Species guide · Most wanted
Where to see elephants in Africa
Africa's elephants are the gentle giants at the heart of most safaris, and southern Africa holds the largest populations left on the continent. Watching a breeding herd come down to drink, calves and all, is one of the great wildlife moments.
Quick answer
Northern Botswana, including the Okavango Delta and the Chobe region, is home to the largest elephant population in Africa. Hwange and Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, South Luangwa in Zambia and South Africa's Greater Kruger are also excellent. The dry season, roughly July to October, is best, when herds gather at rivers and waterholes.
Best regionNorthern Botswana
Best timeJuly to October
Suggested stayThree nights or more
The best places to look
Botswana
Okavango Delta and Chobe
The continent's biggest elephant population, with herds crossing channels and gathering along the Chobe River.
Zimbabwe
Hwange
Pumped waterholes draw huge numbers of elephants in the dry season, often in view of camp.
Zimbabwe
Mana Pools
Elephants feeding among the albida trees on the Zambezi floodplain, best seen on foot with a guide.
Zambia
South Luangwa
Herds crossing the Luangwa River, with excellent walking safaris.
South Africa
Greater Kruger
Big herds and big tuskers, easy to combine with the rest of the Big Five.
When to go
| Months | Chances | Why |
|---|---|---|
| July to October | Best | Late dry season: water is scarce, so herds gather predictably at rivers and pans. |
| November to June | Good | Green season: herds spread out across the landscape, but calves and lush scenery make up for it. |
Tips from the field
- Pick a camp near permanent water for the late dry season.
- Try a walking or boat safari for a completely different view of elephants.
- Keep quiet and still near a herd; a relaxed herd will often come very close.
Questions travellers ask
Which country has the most elephants?
Botswana, with the largest population in Africa, mostly in the north around the Okavango and Chobe.
When is the best time to see elephants?
The late dry season, roughly July to October, when herds concentrate around water.
Can you see desert elephants?
Yes. Namibia's Damaraland and Kunene region have elephants adapted to desert life. See our desert-adapted elephant guide.
Add elephant to your wishlistWe'll match it with the other species you want to see, and suggest the right combination of places.
Start my wishlist