Hippotragus niger
The most magnificent antelope in Africa — jet-black males with sweeping scimitar horns
Habitat
Miombo woodlands, grassland-woodland mosaic, and vlei areas
Diet
Medium to tall grasses, supplemented with leaves and herbs
Lifespan
15–17 years
Weight
Males: 230–270 kg, Females: 190–230 kg
The sable antelope is widely considered the most beautiful antelope in Africa. Adult males are jet-black with contrasting white facial markings and a white belly, crowned by magnificent backward-curving scimitar horns that can reach 1.6 metres in length. Females are chestnut-brown. Sable are found in miombo woodland savanna across southern and East Africa, with the rarest subspecies — the giant sable — found only in Angola. They are aggressive fighters and have been known to kill lions with their formidable horns when cornered.
Habitat
Miombo woodlands, grassland-woodland mosaic, and vlei areas
Diet
Medium to tall grasses, supplemented with leaves and herbs
Lifespan
15–17 years
Weight
Males: 230–270 kg, Females: 190–230 kg
Male sable horns can reach 1.6 metres — the longest of any African antelope
Sable have killed lions with their horns when defending themselves
Males turn jet-black with age — young males are brown like females
The giant sable of Angola is one of the rarest antelopes on Earth with fewer than 200 remaining
Their name comes from the heraldic term "sable" meaning black
Multi-day, all-inclusive safari packages that include the best sable antelope viewing destinations.
Cape Town, Sabi Sands
From $8,990
Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park
From $8,990
Okavango Delta, Chobe
From $8,997
Johannesburg, Sabi Sands Game Reserve
From $3,490
Our expert safari consultants will craft your perfect sable antelope encounter — from choosing the ideal reserve to selecting the best season and lodge.
Big Five game drives, walking safaris & more
Luxury accommodation in prime wildlife areas
Kruger, Sabi Sands, Masai Mara & beyond
Plan your trip around peak wildlife seasons
Honest pricing guide for every budget
How your safari protects African wildlife
African Elephant
The Gentle Giants of the African Bush
African Lion
The King of the African Savanna
African Leopard
The Elusive Ghost of the Bush
Cape Buffalo
Africa's Most Dangerous Bovine
White Rhinoceros
Guardians of the Grassland
Cheetah
The Fastest Animal on Land
African Wild Dog
Africa's Most Efficient Predator
South African Giraffe
The Tallest Animal on Earth
