A pair of lions spot wildebeest herd
Concern has been expressed in some studies about a fall in lion numbers in some areas of southern Africa. One population assessment found that a “population reduction of approximately 43% is estimated over the past 21 years” (approximately three lion generations), 1993-2014; (Bauer et al., 2015). However, the situation is mixed across southern and central Africa. Lion populations had increased by 12% in four southern African countries (Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe) but declined by 60% in West, Central and East Africa.
There are still substantial numbers to be seen in East African parks and reserves. They are highly social animals and prides can vary from just a handful to so-called “super prides” of 20-30 and more. On our most recent safari to the Maasai Mara region of Kenya (2025) there were several prides ranging from 8-25+.
Most of their territories span large areas of open grassland with just a few trees and other obstructions. This makes for good opportunities to observe several generations of animals in individual prides and get close enough for some dramatic close-ups (See gallery). However, since they can sleep for up to 20 hours per day, it pays to be out early in the mornings and later in the evenings when they are mostly likely to be awake and on the move.
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