meerkat safari south africa

Five Shy Meerkats

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Cell: +27 (0)84 772 9678 E-mail: [email protected]

Address: Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, South Africa, 6625

Website: www.fiveshymeerkats.co.za

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Squirrel-sized, meerkats are members of the mongoose family, famed for their upright posture.

Common Name – Meerkat

Scientific Name – Suricata suricatta

Current IUCN Red List Status – LC – Least Concern

Estimated no. of mature individuals – Unknown – studies suggest a stable population

Meerkats are found in Southern Africa and they are often seen standing on their rear legs, forever gazing out over the sweeping plains. There are three subspecies of meerkat found in Southern Africa, however each subspecies only varies slightly in appearance – notably colouration and shape. The southern African meerkat for example is characterised by its slender tail and long, slim frame.

About Meerkats

These fascinating animals live in group’s (called a ‘mob’, ‘gang’ or ‘clan’) typically numbering around 20 individuals, however there are some ‘super-families’ that can have over 50 members. Meerkats (also known as suricates)

work together in numbers. A few will typically serve as lookouts, watching the skies for birds of prey, such as hawks or eagles that will snatch them from the ground. A sharp, shrill call is the signal for all to take cover. While a few individuals guard the group the rest busy themselves foraging for the foods that make up their varied diet. Omnivores, their diet consists of fruit and plants or other animals such as beetles, caterpillars, spiders or small reptiles. Standing at about the height of a 30cm ruler, Meerkats are surprisingly fast for their size and can reach speeds of up to 32 km/h.

Meerkat groups utilise several different burrows and move from one to another. Each burrow is an extensive tunnel-and-room system that remains cool even under the heat of the African sun. Females generally give birth to between two to four young, however this number can be as high as 7 or 8. Fathers and siblings help to raise meerkat young, teaching them to play and forage and alert them to the ever present danger from above – or from rival meerkat clans. Young meerkats are so fearful of predatory birds that even airplanes will send them diving for cover.

Meerkat Viewing Safaris

There are only a handful of habituated meerkat “mobs” in Southern Africa where it is possible to see these fascinating animals with relative ease. Meerkats are found throughout the Kalahari, which covers much of Botswana. The Makgadikgadi Salt Pans in the country’s north-east is one of the top locations for seeing meerkats in Africa. There are a number of remote camps near the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans where guests can sit and watch the meerkats as they go about their daily business. This is only possible because there is a permanent staff member that spends each day with the meerkats – allowing them to because habituated to humans.

Jack’s Camp and San Camp are two such camps where guests regularly see meerkats. Guests can spend a morning or afternoon watching these curious animals go about their daily life – foraging for food or keeping an eye out for unsavoury characters. The meerkats have become so accustomed to humans that they sometimes use them as lookout posts, climbing on top to gain a better view of their surrounds. Meerkats can be also found in the Namib Desert in Namibia.

Best safaris to see meerkats

Wilderness safaris classic botswana.

Uncover the diversity of Botswana, journeying from the watery Okavango Delta to the arid Central Kalahari, on this eye-opening 9 day luxury safari.

Exclusive Botswana

Take in the best of Botswana on this 12 day exclusive safari, travelling from the Makgadikgadi Pans through the Linyanti into the Okavango Delta.

Best places to see meerkats

Jack’s camp.

Award-winning Jack’s Camp sits in the shade of palms amid a giant salt lake which dried up millennia ago, beside Botswana's otherworldly Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

San Camp is a collection of romantic white tents which sit like a mirage beneath a scattering of lofty palms at the edge of a vast, glittering saltpan.

Camp Kalahari

Comfortable, laid-back Camp Kalahari sits at the very edge of the remote Makgadikgadi Saltpans, offering travellers a unique desert safari experience.

Tswalu Kalahari

South Africa’s largest private game reserve, Tswalu Kalahari is inhabited by over 80 mammal species including meerkat and desert rhino.

Where is the best place to see meerkats?

You can see meerkats year-round in a number of spots, however the best time is during southern Africa’s dry season (May to October). You can see meerkats at all times during the day, when they are out of their burrows busying themselves foraging and grooming. The few hours before sunset is a particularly good time to see them. Sitting near the entrance to their burrows is fascinating as you see each member head in for the night.

Meerkat Facts:

Immune to venom Meerkats do not often eat scorpions, but they have developed a technique for handling the venom found in their stinger. The meerkat will move in on the scorpion quickly, grabbing the arachnid before biting off the tail and stinger. Without its tail the scorpion can’t strike a venomous blow. Millipedes are another poisonous meal that meerkats often enjoy – however they are coated in toxins. To combat this, meerkats have learned to rub and roll millipedes in the sand to remove any poison.

Remarkable eyesight Meerkats have sensational vision that allows them to both spot birds in the sky from miles away but also see clearly underground. Long horizontal pupils also allow meerkats a wide range of sight, without the need for them to turn their heads. They also possess a membrane that shields them from dirt when they are digging.

Highly intelligent Numerous studies have found meerkats use complex coordinated behaviours to solve different tasks both independently and with their mob. Studies have even shown that certain members of the mob are more likely to solve experiments than others – in particular, when it came to obtaining food.

Diverse Diets A meerkats diet is incredibly varied and includes all sorts of insects, lizards, fruit, plants, spiders, scorpions and eggs. They even catch poisonous millipedes and sometimes snatch small bids.

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Meerkat Safaris

Join us daily at dawn to witness these incredible wild habituated creatures emerging out of their burrows, just in time to soak up the sun before they head about their daily activities.

