Classic Tanzania Safari
This Tanzania highlights small group safari takes you to the heart of the action trying to catch sight of the migration, witness wildlife in the Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy an option hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti.
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Cape Buffalo Safaris
wildlife
Encounters with the Cape Buffalo
The Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), also known as the African buffalo, is one of the Big Five and one of Africa’s most formidable animals. Weighing up to 700 kg (1,500 lb), they are heavily built bovines with a distinctive fused horn base, known as a “boss,” that forms a thick protective shield. Unlike domestic cattle, to which they are only distantly related, Cape buffalo have retained their wild, unpredictable nature, making them both awe-inspiring and dangerous.
Buffalo live in large herds that can number in the thousands, creating dramatic spectacles on the savannah. They are also highly adaptable, found in grasslands, swamps, floodplains, and forests across southern and eastern Africa. Known as the “widowmaker,” buffalo are considered one of the continent’s most dangerous animals, responsible for more human deaths than almost any other large mammal, with their power and unpredictability deterring even lions.
Despite their reputation, buffalo play a vital role in African ecosystems. They are currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with healthy populations of several hundred thousand individuals. However, they remain threatened by habitat fragmentation, trophy hunting, poaching for meat, and human-wildlife conflict. By joining a Cape buffalo safari, travellers not only witness the raw power of Africa’s wild herds but also help support conservation initiatives that protect these critical grazers and the landscapes they shape.
When is the Best Time to See Cape Buffalo?
Cape buffalo can be seen year-round, but the dry season (June–October) is the most reliable time. As water becomes scarce, buffalo congregate at rivers and permanent waterholes, often forming massive herds that are easier to track. This period also coincides with excellent predator interactions, as lions frequently target young or weak buffalo.
During the wet season (November–May), buffalo herds disperse widely across the landscape. Although sightings are less concentrated, the lush green backdrop and calving season provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Where Do Cape Buffalo Live?
Cape buffalo are widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a remarkable range of ecosystems:
- Tanzania – Katavi National Park: Known for some of the largest herds of buffalo on the continent, often thousands strong.
- Botswana – Chobe River: Best experienced by boat or canoe, where herds gather along the riverbanks and lone bulls graze on soft grasses.
- Kenya – Masai Mara & Amboseli: Regularly seen in open plains, often shadowed by lion prides.
- South Africa – Kruger National Park: A stronghold for Big Five safaris, with buffalo encountered across the park’s varied habitats.
- Uganda – Queen Elizabeth National Park & Murchison Falls: Swampy floodplains attract large herds.
Buffalo are water-dependent and must drink daily, so their movements are closely tied to rivers, lakes, and seasonal waterholes.
A selection of Buffalo Safaris
From 5500 per person
Classic South Africa Safari
History, culture, wildlife and the world's largest waterfall await travellers embarking on this 10-day safari, an itinerary that takes in everything from game drives in search of the Big Five to a tour of Robben Island, where the legendary Nelson Mandela spent 18 years as a political prisoner.
Botswana Luxury Safari
A luxury Botswana safari taking in a selection of award-winning luxury camps combined with world-class game viewing.
Luxury Kenya Safari
Take in the best of Kenya in ultimate luxury. Head up to the Laikipia Plateau for exclusivity and adventure, spending your days exploring the vast terrain on game drives, nature walks, camel safaris or on horseback. Finally head to the iconic Masai Mara and stay here or in one of the surrounding private conservancies.
