Wildlife & Wilderness in Zakouma National Park
Join two specialist safari guides to explore the abundant wildlife and rugged landscapes of Zakouma National Park, one of Africa's last remaining wildernesses.
From 16600 per personChad Wildlife
The rugged untouched landscapes and vast plains of Zakouma National Park welcome an abundance of wildlife.
Zakouma National Park is home to popular predators like lion, hyenas and leopard, but also large herds of central African savannah buffalo, elephant, and endemic species such as the pale fox and the kordofan giraffe. Over 500 waterbird and wildfowl species, 2000 crowned cranes, the Egyptian plover and the black-capped Gondek can also be found in the park.
Big Cats
Chad's big cats face various conservation challenges, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflicts, and poaching. Conservation efforts in Chad aim to protect these iconic predators and their natural habitats.
African Lion
Lions are found in various regions of Chad, particularly in national parks and protected areas such as Zakouma National Park in the south. They are social animals and often live in prides consisting of several females, their offspring, and one or more dominant males. Lions in Chad are part of the West African population of lions, which is considered vulnerable and is adapted to a variety of habitats, from grasslands to woodlands.
African Leopard
One of the most versatile carnivores, the African leopard changes its coat depending on its environment, and can be found anywhere from grasslands to savannahs and mountainous forests. They are solitary animals known for their elusive nature and are skilled climbers, often resting in trees during the day and typically hunt alone.
Birds
Chad is home to a diverse range of bird species due to its varied ecosystems, such as the Secretary Bird, the African Fish Eagle, Vultures, Hornbills and the Marabou Stork.
Pelicans
You may find both Great White Pelicans and Pink-backed Pelicans in the region of Lake Chad; known for their large size and characteristic long bills and pouches. During the winter months, some pelican species migrate to Africa from Europe and Asia in search of warmer climates and abundant food sources.
What Wildlife to expect in Chad
Fennec Fox
The smallest species of fox, the Fennec Fox has adapted its coat and ears to the high temperatures and little water of the desert environment, eating mainly insects and small mammals and birds.
Striped Hyena
The smallest subspecies of hyenas, the striped hyena competes with other predators such as leopards and cheetahs due to its diet. Unlike its more famous cousin, the laughing hyena, this species of hyena is a scavenger mostly feeding on ungulate carcasses as well as bones and ligaments.