If there’s one animal that has captured the hearts of safari-goers across Africa, it’s the leopard. Known for its elusive nature and solitary lifestyle, this big cat has long been a symbol of mystery and intrigue on safari. For many, a leopard sighting remains a fleeting moment—just a glimpse of spots disappearing into the dense bush. However, in certain areas, sightings of these magnificent creatures have become more frequent and more intimate, giving us the chance to truly witness their beauty up close.
So, if you're dreaming of an unforgettable leopard encounter, we’ve rounded up three incredible destinations where you’re most likely to experience these big cats in their natural habitats. Whether you’re following their tracks through the bush or enjoying an intimate sighting from your game vehicle, these spots (no pun intended) offer the chance to immerse yourself in high density leopard areas allowing you to quite literally "live with leopards" — Let’s dive in:
1. Londolozi – Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
Londolozi holds a special place in the hearts of leopard lovers (that's us), and for good reason. Located in the iconic Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, this area is often considered the birthplace of up-close leopard viewing. Over four decades ago, pioneers John Varty and Elmon Mhlongo began tracking and studying the local leopards for film, fostering a deep understanding and respect for these elusive animals. Their groundbreaking work led to the creation of some of the most intimate and unforgettable leopard experiences in the world.
Today, Londolozi remains one of the best places to spot leopards, and it’s not just about the sightings—it’s about connecting with these majestic creatures in a meaningful way, being able to understand their behaviour and harbouring a safe space from a conservation perspective for the species to thrive. The reserve offers five luxury camps at varying price points, each with its own unique charm, but our personal favorite is Londolozi Tree Camp. Nestled in the shade of towering Leadwood trees, this intimate camp celebrates over 40 years of connection with the wild leopards that roam freely across the reserve and you can see this throughout the design of the lodge. The simple elegance of the camp blends seamlessly with its surrounding wilderness, creating a sanctuary where luxury and nature coexist.
Here, you’ll find yourself in the heart of leopard territory, surrounded by the lush bushveld and the sounds of nature. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in a leopard-viewing experience like no other.
A short clip from "The Silent Hunter" where John Varty and Elmon Mhlongo are able to film a female leopard with her 3 little cubs for the fist time!
2. Mashatu – Northern Tuli Game Reserve
If Londolozi is the crown jewel of leopard safaris, then Mashatu in Botswana is the hidden gem that too often flies under the radar. Situated in the remote northern part of the Tuli Block, Mashatu is a sprawling 42,000-hectare reserve where diverse landscapes—from open plains to riverine forests and rocky hills (not to mention the flowering season of the yellow devil's thorn flower)—provide the perfect backdrop for leopard sightings. With fewer tourists and a more untouched feel, Mashatu offers a more exclusive and intimate experience with nature.
One of the standout features of Mashatu is its underground hides, which allow you to get up close and personal with the wildlife in a way that’s hard to match. These hides are built into the earth, giving you an unobstructed, ground-level view of leopards (among an array of other species) as they approach for a drink at the waterhole or even rest in the shade nearby. It’s an experience that feels like you're truly stepping into their world—no barriers, no distractions.
Whether you opt to stay at the more affordable Mashatu or Tuli Lodges or the more luxurious Euphorbia Villas, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled game viewing, the ultimate backdrop to any leopard viewing experience. From the comfort of your lodge, you may be lucky enough to see leopards prowl through the grasslands, climbing trees or stalking their prey. This unique setting makes Mashatu one of the best places to truly connect with leopards in the wild.
3. Mokolwane – Okavango Delta
If you’ve watched the BBC Big Cats 24/7 series, you’ll already know that the Xudum Concession in Botswana is unbelievable for leopard sightings. With the third-highest density of leopards in the world, it’s no surprise that National Geographic filmmaker Brad Bestelink has chosen this area to document these magnificent creatures. This is true leopard country.
The landscape here is varied and stunning, ranging from grasslands to tranquil lagoons, riverine forests, and the iconic Mopane woodlands. This diversity makes it the perfect place to encounter leopards as they move through different habitats in search of food or mates. One of the most exciting aspects of this region is witnessing leopards in action. The hunting techniques in this area are truly unique—watching a leopard leap from a tree onto its prey is one of the most dramatic sights one could witness.
A short clip from "Big Cats 24/7" where a female leopard jumps from a Sausage Tree onto her unsuspecting prey.
Mokolwane Camp itself is tucked away in a remote part of the Delta, making it the ideal base for a safari where you can truly disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Okavango. With no other camps nearby, it offers a sense of exclusivity and space, allowing you to fully absorb the stillness of the wilderness around you. It’s the perfect place to witness leopards in all their glory, surrounded by the beauty of the Delta.
For those who are captivated by the mystery and beauty of leopards, these three destinations offer some of the best opportunities to witness these elusive big cats in their natural element - with each location offering something unique, you truly can’t go wrong with any of them.
Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or planning your first adventure, these leopard hotspots will leave you with unforgettable memories of one of Africa’s most enigmatic predators. So! which of these extraordinary places would you choose first for your next safari adventure? We know that no matter where you go, the excitement of tracking and observing leopards in the wild will stay with you long after you’ve left the bush. It’s one of the things Warrick and I cherish most about safari, and we can’t wait to help you plan your own leopard-filled adventure!
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