Snakes

Mosambique spitting-cobra

A Mozambique spitting cobra on the H8 near Olifants camp.

Of the 114-odd reptile species in the Kruger National Park, 52 are snakes! They are generally seen crossing the road, but do so with such speed that you seldom have a chance to see them properly. A few snakes, however, move slowly, such as the African rock python and the puff adder. You may therefore get better sightings of these if you are lucky (or unlucky) enough to come across them.

Snakes may also be seen in the main camps of the Kruger National Park. Birds will give away a snake's position during the day by gathering around it and making a great big noise. At night, you should wear closed shoes and carry a flashlight, as you could easily step on a snake.

puff adder

Some snakes are extremely well camouflaged. This puff adder is one of the most common and best camouflaged snakes in the Kruger National Park. They move slowly and rely on their colours to stay hidden from predators and prey. They have been known to appear in  Satara's campsite! A bite from this snake could have you loose a limb!

snouted cobra

This snouted cobra is one of the larger snakes found in the park and has the characteristic hood that most cobras show when they feel threatened. The snouted cobra's throat markings look similar to those of the Mozambique spitting cobra, but the snake is generally larger and can't spit. However, if you come across any snake that rears up and spreads its hood, look away and step backwards immediately. A bite from this snake could cause serious damage or even death.

stripe-bellied sand snake

One of the more common and harmless snake species in the Kruger National Park is the stripe-bellied sand snake. It is one of the fastest snakes in the park and often seen lying on rocks in the sun. If you approach it, however, it will disappear fast.

Back to main reptiles page

How to find snakes in the Kruger National Park:

Top tips:
Listen for the noise of birds in camp; different species will gather and mock a snake if they spot it in a tree.

Look out for snakes in rocky areas where they like to sun themselves.

Check out our Kruger reptiles gallery:reptile gallery



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