Africa’s famous Big 5 species are made up of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo, and the term came about during the colonial period to refer to the five animals that were considered the most difficult and dangerous to hunt. Now, seeing Africa’s Big 5 is one of the main goals for many photographic safari enthusiasts.
The leopard is the most elusive of Africa’s big cats. Perfectly at home in trees, their beautiful rosette-spotted coat makes them difficult to see in the dappled branches. While nature doesn’t offer any guarantees, an expert safari guide is your best bet to spot one of these gorgeous, nocturnal felines.
A few interesting leopard facts:
Kent – Sabi Sand in South Africa is one of the very best reserves for leopard sightings, and many great wildlife documentaries have been filmed here. There is a wide range of accommodation – something to suit everyone. South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is another great place – and it’s especially good for active travelers, as it is one of the best places for walking safaris on the continent.
Diana – Private conservancies around Kenya’s Masai Mara can be good for leopard sightings because of the ability to go off road and take night drives, which is great for searching for leopard who become more active around & after dusk.
Susan – I’ve had incredible leopard sightings in Linyanti, Botswana!