Meerkats are also referred to as the Suricate or in German as the Erdmännchen and are known to be part of the Mongoose family. They are small species of foraging mammals that’s usually found inhabiting the harsh conditions of the open and arid, semi-desert plains in Southern Africa.

Meerkats are known for their upright stance and their sociable behaviour. Buffelsdrift Game Lodge is situated in the heart of the Klein Karoo and offers the ideal environment and vegetation for Meerkats to thrive.

The Meerkat Safaris at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge will bring you up close to these amazing animals.  A trained ranger will meet our guests in the Lookout Lounge, where they will enjoy a warm cup of coffee and rusks, before heading to the Safari vehicle by which they will be taken to the Meerkat burrows. On the way to the burrows guests are usually lucky to spot some of the 22 species of animals on the reserve. As there are dangerous animals like Buffalo and Hippo on the reserve, the guests remain on the vehicle while waiting for the Meerkats to emerge at the break of dawn.  The ranger will educate the guests on all the interesting facts and behaviour throughout the experience.

Adults: R775.00 pp

Children: (8-12 years) R390.00 pp

Duration of Activity: +-2 Hours

Weather permitting. On sunny mornings our meerkats wake up on time, but conditions such as rain and cold overcast mornings can delay the meerkats to emerge from their burrows for the morning. Meerkats prefer clear sunny mornings.  Thus, in the event of above mentioned weather conditions, there is a possibility that we will not see the meerkats or that the meerkat safari can be cancelled.

Currently Buffelsdrift Game Lodge has embarked on an extensive Meerkat research program. Volunteers at Buffelsdrift Game Lodge will be utilized to help the ranger with data collection and behaviour observations.  For more information, visit our Volunteer Program.

These are wild habituated Meerkats and will not be touched or handled by humans, including the ranger. The distance from the Meerkats and the guests will at all times be determined by the ranger and respected by the guests. Maximum of 16 guests per vehicle. Maximum of 2 vehicles per day. No children under the age of eight years.

Bookings for our Meerkat Safaris are via enquiry only. Call us on 044 272 0000 or email us your booking enquiry. Alternatively: Fill in our form- "Book now"

Adults: R820.00 pp

Children: (8-12 years) R415.00 pp

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A unique South African Bushveld experience in the heart of the Klein Karoo within the Garden Route, only 5 hours drive from Cape Town, Western Cape.

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Wildlife safari

Meerkat encounters in oudtshoorn, western cape: wake up alongside the cutest denizens of the little karoo.

T T here is something magical about watching a meerkat greet a new day , and the experience is waiting for you in Western Cape province ’s Little Karoo .  

Go out before sunrise on De Zeekoe G uest F arm outside Oudtshoorn on Route 62, and you’ll encounter meerkats in a non-invasive way, gain ing a real insight into their lives within their natural habitat.  

Meerkats hate the cold, so they’re only up once sunlight hits their burrow. By then, you’ll be seated on portable chairs in a semi-circle, and you ’ll have had had a full rundown on meerkats and their intriguing lives.  

Actually, only one meerkat will come up initially – the sentinel. She’ll face the sun, arms at her side, absorbing heat through her ‘solar panel’ – the dark patch on her belly. You’ll see her head swivelling, her dark eyes moving ceaselessly back and forth. She will study the people, then the surrounding bush, then gaze at the skies, on the lookout for the meerkats’ most feared foes – birds of prey.  

Then, one at a time, she will be joined by the others, and as sentinel she’ll give a quiet, regular chirrup, reassuring them that all is well. Zoologists call it ‘ the Watchman’s Song ’ . They will all line up to greet the sun and warm up. Meerkats don’t have much fat at all, so they rely on the sun to rev up their metabolisms, somewhat like reptiles.  

This colony of a dozen or so meerkats at De Zeekoe is habituated to humans. So while they won’t necessarily scamper up to you, they won’t run for the hills either, as a normal wild troop would.  

After the warm-up, some of the younger meerkats will start to play. The adults will start digging here and there for grubs, and the meerkats will disperse into a loose group (still guarded by the sentinel, still incessantly scanning the horizons and skies).  

And you ’ ll follow them for a while, learning something about a day in the life of a meerkat troop.  

When it ’ s time to go, you ’ ll leave them to their mad scrabbling and insect hunts , and soon they’ll be all but invisible behind the short Karoo shrubs.  

Meerkat encounters are just one of the things to do on Route 62, which meanders through the Little Karoo from Montagu to Humansdorp offering wine tours, ostrich farms, hiking, mountain - biking , 4-wheel drive trails and adventure sports, horse-riding, traditional arts and crafts, museums , historical sites and cultural tours , safaris, angling and even sky-diving .  

T T ravel tips & Planning  info  

Who to contact

Meerkat Adventures   Cell: +27 (0)84 772 9678   Email: [email protected]      

De Zeekoe G uest F arm   Tel: +27 (0)44 272 6721   Cell: +27 (0)82 584 9957   Email:  [email protected]  

How to get here

The closest airport to Oudtshoorn is George, about 65km away. (George is in the centre of the Garden Route). From George take the N12 north over the mountains through the spectacular Outeniqua P ass. Depending on photographic stops, it will take you under an hour to get to Oudtshoorn .   

I f you’re coming from Cape Town, it is about a 5 -hour drive along the R62. From Port Elizabeth, it’s also just over 5 hours’ drive. Take the N2 westwards and at George, take the N12 north. De Zeekoe is only 8km from the western edge of Oudtshoorn , along the R328 to Mossel Bay.  

Best time to visit

You can visit the meerkats any time of year. They rise later in winter (April to September), and they stay underground if it’s raining , which in these parts is also more likely in winter .  

