Experiencing wild dog safaris are some of the best wildlife encounters one could come across. The African Wild Dog, an endangered canine, roams the sub-Saharan plains and savannahs. These incredible animals are also known as ‘painted wolves’ or ‘painted hunting dogs’ due to their striking, blotted fur.
African Wild Dogs are the epitome of predators. Intelligent, fiercely cooperative, and endowed with exceptional senses, these canines are nature’s ultimate hunters. Their incredible strength, sharp eyesight, and lightning-fast speed make them formidable adversaries. The thrill of spotting a pack in the wild is unmatched, and the excitement it generates among wildlife enthusiasts is palpable.
Wild Dog Safaris
When is the best time for Wild Dog Safaris?
Africa is truly an all year-round destination, with each region presenting a different climate and season where a variety of highlights can be experienced. Wild dog safaris are particularly interesting as these spotted canines reveal contrasting behaviors in different seasons.
| Region | Months | Seasons | Sightings |
| South Africa | Apr to Oct | Dry Season | Ideal for wild dog sightings, sparse vegetation |
| Nov to Mar | Rainy Season | Vegetation may be thicker but unique opportunities like wild dog pup sightings |
| Botswana | May to Oct | Dry Season | Water levels recede, concentrating wildlife, good chance to see wild dogs |
| Nov to Apr | Green Season | Offers opportunities to observe wild dog behavior |
| Zambia | May to Oct | Dry Season | Ideal for walking safaris & wild dog sightings |
| Nov to Apr | Green Season | Witness wildlife adapting to the lush conditions |
| Tanzania | Jun to Oct | Dry Season | Known for the great migration but wild dog sightings are also excellent |
| Nov to May | Green Season | Harder to track wild dogs but great for photography opportunities |
| Kenya | Jun to Oct | Peak Season | Coinciding with the Great Migration, wild dog sightings are also high |
| Nov to May | Green Season | Quieter atmosphere & potential for varying wildlife experiences |
Where to go for Wild Dog Sightings?
The largest known population of African wild dogs is set within Botswana boasting almost 30%. However, they are also popular in other areas such as Tanzania, Zimbabwe & South Africa. This also allows travelers to witness wild dogs in various environments, illustrating different behaviors.
For Botswana, specifically Savuti, Moremi & Khwai the density of wild dogs is quite high. These areas offer a classic combination of wetlands, floodplains and grasslands, creating a great environment for these adventurous canines to explore, hunt and den. There are many opportunities for hunting along the Khwai River, making it the ideal attraction for hungry wild dogs.
One of the most popular regions is of course, South Africa’s Kruger National Park. There are regular sightings of packs here with around 400 dogs in the park.
Tanzania’s Nyerere National Park is one of the worlds biggest conservation areas. Home to over 800 wild dogs, you can just imagine the incredible sightings you may witness! As the park is quite large, the wildlife has plenty of space to roam.
Samburu in Kenya is another special destination you can explore and set off on a wild dog safari. You can also keep an eye out for the Samburu Special 5: reticulated giraffe, beisa oryx, Somali ostrich, long-necked gerenuk and Grevy’s zebra.
What to expect when you spot a Wild Dog pack?
Of course, what everyone wants to see if a pack of wild dogs on a hunt. There are a few signs to look out for such as individual dogs sneezing, to indicate if they are hungry or not, as well as whether its a good time to go hunting. Once the pack is in agreement, they will approach their target, carefully surrounding it to block off exit routes. Eventually, the prey will realize they have a pack of wild dogs watching them and then the chase begins!
Did you know that wild dogs can supposedly reach speeds of nearly 44 miles an hour? Quite remarkable. Once they have tackled and put down their prey, they immediately begin feasting to limit the risks of other predators coming to steal their hard earned meal.
If you find the pack resting, you would be surprised to see that their behavior resembles that of domestic litters and dogs. Pups will be out playing and practicing their hunting skills. The dominant male and female will keep a watchful eye as lead the pack when hunting. Be prepared to witness lots of cuddling, playful nibbling, stretches and chasing.
Wild Dog Conservation
Whilst some regions boast packs of African Wild Dogs, these beautiful creatures are actually endangered. Lions have been known to attack any wild dog pups they come across and sometimes kill all of them that they may find in a den. They are also susceptible to diseases such as rabies and canine distemper. Humans also are a threat because farmers tend to poison or shoot them to protect their livestock.
There are several ways that communities come together to protect these wonderful African Wild Dogs and save the remaining packs. A resurgence is slowly coming to light and hopefully healthy populations will start growing.
Learn more about conservation in Africa
