Pygmy Hippo
There is no doubt that pygmy hippos are amongst the most elusive mammals in all of Africa. Their nocturnal habits, inaccessible habitat and low population densities can make a sighting seem almost impossible. But don't panic! Pictus Safaris are specialists when it comes to finding pygmy hippo, and here are our top three spots for sightings in Africa.
1. Tai National Park, Cote d'Ivoire
Other species seen here:
- Bongo
- Leopard
- Jentink's Duiker
- Zebra Duiker
- Chimpanzee
How to visit:
Location:
Join our small-group 'Pygmy Hippo Pursuit' tour in April 2022 - more details can be found below.
2. Gola Rainforest, Sierra Leone
An open secret amongst those who seek out ultra-rare wildlife, Gola has sadly lots a lot of its wildlife to poaching in recent years. However, a small population of pygmy hippos does persist deep inside this remote national park, and patient and persistent visitors might just get lucky with a sighting. A small population also exists on the nearby Tiwai Island, so keep your eyes peeled when visiting!
Other species seen here:
- Red River Hog
- Royal Antelope
- Maxwell's Duiker
- Yellow-Backed Duiker
- Water Chevrotain
How to visit:
Location:
Join our small-group "Pygmy Hippos and Primates" departure in February 2022 - more details can be found below.
3. Grebo-Krahn, Liberia
An emerging destination, we are still learning about the potential for wildlife-watching here. However, the early signs do look promising for this long-neglected corner of Liberia, with a number of rare forest duikers, including Jentink's duiker, camera-trapped in recent surveys. Pygmy hippo were also spotted during these surveys, and it is clear a population is doing well here. The potential here is limitless, so be sure to consider visiting if you're an adventurous nature lover.
Other species seen here:
- African Golden Cat
- Bongo
- Jentink's Duiker
- Zebra Duiker
- Giant Pangolin
How to visit:
Location:
We are currently working hard to plan a 2023 safari to Grebo-Krahn - contact us at contact@pictus-safaris.com to be waitlisted for this tour for no fee. In the meantime, check out some of our other fantastic destinations below.
Based on your interest in spotting a pygmy hippo, 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:
Email: contact@pictus-safaris.com
Phone: +44 (0) 2034888362
Mail: 117 Canfield Gardens, London, NW6 3DY, United Kingdom
Tai is surely one of the most exciting destinations in Africa for mammal-watchers right now. Harbouring over 50% of the remaining wild pygmy hippos in Africa, the western sectors of Tai are relatively easily accessible to visitors. In recent years, daylight sightings of these rare mammals have been enjoyed on the main Hana River, with some lucky guests even spotting calves! With visitors also able to spend time looking for chimpanzees and white-necked picathartes, this park has something for everyone.