Around the area

P opular attractions around Oudtshoorn include the world- famous Cango Caves, the Cango Wildlife Ranch and , of course, ostrich farms.  

Tours to do

If you’re staying at De Zeekoe , you can go on a tour of the farm, either towed by a 1958 tractor or on horse back .  

Once you’ve parked your car near the meerkat colony, Devey Glinister will guide you on a short walk to the burrow.  

Length of stay

The meerkat experience lasts about 3 hours. But there’s so much to do around Oudtshoorn that you could easily spend a few nights here. Also, if the weather is inclement, you may miss the meerkats on the first morning , so perhaps book a stay of at least 2 nights .  

What to pack

In summer (October to March), bring a hat – and sunscreen all year round. In winter (April to September) bring your warmest gear, including beanies, gloves and warm socks. Don’t forget your camera.  

Where to stay

De Zeekoe has excellent accommodation varying from luxurious to comfortable. Alternately, Oudtshoorn has many options.  

What to eat

When in Oudtshoorn , try ostrich meat, which is lean , tasty and low in cholesterol . Karoo lamb, which gets its distinctive flavour from the drought-adapted vegetation that sheep graze on in this region, is also a speciality.  

What's happening

Oudtshoorn hosts the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (‘Little Karoo N a tional Arts Festival’) – a cultural festival celebrating the Afrikaans language – every year in March.  

Ostrich meat, ostrich biltong, ostrich feathers, ostrich feather-dusters, and ostrich - egg shells (decorated or plain).  

Related l inks  

• Meerkat Adventures  
• De Zeekoe guest farm  
• Oudtshoorn Information  
• Route 62  

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Meet a Meerkat face to face in Botswana and South Africa

Photo courtesy of Camp Kalahari , Botswana – Meerkats with children on a family safari

About Meerkats

Meerkats abound in parts of South Africa and Botswana and, with fantastic family friendly safari camps, both countries can be perfect destinations for a family who’d like to meet meerkats in person. Read on to learn more about the best places to interact with meerkats and see our top tips for the best camps and lodges to get up close and personal with a meerkat clan. Remarkably adept hunters with acute eyesight and incredible hearing, Meerkats are highly skilled at catching and eating prey such as scorpions. They are very social animals, living in communes of 20 to 30 members, where childcare, lookout duties, and hunting are all shared among the clan. Incredibly courageous creatures, they will ferociously defend themselves and their clan and burrows against attack from eagles and jackals, their major predators. They are also immune to most snake venom.

The meerkat’s natural habitat is the desert and semi desert regions of Southern Africa, primarily the Kalahari and Karoo regions of South Africa and the Kalahari and Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana. There is also a population in eastern Namibia, where the Kalahari approaches the central mountain ranges. A visit to a meerkat burrow can be a memorable part of a family safari holiday; their interactions are fun, engaging and interesting to watch for all ages. They are good teachers of their own offspring – for example showing them how to eat a poisonous scorpion safely, they are not aggressive to humans, and happy to use people as lookout posts should they provide a suitable platform when needed to get a better view.

It’s possible to spend time with habituated meerkats in specific places alongside scientists and researchers who understand the habituation process intimately. The policy is not to affect meerkat behaviour with the presence of humans, but to let them become accustomed to the presence of people while carrying on with their normal lives. It can take several years to achieve this.

Meerkat Experience

“Be touched by a meerkat”, Francis Naumann, Kalahari, Botwana

The best places to have a meerkat experience are at safari camps where the habituation has been undertaken. Camp Kalahari in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans is an example where walks to see the habituated meerkats nearby are a regular highlight of people’s wildlife experiences from this tented camp. A three night stay here for a family of four costs from £5,660 including accommodation, all meals, house drinks, flights from and back to Maun, and all safari activities.

Jack’s Camp is reasonably close, in a private area of the pans, and was where the original habituation process was launched. In addition to the activities away from the camp there is also a museum of human artefacts for visitors to enjoy. A three night stay for a family of four costs from £10,775 including accommodation, all meals, house drinks, flights between the camp and Maun, and all safari activities.

The Tswalu reserve in South Africa is a huge private area far out in the Kalahari. Extending to 100,000 hectares, the reserve has remarkably good wildlife, including lion and rhino, as well as two families of habituated meerkats. As one of many activities on offer, walking with meerkats is likely to be a highlight of any family’s stay. A three night stay for a family of four with children of 11 or under costs from £5,737 including accommodation, all meals, house drinks, flights between the lodge and Johannesburg, and all safari activities.

For more information or to arrange a holiday to see meerkats, please  contact Aardvark Safaris on  01980 849 160 or  [email protected]   or go to www.aardvarksafaris.co.uk ​

2 responses to “Meet a Meerkat face to face in Botswana and South Africa”

Hello. We are couple of two. Next year in begginig of June, we would like to spend some days in one of parks with a lot of Meerkats. What is your recommendation for? Kind regards, Urska Vene

We can certainly help with suggestions. We will be in touch by email.

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Meerkats of Africa: The Social Stars of the Savannah

These nocturnal mammals employ their powerful claws to unearth termites and ants, consuming thousands each night with their elongated, sticky tongues.

Join us on a fascinating safari through the African savannah to get up close with one of nature’s most charismatic creatures, the meerkat. These small mammals, known to many through the animated character Timon from “The Lion King”, are much more than mere cartoon icons. With remarkable social structures and an undeniable charm, meerkats paint a vivid picture of life in some of Africa’s most arduous landscapes. These small, alert animals, flourishing in some of Africa’s most unforgiving landscapes, symbolize the resilience and splendour of the natural world. Their remarkable ability to adapt and thrive draws visitors from all corners of the globe, eager to witness the intricate behaviours and community dynamics of these creatures up close.

