A cheetah is one of the big cats that should be on your list while on a safari. It is one of the most fascinating animals in the wilderness. It is the fastest cat in the animal kingdom. In this post, you will learn more about the cheetah. The post also identifies the 10 best places to locate cheetahs on safari.
About Cheetah
Here are some of the facts about the cheetah. They are the fastest in the animal kingdom. They can run about 113 km per hour. When chasing prey, they run at about half the speed only. After chasing the prey, the cheetah takes about half an hour to rest before eating. They eat medium and small animals. These include gazelles, wildebeests, and hares. They are more common in Africa and some parts of Asia. They are among the endangered animals. This is because of a loss of habitat. They are among the big cats. Others include jaguars, lions, tigers, and leopards.
Most people confuse cheetah with leopard. But there are huge differences between the two. Their bodies are different. The cheetah has a slenderer body. The body helps to chase and kill prey. A slender body makes running more efficient. A leopard is more muscular. With this body, they stalk and ambush prey.
The cheetah has a flat tail. Its purpose is to help when changing directions at speed. Leopard has a tabular and stocky tail. This helps to counter its weight.
The cheetah has clear black spots. Leopard has circular or rose-shaped spots.
The cheetah has a black line running from the eye to the cheek. These black tear-like lines are not found in leopards.
10 best places to locate cheetahs on safari
Most travelers want to spot cheetahs while on safari. But this may be difficult. Cheetahs are not found in all places. They are more common in some places than others. So, what are the 10 best places to locate cheetahs on safari?
- Lewa Downs, Kenya
It is found in Laikipia, Kenya. It is home to endangered animals such as rhinos. Travelers report sightings of cheetahs in the conservation area. It is among the best places for game viewing in the country.
- Masai Mara National Reserve
This is one of the 10 best places to locate cheetahs on safari. Cheetahs love open savannah habitats. This is where they can spot and pursue prey easily. You will find them in places with such terrains. Masai Mara is one of these places. This is where you will find most cheetahs in Africa. Most of the time, they are less wary of safari vehicles. You can visit Mara all year round to see cheetahs. But the peak season may be better. You will spot cheetahs and witness the great migration. This is around the end of July and September. You can spot cheetahs from most camps in Masai Mara. You just need to choose the best Masai Mara safari packages.
- Samburu National Park
It is in the northern part of Kenya. It is home to several cheetahs. You can spot them while on safari.
- Tsavo National Park
It is among the oldest parks in the country. It is known for its incredible wildlife. Travelers can locate cheetahs in this park.
- Serengeti National Park
It is located in Tanzania. It shares the ecosystem with Masai Mara. It has a good number of cheetahs. With guided safaris, you are more likely to spot one.
- Ruaha National Park
It is in the southern part of Tanzania. It is a good place to locate big cats including leopards, lions, and cheetahs. The dry season is the perfect time to spot these unique cats.
- Kidepo National Park
The park is located in Uganda. You can spot cheetahs in this park. An experienced safari guide can increase the chances of locating one.
- Kruger National Park
It is located in Zambia. Cheetahs are found across the area. The park offers the best opportunities to locate the big cat.
It is found in Namibia. This is among the countries with a higher number of cheetahs. Okonjima is among the 10 best places to locate cheetahs on safari. You are guaranteed a sighting of these big cats. Okonjima is a reserve for cheetahs and leopards. Its mission is to rescue and protect these cats. It is home to other carnivores such as hyenas and jackals. Most of the cats here are relocated from farms where they would be killed. Others are orphaned cubs.
Here, we have listed the 10 best places to locate cheetahs on safari. Masai Mara is the top destination in Kenya. Feel free to reach out about the best Masai Mara safari packages. You can locate cheetahs in other countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, Namibia, and South Africa. You can reach out for more about the best places to see cheetahs in South Africa. African safaris have much to offer. Tourists leave with memorable experiences. Just don’t forget to carry your camera.
