leopards to be on the move.
Conclusion:
If you’re hoping to tick the elusive leopard off your safari bucket list, Africa offers numerous destinations where you can maximize your chances of seeing these stunning creatures. From the private reserves of South Africa to the wild landscapes of Zambia and Botswana, there's no shortage of options. Each park offers a unique safari experience, but one thing’s for sure—your African adventure will be one to remember, especially if you spot one of these majestic cats.
Ready to plan your dream safari? Let us help you create the ultimate leopard-watching experience across Africa!
Article by Craig Howes
Founder of African Safari Mag and World Safari Influencer of the Year 2020, Craig has traveled extensively across Africa, capturing the continent’s wildlife and landscapes through his lens. With over a decade of experience in the luxury safari industry, his passion is to help others discover Africa’s breathtaking beauty and wildlife through curated safaris and immersive content.
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