Where to go for elephant spotting
African elephants are majestic creatures gracing the Earth and are the largest land mammal. These animals are easily recognizable by their large ears, which help regulate their body temperature. Their long trunks are used for communication, handling objects, and gathering food and water.
Two distinct species of African elephants exist the African bush elephant and the African forest elephant. Each species possesses unique characteristics and adapts to its respective environments. The African bush elephant, often found in open savannas, is known for its larger size and broader ears. In contrast, the African forest elephant, dwelling in the dense undergrowth of rainforests, is smaller with rounder ears.
African elephants live in groups led by an older female, or matriarch. She guides and protects the herd. The family stays closely bonded and together for life.
Despite their majestic presence and vital role in their ecosystems, African elephants face significant threats. Poaching, driven by the illegal ivory trade, continues to decimate their populations. Habitat loss, due to human encroachment and deforestation, further threatens their survival. The loss of these magnificent creatures would have devastating consequences for the delicate balance of their ecosystems.
Conservation efforts are important to ensuring the survival of African elephants. Protecting their habitats, combating poaching, and promoting sustainable land management practices are crucial steps in protecting these animals.
Here are some of the destinations in Africa from where you can spot African elephants in large numbers;
Mana Pools – Zimbabwe
Mana Pools is a haven for elephant lovers, boasting a thriving population that makes elephant encounters a near certainty. Whether you’re canoeing through the waterways on a canoe safari or exploring the bush on foot, these magnificent creatures are likely to grace your presence. The walking safaris offer an amazing experience, allowing you to get remarkably close to relaxed bull elephants, including the park’s famous resident, Boswell. This majestic elephant, known for its impressive tusks, often displays its agility by standing on its hind legs to reach fruits and succulent branches.
Boswell – Elephant, Mana Pools – Zimbabwe
While elephant encounters are possible at all camps and lodges in Mana Pools, Vundu Camp stands out as our top recommendation, especially during the dry season from April to October. This period offers optimal conditions for spotting elephants as they gather around water sources, making for unforgettable encounters.
Amboseli National Park – Kenya
Kenya’s iconic image of an elephant silhouetted against the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro is brought to life in Amboseli National Park. This park is blessed with large herds of elephants and other plains animals, creating an amazing backdrop for your safari experience.
Every day, elephants descend from Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes to drink water, offering the best photo opportunities throughout the year. If you’re a lucky visitor, you might even encounter Craig, one of the last “super tuskers,” a beautiful elephant with long tusks.
For the best chance to see elephants in Amboseli National Park, we recommend staying at Tortilis Camp, Tawi Lodge, or Porini Amboseli Camp. These lodges provide the best access to Amboseli’s diverse wildlife, ensuring a memorable safari adventure.
Chobe National Park – Botswana
Chobe National Park is one of the popular national parks in Botswana found in the northern part of the country and famous for its impressive herds of elephants, which roam freely across the vast landscape. The Chobe River, a vital water source in the park, attracts large herds of elephants making it easy for any elephant lover to spot them.
Along the banks of the Chobe River, you’ll have ample opportunities to observe and experience elephants in their natural habitat. Several campsites and lodges, including Muchenje Safari Lodge, Ngoma Safari Lodge, and Camp Kuzuma, offer amazing points for watching these majestic animals.
Damaraland – Namibia
Damaraland is renowned for its desert-adapted elephants, which have larger feet and leaner bodies, allowing them to traverse the arid landscape. These majestic creatures often roam close to campsites, providing visitors with unique wildlife encounters.
The perfect lodges and campsites for spotting these elephants include Doro Nawas, Damaraland Camp, and Camp Kipwe. Most lodges in the area offer guided drives to view these remarkable animals up close.
The perfect time to visit this destination is between May and November when conditions are best for exploring and experiencing the fascinating wildlife of Damaraland. This region promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Tarangire National Park – Tanzania
The other best destination where you can spot elephants in Africa is the Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, the park is believed to host over 4,000 individuals of elephants. The dry season of July to October is the best time to go elephant spotting in the park.
Oliver’s Camp and Kuro Tarangire are the perfect accommodations from where you can explore the park and encounter elephants.
Meru National Park – Kenya
The park is home to a healthy population of African bush elephants, which have rebounded impressively thanks to conservation efforts. These majestic creatures roam the park’s diverse landscapes, from riverine forests to open savannahs. Visitors to Meru National Park can often observe them in large herds, exhibiting their complex social behaviors. The park’s efforts to protect these elephants have made it a key destination for those looking to experience these incredible animals in their natural habitat.
