The lion is recognized as the "king of the jungle", even though it doesn't actually live in jungles but mostly out in the African savannah where it reigns supreme. This apex predator is the world's only social big cat, living in prides that can be as big as 30 or more. Lions spend their lives in a perpetual battle for territory with pride males fighting to keep their home range and the right to mate with females. 

Magnificent to behold in their natural environment, watching pride members interacting with one another is one of the most rewarding experiences on an African safari, especially when there are young cubs involved. Watching them play-fighting is a real treat and is actually an important skill that they need to master, preparing them for adult life by helping to hone both their hunting and social skills. 

Africa offers a plethora of destinations where you can encounter lions in their wild domain and get up close and personal with these impressive predators. Here are our "top 10" recommendations...

1. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Renowned for the great wildebeest migration, the Serengeti provides a prime opportunity to observe lions in action. Its vast grasslands are home to numerous prides, offering visitors a front-row seat to thrilling lion hunts and social interactions.

2. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Connecting seamlessly with the Serengeti, the Masai Mara is famous for its high lion population density. The open plains create optimal viewing conditions, making it an ideal location to witness lions against the backdrop of a striking African landscape.

3. Okavango Delta, Botswana:

This unique UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts both wetland and desert habitats, attracting a diverse range of wildlife, including lions. Exploring the delta by mokoro (traditional canoe) provides a distinctive perspective on these magnificent predators.

4. Kruger National Park, South Africa:

One of Africa's most well-known and best-loved reserves, Kruger is a lion haven. Its extensive network of roads and collection of private concessions ensure that visitors have ample opportunities to spot lions lounging in the savannah or prowling through the bush. Or just sleeping in a shady spot, which lions tend to do for most of the day!

5. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania:

A natural wonder, the Ngorongoro Crater houses a self-contained ecosystem. This caldera is home to a concentrated lion population, offering a high likelihood of sightings thanks to its enclosed nature.

6. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe:

Hwange's diverse landscapes, from grassy plains to mopane forests, provide a range of habitats for lions. The park's numerous waterholes are excellent spots to observe lions quenching their thirst and staking out ambushes.

7. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia:

Known for its walking safaris, the South Luangwa offers a unique lion-watching experience. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, visitors can appreciate lions from a more intimate perspective, on foot in the African wilderness.

8. Etosha National Park, Namibia:

The arid Etosha Pan and surrounding grasslands are home to a variety of wildlife, including lions. The sparse vegetation increases the chances of spotting these predators on the hunt.

9. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda:

Uganda's savannah landscapes within Queen Elizabeth National Park offer an opportunity to observe tree-climbing lions, an unusual behavior not commonly seen in other regions.

10. Tsavo National Parks, Kenya:

Tsavo East and Tsavo West collectively form one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world. The diverse landscapes, from the red soil plains to the volcanic terrain, provide a unique backdrop for observing lions.