Their presence invites a deeper exploration into the natural habitats of Africa, encouraging conservation awareness and a greater appreciation for the wildlife that makes this continent so incredibly diverse. Each visit aimed at observing these fascinating animals in their natural setting doesn’t just fulfil a travel dream; it serves as a vivid reminder of our connection to the natural world and the collective responsibility we share in preserving it. Through the lens of meerkat observation, Africa reveals its multiplicity in ecosystems and species, prompting a continual return to unveil more of its enigmatic charm and biodiversity treasures.

• The Resilient Life of Meerkats

Meerkats have captivated the hearts of animal lovers everywhere with their compelling community life and striking survival strategies. These desert dwellers can thrive under the scorching African sun thanks to their meticulously constructed burrow networks. These underground havens provide not only refuge from predators but also a cool escape from the relentless heat.

When not taking cover, meerkats are formidable hunters. Despite their diminutive stature, they boast a diet featuring a diverse array of insects, effortlessly sniffing out their next crunchy meal. The strong bonds within a meerkat troop are evident in their well-organized roles – some forage for food, some babysit the young, and others, known as sentinels, fix their gaze over the horizon, ready to sound an alarm at the faintest hint of danger.

Witnessing the unified defense mechanism of these tiny creatures is nothing short of astounding. When threatened, they come together in a show of solidarity that fools adversaries into believing they are facing an opponent of significant size.

For the Love of Meerkats: Why They Fascinate Us

Below are compelling reasons why meerkats are more than just photogenic subjects and why they play an enlightening role in the understanding of our natural world:

Social Behavior and Communication

The social structure of meerkat troops is complex and deeply cooperative. Observing the intricate communication and interactive way of life in these communities offers a glimpse into the depth of their relationships and the intelligence they possess.

Charismatic Creatures with Endearing Qualities

Who can resist the large eyes, adorable faces, and the signature upright stance of a meerkat on the lookout? Their expressive antics are a joy to watch, although we must remember these wild animals are not pets. Conservationists remind us of the importance of respecting their nature and habitat.

Masters of the Hunt and the Art of Vigilance

Scorpions, spiders, you name it—if it crawls, it’s on a meerkat’s menu. And while the hunters dig and scurry, their appointed sentinels perform vital lookout duties. Watching these guardians at work is as riveting as any natural world spectacle.

Adaptation Wizards in Harsh Climes

Meerkats call some of the planet’s driest regions home—chiefly southern Africa’s arid zones. Seeing them in action, thriving in environments such as the Kalahari Desert, is a testament to the incredible evolutionary strategies at play.

Dwellers of Ingenious Ab odes

The complex and multifunctional burrow systems meerkats construct are marvels of the animal kingdom—and our windows into observing their society.

Passages to Learning and Protecting the Wild

Meerkats offer us a chance to learn about animal behavior, environmental ecology, and the pressing need for wildlife conservation. Learning about their struggles and threats like habitat destruction and predation shines a light on the broader challenges faced in wild conservation.

• The Premier Spots for Meerkat Encounters

Africa extends an open invitation to all who dream of encountering these captivating critters in their indigenous settings:

Kalahari Desert (Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa):

The Kalahari Desert is one of the best places to observe meerkats in their natural habitat. Many lodges and guided tours in countries like Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa offer opportunities to see meerkats in the Kalahari.

Makgadikgadi Pans (Botswana):

The Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana are home to meerkat populations. Some lodges and camps in the area provide guided excursions to observe meerkats in their burrows and as they forage for food.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve (South Africa):

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in South Africa is known for its conservation efforts and offers a chance to see meerkats in a protected environment. Guided walks and drives allow visitors to observe these fascinating creatures.

Oudtshoorn (South Africa):

In the Western Cape province of South Africa, near Oudtshoorn, there are meerkat conservation projects. These projects often provide guided tours where visitors can observe meerkats in their natural habitat.

Trip Examples:

• Botswana & South Africa Safari | 10 nights »
• Southern Africa Family Favourites | 14 nights »
• A Ride into the Wilde | 10 nights »
• A Call to Action for Conservation

Adventuring through Africa in pursuit of meerkat interactions is both a privilege and a source of delight. Beyond the pleasure, it also presents a significant chance to contribute to the ongoing conservation of these entrancing creatures and their delicate ecosystems.

By choosing responsible travel options, and by returning to see Africa’s wildlife again and again, you’re directly supporting the efforts to ensure that meerkats continue to grace the African plains for generations to come. For those eager to experience the joy of seeing these creatures in real life, why wait?

Get ready to be captivated by the enchanting world of the meerkat—the sentinel of the savannah awaits!

In this article

• Introduction
• Why They Fascinate Us

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Where to See Wild Meerkats in South Africa

When I booked my first trip to Africa in 2017 I had an “animal bucket-list” and after 2 months overlanding, numerous safaris across 10 countries I was fortunate enough to tick off most animals on that list!

One animal that I was not lucky enough to see was the elusive Meerkat. I quickly learnt on my trip exactly why they are one of the shy five. For those of you that don’t know the shy five animals of Africa are Aardvark, Aardwolf, Bat-eared Fox, Meerkat and Porcupine. The reason they are called the shy five is pretty self-explanatory… shy and notoriously hard to see in the wild.

Now as someone who has always wanted to see a meerkat in their natural habitat that just wasn’t good enough.

Fast forward a few years later, in Jan 2020 I flew into Cape Town with no real plans except…

• maybe I’ll work my way up the coast to Johannesberg
• maybe I’ll hang out in Cape Town
• maybe I’ll 4WD into Namibia

So yeah… no plans.

