Where the Lions Play

Lions are truly spectacular to watch, and their family bonds are extraordinary—unlike any other in nature.

Playful Moments Among Lion Cubs

“Are they fighting for dominance?” asked one of our guests, as the youngest cub in the group jumped up to nibble at his brother’s neck. It’s an incredible experience to see the interactions between brothers and sisters as they play and explore their surroundings.

A Lazy Afternoon in the African Sun

Using the shade of our vehicle as cover from the harsh African sun, a pride of seven lions (one male, two females, and four cubs) lazed about the afternoon. While the three adults did what they do best—sleeping, of course—the cubs kept themselves entertained, playing, wrestling, and biting each other. With the occasional growl or yelp asking for help from mom, the cubs seemed to relish the ‘tough life’ of Africa.

A Mother’s Love in Action

Eventually, one of the females decided she’d had enough of the commotion behind her and got up to teach the cubs a lesson. As one male cub focused on his brother, the lioness playfully dropped down right on top of him! Everyone in our vehicle burst into laughter as the cub cried out for relief and managed to escape from underneath her. But, as with all mothers, the lioness couldn’t bear to see her cub in distress and lovingly gave him a hug and a lick.

By Pierre van As