7 Lesser Known Animals You Could See on Safari

Whenever we think of Africa, we have an image of vast golden savannas filled with wildebeest, along with a few big cats preying on them. But beyond the familiar faces of lions and elephants, the African continent boasts more than 1100 species of mammals and more than 2600 bird species. So to accentuate your next African safari, here is a list of seven lesser-known animals that may be waiting for your discovery.

• Aardwolf - This long-tongued insectivore is often mistaken for a hyena due to its appearance. With a diet primarily consisting of termites, this shy and solitary creature utilises its specialised tongue to lap up its prey. Patience is key to spotting aardwolves as they navigate the grasslands with stealthy grace.

• Okapi - Residing in the dense rainforests of central Africa, the okapi is a close relative of the giraffe. Despite their towering stature, the okapi boasts a unique appearance with a sleek, chocolate-brown coat and zebra-like stripes on its legs.

• Gerenuk - Found in the arid landscapes of East Africa, the gerenuk is a unique antelope with a long neck that enables it to reach high, thorny branches of Acacia. Often referred to as the "giraffe-necked antelope," the gerenuk is a graceful herbivore that has adapted to its environment with remarkable agility and elegance.

• African Palm Civet - Resembling a small cat, the African palm civet is an arboreal mammal with a taste for fruit. Their semi-prehensile tail aids in navigating the treetops, where they are commonly found. While predominantly nocturnal, fortunate safari enthusiasts might catch a glimpse of these elusive creatures during the daytime. The best place to spot these shy animals is on a Tanzania safari trip.

• Sun Squirrel - Bursting with colour and charm, the sun squirrel is a petite and lesser-known member of the squirrel family. They are distinguished by their vibrant fur and distinctive markings. These diurnal creatures are often seen scurrying through trees and foraging for food on the ground. Their energetic antics add a delightful touch to your Kenya safari experience.

• Bushbaby - As the night falls, the bushbaby, or galago, comes to life. With large eyes adapted for nocturnal vision, these small primates navigate the darkness with remarkable agility. Known for their distinctive calls that resemble the cries of a human baby, spotting a bushbaby in the moonlit African night is an otherworldly experience.

• Pangolin - Last but certainly not least is the pangolin, which is, unfortunately, considered to be the world’s most hunted animal. They are critically endangered and it is very rare for them to be spotted. These nocturnal animals are well-disguised when they are curled up in a ball on the ground or hanging from trees.

In conclusion, an African safari is a journey into a realm teeming with life, where every bush and tree holds the potential for a delightful surprise. If you want to embrace the spirit of exploration and the intricacies of nature travel, get in touch with an experienced travel partner like Jokotta Discoveries. Jokotta was founded out of a desire to protect nature and wildlife. And they only work with professionals who share and understand the passion for nature preservation. They open you to encounters with these lesser-known marvels, creating a wildlife safari experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Visit Jokotta Discoveries to book their safari form and their team will reach out to you.