The Best Places to See Lions in Africa

The Best Places to See Lions in Africa

Affectionately known as the “King of the jungle”, the lion is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife species and so, it should be on any traveller’s bucket list to see them in their natural habitat. However, seeing these elusive creatures may not be as easy as you thought. In the last century, wild lions in Africa have been on a decline from 200,000 to now only around 20,000. Many parts of Africa still have a healthy lion population, so for the best chance of having this once in a lifetime experience, we have put together a list of the best places to see wild lions in Africa.

1. Serengeti-Mara, Tanzania 

From the stunning Serengeti of Tanzania to the Maasai Mara in Kenya, the 24,000 km squared ecosystem to the Serengeti-Mara is home to one of the largest populations of wild lions in the world at around 4,000. It also boasts the oldest lion research project in Africa from the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania which has been operating for over 50 years. Across the border in Kenya, the vast savannah plains of the Maasai Mara National Reserve make for an excellent spot for having the chance to view large prides which have become accustomed to the presence of the few tourist vehicles which roam the reserve. 

Where To Stay:

The open-fronted rooms of Lamai Serengeti boast wonderful views over the northern Serengeti with a very healthy concentration of lions.

2. Northern Botswana

From its dry savannahs to the lush wetlands, Botswana really is a destination which has it all and is a great place for those wanting to spot any of the Big 5. The lion prides who have made this stunning country their home have adapted to its varied and sometimes harsh environments, meaning you'll be presented with the unique opportunity to observe the Okavango Delta lions swimming between islands during the annual flood season (June to August) as they hunt for prey.  

Where To Stay:

Splash Camp is located in a private concession with year-round water and land activities including game drives and boat trips.

3. Kruger National Park, South Africa

The great Kruger National Park has always been South Africa's premium destination for those wanting a lion safari. An enormous area the size of Wales, Kruger is home to over 1,600 lions, making it on average five to six lions per 100km². If you have your heart set on seeing a lion, our top tip is to head to the south of the park which is considered best for lion sightings because of the greater concentration of prey. Some other excellent places in the Kruger area to spot lions are the unfenced private reserves that border the national park. 

Where To Stay:

The superb guides at the elegant and romantic Sabi Sabi Selati Camp will take you on game drives to track down the lion prides of the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

4. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Situated in eastern Zambia, South Luangwa National Park is home to a variety of large prides which have up to 30 lions. Like Kruger National Park, the southern region is particularly well known for lion spotting, thanks to the incredibly high concentration of prey. This also means that the lions have smaller territories, making them easier to locate. South Luangwa stands out from many other parks as it allows night drives, something which many other parks do not. If you can go on a night drive, this is the perfect opportunity to see the lions when they are at their most active.

Where To Stay:

From Chinzombo guests can access a game-rich area of the national park that is home to a number of lion prides.