BUT I did still have in the back of my mind that I would love to see meerkats in the wild, that sent me down a rabbit-hole of finding the best, easiest and most affordable way to see meerkats in the wild!

Best places to see Meerkats in the wild.

1. kalahari desert, botswana.

If you look up best place to see Meerkats in the wild, straight away the Kalahari Desert in Botswana will come up. After finding this out I went into research mode and was starting to feel a bit deflated. Could I see meerkats in the Kalahari? Yes. Was it going to cost me a bucketload of money? Also, yes. Between flights and accommodation it was already looking like it would be in the thousands. I could not justify that amount of money when I was still travelling on a budget (although in hindsight if I knew what was coming with the pandemic I would’ve said stuff it and booked the trip).

I decided to shelve the idea for the time-being and reassess.

2. Oudtshoorn, South Africa

About a week later my friend Sarah I’d just been travelling with in India told me she was booking a flight to South Africa to do a bit more travel with me (yay). I started making a plan for what we would do, the short version was “hire a car and drive up the coast, see animals, beautiful scenery, do some hikes, drink wine”. I was Googling cities all up the coast and making notes of things we could do. When I got to Oudtshoorn imagine the shock I felt when I saw one of the top experiences in Oudtshoorn on Tripadvisor was a Meerkat tour.

Hold. The. Phone. And I know what you’re thinking “how did you not find this when you were searching for where to see meerkats in the wild?!”. BECAUSE if you look up ‘where to find meerkats in Africa’ you are NOT going to see Oudtshoorn unless you go deep into the pages, the first few pages of search results are fully dominated by links to tours and lodges in Botswana. I mean you gotta hand it to them – their SEO is on point.

So with this exciting bit of new information, Oudtshoorn was on the list for our South Africa road trip! Meerkats here we come!

How to see meerkats in Oudtshoorn

The only way you can see meerkats in Oudtshoorn is to book a tour through Five Shy Meerkats .

Meerkat Tour Details

• The tour is self-drive, the day before you will be sent GPS co-ordinates and instructions on where to meet your guide. The reason for this is the evening before one of the rangers will check where the meerkats have settled for the night and then advise you of the closest meeting point.
• Meeting time is at sunrise, they will confirm the exact time with you the day before. We were advised to arrive at 5:15am.
• Included in the tour is a cup of rooibois and rusk biscuits at the meeting point. I saw people complaining on Tripadvisor that their drink was ‘luke warm’. I’m sorry but I didn’t book my meerkat experience for the tea, I couldn’t care less what the tea and biscuits were like – I’m here for the meerkats!

Is the Meerkat tour ethical?

Yes – and that was my main criteria for booking the tour.

I love seeing animals as much as the next person, I don’t love seeing animals in unethical situations. For that reason every tour/safari/experience I book I do a bit of background research to ensure that I am not financially contributing to unethical animal experiences.

Best Time of Year to See Meerkats

Fortunately you can see this meerkat colony at all times of the year. They emerge from their burrow early morning at sunrise so that means in summer you may need to set your alarm clock earlier and in the winter months they will rise a bit later in the day. They also don’t love rain so if it’s raining your tour will probably be cancelled.

How much does it cost to see meerkats in the wild?

660ZAR! (approx $60AUD at the time).

Once you add in transport and accommodation lets round that up to a very generous $500. A far cry from the thousands I was looking at for seeing meerkats in the Kalahari in Botswana!

Pro tip: If you stay at De Zeekoe Guesthouse you can get 100ZAR of the cost of the tour.

The Meerkat Experience

Ok now the good stuff! What was it like seeing meerkats in the wild?!

Without a doubt, one of the best travel experiences I’ve had!!

After our group gathered at the meeting point and had our rooibois tea (which may or may not have been good), we drove in a procession to where the meerkats had bedded down for the night.

Piling out of our cars we were each given our own chair and advised to walk single file and keep quiet as we approached the meerkats den.

We got to where the meerkats were and lined our chairs up in a row facing mounds in the dirt and waited for the sun to rise.

I can not even explain the excitement I felt when the first meerkat head popped up. Oh my god! I was internally squealing with excitement and jumping up and down, I gave Sarah my most meaningful look in the eyes that said HOLY SH*T BEST DAY EVER!

For the next hour we watched the meerkats waking up, they slowly came out of their den. The sentry was always on alert, keeping an eye out for predators. But it was mostly the meerkats crawling out of the den, sunning themselves, warming up, yawning and stretching.

The hour went way too quickly and once the gorgeous little creatures had warmed up they scuttled off into the distance for a day of hunting, snoozing and who knows what!

Walking back to the car I was practically skipping with excitement!

How to get to Oudtshoorn

By far the easiest way would be to drive your own car or to hire a car. While I was in South Africa I hired a car a few times and always with Hertz. At the time Hertz was the best option with cars as low as $35AUD/22USD a day. Driving in South Africa is super easy, especially in the Western Cape area.

Oudtshoorn is located about an hour drive inland from George or a 4-5 hour drive direct from Cape Town. As we did this as part of our road trip we drove 3 hours from Aquila Private Game Reserve where we’d spent the night before.

BazBuz is a hop-on hop-off bus service for tourists and backpackers that runs between 40 different towns and cities between Cape Town and Johannesburg. They offer two different types of tickets, one for unlimited stops for a set amount of days (8, 14 or 21 days) the other one allows you to travel in one direction only but you have 12 months to use it. Tickets start from $199.

It’s worth adding that they don’t go directly to Oudtshoorn but you can get a free shuttle from their recommended accommodation in George.

