Africa’s wildest secret: How to track down animal babies

You’ve probably already come across photos or videos where you could watch little lions, hyenas or leopards playing – and all you could manage was a slow “Awwwwwh”.

In this article you’ll find out all about the five outstanding events where you can experience this unique birthing season up close. Pack your camera, get ready and let’s dive together into Africa’s breathtaking wildlife!

The great migration in East Africa (January to March)

An absolute highlight in East Africa is the great migration, when huge herds of wildebeest, zebras and other herbivores move through the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. This incredible journey is not only an impressive natural spectacle, but also a time of mating and birth. If you want to experience this event at close quarters, we recommend travelling to the region between January and March.

To make the most of this time, you can hire a car and follow the herds along their routes. Make sure you book accommodation close to the migration routes to give yourself the best chance of witnessing births. A safari with an experienced guide can help you find the best vantage points and at the same time ensure you interact with the animals safely and responsibly.

Breeding season for birds in South Africa (August to October)

For bird lovers, the breeding season in South Africa is a dream come true. From August to October numerous migratory birds from the north arrive here to breed. The Okavango Delta and Kruger National Park are especially popular destinations for ornithologists. During this time you can observe fascinating courtship rituals, nest-building activity and the rearing of chicks.

If you are travelling by hire car, it’s a good idea to specifically look out for birdwatching sites. Find out in advance where you can best observe which bird species and plan your route accordingly. Don’t forget to take binoculars and a bird guidebook to help you identify the birds and better understand their behaviour.

Elephant mating season in Botswana (February to March)

The elephant mating season in Botswana is a unique event you should not miss. In February and March elephant bulls gather to fight over the females and choose their partners. The impressive rituals and social interaction of the elephants are fascinating to watch.

If you want to witness this spectacle, you can drive by hire car to the elephant herds in national parks such as Chobe National Park or the Moremi Game Reserve. Make sure you behave respectfully towards the animals and keep enough distance so as not to disturb them in their natural behaviour.

Feel free to watch our vlogs from Moremi and Chobe too. They will give you an impression of what travelling through this giant sandbox is really like.

Nesting season for sea turtles along the African coast (November to January)

The nesting season for sea turtles along the African coast is a truly moving event. From November to January various turtle species come to the shores to lay their eggs. Popular nesting sites include Zanzibar in Tanzania and iSimangaliso Wetland Park in South Africa.

If you want to experience this natural wonder, you should first find out about the nesting season of the particular turtle species and then specifically visit the coastal regions where they lay their eggs. There are often protected areas and conservation organisations that offer guided tours and ensure the turtles are not disturbed during the nesting season. Please follow their guidance and treat the animals with respect.

Lion and leopard cub season in various African national parks (June to August)

The season when lions and leopards give birth in various African national parks is an absolute highlight for animal lovers. Between June and August many predators are born and it is the best time to watch little lion and leopard babies. National parks such as Kruger National Park in South Africa or the Masai Mara in Kenya offer ideal conditions for this.

To increase your chances of seeing lion and leopard babies, it’s worth booking a safari with an experienced guide. The guides know the areas where the predators give birth to their young and can help you experience these unique moments. However, make sure you follow the rules of conduct and do not disturb the animals or come too close to them.

Our conclusion

The mating seasons of Africa’s wildlife offer fascinating insights into natural reproductive cycles and are a wonderful opportunity to experience the wonders of African wildlife. With a hire car you can travel flexibly and specifically visit the different mating areas. However, always remember to respect the animals and not disturb their natural behaviour.

So grab your camera, your sense of adventure and a hire car, and experience the fascinating mating seasons of Africa’s wildlife. We wish you lots of fun, wherever you decide to head first!