A tourist's unforgettable leopard encounter in Zimbabwe

What would you do if you stumbled upon a leopard feasting on an antelope just beneath your sleeping quarters?

That was the astonishing reality for South African traveller Andile (@godly2.0), who recently shared a captivating video on TikTok of his close encounter with one of Africa's most elusive predators while visiting Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe's Zambezi River Valley.

During his stay at Machaba Safari Camps, Andile filmed a leopard resting under the wooden deck of his safari tent, casually devouring an antelope. The rare sight, which has since fascinated social media users, offered a raw glimpse into the untamed beauty and unpredictability of life in the wild.

Wildlife experts note that leopards are among the most difficult animals to spot on safari due to their nocturnal habits, stealth, and natural camouflage. Their distinctive rosetted coats allow them to blend perfectly into the bush, often making them invisible during the day as they rest in trees or dense vegetation.

Andile's remarkable sighting was just one highlight of his safari adventure. While dining under the stars later that evening, he was visited by a curious hyena, and during a canoe safari, he watched a crocodile slip silently into the river.

Renowned for its walking and canoeing safaris, Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its pristine wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and dense wildlife populations. The park is home to elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and hundreds of bird species, offering travellers an immersive experience unlike any other.

For Andile, the encounter served as a powerful reminder of why Mana Pools remains one of Africa's most magical safari destinations - a place where nature reigns supreme and every moment tells a story of survival and awe.