This is a list of the mammal species recorded in South Africa. There are 299 mammal species in South Africa, of which two are critically endangered, eleven are endangered, fifteen are vulnerable, and thirteen are near threatened. Some species were assessed using an earlier set of criteria.
Nothing quite compares to the thrill of spotting wildlife on an African safari. The early morning anticipation as the sun breaks over the horizon, the rustling of leaves hinting at hidden creatures, and the breathtaking sight of a lion surveying its territory - these are moments that stay with you forever.
Having spent countless hours on safari in some of the world’s most incredible wildlife reserves, we’ve meticulously curated a list of the most sought-after animals you might encounter on your African adventure. Based on extensive research into traveler preferences, online search trends, and expert recommendations, this comprehensive guide highlights the most iconic, elusive, and ecologically significant species that define the magic of the African wilderness.
We’ll share insider tips on where to find them, how to increase your chances of spotting them, and offer stunning images to ignite your safari dreams. From the iconic Big Five to the lesser-known but equally fascinating creatures, each animal plays a vital role in the intricate web of life that makes the African wilderness so extraordinary. So, prepare to be captivated as we guide you through the diverse and enchanting world of African safari animals.
Africa is home to some of the most well-known, loved and feared animals in the world! There are so many wonderful creatures to see, but where to start? You’ve heard of the Big Five and all of Africa’s other iconic wildlife, from lanky giraffes and sneaky hyenas to the gigantic whales that travel up and down the eastern and western coastlines.
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Some use sensory superpowers to find their prey, while others have developed intriguing behaviours that keep them safe from the elements and predators.
Each of these ten species has a fascinating story, but to truly appreciate just how weird they are, you’re going to have to see them up close. You may have to go out of your way to see them, but they’re worth adding to your wildlife wishlist for your next African safari adventure.
Animals of Africa - 10 WILD ANIMALS from the African savanna
Orders and Species
The mammal species are sorted into orders. Here are some of the orders and families represented in South Africa:
- Afrosoricida: The "shrew-forms" are insectivorous mammals. Often called sengis, the elephant shrews or jumping shrews are native to southern Africa.
- Tubulidentata: The order Tubulidentata consists of a single species, the aardvark.
- Hyracoidea: The hyraxes are any of four species of fairly small, thickset, herbivorous mammals in the order Hyracoidea. About the size of a domestic cat they are well-furred, with rounded bodies and a stumpy tail.
- Rodentia: Rodents make up the largest order of mammals, with over 40% of mammalian species. They have two incisors in the upper and lower jaw which grow continually and must be kept short by gnawing.
- Lagomorpha: The lagomorphs comprise two families, Leporidae (hares and rabbits), and Ochotonidae (pikas). Though they can resemble rodents, and were classified as a superfamily in that order until the early 20th century, they have since been considered a separate order.
- Erinaceomorpha: The order Erinaceomorpha contains a single family, Erinaceidae, which comprise the hedgehogs and gymnures.
- Chiroptera: The bats' most distinguishing feature is that their forelimbs are developed as wings, making them the only mammals capable of flight.
- Pholidota: The order Pholidota comprises the eight species of pangolin.
- Cetacea: The order Cetacea includes whales, dolphins and porpoises.
- Carnivora: There are over 260 species of carnivorans, the majority of which feed primarily on meat. P. l. Southeast African cheetah, A. j.
- Perissodactyla: The odd-toed ungulates are browsing and grazing mammals. Burchell's zebra, E. q. Chapman's zebra, E. q. Quagga, E. q. Cape mountain zebra, E. z. White rhinoceros, Ceratotherium simum. Southern white rhinoceros, C. s. Eastern black rhinoceros, D. b. South-central black rhinoceros, D. b. South-western black rhinoceros, D. b.
- Artiodactyla: The even-toed ungulates are ungulates whose weight is borne about equally by the third and fourth toes, rather than mostly or entirely by the third as in perissodactyls. Cape warthog, P. a. South African giraffe (G. c.
Iconic African Safari Animals
Here are some of the most iconic African safari animals you might encounter:
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African Lion
Enjoying the enviable position at the top of the food chain with no predators, the lion rules the wide-open African plains. The largest and grandest of all cats, lions live in small prides led by a single male. Their iconic manes and powerful roars are symbols of their strength and dominance. While primarily hunters, lions also scavenge, showcasing their adaptability in the harsh savanna environment.
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How to Spot Lions: Without fear of other animals and no need to hide, they are the easiest cat to see on a game drive. Lions hunt at night and sleep during the day, sheltering from the sun under trees or thick vegetation. The best chance to see them is at dawn when they may still be hunting, or at dusk as they begin to rise for the evening. Listen for their distinctive roars, which can be heard from miles away.
Where to See Lion: You can see African Lions throughout Africa; however, the best locations are in eastern and southern Africa.
- Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
- Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
- Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Okavango Delta, Botswana
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
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African Elephant
The African elephant is the largest land mammal on Earth, a symbol of wisdom, strength, and social bonds. These gentle giants roam the savannas and forests of Africa in matriarchal herds, displaying complex emotions and remarkable intelligence. Their enormous tusks, used for digging, lifting, and defense, are sadly a target for poachers, making their conservation a critical issue.
How to Spot Elephants: Elephants are not difficult to spot due to their size and distinctive features. Look for their large, flapping ears and long trunks, which they use for various tasks, including feeding, drinking, and communication. Listen for the rumbling sounds they make, as well as the cracking of branches as they move through the bush. Elephant dung is also a good indicator of their presence.