As of Dec 22, Intercape had daily buses running from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn via Bloemfontein. Departing 11am and arriving the following day at 7:30am (20.5hrs). Prices start from 1500ZAR (approx $130AUD).

The nearest airport to Oudtshoorn is in George (1 hour away).

Airlink is the only airline with direct flights from Cape Town. Prices start from 2500ZAR one-way (approx 230AUD)

Would I go again?

100% as I mentioned earlier. One of THE best wild animal encounters I’ve had!

To be honest that day I was on a high, and here I am almost 3 years later still getting excited just thinking about it. If this isn’t on your bucket list, put it on there asap!

Fun Facts about Meerkats

• Meerkats are exceptionally social animals, often seen in meerkat colonies, which are actually family groups.
• Meerkats are well adapted to living in harsh conditions, thriving in the arid landscapes of Southern Africa, including the vast plains of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans and the semi-desert regions of the Little Karoo.
• Their ability to stand on their hind legs offers them a great vantage point to spot potential danger, from birds of prey to the rare pangolin.
• They are part of the mongoose family.

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The final leg

How to Visit the Meerkats in the Kalahari Desert

If you are busy planning your escape to Africa and landed on this blog post, you’ll be glad to know you have landed in the right place. At Ubuntu Travel we plan safaris to conquer bucket lists and one item that has been increasingly popular for our travelers has been visiting the meerkats in the Kalahari Desert, Botswana. So if you’re wondering how to visit the meerkats, this blog post shares everything you need to know. Just be sure to plan ahead to avoid disappointment!

This is a guest post by our Marketing Director, Brooke Saward, who had the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close!

Seeing meerkats in the wild was a bit like seeing a unicorn. In fact, I might be as bold to say that a meerkat is Africa’s version of such. Almost mythical (in the sense that they’re difficult to see), when you actually get the opportunity to see these animals up close, you can hardly believe your eyes.

It was about five years ago when I first traveled to Botswana . Until then my African adventures had largely centred themselves around South Africa and Tanzania, though I had always wanted to venture further away from the more popular national parks.

When I first visited Botswana, I ventured into the depths of the Okavango Delta . I was mystified by how different the landscapes were to South Africa, and fell completely head over heels for the wetlands of the Delta. The first lodge I stayed at was andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Delta , which I didn’t realise at the time is one of the most highly celebrated lodges in the region. The design of the lodge alone was enough reason to write home.

After a few nights at Sandibe, I opted for a glamping experience at andBeyond’s tented camp, Nxabega, which was located a short bush flight away. I’ll never forget returning back to my room one day with a ransacked mini-bar, though I was warned about those cheeky monkeys on day one! Fortunately, they only made off with the shortbread ~ nothing too sinister.

My experience with the Meerkats

It wasn’t until the end of my trip that I realised I had not yet laid eyes on meerkats. Years earlier I had been told about these incredible creatures from a fellow safari-goer, who had proclaimed they were the highlight of her trip. Ever since then I had associated Botswana with meerkats, but little did I know they are only located in a very small area in the Kalahari Desert.

Years later, I returned to the Kalahari. And I won’t even try to hide it – I traveled here just to see the meerkats up close, as I had so naively wanted to do a few years earlier.

So, exactly how do you see the meerkats in the Kalahari Desert ?

There are two great lodges that offer an up-close encounter with meerkats. The experience is included within the room rates and it has been a highlight of my travels in Africa to this day.

Where to stay: San Camp

The first lodge that will take you on a private experience to see meerkats up close is San Camp, a vintage safari camp that changes locations each year. The camp is unlike any other safari camp I’ve stayed at, which makes it even more unforgettable. There is a certain manner of romance throughout the lodge, which makes it a great choice for honeymoon couples.

It was on our second day at the lodge that we took off for a sunset adventure to visit the meerkats. The meerkats see human visitors once or twice a day, so they aren’t shy at all. If you sit on the ground and stay completely still, they may even confuse you for a termite mound and climb up on your head!

Where to stay: Jack’s Camp

San Camp’s sister lodge, Jack’s Camp , is the other best lodge to experience the meerkats. Recently refurbished to retain all of its traditional safari charm, this lodge is incredibly popular so be sure to book in advance. You’ll get to visit the meerkats as part of your adventure in the Kalahari, which is packed full of surprises and authentic experiences that you won’t have anywhere else. Not even elsewhere in Botswana!

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Meerkats in Africa

With their endearing appearance and comical antics, meerkats are a firm favourite with safari goers. They are highly sociable little mammals and can be found throughout the desert regions of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.

Quick facts about Meerkat

This small species of mongoose lives in large family groups – known as clans –sometimes numbering more than 40 individuals, presided over by a dominant female. Meerkat clans are highly cooperative: the whole family helps to babysit, feed and raise the young. This cooperation is also seen on foraging expeditions, during which individuals take turns on sentry duty, climbing vantage points to stand in their characteristic pose, watching for danger, while the rest of the clan scour the landscape for insects and other small animals. Despite their small size, meerkats are surprisingly resilient to venomous bites and stings, including stings from scorpions, which form a staple part of their diet.

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Africa's top camps for seeing meerkats

Based on 92 reports by our travellers since Jun 2018, the camps below have the best chances of sighting meerkats. Simply follow the key below.

Best chances to see

Good chances to see

Some sightings

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Top 10 camps for meerkat

% of travellers who saw meerkat

Where to see meerkats in Africa

Meerkats are diurnal, but can be hard to spot. Maximise your chances in the wild by understanding their routines, or heading to a few hotspots where sightings of habituated clans are virtually guaranteed.

