Want to know where and when to find Lion? opspoor shows recent sightings across South Africa's parks and when each species is usually active.
Where to see Lion in South Africa
Easiest first. Pick a park for when and where to look there.
Recent Lion sightings
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-10-25
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-10-25
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-10-02
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-10-02
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-09-25
Kruger National Park · 2026-09-13
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-08-16
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-08-16
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-08-09
Pilanesberg National Park · 2026-07-17
About the Lion
The lion is Africa's largest big cat and one of the continent's most recognisable predators. It has a powerful muscular body, short tawny coat and, in adult males, a prominent mane whose colour and size vary between individuals. Lions are highly social compared with most cats, living in prides consisting primarily of related females, their offspring and a coalition of males. They are apex predators that mainly hunt large mammals such as antelope, zebra and buffalo, although they also scavenge when opportunities arise.
How to identify the Lion
Large, powerful cat with a tawny to golden coat, rounded ears and a long tail ending in a dark tuft. Adult males develop a prominent mane, while females lack a mane. Cubs have rosettes and spots that gradually fade with age.
Did you know?
Lions are the only truly social cats, normally living in prides where females cooperate extensively in hunting, raising cubs and defending the territory.
Also known as: Leeu, African Lion
Planning a safari? Pick a park above to see when and where to look for Lion, and log your own sightings in opspoor, even with no signal.