Sand Cat
Perhaps the cuddliest-looking creature we search for on our safaris, sand cats can be tricky to find. Occurring at low densities throughout their range, and strictly nocturnal, sightings for many years seemed almost impossible. In recent years, though, sightings have become much easier to come by - here are our top three spots for sand cat sightings in Africa.
1. Dakhla, Western Sahara
Other species seen here:
- Fennec Fox
- Rueppell's Fox
- Atlantic Humpback Dolphin
- North African Hedgehog
- African Golden Wolf
How to visit:
Location:
Join our small-group 'Secrets of the Sahara' tour to Dakhla in April 2022 - more information below.
2. Ahaggar National Park, Algeria
Nestled in the mountainous southern reaches of Algeria, the Ahaggar National Park is the last stronghold in North Africa for many species, including the iconic Saharan cheetah. This area is vast, inhabited only by nomadic herdsmen, and visitors are not guaranteed to see wildlife. But, if you do, it's likely to be very special!
Other species seen here:
- Cheetah
- Aoudad
- Caracal
- Fennec Fox
- Rueppell's Fox
How to visit:
Location:
We currently only offer private departures to Southern Algeria - contact us contact@pictus-safaris.com to enquire. You can see our other departures via the link below.
3. Ouadi-Rime Ouadi-Achim Faunal Reserve, Chad
This reserve is simply massive, taking up much of interior of Chad. Dominated by desert, but also boasting tracts of grassland and woodland, this reserve has historically been a stronghold for species that survive in extremely arid environments, including addax and scimitar-horned oryx. Much of its wildlife was poached to extinction in the 20th century, but recent conservation efforts have brought back several charismatic species to this impressive reserve.
Other species seen here:
- Scimitar-Horned Oryx
- Dama Gazelle
- Red-Fronted Gazelle
- Dorcas Gazelle
- Striped Hyena
How to visit:
Location:
Join our small-group 'Soul of the Sahara' departure to Northern Chad in February 2022 - see more details below.
Based on your interest in spotting a sand cat, you may also be interested in our top destinations for several other ultra-rare mammals:
Contact us today to book any of our incredible safaris:
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Email: contact@pictus-safaris.com
Phone: +44 (0) 2034888362
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Mail: 117 Canfield Gardens, London, NW6 3DY, United Kingdom
Extended night drives into the deserts of Western Sahara pack a real punch. Not only are desert specialties such as fennec fox and Rueppell's fox relatively easy to come by, but sand cat sightings have become more and more frequent. Some lucky visitors have even enjoyed sightings of kittens, or adults in broad daylight! This is truly the sand cat capital of the world.