Tracking Africa’s Ghost Hunters: Wild Dogs in Tsavo and Sabi Sands

Wild Dogs in Tsavo: Rediscovering a forgotten predator 

For years, wild dogs had vanished from Tsavo, Kenya’s largest protected area, due to human conflict and habitat fragmentation. Conservation efforts and increased protection have allowed small packs to reclaim their place in this rugged, volcanic landscape. Today, tracking a pack through Tsavo’s red-dusted acacia scrub offers a rare and raw safari experience. 

Finch Hattons, nestled in the heart of Tsavo West, offers an unrivalled combination of wild beauty and five-star luxury. From our elegant camp, you can explore vast tracts of wilderness on expertly guided game drives that delve into the terrain where wild dogs are beginning to thrive again. The camp’s elevated views over natural springs - often visited by elephants and hippos - and its commitment to conservation make it an ideal launchpad for witnessing the return of Africa’s painted wolves. 

Wild Dogs in Sabi Sands: Elite encounters in predator paradise 

While Kenya’s Tsavo offers the thrill of rediscovery, Sabi Sands is renowned for reliable sightings and intimate encounters with wild dogs. Bordering Kruger National Park, this private reserve is one of the few places in Africa where wild dogs can be observed regularly, sometimes hunting in full daylight. 

Ulusaba, our private game reserve in Sabi Sands, combines adventure with luxury. Positioned perfectly within prime wild dog territory, Ulusaba’s rangers and trackers are some of the best in the business, often finding wild dog packs on the move. The thrill of following them at high speed through the bush is unforgettable - a blur of movement, dust, and precision as the pack works together to bring down prey. Afterwards, retreat to your luxurious suite perched on a koppie, with panoramic views of the African bush. 

Why Wild Dogs Matter 

African wild dogs are more than just an exciting sighting. They are vital indicators of ecosystem health. Living in tight-knit packs, they rely on cooperation and social bonds, often caring for injured or sick members. Their presence signals a functioning, diverse ecosystem, and seeing them in the wild is both a privilege and a reminder of what’s at stake in Africa’s conservation story. 

The Ultimate Wild Dog Safari: Tsavo & Sabi Sands 

For safari-goers seeking both variety and depth, a luxury safari in Tsavo at Finch Hattons and in Sabi Sands with Ulusaba offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Kenya to the rich, predator-filled bushveld of South Africa, you’ll witness two very different ecosystems - each contributing to the wild dog’s comeback story. 

In both destinations, luxury doesn’t mean separation from the wild - it means immersing yourself more fully, with expert guides, sustainable practices, and the kind of comfort that lets you fully absorb the moment.

Whether it’s the haunting call of the wild dogs at dusk or the adrenaline rush of a hunt, this is Africa at its most unforgettable.