Where to See African Elephant: Elephants can be found in various habitats across Africa, but here are some of the best places to see them:
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- Chobe National Park, Botswana
- Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
- Amboseli National Park, Kenya
- Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
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Mountain Gorilla
Mountain gorillas are powerful yet gentle giants, known for their close family bonds and surprisingly human-like expressions. These critically endangered primates inhabit the lush, mountainous forests of central Africa. Observing their social interactions, from playful youngsters to the dominant silverback, is a humbling and unforgettable experience.
How to Spot Mountain Gorillas: Mountain gorillas are some of the most notoriously difficult to track African safari animals due to their remote habitat and shy nature. To see them, you must embark on a gorilla trekking safari, led by experienced guides who know the gorillas’ territory. Be prepared for a physically demanding hike through dense vegetation, but the reward of encountering these magnificent creatures is well worth the effort.
Where to See Mountain Gorillas: You can see Mountain gorillas only in Africa in three countries:
- Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park
- Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): Virunga National Park
Important Note: Gorilla trekking permits are required and must be booked well in advance due to limited availability. These permits contribute to conservation efforts and help fund the protection of these endangered primates.
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African Leopard
The African leopard is a master of camouflage and stealth, making it one of the most elusive and sought-after animals on safari. Their stunning rosette patterned coat allows them to blend seamlessly into the dappled light of the bush, while their exceptional climbing skills enable them to stash their kills high in trees, safe from scavengers. Leopards are solitary creatures, often seen at night, adding an air of mystery to their allure.
How to Spot Leopards: Spotting a leopard requires patience and a keen eye. Look for their distinctive markings in the trees, on rocky outcrops, or along riverbeds. Leopards are often active at dawn and dusk, so these are prime times to search for them. Listen for the alarm calls of other animals, such as monkeys or birds, which may indicate a leopard’s presence. Tracks and scat can also be clues to their whereabouts.
Where to See African Leopard: Leopards are widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, but some of the best places to see these African safari animals include:
- Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
- Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
- Okavango Delta, Botswana
- Kruger National Park, South Africa
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Rhinoceros
The rhinoceros is a critically endangered species, a powerful and prehistoric-looking creature with a thick hide and distinctive horns. These solitary herbivores are known for their poor eyesight but excellent sense of smell and hearing. Unfortunately, their horns are highly sought after in the illegal wildlife trade, making them a target for poachers and driving their numbers to dangerously low levels.
How to Spot Rhinos: Rhinos are notoriously shy and elusive, making them difficult to spot in the wild. They are also primarily nocturnal, adding to the challenge. However, with experienced guides and some luck, you may spot them browsing on vegetation or wallowing in mud. Look for their distinctive large tracks and their dung, which is often found in piles called middens.
Where to See Rhinoceros: Due to their endangered status, rhinos are found in limited areas, primarily in protected reserves and national parks. Some of the best places to see them include:
- Etosha National Park, Namibia
- Damaraland, Namibia
- Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Kenya
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda
Important Note: Rhino conservation is a critical issue, and many organizations are working tirelessly to protect these magnificent creatures from poaching and habitat loss. By visiting these parks and supporting conservation efforts, you can contribute to the survival of the black rhinoceros.
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Cheetah
The cheetah is the world’s fastest land animal, capable of reaching speeds up to 70 mph in short bursts. Their slender bodies, long legs, and spotted coats are perfectly adapted for speed and agility. Cheetahs are diurnal hunters, meaning they are most active during the day, unlike many other big cats. They rely on their incredible speed to chase down prey, making for thrilling sightings on safari.
How to Spot Cheetahs: Look for cheetahs in open grasslands and savannas, where they have space to run. They often rest on termite mounds or other elevated spots to scan the landscape for prey. Cheetahs are relatively shy and are one of the most difficult African safari animals to approach, but their distinctive markings make them easier to spot from a distance. Their long tails, with a black tip, are also a giveaway.
Where to See Cheetah: Cheetahs are found across Africa, but their populations are fragmented and declining. Some of the best places to see them include:
- Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Okavango Delta, Botswana
- Namibian Cheetah Conservation Fund
- Kalahari Desert, Botswana and Namibia
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
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Giraffe
The giraffe is the tallest mammal on Earth, instantly recognizable by its long neck, legs, and distinctive patterned coat. These gentle giants are herbivores, using their height to reach the leaves of acacia trees that other African safari animals cannot. Their calm demeanour and unique appearance make them a favourite among safari-goers, especially children. Giraffes are social animals, often seen in loose groups called towers, roaming the savannas.
How to Spot Giraffe: Giraffes are relatively easy to spot due to their height, which allows them to see over tall grasses and shrubs. Look for their long necks and spotted patterns against the savanna backdrop in areas with acacia trees, as these are their preferred food source. They are most active during the cooler hours of the day, so early mornings and late afternoons are good times to spot them browsing on leaves or drinking at waterholes. You may also spot them interacting with other animals, such as zebras and antelopes, with whom they often share grazing grounds.
Where to See Giraffe: Giraffes are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, but some of the best places to see them include:
- Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Etosha National Park, Namibia
- Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
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Hippopotamus
Despite their bulky appearance, hippos are surprisingly agile both on land and in water. These large, semi-aquatic mammals spend most of their days submerged in rivers and lakes, emerging at night to graze on vegetation. Hippos are known for their powerful jaws and sharp teeth, making them one of the most d...
Table of Mammal Conservation Status
This table summarizes the conservation status of mammal species in South Africa.
| Conservation Status | Number of Species |
|---|---|
| Critically Endangered | 2 |
| Endangered | 11 |
| Vulnerable | 15 |
| Near Threatened | 13 |
Note: This list is derived from the IUCN Red List which lists species of mammals and includes those mammals that have recently been classified as extinct (since 1500 AD).
