Where Lions Still Roam Free: Top 10 Countries With The Highest Lion Populations

TanzaniaTanzania has the world’s largest lion population, with over 8,000 wild lions. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are premier destinations for spotting them in their natural habitat.South AfricaHome to nearly 3,000 wild lions, South Africa offers lion sightings in Kruger National Park, Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and many private game reserves across the country.BotswanaBotswana supports around 2,800 lions, particularly in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, which provide rich prey density and ideal wetland and savannah ecosystems.KenyaKenya is home to about 2,000 wild lions, with sightings common in the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo parks. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect their shrinking habitat.ZambiaZambia hosts over 1,200 lions, with populations thriving in Luangwa Valley and Kafue National Park. It offers remote, uncrowded safari experiences ideal for spotting lions in the wild.MozambiqueMozambique’s lion population is estimated at 1,000. Key habitats include Niassa Reserve and Gorongosa National Park, where lion numbers have rebounded through focused conservation initiatives.ZimbabweWith around 1,000 lions, Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Mana Pools National Parks are strongholds for big cats. Conservationists closely monitor these populations to ensure their long-term survival.NamibiaNamibia has a lion population of about 800, including desert-adapted lions in the Kunene and Skeleton Coast regions. These lions are specially evolved to survive harsh, arid landscapes.Central African RepublicThe Central African Republic has a lesser-known lion population of about 700, mostly located in Bamingui-Bangoran and Manovo-Gounda St. Floris National Parks in the north.IndiaIndia is the only country outside Africa with wild lions, numbering around 674. These Asiatic lions are found exclusively in Gujarat’s Gir National Park and surrounding areas.Top 10 UNESCO Natural World Heritage Wildlife Sites In India You Must VisitRead More