Top tips for viewing meerkats

Meerkats can be seen throughout the day but are most easily observed at dawn and dusk. Wait beside a burrow in the morning for the clan to emerge. Before heading off to forage, they relax and sun themselves in the golden glow of morning light, a time that offers perfect conditions for photography. If you find a clan foraging, look for adults standing tall on guard. Keep calm and quiet: meerkats are easily spooked. For the best chance of seeing wild meerkats, spend time in South Africa’s Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park or Botswana’s Central Kalahari . Alternatively, head to the Botswana’s Makgadigadi Pans where Jack's Camp , San Camp and Camp Kalahari have habituated groups of meerkats.

Holiday ideas to see meerkats

Based on our travellers experiences, these are the holidays which will give you the best chances of good meerkat sightings

Red Lechwe Safari

9 days • 3 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

Superb guiding from three fabulous camps full of character in three contrasting areas for a fabulous safari to the Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert.

US$10,800 - US$25,210 per person

African Jacana Safari

7 days • 3 locations MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

An adventurous introduction to Botswana blending prolific wildlife, incredible landscapes and varied activities staying at relaxed camps in the Chobe Enclave, a community-owned reserve bordering the Moremi, and Makgadikgadi Pans.

US$7,770 - US$12,280 per person

Black-faced Impala Guided Safari

13 days • 6 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

A unique mix of luxury and adventure in our original, and perhaps most varied, destination on a privately guided Namibian overland safari. Perfect for families, friends or couples travelling together.

US$10,030 - US$13,220 per person

Goshawk Fly-in Safari

12 days • 6 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

Discover Namibia’s remarkable landscapes, fascinating wildlife and unique cultures on this luxury adventure flying between a selection of the very best camps and lodges in the country.

US$12,030 - US$19,890 per person

Quiver Tree Self-drive Safari

14 days • 7 locations WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO WINDHOEK AIRPORT

An offbeat Namibian self-drive adventure exploring the epic Fish River Canyon and fascinating Kolmanskop ghost town in the south, before turning north via the classic highlights of Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Damaraland.

US$2,440 - US$3,370 per person

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Our top destinations for meerkats

Click below for detailed information about meerkats in these countries, including our latest sightings data from the camps and lodges there.

South Africa

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Meerkat facts: Africa’s social suricate

Charismatic critters don’t always have to be big. Meerkats, or suricates , are a prime example.

You’re probably picturing this pint-sized African animal standing to attention. Maybe even trading wisecracks with a warthog. But behind the cartoons and the cute exterior, there lies a fascinating and complex character .

Browse this collection of meerkat facts and get acquainted with Africa’s mischievous miniature mammal.

“Meerkat” Meaning – What’s in a Name?

Despite its name, the meerkat is no mere cat .

In fact, it’s not a cat at all.

The word ‘meerkat’ derives from a Dutch word for a type of monkey ! Monkeys were also called markat in Hindi.

‘Kat’ does indeed mean cat in Afrikaans. The first half of the name may refer to either meer (lake) or mier (termite).

So, translating this monkey / lake cat / termite cat ’s name doesn’t tell us much.

What is a meerkat?

Historically, the word meerkat was used for any small burrowing animals in South Africa. These days it refers to just one species.

As we’ve established, that species isn’t a cat. (It’s not a monkey, either!)

The meerkat is actually a mongoose in the family Herpestidae . Mongooses are small, carnivorous mammals. They comprise over 30 species, and 11 in Africa alone.

What is a suricate?

What is a suricate, then? It’s simply another name for the same animal . The meerkat’s scientific name is Suricata suricatta .

The word suricate comes from the French surikate , which probably derives from a native South African word.

Are you keeping track? That’s European, Indian, and African origins. It’s enough to make you feel sorry for etymologists.

Now we (sort of) know how the suricate got its name, let’s focus on some more meerkat facts about the animal itself.

Where Do Meerkats Live?

Meerkats live in southern Africa . They’re mainly found in arid, open habitats, mainly in Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia. Suricates prefer areas with short grasses and scrub and can be found in the sandy savannas of the Kalahari .

More specifically, they make their homes in burrows . Meerkats are excellent diggers, but they’re smart . They often spare themselves the hard work and share burrows made by other animals like ground squirrels, or other mongooses.

The burrows are ideal for sleeping , safety , and shelter from the sun . Inside, it’s cooler during the day and warmer at night. Deeper tunnels maintain a consistent, comfortable temperature.

Meerkat Behaviour

Most mongoose species are solitary creatures, yet meerkats buck the trend. Suricates are highly social and live in groups of up to 50 individuals called a mob, gang, or clan. These clans are made up of several families, with one dominant pair of ‘breeders.’

The social suricates will forage , groom , and play together. But it’s them against the world. They’re constantly vigilant for threats and need to rely on each other.

Meerkats are diurnal . They’re mostly active during the day, though will retreat to their burrows at night, or if daytime temperatures get too high.

One cute meerkat fact is that they’ll huddle together for warmth when sleeping. Another method of temperature regulation is sunbathing ; they’ll catch some rays to give them the energy for a day’s hunt.

Teamwork makes the dream work

One African proverb states that “it takes a village to raise a child.”

Substitute ‘village’ for ‘meerkat mob’ and you’ve got a good idea how their offspring are raised.

Meerkats are known as a ‘ cooperatively breeding ’ species. Usually, the dominant pair of breeders will produce the bulk of the offspring. It’s left to the lower ranking, subordinate suricates to raise the pups.

It may sound like one big happy family within a single mob, yet squabbles are common. High ranking meerkats often act aggressively to their subordinates, however there are always younger individuals waiting to overthrow them.

