The Animals of Africa

Africa is one of the most diverse regions in the world. From culture to languages, there is always more to learn; and it is no different when talking about the animals you can find there. Seeing animals across Africa is an amazing experience, but what is even better is learning their history, day-to-day life and needs. Learning more about the animals throughout the region can keep them around longer and allow them to live a healthy and sustainable life. While there are plenty of places to see wildlife across Africa, here are some of the best areas to view specific animals.

The Lion

While most people would assume the lion is the most fierce of African animals—and its sheer strength should certainly not be undermined—there are many other animals within Africa which display quite a bit of aggression. People wanting to see animals in Africa should always go with a tour group or guide and make sure to follow any instructions given to you. However, the only thing you’re likely to see a lion doing is sleeping. Lions sleep “up to 20 hours a day… and are most active at dusk and dawn”.  If you “head to the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park on the border of South Africa and Botswana, or to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park during the wildebeest migration” these are the best areas to see lions in action.

Somali Ostrich

The lion is amongst Africa’s most well-known animals, but experiencing African Animals isn’t just about seeing the Big Five— lion, leopard, elephant, cape buffalo and black/white rhino. It’s about seeing some of the most unique animals in the world. That’s why if you head over to north-eastern Ethiopia or Somali, you can find one of the biggest birds in the world, the Somali ostrich.  These giant birds are not only the biggest in the world, but “they are also the fastest two-legged animal in the world, reaching up to 70km/h (43mph).”

African Wild Dog

In the Savanna, man’s best friend is a little bit on the wild side. The African Wild Dog has been endangered for over 20 years, and there are approximately only 6,600 left.  While they very much look like your average doggo, they aren’t exactly ready to be trained and given a food bowl. The dog’s hunt “antelopes, warthogs, wildebeest calves, rats, and birds” which is quite impressive given their medium size. The dogs also have a unique fur pattern which will impress and adore tourists!

Hippopotamus

If you head over to South of the Sahara you can find one of the Africa’s hippo species, the common hippo (also known as the large hippo). While you can see hippos sweet little ears poking above the water in a friendly fashion, don’t be tempted to go much closer. A hippopotamus can become extremely aggressive when bothered, and even worse when coming between and mom and her baby. It is important to listen to your tour guides when viewing these animals and don’t take risks to get a closer snap shot.

Conclusion

The animals of Africa are a rare delight that everyone should try to see in their lifetime. However, you should be knowledgeable about where you’re going in Africa and what to do around the animals once you’re there. Check out CI Azumano’s Travel Tips for African Vacations in order to best prepare for your trip!