Where is a place in Africa where I can ethically see lions?
With the recent events surrounding that nerdy American dentist shooting a prized Zimbabwean lion, I’ve been thinking lately about human relationships with animals.
I’ve wanted to visit Africa for a while and would very much like the chance to see lions and other wildlife in their natural habitat. I’m not looking for a “walking with lions” experience which I think is also problematic and potentially abusive, but rather a chance to see lions from a safe distance on a preserve without annoying them or having them know they’re being observed.
Has anyone done this before? Where is a place I can ethically observe big cats that preserves their lifestyle and habitats?
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9 Answers
Kruger National Park in South Africa.
I spent some time in SA about 15 years ago and visited the park for a couple of days. I drove my rental car through the park and was “with the animals.” It was a fantastic experience!
Warning. You mentioned seeing from a safe distance. There is no safe distance in Kruger. You are the interloper. You can be a brave (or as stupid) as you like. The animals roam freely are free to roam. When scary stuff comes by you keep your windows rolled up. If you want to get out an take pictures make sure you look all around you – and above and below.
It’s a jungle out there.
Too late to add.
Under no circumstances should you go by yourself. If you are alone, or prefer, you can take a group Safari Tour where they will take you around. I imagine it would be a bit like a Disney ride – but real.
Any of the reputable safari companies will provide an ethical viewing. As @LuckyGuy has said, you would have to go with a group. There are wildlife preserves in Tanzania and Kenya as well as the one in South Africa that Lucky mentioned. You do need some inoculations and anti-malarial melds before going. Try looking at OAT tours; friends were happy with them.
You might check out the Serengeti National Park, at one time (don’t know if it still is) they had the highest concentration of lions in the wild on the planet, and millions of hoofed mammals on the march at any given time.
If you do drive through a free-roam park, it’s also a good idea to keep your doors locked: I’ve seen a video of a lion opening an unlocked door. Kitties can be very curious and surprisingly dextrous.
If you see any trophy hunters or poachers in whatever park you go to, please feel free to run them over. ;-)
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