Where to See Meerkats in South Africa (Top 5 Places)

South Africa is a great place to see meerkats in their natural habitat. The country is famous for its big cat population, but it is also home to other small mammals.

In this article, we will provide you with the top 5 places to see meerkats in South Africa.

Top 5 Places to See Meerkats in South Africa

1. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of the best places to observe meerkats in their natural habitat. This park is a large area in the Kalahari Desert.

The region comprises Botswana and South Africa and also bordering Namibia to the west.

Kgalagadi Park has red dunes and dry rivers, which serve as home to a large population of meerkats.

What to Expect

You should have high expectations when visiting Kgalagadi, especially if you also want to see other wildlife. The park is also home to lions, cheetahs, and various bird species.

2. Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn is another popular place to see meerkats in South Africa.

Oudtshoorn is a town in South Africa that is located in the Little Karoo region of the country. There are several meerkat tours in Oudtshoorn, and you also get to see ostriches in their numbers.

What to Expect

Expect to get introduced to a meerkat colony where you will experience these adorable meerkats moving around their burrows.

The tours usually start early in the morning, so you get to see them as they get ready for the day.

The best time to visit Oudtshoorn for meerkat tours is during the spring and autumn months, from September to November and March to May.

3. Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Tswalu Kalahari is the biggest privately owned wildlife reserve in South Africa. This reserve is home to a large population of meerkats that can be seen in their natural habitat.

Tswalu allows visitors to see meerkats up close and personal. You also get experienced guides that will provide you with insights into meerkat behaviour.

4. Addo Elephant National Park

Addo Elephant National Park is the third largest national park in South Africa. From its name, you already know it is home to a good number of elephants.

The park is also home to other big cats and small mammals like meerkats.

Addo offers guided tours and self-drive options, allowing you to move at your own pace.

5. Meerkat Magic, Oudtshoorn

If you want a specific place to see meerkats in large numbers in Oudtshoorn, then Meerkat Magic is the place to go.

Meerkat Magic is a conservation project that is located in Oudtshoorn. The project allows visitors to see meerkats up close in their natural habitat.

Final Words

In this article, we have revealed the top 5 places to see meerkats in South Africa.

In summary, the top 5 places to see meerkats in South Africa are Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, Oudtshoorn, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Addo Elephant National Park, and Meerkat Magic.

FAQs

Can a meerkat be a pet?

Meerkats are not suitable as pets due to their wild nature and ability to dig huge tunnels underground.

Can meerkats speak?

Meerkats cannot speak. They communicate with each other by using sounds and signs.