Species guide · Most wanted
Where to see leopards in Africa
The leopard is the cat most travellers hope for and the one most often missed. Solitary, nocturnal and beautifully camouflaged, it rewards the right choice of place far more than luck.
Quick answer
The Sabi Sand reserves next to Kruger in South Africa are the most reliable place in Africa to see leopards, because many individuals are relaxed around vehicles. South Luangwa in Zambia, famous for night drives, comes a close second. Go in the dry season, May to October, and stay three nights or more.
Best regionSabi Sand, South Africa
Best timeMay to October
Suggested stayThree nights or more
The best places to look
South Africa
Sabi Sand and Greater Kruger
Private reserves where generations of leopards have grown used to vehicles, and guides can follow them off-road.
Zambia
South Luangwa
Dense riverine woodland and one of the highest leopard densities on the continent. Night drives here are excellent for seeing them hunt.
Botswana
Okavango Delta and Moremi
Leopards are found throughout the delta's islands and woodland, alongside the full cast of big predators.
Zimbabwe
Hwange and Mana Pools
Less visited and wilder, with good leopard populations along the Zambezi floodplain and Hwange's teak woodland.
When to go
| Months | Chances | Why |
|---|---|---|
| May to October | Best | Dry season: thinner bush and animals near water make leopards easier to spot. |
| November to April | Good | Green season: lusher and quieter, with good leopard activity, but more cover. |
Tips from the field
- Choose private reserves or concessions where guides can drive off-road to follow a leopard.
- Book night drives. Leopards are most active after dark.
- Give yourself at least three nights, and ideally two different areas.
Questions travellers ask
Where is the best place in Africa to see leopards?
The Sabi Sand in South Africa is widely regarded as the best, thanks to unusually relaxed leopards and off-road tracking. South Luangwa in Zambia is the strongest alternative.
When is the best time to see leopards?
The dry season, roughly May to October, when vegetation is thin and animals gather near water.
Are leopards one of the Big Five?
Yes. The Big Five are lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino, and the leopard is usually the hardest to find.
Add leopard to your wishlistWe'll match it with the other species you want to see, and suggest the right combination of places.
Start my wishlist