Habitat
Grasslands, savanna, and open woodland
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
12–16 years (wild)
Weight
150–250 kg
The African lion is the only truly social cat, living in prides of 5–30 individuals. Males are distinguished by their magnificent manes, which darken with age and signal genetic fitness to females. Lions are apex predators, capable of bringing down prey as large as buffalo and young elephants through coordinated group hunting — usually led by the lionesses.
South Africa's lion populations are found primarily in Kruger National Park (estimated 1,600 2,000 lions), Sabi Sands, Pilanesberg, and the Eastern Cape reserves like Shamwari and Amakhala. Night drives in private reserves offer the electrifying experience of watching lions hunt under spotlight.
Habitat & Diet
Habitat
Grasslands, savanna, and open woodland
Diet
Carnivore — zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, impala, and other large prey
Lifespan
12–16 years (wild)
Weight
150–250 kg (males), 110–180 kg (females)
Best Viewing Locations
- Sabi Sands
- Kruger National Park
- Pilanesberg
- Shamwari
Fascinating Facts
A lion's roar can be heard from 8 kilometres away
Lions sleep up to 20 hours per day, conserving energy for hunting
Male lions eat first after a kill, even though females do most of the hunting
Cubs are born with rosette spots that fade by age 3 months
