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What to See
Pangolin
[ Smutsia temminckii ]
Armoured insect hunter with a secretive charm.
As dusk settles over the African bush, a quiet rustle betrays the presence of a creature like no other. The pangolin — armoured yet gentle — emerges to forage, its movements deliberate and ancient. In this moment, nature reveals one of its most secretive marvels, wrapped in scales and steeped in mystery.
The African pangolin is a truly unique mammal, covered head to tail in overlapping keratin scales. Ranging from 30 to 90 centimetres (1-3 ft) in length and weighing up to 33 kilograms (72 lbs) depending on species, pangolins are found in savannahs and woodlands across Africa. Their shy, solitary nature and nocturnal habits make them one of the continent’s most elusive creatures.
Pangolins are insectivores, feeding almost exclusively on ants and termites. With no teeth, they rely on powerful claws to tear into nests and a long, sticky tongue — sometimes longer than their body — to lap up their prey. They are mostly nocturnal, curling into a tight ball when threatened. Their burrows and feeding habits play a key role in soil aeration and pest control.
In Africa, pangolins can be found in Tanzania and parts of Kenya, though sightings are rare. In southern Africa, likewise, sightings are few and far between but, once you have seen one of these facinating creatures, you are sure to never forget the encounter!
Do see our following guides for all the best parks, best camps & lodges and recommended safari trips to take in the Africa Pangolin.
Where to go in Africa
What are the best parks & regions for seeing African Pangolins in 2026/27?
A glance at some of the best hotels & lodges for Pangolin in 2026/27.
Don't miss our full Where to Go On Safari guide for a full details and ideas......
What are the Best Camps & Lodges for African Pangolins for 2026/27?
We highly recommend the following camps & lodges for Pangolin for 2026/27. These are all tried and tested by The Africa Specialists™ so don’t hesitate to call us with any queries over them or to check latest prices, excursions and availability for you to your schedule.
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
From $1,300 per person per night
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Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
From $635 per person per night
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Tubu and Little Tubu Tree Camps
The Okavango Concessions
From $2,940 per person per night
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Legendary Serengeti Mobile Camp
Serengeti National Park
From $950 per person per night
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Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
From $1,620 per person per night
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Don't miss our full Top Five Safari Hotels & Lodges in Africa guide for 2026/27
What are your best itineraries and tailormade trips to see African Pangolins in 2026/27?
A run through of some of the sample itineraries we have prepared over the years. Please note that we only tailor-make our safaris so these should be used as a guide for both the itinerary and pricing.
A Mobile Camp Exploration
Kwando Linyanti and Selinda, The Okavango Delta
From $6,000 per person
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Botswana Highlights
Chobe National Park, The Okavango Concessions, The Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls
From $4,000 per person
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Desert and Delta
Chobe National Park, The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, The Okavango Delta
From $6,500 per person
See the Trip
Do visit our Africa Safari Finder page to find more trips and locations...
What are the “Big Six” safari animals you must see in 2026/27?
There’s every chance, with a little planning and help from The Africa Specialists™ that you can see every one of your favourite “Big Six” animals in 2026/27. Use our following wildlife guides to the Big Six to get started…
Why travel with The Africa Specialists™?
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100% tailormade
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Expert knowledge
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We have you covered!
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A trusted service
Please call us any time on USA +1-917-336-2937 or drop us a note via our contact us page.
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From private conservancies to remote luxury lodges, let us help you design your perfect safari adventure.
Please call us any time on USA +1-917-336-2937 or drop us a note via our contact us page.