Turf warfare

Meerkats may (mostly) get along with the rest of their mob, although encounters with rival groups are often aggressive.

Suricates have scent pouches for marking their territory. When two mobs’ territories overlap, they’ll face off. Sometimes a display will suffice; other times things escalate to violence.

Don’t mess with the meerkat mob.

What Do Meerkats Eat?

The Lion King might not have been the best source of meerkat facts, but it was accurate at showing the meerkat’s diet. Suricates are insatiable insectivores and like nothing better than grabbing a few grubs for dinner.

Meerkats will spend several hours a day foraging for their favourite food. This includes beetles , moths and other insects, reptiles , small mammals , fruits , roots , and tubers .

Suricates have an excellent sense of smell . They use their noses to sniff out potential prey, then dig it out or flip stones to find their meal.

Since they live in testing conditions where water is often scarce, meerkats have adapted to survive without drinking much . One of the more interesting meerkat facts? They get most of their water from the food they eat.

Scorpion slayers

Suricates may look innocuous, but they also have a taste for more dangerous prey. Namely, scorpions .

The crafty meerkats have devised a technique to neutralise their venomous foe. Yet they’ll have to be quick.

They go straight for the stinger , biting it off before the scorpion can inject any venom. (Meerkats have some degree of resistance to the stings, though it’s still not a harmless target.)

Adults even use live scorpions when teaching young meerkats to hunt . Nonetheless, they will ‘disarm’ (or distail ) the scorpion first, biting off its stinger so it poses less of a threat.

Why Do Meerkats Stand Up?

Picture a meerkat in their trademark pose, standing on their hind legs and surveying the savanna .

There’s an important reason for this. Life is tough when you’re a miniature mongoose surrounded by predators.

Meerkats can’t afford to take their eyes off their surroundings if they want to stay off the menu. Standing up gives them a better view , and they’ll often clamber up to higher ground for improved visibility.

They’ve even been known to climb on top of wildlife photographers!

Luckily, staying vigilant is easier when you live in a big family group. Certain meerkats will always be on sentry duty , allowing the rest of the clan to forage until the suricate sentry sounds the warning.

Meerkat predators

Lots of African animals would like to make a snack out of the suricate. Meerkats have to worry about both air and ground attack, from predators like eagles , foxes , and jackals .

That means it’s smart not to stray too far from the burrows. When the suricate sentry sounds the alarm, the meerkats will often dive to safety.

Fight or flight

Meerkats don’t always flee from a predator. Sometimes they’ll gang up to deter a dangerous foe.

You’ve probably seen their Asian relatives do battle with cobras, however meerkats aren’t to be outdone! They’ll also go toe-to-toe with venomous snakes , surrounding or “mobbing” them while raising their tails.

Many mongooses have immunity to snake venom, and meerkats are no different . They’re not completely immune to all snake venom, but they will often survive snake bites that could kill larger creatures.

Usually, this teamwork will send the snake packing before anyone gets bitten.

What Does a Meerkat Sound Like?

Another meerkat fact The Lion King got right was that they’re very vocal .

No, that doesn’t mean they burst into song; yet they do use many different calls to communicate.

Meerkats have calls for different situations , from predator alarm calls to digging, caring for young, or showing aggression. The intensity of the calls also conveys important information.

From purrs and chatters to barks and squeaks, the sheer range of meerkat sounds shows how complex these creatures are.

(You even see them on TV speaking in a Russian accent, but I’m not sure how accurate that is. 🙂 )

Are Meerkats Dangerous?

Are meerkats dangerous? It might sound like a silly question, though these cute critters have a dark side. One of the more surprising meerkat facts is that they’re the most murderous mammals .

More accurately, they’re the most murderous towards other meerkats . A study in the journal Nature found that almost 20 percent of meerkats are killed by their own kind. The overall average for all mammals? Just 0.3 percent!

So, why are the social suricates bumping each other off so often? Many of the deaths are related to the social hierarchy . Dominant breeding females, for instance, will kill the young of subordinate pack members.

It’s tough staying at the top.

Are meerkats dangerous to humans? Apart from extremely rare cases of rabies, not at all.

These inquisitive, playful creatures can be quite tame, especially if habituated to human contact. Getting up close and personal with these curious critters makes meerkat tourism a fun activity for animal lovers of all ages.

Seeing Suricates for Yourself

Meerkats are a special sight on safari, whether they’re an added bonus or the main attraction. Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana and Tswalu Kalahari Reserve in South Africa are just a couple of places to see wild meerkats.

Had your fill of meerkat facts?  Plan your dream safari and catch these critters in their natural environment.

About The Author

Alex Cooper

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Meerkat Sanctuary, Kalahari

Meerkat Sanctuary is situated on the Kalahari Trails which is a privately owned nature reserve just outside the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, offering guests affordable self catering accommodation and camping options. Kalahari Trails offers sheltered camping, a single self catering cottage, and 2-3 sleeper rooms in and a dune nestled tented camp. The self catering cottage sleeps up to six guests in two bedrooms and is a good choice for a family seeking privacy. The cottage has a well equipped kitchen and outside braai area. The main guesthouse has five rooms and can sleep up to fourteen people comfortably. Three rooms share a bathroom while the other two have these en-suite. There is a communal kitchen, large lounge and dining area and an outdoor braai (barbeque) facility whilst the old house has a large porch, ideal for enjoying al fresco meals or for bird watching. Gas cookers and camping gear is available to rent.

Why we like it

Amazing Meerkat interaction experience, Easy access on way in or out of Kgalagadi from South Africa

Quick Facts

Grading and accreditation, park / reserve, this experience, safari type, specialist species, malaria area, suitable for.

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