Where to see Leopard in Botswana
The leopard is not uncommon. The most numerous of Africa’s big cats, it occurs in all major conservation areas and across most habitats. Nonetheless, its grace and elusiveness make it a unique safari drawcard.
Quick facts about Leopard
| Scientific name: | Panthera pardus | Habitat: | Savanna, woodland, forest, mountains |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Vulnerable | Adult weight: | 30–90kg |
The leopard is a powerful and versatile predator that varies greatly in size and habitat. It uses stealth and camouflage to ambush prey at close quarters, typically taking small to medium-sized antelopes, though everything from birds to young giraffes may make the menu. Most active at night, leopards are agile climbers and unique among big cats in using trees as ‘larders’ for prey.
Key identification features include a long tail, usually curled at the white tip, and beautiful rosette patterning (unlike a cheetah’s solid spots). Males are around one-third larger than females, with a larger head and more jowly throat. Adults are largely solitary, though cubs may remain with their mothers for 18 months.
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Range countries worldwide
5,200m
Highest recorded altitude
108cm
Max. tail length
12–17 years
Average lifespan
The top camps for seeing leopard in Botswana
Based on 421 reports by our travellers since May 2018, visitors at these camps in Botswana have the best chances of sighting leopard.
Best chances to see
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Where to see leopards in Africa
Leopards are widespread but good at hiding. By day, you may spy one in a tree. At dawn and dusk, they become more active on the ground. Night drives can be productive.
Top tips for viewing leopards
Leopards occur everywhere from mountains to rainforests but are best seen in savannah and woodland habitats. Highly territorial, they often show up repeatedly in the same area.
Classic leopard country includes river loops with large trees and rocky kopjes surrounded by open bush. Even if invisible, a leopard’s presence is often betrayed by the alarm calls of prey, such as baboons, impala or even guinea-fowl. Be patient and you might get lucky.
Certain locations, such as Zambia’s LuangwaValley, are famed for leopard sightings. But all major conservation areas, from the Kalaharito the Maasai Mara, offer a chance, especially where guides know the habitats and whereabouts of individual cats. Night drives increase the chances further. Listen out after dark for the distinctive deep territorial call, which resembles the rasp of a saw.
Our best Botswana holidays for leopard sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for Botswana safaris are likely to give the best leopard sightings
Wild Dog Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An in-depth discovery of northern Botswana’s wilderness, from Chobe and the private Kwando Reserve to the Moremi and iconic Okavango Delta with a great variety of activities and wildlife.
US$12,230 - US$21,930 per person
Porcupine Safari
11 days • 4 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Visit dramatically contrasting landscapes boasting a variety of species during this exploration of Botswana’s top-safari destinations. A combination of national parks and private reserves allows for a range of activities.
US$10,710 - US$16,860 per person
Spring Hare Safari
9 days • 3 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An authentic and diverse safari to Botswana combining the Chobe Forest Reserve, Savuti Marshes and the Okavango Delta. Strong wildlife viewing, a variety of activities and excellent value camps.
US$7,290 - US$13,320 per person
Red Lechwe Safari
9 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Superb guiding from three fabulous camps full of character in three contrasting areas for a fabulous safari to the Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert.
US$10,800 - US$25,210 per person
African Jacana Safari
7 days • 3 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
An adventurous introduction to Botswana blending prolific wildlife, incredible landscapes and varied activities staying at relaxed camps in the Chobe Enclave, a community-owned reserve bordering the Moremi, and Makgadikgadi Pans.
US$7,770 - US$12,280 per person
Wattled Crane Safari
5 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
A good-value Botswana safari staying at comfortable lodges in prime wildlife-viewing areas – Chobe National Park and the Moremi Reserve in the Okavango Delta.
US$4,690 - US$8,310 per person
Slaty Egret Safari
4 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
Two luxurious, intimate camps provide a highly personalised exploration of the Chitabe concession and private Vumbura reserve within the Okavango Delta. A range of water and land activities allows for stunning sightings.
US$7,000 - US$14,130 per person
Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari
18 days • 10 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.
US$5,390 - US$8,720 per person
Kudu Safari
7 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT
A luxury Botswana safari exploring the Okavango Delta staying at Nxebega Camp and the stunning Sandibe Lodge, with excellent guiding and some of the most prolific wildlife viewing anywhere in Africa.
US$7,840 - US$18,400 per person
More information about leopard in our other destinations
Click here for detailed information about leopard in other countries, including the places for sighting leopard.
