TOP 10 PLACES TO SEE BIG CATS

Get the lowdown on where's best for lions, leopard and cheetah

Whether it’s witnessing a cheetah’s lightning-fast pursuit, hearing the roar of a lion echo across the plains, or catching a fleeting glimpse of a leopard slinking through the undergrowth, East Africa is unmatched in its offerings for big cat enthusiasts. At Leadwood Holidays we know some of the very best places for incredible sightings, demonstrating that when it comes to big cats, nowhere else does it quite like Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda! So, let's explore the top 10 big cat destinations in these incredible countries...

East Africa’s wild landscapes are the ultimate stage for the world’s most iconic big cats. From the boundless savannahs of Kenya to the acacia-dotted plains of Tanzania and the remote corners of Rwanda, this region offers some of the most exhilarating encounters with lions, leopards, and cheetahs. For travellers drawn to the raw power and elusive beauty of these apex predators, we've compiled this handy guide to some of the leading spots for spotting big cats, in no particular order!

1. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The Mara’s open grasslands are prime hunting grounds for lions, including the famed Marsh Pride, and the reserve’s cheetah population is one of the most studied in Africa. Leopards, though more secretive, thrive along the Mara and Talek rivers, making the reserve a year-round paradise for feline enthusiasts.

2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

This vast ecosystem is home to thousands of lions, many of them living in large prides that dominate the plains. The park’s rock kopjes provide perfect ambush sites for leopards, while its open expanses allow cheetahs to showcase their unmatched speed. The sheer size of the Serengeti means every game drive holds the potential for a remarkable sighting.

3. Laikipia, Kenya

This rugged region is a refuge for an increasing number of big cats, particularly leopards, which are frequently spotted in private conservancies like Lewa and Ol Pejeta. The region is also notable for its conservation-led approach, which has led to thriving predator populations alongside community-driven tourism.

4. Amboseli National Park, Kenya

Famous for its elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli also offers excellent opportunities for big cat sightings. While its lion population is smaller than that of the Mara or Serengeti, sightings are becoming more frequent, and cheetahs are often seen moving across the open plains. The contrast of predators against the backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain is an unforgettable sight.

5. Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

A rewarding destination for big cat lovers, Ruaha is home to some of the largest lion prides in Africa, with groups often exceeding 20 individuals. The park’s dry riverbeds and rocky outcrops are also prime leopard territory, making for thrilling encounters with these elusive hunters.

6. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania 

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours, Tarangire is an underrated gem for big cat sightings. Lions are abundant, often seen lounging beneath the park’s massive baobabs, and leopards thrive in the dense woodlands. Cheetahs, though less common, are occasionally spotted in the park’s open plains, making Tarangire a well-rounded destination for predator sightings.

7. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania 

One of the most unique wildlife destinations in the world, the Ngorongoro Crater provides a near-perfect microcosm of the East African wilderness. The crater’s enclosed nature makes for excellent game viewing, as predators and prey are concentrated within its walls. A dense population of lions, leopards lurking in the crater’s forests, and occasional cheetah sightings on the open grasslands make this a prime big cat destination.

8. Lake Manyara National Park

Famous for its tree-climbing lions, the park’s mix of dense forest, open floodplains, and alkaline lake provides diverse habitats where leopards also thrive. Cheetahs, though less common, are sometimes seen in the drier areas of the park, making Manyara an intriguing stop for big cat lovers.

9. Akagera National Park, Rwanda 

Often associated more with mountain gorillas, Rwanda also delivers when it comes to big cats. Akagera National Park, following an extensive rewilding effort, now boasts a growing lion population, with sightings becoming increasingly common. Leopards, though notoriously elusive, are also present in the park’s diverse landscapes, offering an exciting feline challenge for keen-eyed travellers.

10. Meru National Park, Kenya

Once known as the home of Elsa the lioness from "Born Free" fame, Meru has seen a resurgence in its lion and leopard populations. The park’s lush riverine forests and open plains create an ideal habitat for both species, ensuring a safari that is as scenic as it is thrilling.