Common Eland
Taurotragus oryx
Africa's largest antelope — gentle giants of the savanna and fynbos
Habitat
Savanna woodlands, grasslands, mountain slopes, and Cape fynbos
Diet
Mixed feeder
Lifespan
15–20 years
Weight
Males: 400–940 kg, Females: 300–600 kg
About the Common Eland
The common eland is the largest antelope in the world, with males standing up to 1.8 metres at the shoulder and weighing up to 940 kg — larger than many cattle breeds. Despite their size, eland are remarkably agile and can jump over 2 metres from a standing start. They are found across southern and East Africa, from mountain grasslands to coastal fynbos. In the Cape Town region, eland can be seen in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and on the slopes of Table Mountain. They are gentle, social animals that form herds of 20–60 individuals.
Habitat & Diet
Habitat
Savanna woodlands, grasslands, mountain slopes, and Cape fynbos
Diet
Mixed feeder — grasses, leaves, shoots, fruits, and succulent plants
Lifespan
15–20 years
Weight
Males: 400–940 kg, Females: 300–600 kg
Best Viewing Locations
- Cape of Good Hope
- Table Mountain National Park
- Kruger National Park
Fascinating Facts About Common Eland
Eland are the largest antelope in the world — males can weigh almost a tonne
They can jump 2 metres high from a standing position despite their enormous size
Their spiral horns can grow up to 1 metre long and are used in dominance displays
Eland produce a distinctive clicking sound from their knees when walking — audible from 1 km away
They were one of the first animals domesticated in southern Africa — their milk has twice the fat content of cow's milk
Safari Packages to See Common Eland
Multi-day, all-inclusive safari packages that include the best common eland viewing destinations.
Coast to Delta — Cape Town, Kruger, Vic Falls & Okavango Expedition
Cape Town, Sabi Sands
From $8,990
Grand Southern Africa — Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls
Cape Town, Stellenbosch
From $6,490
Cape Town, Kruger & Victoria Falls — The Grand Southern Africa Safari
Cape Town, Stellenbosch
From $4,890
Classic Cape Town, Winelands & Kruger Safari
Cape Town, Stellenbosch
From $4,290
Ready to See Common Eland in the Wild?
Our expert safari consultants will craft your perfect common eland encounter — from choosing the ideal reserve to selecting the best season and lodge.
Plan Your Common Eland Safari
Safari Experiences
Big Five game drives, walking safaris & more
Safari Lodges
Luxury accommodation in prime wildlife areas
Destinations
Kruger, Sabi Sands, Masai Mara & beyond
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip around peak wildlife seasons
Safari Costs
Honest pricing guide for every budget
Conservation
How your safari protects African wildlife
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