Species guide · Rarity
Where to see a pangolin on safari
The pangolin is the holy grail of safari sightings: a scaly, ant-eating mammal that many lifelong guides have never seen. It is also the most trafficked mammal in the world, so we only ever describe broad regions.
Quick answer
The southern Kalahari in South Africa is the best-known region for pangolin sightings, at private reserves that run long-term research programmes. The best time is the cooler months, roughly May to August, when pangolins often forage in daylight. Even there, a sighting is never guaranteed.
Best regionSouthern Kalahari
Best timeMay to August
Suggested stayFour nights or more
The best places to look
South Africa
Southern Kalahari
Private reserves with research teams that monitor pangolins give the best odds anywhere in southern Africa.
South Africa and Botswana
Other dry savannah reserves
Occasional sightings across Greater Kruger, Madikwe and northern Botswana, almost always a lucky surprise.
When to go
| Months | Chances | Why |
|---|---|---|
| May to August | Best | Winter: pangolins often forage in the warmer late afternoon, so daylight sightings are more likely. |
| September to April | Rare | Hotter months: pangolins are mostly active deep into the night. |
Tips from the field
- Choose a reserve with an active pangolin research programme.
- Stay four nights or more, and add aardvark and aardwolf to the same wishlist.
- Never share exact locations or geotag pangolin photos.
Questions travellers ask
Why are pangolins so rare to see?
They are shy, nocturnal and well camouflaged, and their numbers have been heavily reduced by trafficking.
What does a pangolin eat?
Ants and termites, dug out with strong claws and a long sticky tongue.
Are pangolins dangerous?
No. When threatened, they roll into a tight ball protected by their scales.
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